Janet Cook
Do you want to have an updated kitchen in time for the holidays? It can transform how you live and how you and others experience your home! This is how to develop knowing what you want and need so that an experienced professional can do your custom design, help with selections, and can get you on the schedule! Here are steps on how to prepare for a kitchen remodel:
1. Define what is not working. Considering day to day, do you have enough storage so that counters can stay clear and things are easily found? Is the layout in a functional flow from refrigerator to sink to stove facilitating ease of cooking? Are the appliances energy efficient and sized to your needs? Can more than one person be preparing a meal? Can you host get-togethers and entertain how you would like?
2. Gather photos of your style. Pictures say a thousand words, so collect photos of what you really like and are attracted to. Even what you really don’t like is good to communicate, too. You can do a search on Houzz of popular images. Look for types and colors of cabinets, if you like open shelving, countertop colors, backsplash styles, and types of flooring and lighting.
3. Set a budget. If you need to keep costs to a minimum, try to keep the kitchen layout and appliance location the same. Determine what you want to invest, knowing that, typically, 10% will be set aside for unforeseen expenses discovered at demolition, such as termites or water damage. According to the annual cost vs. value report, an average of 40% to 50% of the investment into a well-designed kitchen will raise the home’s value by that amount. Telling a designer what your budget is will help them guide you in staying within budget, where money can be saved and where to splurge, and if something needs to be deleted.
4. Hire a professional design-build firm. Look for a licensed, insured company that offers experience and longevity. Check out their website for examples of their work, awards, professional affiliations, and reviews. If you like what you see, make an appointment to interview them. Do they have their own employees who will work on your project and a regular set of specialty contractors (electrician, etc.)? What do customers say they are known for (on time, on budget, clean job site)? Explain your project to them. Do they come up with good solutions? Will they help with selections?
5. Do not buy package deals without consulting your designer. It is important to have a plan in place first to make sure what is purchased will fit. A design-build firm will be dealers for quality products or have accounts that more often will help you obtain a higher quality product for about the same price as big box stores.
Happy Kitchen Remodeling!
Janet Cook, Certified Health Coach and Aging in Place Specialist, President of Cook Remodeling (celebrating 45th years), invites you to check out their website for photos and more helpful articles.