You need a kitchen makeover. The good news is it doesn't matter how much space you have — kitchenette, galley or traditional L-shape — there are plenty of space-saving solutions around for smaller kitchens and you won't need to sacrifice style or quality to get the kitchen you have always dreamed of.

1. Decide on a budget

Whether you are making a family dinner with the kids or entertaining indoors, the kitchen is the central hub of your home and should reflect your lifestyle.

You don't need to invest in an expensive bespoke kitchen just because your kitchen is small. Consider installing a more cost-effective flat packed kitchen you can customise yourself to fit a small space.

Justin and Despina Lord, owner builders from Beacon Hill on Sydney's Northern Beaches, bought a flat packed kitchen from Ikea for their new house build project.

"A custom-made kitchen just couldn't complete with the quality and value of an Ikea one," says Despina. "It cost a fraction of a custom-made one and we have solid timber bench tops and doors." Justin, who works in architecture, installed it himself. "We are really happy with the result" she says. "The other great thing is that we can easily update this in the future with new Ikea doors given the standard fixtures. A win-win all round!"

"Ikea wants to help Australians create their dream kitchen, one that works hard and makes their life at home easier," says the Ikea kitchens expert. "We do this by making our kitchens as affordable as we can. Our kitchens can be customised and prices start from as little as $1200."

2. Choose a style

Put together a mood board — a collage of images of kitchen styles you like. For inspiration go online to Ikea's website at Ikea.com.au or pop into an Ikea showroom. Ikea has recently redesigned their kitchen showrooms and have a wide range of styles to suit every taste.

3. Select a layout and design

Be clever with layout and your kitchen can give the impression of being larger than it really is. For example, build cabinets right up to the ceiling and integrate appliances. Make the most of Ikea's online kitchen planning service (Ikea.com.au) to help you design your kitchen. It can create a 3D drawing of the layout and cabinetry you prefer and a list of the products you have selected. An Ikea assistant will be able to help you order and buy the items you need once you are in the store.

4. Get organised

Maximise space by de-cluttering your kitchen and go for space-saving solutions in cabinets and drawers. Integrate appliances where possible. Ikea has a range of clever solutions to help you get organised in the kitchen. "This means less time spent rummaging and more time for living," says the Ikea kitchen expert. "We believe that a kitchen should not only look good on the outside, but also be clever on the inside."

Include pull-out pantries, drawer organisers and wall corner units with a carousel. Use wall rails to hang utensils within easy reach. Less clutter on the work surfaces will give the illusion of space.

5. Do it yourself

Don't be intimidated by flat packed kitchens, they are designed to be installed by the customer and will save you money. "Ikea flat pack kitchens are amazing for renovations," says professional renovator Bernadette Janson from Sydney who has more than 20 years experience. "They have the very best quality hardware and the attention to detail is second to none and usually with multiple degrees of adjustment."

If you do need help, Ikea can put you in touch with external assembly services to get your kitchen up and running.

Now your new kitchen has the wow factor, give your friends kitchen envy and invite them over to take a look. With so many people under your feet, you'll be longing for the days when it was just you and the kitchen sink.

* This article was bought to you by Ikea