Define what is changing
Separate cabinetry and worktops from removal, service changes, wall finishes and flooring. You might be planning a full renovation or a more limited replacement. The proposal should explain which applies.
Decide who coordinates the trades and authorises changes. If you live abroad, identify someone who can provide access and review progress. Keep responsibilities together rather than scattered across conversations.
The decision sequence
| Stage | What to define |
|---|---|
| Initial information | Sketches, photographs, needs and an approximate budget. |
| Design | Layout and service constraints. |
| Selection | Cabinetry, worktop and appliance references. |
| Confirmation | Verified dimensions, scope, conditions and delivery forecast. |
| Preparation | A room ready under the agreed professional requirements. |
| Fitting and handover | Included work, review and documentation. |
Some stages need revisiting. Know which information the next professional requires and which changes affect an approved decision.
Review services before finalising design
Water, waste, electricity and extraction positions may affect a layout. Explore changes with the relevant professionals. An island with a hob has different requirements from a preparation island without services.
Do not carry out work from a room visualisation alone. Preparation needs the agreed design and project documentation. Appliance references and installation dimensions should be identified.
Coordinate measurements and worktops
Ask what needs checking before the cabinetry order and when the worktop will be measured. The sequence depends on the system and professionals involved; do not assume every measurement happens once at the beginning.
Review access, lifts, delivery reception and temporary storage if necessary. Report wall, floor or cladding changes that affect dimensions. Confirming these details prevents a delivery being arranged before the property is ready.
Use milestones as well as a date
Request a forecast separating confirmation, production or sourcing, delivery and fitting. Identify what depends on others or renovation progress. A product change after approval may require that forecast to be reviewed.
Plan how you will use the property during the work and record decisions. Do not base a move-in date only on the first conversation; confirm relevant milestones as the project progresses.
Complete the handover
Review openings, finishing, outstanding elements and the functioning of installed items within the agreed scope with the fitting lead. For an issue, record the component, a photograph and the next action.
Keep quotes, references and use guides. A COSTAHAUS project can start online or with a visit, while measuring, selection and confirmation still need to be clear before an idea becomes an order.