PLANNING A KITCHEN REMODEL
When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, you have many different options available, and deciding on the right one can be difficult. While price and time constraints are undoubtedly important factors, what’s more important than anything else is your personal preference and how your kitchen fits in with the rest of your home. That’s why we have put together this guide on the top things to consider when planning a kitchen remodel so that you can get everything you want out of the process.
Design
Perfect Design plays an essential role in your kitchen remodeling project. If you’re on a tight budget, don’t stress too much about custom cabinetry—stick with pre-fab units for now and splurge on tiles, lighting, and sinks. Visualize: Sketch out what you want your new kitchen to look like. A quick doodle can help communicate your vision to contractors; more elaborate drawings can make life easier for designers and architects. We highly recommend hiring professionals (architects and interior designers) when it comes to design. This process may cost a bit upfront but it will save you time, money, and headache in the long run. Plan: Before making any decisions about your kitchen remodel, try putting together a few options spreadsheets based on various budgets.
Functionality
It is, of course, first and foremost. Before you even start thinking about colors or styles, you’ll want to consider how functional your new kitchen will be. Does it need enough storage space? Enough counter space? What appliances will you be using (and do they have adequate space)? Answering these questions can help keep you focused when planning your dream kitchen! If you can pull out an existing floor plan for reference, that might also help get things organized. Just remember, there are always compromises with the design! If your cabinetry doesn’t give you adequate counter space but otherwise looks good on paper, then don’t waste time stressing over details—move forward as planned.
Organizing
It’s essential to get organized before you begin planning your kitchen remodel. Create a checklist of everything you want your kitchen space to do for you and your family. Think about how you cook, how much space you need for everything from pots and pans to food storage containers, and even where each person in your household prefers to set up shop in front of their stovetop or work surface. Don’t forget that certain items—baking sheets, measuring cups, cutting boards—can travel between counter tops so you don’t have to use multiple appliances when cooking meals. And think about ergonomics: Do you have enough space for everyone to move around freely while preparing meals? Are any work surfaces cluttered with cabinets? Is everything within easy reach?
Budget
Start with how much you’re willing to spend? Take a look at your finances to determine this number. Cabinets are usually the highest cost in materials when remodeling a kitchen. To help you with budgeting, here’s a cost breakdown of a typical kitchen remodel:
• 30-35% Cabinets
• 20-25% Labor
• 10-15% Appliances
• 8-10% Flooring
• 7-9% Electrical
• 6-8% Countertops
• 5-7% Plumbing
• 2-5% Demo
• 1-3% Other
Renovating Options
You have plenty of options when renovating your kitchen. From completely overhauling everything in one fell swoop to remodeling or redecorating one feature at a time, you have a range of options when it comes to kitchen renovations. While deciding which route is best for you and your budget, consider these three questions: What are your renovations goals? What do you envision for your new kitchen? And how much work can you realistically handle? The answers will help guide you toward an appropriate renovation plan.
Material Selection
Think about what you’ll be using your kitchen for. Budgeting for marble countertops may not be wise if you’re cooking at home. On the other hand, if cooking is your hobby or a family activity, investing in top-quality materials will make it more enjoyable (and last longer). No matter what material you choose, consider that many traditional wood cabinets are made from particleboard covered with veneer—not exactly heirloom quality. This kind of cabinet won’t hold up well over time, so keep it in your future remodel plans instead of buying them now. You might also think about space: If you have lots of cabinets and don’t have room for specific items, new shelving and drawers can accommodate them without adding extra cabinets. Another essential thing to consider is the weight and dimensions of each item you plan to store on those new shelves.
Before doing anything else, make sure you are okay with any changes or additions made to your home. You may be remodeling for better resale value, more room for your family, or just because you have your heart set on it; whatever your reason, make sure it’s yours and not someone else’s. If you don’t like change, that doesn’t mean it won’t be worth it in the end! These tips can help ease into remodeling.
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