Kitchen remodels are one of the most-requested and sought-after projects for a homeowner. If done properly, using a licensed contractor like MDV, a renovation makes the kitchen more attractive, improves its efficiency, and raises the resale value of a home. Overhauling the kitchen is a complex job. You can prevent mistakes, or minimize them, if you keep an eye out for the following missteps:
Set a budget – Planning and budgeting is the key to a streamlined remodeling project. A good rule of thumb is to be prepared to pay about 10% to 15% of your home’s current market value. That will help to ensure that the quality of your improvements stay in line with your home’s worth. Although spending too little brings up quality concerns, it’s equally important to avoid overspending. Be sure to build in a cushion to allow for inevitable surprises.
Focus on lighting – Don’t underestimate the benefits of living with neither shadows nor glare. Use a mix of fixtures to layer light of different types – ambient, task, accent, and mood – throughout the kitchen. Recessed ceiling fixtures provide good overall light, while pendants and chandeliers are versatile choices for islands and dining areas. For kitchen work areas, under-cabinet task lights with diffusers or frosted glass will offset the reflectiveness of highly-polished countertops. Also important are your lighting controls. Install a separate, conveniently-located switch for each light source, preferably near the doorway. Dimmers are excellent for modulating the strength of lighting according to the occasion or time of day.
Indulge your whims, but just a few – Keep in mind that materials and colors that may look fantastic on a sample-size swatch may appear over- or underwhelming in application. Resist the temptation to go over the top, and instead integrate the design elements you love as accents, not centerpieces. Otherwise, you run the risk of alienating future buyers who don’t happen to share your unique sense of style.
Lots of landing zones – Be sure to include plenty of wide-open countertop space around each of your appliances. You know the feeling of removing a heavy, piping-hot pan from the stove, then finding there’s no convenient place to set it down? Think about how you use your appliances and adjust your kitchen design to suit your day-to-day cooking, serving, and eating habits.
Island style – These days, a kitchen island is practically a must-have if you have the space for one. But remember to be realistic about the placement and size of the island because an oversized or poorly located one can block traffic and workflow. Be sure to allow sufficient space on all sides of the island. Leave enough room to open cabinet doors or appliances easily.
Don’t forget the backsplash – A well-designed backsplash can tie together seemingly mismatched elements of your kitchen as it creates a focal point for the room. The best advice is to select your backsplash at an early stage of the renovation. Typically, the backsplash is installed shortly before project completion. If you postpone your decision until then, you may have to rush through the decision and end up settling on something you don’t love or even really like.
These simple tips will help you to create a renovated kitchen that you will love! MDV Remodeling can help you to complete your kitchen remodel without skipping a single step, and stay within your budget! Click here to learn about our TruYouDesign™ process and request a free estimate.