Kitchen Renovation Advice

Q. What advice can you share for those about to embark on a kitchen re-design?

A. Remodeling the kitchen can be quite overwhelming for most of the homeowners. However, careful planning before embarking the kitchen re-design can save you time, money and frustration from unexpected delays. Here are few things that should be done prior to starting your kitchen re-design:

Thoroughly research for a reliable remodeler or design firm: Choosing the right professional to work with is one of the most important decisions you will have to make. Below are the few things to keep in mind when choosing a remodeler:

●      What are their ratings? 

●      How many projects have they completed successfully?

●      Can they provide you with references of their past clients?

Determine the type of company best suited for you: When it comes to projects like kitchen remodeling, there are different choices in the types of companies to choose from. From kitchen showrooms, general contractors, to design firms, choose a company that meets all your desired requirements for your kitchen-remodeling project.

Set up a budget: There are countless possibilities when it comes to kitchen remodeling. Make sure you make a budget that you are most comfortable with, and then plan your options accordingly. Setting up a budget will help you prioritize things that are most important in your remodel.

Determine the goals of the remodeling project: Why are you planning to get a kitchen remodel? Will it be a room for central gathering? Does your kitchen have multiple cooks? Determining the goals will help you make long term decisions.

Think about the scope of work: Are you planning to keep the footprint same or is there enough room to expand it?   When it comes to scope of work, no two kitchen remodels are the same.

Think of a kitchen style: Determining the overall kitchen style will help you select cabinets, countertops and flooring accordingly. Kitchen style can be anything from contemporary, retro, country to traditional.

Collect design ideas: Go through magazines, books, internet, seminars and every possibility to collect ideas for your kitchen design. Appliances are a great way to start making selections and build everything else around them.