Recently, we published a blog on the five pre-remodel considerations you should address when remodeling your bathroom. For today’s post, we’re going to tackle the same thing, but this time, for a kitchen remodel.
Much like a bathroom, a kitchen remodel can add value to your home, as well as a polished, modern look to a well-used room. And just like a bathroom, even more will go into a kitchen remodel than a simple desire for change. Here is a list of five important considerations you should take into account before you even demo the existing kitchen:
Square Footage – The size of your kitchen will ultimately dictate the layout for your remodel. Is there room for an island? Does space allow for a prep sink? Where can you squeeze in extra storage? Will you knock out a wall or extend the kitchen by adding on to your home? How much space can you conceivably add to your kitchen layout? These are just a few of the questions to consider when dealing with the space available to you. Work with your contractor and/or designer to utilize the space that you have in the manner that will best suit your needs and desires.
Existing Layout – Don’t feel married to your kitchen’s existing footprint! Windows and doorways are seldom in the place of your choosing and can be moved to accommodate a new floor plan. If you must maintain the windows/doors of your kitchen, you may be locked into your layout—but there are always ways to modify. For instance, you can add a peninsula to an L-shaped kitchen and create a horseshoe layout that offers more counter space and efficiency. As you consider kitchen layout, take time to think about what you like about your current kitchen: How do you move in the space? Does the workflow accommodate your cooking routine? Can you easily move from the range to the sink? How effective is your kitchen when more than one person is cooking? These are just some of the questions you should be asking yourself as you begin to plan your kitchen remodel.
Infrastructure – Depending on the age of your kitchen, you might run into electrical or plumbing problems as you remodel. Work with contractor to ensure that the “guts” of your kitchen can accommodate the technology (appliances, lighting, etc.) you will install.
Lifestyle – How do you use your current kitchen? What type of cook are you? How do you entertain? Answering these types of questions will help you to prioritize features you would like included your new kitchen. Start by identifying the likes and dislikes you have with your current kitchen, while still keeping a practical view of the space you have available. For example, choosing industrial appliances that take up 80% of the space may not allow enough room for cabinetry storage or area to expand a window to let more light into the kitchen.
Budget – As we’ve said in many of our blog posts, it always comes down to budget. You need to decide where to save and where to spend in terms of what really is a necessity for your lifestyle. Set a realistic budget, setting aside money for labor and any unforeseen problems (like the plumbing or electrical work we mentioned above). Size, layout, infrastructure and lifestyle are all factors that will play into your budget.
These considerations, when taken into account before jumping head first into a remodel, will help you to form an accurate picture of just what your new kitchen will entail. This forethought will also, hopefully, help you to avoid some problems once the remodel is underway. Consult with your contractor and/or designer to help you make the best decision for your kitchen – they’re the experts, after all!
At MDV Remodeling we specialize in creating unique custom kitchens that fit can work within your unique space. Contact us today for a free estimate, we will be happy to share some ideas on how to maximize both your space and budget to get the kitchen of your dreams