Kitchen or Bathroom First? Which Renovation to Tackle First

When it comes to renovating your home, the kitchen and bathroom often top the priority list—but deciding which one to tackle first isn’t always easy. Both are essential spaces, and both can transform how you live. If you're juggling renovation plans and wondering whether to start with the kitchen or bathroom, this guide will help you weigh your options and make a confident decision.

At Sharpsaw Joinery & Builders Ltd, we’ve helped homeowners across Aberdeen navigate this very choice, and here’s what we often recommend.

Start with Your Priorities: Lifestyle vs Practicality

Begin by asking: Which space is causing more frustration?

• If you love cooking and your kitchen layout, storage, or appliances are holding you back, the kitchen might deserve top billing.

• If your bathroom feels outdated, has poor plumbing, or lacks functionality, addressing it first could bring more daily comfort.

Think about which space impacts your routine the most and where improvements would make the biggest difference in your day-to-day life.

Consider the Scope of Work and Disruption

Kitchen renovations tend to be more involved, especially if you're moving plumbing, installing new cabinets, or reworking the layout. During a kitchen renovation, you may lose access to cooking facilities for days or weeks.

Bathrooms are typically smaller projects, but if your home has only one, renovating it can be more disruptive than expected.

Tip: If you only have one bathroom and no backup, renovating the kitchen first might be the more practical option.

Budget Considerations

Budget is a major factor for most homeowners. A typical kitchen fitting in Aberdeen starts from around £2,000, depending on your selections and finishes. Bathroom installations start from £3,500 and can go higher with luxury fixtures or layout changes.

If your budget is tight, it may make sense to start with the smaller or more urgent project, and plan for the second phase once funds are available.

Resale and Property Value

Both kitchen and bathroom renovations add significant value to your home—but kitchens often have the upper hand when it comes to attracting buyers. A modern, functional kitchen can be a deal-maker for prospective homeowners.

However, a poorly maintained or outdated bathroom can also lower appeal. If your bathroom has visible wear, water damage, or old fittings, it may need attention sooner rather than later.

Sequence Matters if You’re Doing Both

If you plan to renovate both, the general advice is to start with the kitchen. It’s typically a bigger investment and can have a greater impact on home life. It also allows you to finalise your water, electric, and appliance needs before tackling bathroom plumbing and finishes.

That said, your specific situation may require a different approach. For example, if you're dealing with a leak or moisture issue in the bathroom, that takes priority.

What Sharpsaw Recommends

At Sharpsaw Joinery & Builders Ltd, we offer complete renovation services in Aberdeen—including kitchen fitting, bathroom installations, and full home improvements. We help clients assess their goals, budget, and space to create a realistic and efficient renovation plan.

Our team manages:

• Design consultation

• Plumbing and electrical work

• Joinery and tiling

• Project coordination and timelines

Whether you choose kitchen or bathroom first, we ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

Need Help Planning Your Renovation?

We’re here to guide you through every decision—big or small. If you're ready to renovate but not sure where to start, let's chat. Together, we’ll figure out what makes sense for your home, budget, and future plans.

📞 Contact Sharpsaw today for expert advice and a free quote on your kitchen or bathroom renovation in Aberdeen.

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