With 2018 in full swing, there’s no better time to revisit some of the key areas of your home and decide what’s in need of a refresh.

So what areas should you focus on when renovating? One of the most valuable areas is the kitchen and laundry says renovation expert, Shelley Gunton.

Based in Sydney, Shelley Gunton has completed three major renovations in just three years, and has an almost cult following on her DIY Instagram – DIY Shelley – with more than 21,000 followers.

“The kitchen is the heart of the home and as they say, kitchens sell homes. The laundry is often overlooked but it is the other workhorse space,” she says.

“Both spaces need to be functional and inviting. Updating them will not only serve to make your home a better place to live, but you will more than likely reap the rewards should you choose to sell.”

If you’ve decided to take the plunge and renovate either space, there are a few important things to consider.

Think twice, and twice again when choosing your appliances

According to Ms Gunton, the kitchen and laundry are two of the most functional rooms in the home, and the ‘function’ for the most part comes from the appliances in them.

“It’s important to allocate a large part of your budget to ensure your appliances will serve all your needs and stand the test of time”

“I always prioritise functionality over aesthetic, so the most important thing to consider when renovating these rooms is the layout,” says Ms Gunton.

Miele kitchen and laundry appliances are ideal for fusing functionality with style.

“The quality and longevity of all Miele products are second to none, so you know when you buy Miele, you are buying to last,” said Kylie Taylor, Built-In Product Manager, Miele Australia.

“Miele’s Artline range is all about integrated clean lines and effortless technology, with the series of built in appliances designed to merge cooking, eating and living, combining both functionality and aesthetics,” Kylie added.

The features that matter for the long term …

When it comes to choosing your appliances, it’s important to decide which features are important and which ones you’re willing to negotiate.

If you’re renovating to live-in, it’s important to think ahead about what you might require now and down the track in terms of functionality, noise, energy efficiency and running costs.

Miele’s steam combination ovens ensure you have full oven functionality, as well as the added versatility of steam cooking.

“While you may not use a steam oven now, it won’t be long before you’re experimenting with recipes and wondering how you survived without it,” said Kylie.

Lastly… time your renovation and plan ahead

Ms Gunton recommends before any renovation has begun, stand in the space and plan ahead.  “Think about all the little details and plan plan plan!”

There’s no better time to renovate your kitchen or laundry than right now, with the Miele Haus promotion enabling you to save up to 15% on Miele Kitchen and Laundry Appliances between 1 May and 3 June 2018.