Kitchen Remodel Project Considerations: Before You Start

You have finally decided you are ready to remodel your kitchen. Now what?

Take a moment to discuss these kitchen remodel project considerations. 

There are several kitchen remodel project considerations to take into account before you start planning your new kitchen design.  As a professional designer, I highly suggest that you take the time to evaluate the following before you get the remodeling wheels in motion. 

When it comes to the layout and space, what do you want to achieve?  There are 3 ways to envision the direction your kitchen remodel will take, and they will greatly make a difference on your design and budget.

1. Update the aesthetics, but keep the same layout
2. Reconfigure a new layout to fit in your existing space
3. Increase your space to achieve the functionality and look you desire. This may require stealing space from an adjacent room or building on additional space.

What are your main kitchen remodeling needs, and how would you prioritize them?

1. Make a list of what you like about your space and what functions well. Do you love your 6-burner gas grill?  Do you use your microwave often? What appliance do you use the most?
2. Make a list of things you do not like. Do you have enough seating? Do you need more storage?  What do you feel is lacking?
3. Decide on how you plan on using the space.  Do you need more seating? Would you like a desk area for getting work accomplished?  Would you benefit from having an area dedicated to beverages, like a coffee nook or a wine rack?
4. Think about who uses the kitchen the most. Who does most of the cooking? Will there be more than one cook in the kitchen at a time?
5. Take note of the type of cooking you like.  Do you do a lot of baking? Do you enjoy canning? How much do you use your kitchen for entertaining?

What is your budget based on the function and look you are hoping to achieve? Try to determine what features are most important to you, because each detail will ultimately affect the cost of your remodeling project.  Here are a few things to consider: 

1. The cabinets: Do you want custom-built cabinets? Do you like stained or painted cabinets?
2. The finish materials: Do you want granite countertops? Have you thought about hardwood floors?  From the doorhandles to the paint to the trim, many details can affect the cost.
3. The size and functionality of the space:  If you decide you need to expand or build an addition, it will obviously have a big impact on your costs.
4. The appliances:  Appliances can impact the design. For example: if you choose a freestanding range vs a cooktop with double wall ovens, your designer will need that information to do an accurate layout of your space.
5. The style:  Are you modern and simplistic? Do you prefer a traditional kitchen?

After you have taken the time to evaluate these kitchen remodel project considerations, it is time to start doing some research.  There are a couple of places you can start.   I recommend you use resources such as HOUZZ, Pinterest, and magazines to start your collection of ideas. When you meet with your designer, you will be able to articulate your ideas clearly.