If you're planning on updating your kitchen this year, you need to make sure you are looking at practicalities as well as what you want your kitchen to look like. It's all well and good having your dream kitchen in terms of the colours you choose and the fixtures you include, but if it doesn't suit your lifestyle, it can fast become a nightmare.

This is why you need to plan your design carefully, thinking about what would make your kitchen easier to use and what could cause issues. Here are five things you definitely need to consider, no matter what type of kitchen you want:

Where is the light?

As with any room, you need to take into account how much natural light your kitchen gets. You want to maximise the light you do get, as this will make food preparation easier, make the room appear bigger and reduce the need for electric lights.

It is especially important to take into account natural light if your kitchen doesn't get a lot of it. Small or overshadowed windows can result in making a room look small and dim, even if you have a big kitchen.

Arrange counter tops so the natural light can reach them and ensure cupboards do not cut off the light when opened. You may also want to see what other lighting options are available to ensure the main areas of your kitchen are always bright.

How much space do you actually have?

Yes you'll need measurements to ensure your new cabinets fit in your kitchen, but you also need a realistic view of exactly how much room you have for the things you need to fit in your kitchen.

It isn't just cupboards and worktops you need room for, you need to have space for your fridge, freezer, washing machine and even for your door to open. All of this needs to fit in and still leave you with a comfortable amount of room to move around your kitchen.

You may find that you can create more usable space by rearranging your kitchen completely. While moving plumbing and electrics will cost more, it could be better in the long-run.

What do you really need in your kitchen?

All the little extras can push the price of your kitchen up massively, risking you going over budget if you're not careful. So what new things do you actually need for your new kitchen?

You may find that some fixtures and fittings can be reused, which will help to reduce the overall cost of your new kitchen. Do you really need that new sink? Can you get away with just changing the cabinet doors? These are things you should think about, as it could mean money in the bank or that you can invest the cash into other aspects of your new kitchen.

What extras could make life easier?

Speaking of extras, what else could you add to your kitchen that will make your life easier? It could be worth investing in the little touches to make your kitchen better suited to your everyday routine.

There are numerous extras to choose from, including things like pasta arms or a double sink. Have a look at what is on the market and see if there are any ideas that you love and that are totally practical.

Will it age well?

You may want your kitchen to look great, but will the materials you've chosen look as great in five year's time as they do on the day they were fitted? You want to make sure your kitchen is versatile and will stand the test of time, otherwise you could end up paying out more money faster than you'd like.

Make sure you choose materials and surfaces that are easy to clean, care for and keep looking great. This way your kitchen will last years with minimal effort.