Kitchen remodeling can be a daunting task. You are probably asking yourself where to begin. On average, homeowners spend more money on remodeling a kitchen than on any other remodeling project. Nationally the cost of a major kitchen remodel will be recovered by 65.3% of value of the home and a minor kitchen remodel by 80.2% of the value of the home. Here is how to break down the process into steps so that you don’t feel overwhelmed.
STEPS TO REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN
CREATE A PLAN
Think about how you want your kitchen to function and the style that you want. Planning of kitchen redesign should be something that works for you and your family. Make sure that there is enough space in the work areas. Ideally the minimum work space should be 42 inches, but if you want multiple cooks, you should have 48 inches. Create a drawing of where you would like to see the appliances and sink placed. Planning of kitchen redesign is the most important step of the process and will help to save you money down the line.
SET A BUDGET
Create a list of all the items that you would like to see in your kitchen. Determine if your expectations are realistic. Choose finishes and fixtures that are within your budget. Reusing the old flooring can also help to bring down the cost of kitchen remodeling.
DESIGN AND LAYOUT
You can save money if you keep the same footprint in your kitchen. This is not always possible, but if you are able to keep plumbing and electrical in the same places this will help to bring down the cost of your custom millwork kitchen design. Consider if it is reallyimportant to knock down walls. Removing walls and adding support beams will drive up the cost.
CHOOSE APPLIANCES
While everyone would love to have top of the line appliances, most people do not need them for the function of their kitchens. Choose appliances that fit within your budget. Research the appliances that you plan to purchase to ensure that they are of good quality. This can be done by looking at Consumer Reviews.
LIGHTING
Determine what types and how much lighting you need in your kitchen. There is two types of lighting to consider, ambient lighting and task lighting. Ambient lighting is the overhead lighting while tasking lighting includes under-cabinet lighting and lights above kitchen islands. Ensuring that you have good lighting in your kitchen can make the space feel bigger and brighter.
MAXIMIZE STORAGE
Choose cabinets that optimize storage space. If you are keeping the same footprint, consider cabinets that go all the way to be ceiling. Utilize shelving systems in pantries. Add open shelves or pot racks to unused wall spaces.
COMMUNICATION
If you are hiring a professional for your custom millwork project, make sure to choose someone that you trust and has good references. Establish clear lines of communication and a method of communication. Set rules such as which bathroom is available for use. Remember that this is still your home.