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Eager to breathe
new life into your outdated kitchen? Achieving your dream kitchen, no matter
how big or small the project, can be a daunting task—and one that requires
detailed planning. Here
are a few basic tips for preparing your successful kitchen remodel.
First Things First: Choosing the
best contractor
Finding an expert who specializes in kitchen design is one of the most important decisions you will make throughout the entire remodel process. A knowledgeable contractor will schedule and coordinate all phases of the construction project and help you navigate any questions that you may have. For starters, ask around for references. Schedule an appointment to see the contractor’s portfolio, request to see a work in progress, and get competitive bids and a timeline for your project. A good remodeler will advise you on the best kitchen design and products to achieve your vision with minimal disturbance to your daily routine.
Kitchen Design: Deciding on a layout
When visualizing your dream kitchen space, there are many
elements to consider, starting with the layout. Will the space be used exclusively
for cooking? Would you like it to include room for dining or entertaining? Do
you want your kitchen to be formal or casual? Think about what
currently works well in your kitchen and what doesn’t.
Since much of your time is spent in the kitchen, it is
important that you choose a layout that is practical and meets all of your
kitchen needs. For this reason, the kitchen work triangle is often recommended.
This 50-year-old concept suggests that when your sink, refrigerator and stove each
become a focal point in
the kitchen—forming the three points of a triangle—it will
provide the maximum efficiency and workflow.
Remember, although rearranging your kitchen layout may
provide a more functional design, it may involve a lot of extra time and money,
such as relocating water lines, moving gas piping and re-routing heating and
air conditioning ductwork. If your current layout works, then only modify it if
there is a real benefit, such as increasing the resale value of your home.
Features
And Finishes: Personalizing your space
Of course you can’t create your dream kitchen without
personalizing your space with an array of unique touches. These features range
from new lighting, extra storage space, cabinetry, countertops, flooring,
appliances and a fresh coat of paint, to name a few. There are numerous options
and price points to choose from when sprucing up your new kitchen. Be sure to
choose materials that suit the style and function of your kitchen while paying
close attention to your budget.
Budget: Maximizing your return on
investment
Finally, set a realistic budget at the
beginning of your project—including room for unexpected charges—and stick to
it. Identify and prioritize your must-haves and your nice-to-haves so that you
can properly allocate your dollars for kitchen necessities without overspending.
Your contractor can help you get the most for your dollars, manage additional
costs and upgrades, and recommend cost-saving alternatives to keep your dream
kitchen on track and under budget.
The
key to a successful kitchen renovation can be summed up in one word:
preparation. Undertaking a kitchen project is a major task, but with
careful planning and organization it’s possible to transform your space to achieve the
dream kitchen you envisioned.
For more design ideas, visit HomeChannelTV.com
For more design ideas, visit HomeChannelTV.com