A kitchen renovation can be a daunting task. You’ve dreamt of upgrading your kitchen, probably for years. You want the project to turn out exactly the way you envision it but you don’t have a whole lot of experience with home remodeling. Here are ten kitchen renovation tips to keep in mind as you tackle your project.
#1
Don’t Go It Alone
There are numerous reasons for hiring an expert to manage your project is at the top of the kitchen renovation tips list.
To start with, as a homeowner, in our current booming construction landscape you’ll have a hard time finding subcontractors. Subs work with general contractors who keep them very busy and finding time for a homeowner who just has one project isn’t very attractive for them in most cases.
And if you do find a sub willing to take your job, how do you know the quality of their work? Good general contractors like Heidi Berlin at the Flooring Studio develop relationships with subs and if their work isn’t quality, they don’t keep working with those subcontractors. Those relationships alone are worth every extra penny you’ll spend hiring a general contractor.
#2
Keep The Big Picture In Mind
How do you use your kitchen? Are you the type who loves to build five-course meals from scratch? Or is your kitchen used more for homework than for baking? When you have guests over, do they gravitate to your kitchen? A kitchen designed for socializing will look very different than a kitchen designed for a gourmet who loves to create. Keep in mind the main function of your kitchen and build around your vision.
#3
Remember Your Budget
It’s easy to get distracted by fancy upgrades and to want everything in your new remodel. But if the budget is tight, keep that in mind every step of the way. Don’t spend your entire budget on fancy cabinets and then find yourself choosing from the most inexpensive tile options because you ran out of room in the budget. An expert general contractor will help you work through what you want and how you can get the must-haves into your project without sacrificing quality and winding up disappointed.
#4
Keep the Demo Clean
For do-it-yourselfers the biggest surprise demo brings is just how much of a mess it makes. Taking out tile can send dust particles into every single corner of your home if the demo isn’t done right. Again, this is another excellent reason to hire an experienced general contractor. They’ll make sure your demo is as clean as possible and help keep your renovation project from spreading throughout your home.
#5
Maximize Counter Space
While your kitchen should be beautiful, it also needs to serve as a functioning workspace. You’ll need surfaces to roll out cookie dough, even if it’s just once a year when you bake Christmas cookies. You’ll want space to prep, space to serve, and space for all your appliances. You can never have too much countertop space in your kitchen.
#6
Pick Your New Appliances First
Choose the new appliances first and build the rest of your kitchen design around them. If you know exactly how big that new refrigerator is, it’s much easier to make certain it will fit into your new cabinets.
#7
Keep Your Workflow In Mind
How do you like to cook? Where will your prep area be? Will it be easy to turn and slide those baking dishes into the over after you prep them? Think about how you’ll navigate around your kitchen when planning your renovation.
#8
Storage, Storage, Storage
You can never have too much storage. Pay attention to the types of storage systems inside your cabinets and maximize every inch of space. Definitely consider taking your cabinets all the way up to the ceiling if it’s possible and in your budget. There are all sorts of innovative new storage ideas out there and having a good idea of what you like and what works for you will go a long way when it comes to making storage decisions.
#9
Choose the Right Countertop Surface
Choosing the right countertop surface is almost always a difficult decision. Finding the right combination of budget, functionality, and beauty is a very personal decision. Weigh the pros and cons, keep in mind your personal style, and ask lots of questions. This is another area of kitchen design where an expert who’s had experience with a wide variety of surfaces can guide you to the best decision.
#10
Spice Up That Backsplash
The backsplash above your stove is the centerpiece of your kitchen and a blank canvas where you can inscribe beautiful works of art. Tile can turn that blank space into an amazing and colorful display of style. Make the most of the opportunity and go all out on this area of personal expression.
There you have it. We provided ten kitchen renovation tips but really you only needed one to get started. Talk to an expert. Get a bid, get some advice, find someone you work well with. Finding the right guide to get you through what can be a frightening journey is the single best thing you can do to make this an easier task.
