Tips For Kitchen Remodeling
Whether you’re channeling your inner chef spirit or relying on boxed mac and cheese for every meal, your kitchen needs to work for you. And when it comes to kitchen remodeling, even a small mistake can throw off your whole design.
Thankfully, you can avoid these common mistakes with a little planning.
Don’t Go Overboard
Kitchen remodeling is an expensive undertaking. That is why it is important to not go overboard with your ideas. It is easy to fall in love with a 7-burner gas stove or the most beautiful backsplash tile, but you need to be sure that these features are practical and within your budget.
If you start to feel like you are losing control of your budget, it may be a good idea to sit down and discuss it with a professional. They can help you figure out where you can be flexible and where you should remain firm.
Another mistake people make is forgetting to prioritize their needs and wants during the remodeling process. It is important to think about what you dislike about your kitchen, and then use that information to determine the best solution for your home. This will allow you to spend your money wisely and not end up with a kitchen that you are not going to be happy with.
It is also important not to choose a design trend that will quickly be out of style. This includes things such as white-on-white cabinets, which can be hard to keep clean, or wallpaper that is a floral pattern that will look dated in just a few years. Instead, you should choose a classic and timeless color scheme that will work well for your kitchen.
When you are planning your layout, it is important to plan for the “work triangle.” This means that you should have a clear path between the refrigerator, sink, and stove. You should also be sure that your cabinet doors can open without hitting each other or blocking each other’s way. This will make the kitchen much easier to use and avoid any big mistakes down the line.
Lastly, it is a good idea to work with a professional who has experience in kitchen remodels. They can help you plan the layout and ensure that it will be functional and efficient. They can also help you avoid any mistakes that could cost you a lot of money down the road.
Think About Storage
Even if you plan on splurging on new appliances and fancy countertops, your kitchen remodel isn’t complete without adequate storage space. Make sure you have enough room for everything you own, from a full set of pots and pans to cookie sheets and cutting boards. Measure the height of your cabinets and drawers to ensure that tall stock pots will fit, and include plenty of extra room for bulk items like canisters and bags of flour.
It’s also a good idea to add extra storage solutions, such as a designated food pantry or a custom utility closet. These can help reduce clutter and keep your kitchen looking neat and tidy. Your remodeling contractor may be able to help you find space for these items and can suggest a variety of different shelving options, from stacked open shelves to recessed spice shelves.
When planning your storage, consider how everyone will use the space, not just you. This can mean a family with small children who want to snack or do homework at the counter, a spouse who cooks often and needs to store multiple sets of cookware, or pets who are always looking for their dinner plate or favorite toy. Make sure you have enough storage for all of your kitchen supplies and utensils to avoid annoying clutter and make it easy for everyone to access what they need.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when they’re remodeling their kitchen is skimping on storage and ignoring how the layout of the space impacts functionality. Make sure your budget includes enough money to afford all the elements of a well-designed kitchen, and prioritize these features by how much you’ll use them.
Another mistake is taking down walls to open the kitchen up. This can increase the cost of your renovation and lead to structural issues later on. Know which walls are load-bearing before you start dragging out the sledgehammer, and if you do need to open up a wall, take extra care to protect plumbing and electrical wiring.
Finally, don’t forget to think about sustainability when you’re choosing kitchen supplies and fixtures. Choose eco-friendly appliances and a few durable, stylish items that will stand the test of time.
Don’t Be Too Cluttered
The most common mistake that people make when it comes to kitchen remodeling is putting too much emphasis on style and not enough on functionality. While a beautiful kitchen is always nice, it can be frustrating to work in a space that is not easy to use. That is why it is important to have a clear idea of what you want before you start remodeling and to make sure that the new design will be functional and easy to use.
It is also a good idea to take some time to observe how you use your kitchen currently and make note of which areas tend to get cluttered. This will give you clues as to how you can remodel the space in a way that will be more functional for your family.
Once you have a clear idea of what you want, it is also important to consider storage options. For example, hanging up utensils on the wall can help free up some space, and using bins or baskets in the pantry can make it easier to find things. Finally, it is a good idea to consider creating a designated “drop zone” for items like school bags, purses, and groceries. This will help to keep things from getting buried under clutter and make it easier for everyone to put their belongings away after they come in from shopping.
One final tip for kitchen remodeling is to avoid removing or moving appliances unless it is necessary. Doing so can add a significant amount of cost to your project, and it is a good idea to think carefully about the piping and utility layout before making any changes. It may be possible to make some minor adjustments without having to move the sink or stove, and this can save you a lot of money in the long run. In addition, it is a good idea to plan for your kitchen remodeling in stages rather than trying to do everything all at once. This will allow you to budget your expenses and make the most of your budget, while also minimizing the inconvenience of having a construction zone in your home.
Make Sure You Have Extra Lighting
When it comes to kitchen remodeling, you can do more than just add new appliances and countertops. You can also make the space more functional and aesthetically appealing by adding the right amount of lighting. This is important because the last thing you want is to end up in a room that is both dark and ugly. To avoid this, take a look at the way you use your kitchen and think about what areas need more light than others.
You’ll want to have ambient lighting for overall illumination and task lighting so you can see when you’re mincing garlic or chopping carrots. This can be as simple as adding recessed lights to the ceiling and hanging some pendant lights over your island or other counters. If your budget allows it, try to include a few dimmer switches so you can adjust the lighting for different moods.
During your kitchen remodeling, you can add additional storage to keep things like pots and pans from piling up on the cabinets. This will free up more space for dishes and can help you maintain a more tidy kitchen. You can also create designated zones for specific items to minimize clutter and maximize efficiency. For example, put foil and plastic wrap near your counter for wrapping leftovers and place dishware and flatware close to the dishwasher so they are easier to unload.
Finally, don’t be afraid to knock down some walls if you need more space. Knocking down a wall can save you money on plumbing and electrical expenses while making the kitchen feel much more open and inviting. However, before you start tearing down walls, it’s important to know what is and isn’t load-bearing so you don’t end up with a big mess to clean up.
If you are planning a kitchen remodel, don’t let your contractor talk you into spending more than your budget can afford. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your remodeling project and end up with a kitchen that is both functional and beautiful.