Homeowners should draw up a detailed plan and budget ahead of any kitchen makeover, an expert has said.Cheryl Franz, kitchen designer for Monroe Marble Granite in the US, noted that kitchen renovations can be costly and extensive jobs, meaning that thorough research is vital.Speaking to the Pocono Record, she also set out a number of tips for homeowners looking to improve their cooking areas.Ms Franz observed that while real wood flooring is popular for its aesthetic quality, tiles are more resilient against spillages and other wear and tear.Elsewhere, the specialist recommended replacing kitchen cabinets rather than upgrading older ones.She explained that the labour costs involved with re-facing furniture makes it cheaper to buy new.Homeowners aiming to update their kitchens could also opt to invest in a new Abode kitchen sink or set of taps. This week, advocacy group Sustain Worldwide suggested that the demand from the public for energy-efficient homes will undoubtedly increase in the coming years.