If you’re thinking about a new kitchen, there’s one step that can make everything easier: visiting a showroom.

Mark Bruce, Operations Manager at Kitchen Studio, says it’s one of the smartest things a homeowner can do early on. With a background in cabinetmaking, marketing and kitchen design education, Mark has seen firsthand how showroom visits can shift a renovation from uncertain to confident.

See it, touch it, understand it
Online inspiration is great, but it only goes so far. Visiting a showroom gives you a true sense of how a kitchen looks, feels and functions. You can walk through full kitchen displays, compare finishes and fittings, and speak with a consultant who can explain how different materials perform in everyday use.

More than that, it helps you understand the real differences in quality and construction. You can compare melamine to veneer, or a standard benchtop to porcelain. You can open drawers, test hardware and talk through what suits your lifestyle. And more importantly, you start to narrow your focus and build clarity around what matters most to you.

Your budget is your best filter
Talking about budget can feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most important parts of the process. Without a clear idea of what you’re working with, it’s hard for your designer to recommend the right materials or layout choices.

Visiting a showroom helps take the pressure off that conversation. You can explore different kitchens, get a feel for what materials and finishes you like, and find out what those choices actually cost. Seeing those differences in person helps you connect the dots between budget, materials and function. Instead of guessing, you’re making informed choices based on what works for your home and your lifestyle.

Know the cost before you fall in love
One of the biggest causes of stress in a renovation is discovering too late that your dream kitchen is well beyond your budget. A showroom visit helps prevent that. “When they put it all together and present you with a quote, you’re not thinking that’s $30,000 more than I thought it was going to be,” says Mark.

It also gives your designer the information they need to guide you properly. If you love the look of natural marble but have young kids, they’ll suggest alternatives like porcelain that deliver the look without the maintenance. If you’ve got pets, they might steer you away from finishes that scratch easily.

A better starting point for design
By the time your designer visits your home, you’ll already have a sense of what you like and what fits. That makes the in-home consultation more productive and personal. “Particularly if it’s a renovation, it’s important the designer comes to your place,” says Mark. “To see how you currently work. Look at the space. Look at your tastes. Hear from you why your current kitchen is not working or why you’re replacing it.”

But it starts with seeing what’s possible. And that’s where a showroom shines.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.