A kitchen remodel project is a huge decision. Your kitchen is one of the best returns on investment you can make to your home, as well as bring enjoyment to your living space. Before the first wall is torn down or tile set, there are many things to consider – and think through.
These 5 “must ask” questions will help get you the kitchen of your dreams.
1) How do you / will you use your kitchen?
How you use your kitchen is perhaps the most important question you need to answer. While resale concerns may play a part in your decisions, above all else, a kitchen must be functional to you.
Do you enjoy cooking and consider the kitchen your canvas to create a beautiful masterpiece? If so, the most important aspects when remodeling are your appliances and your cooking space, as well as what items you need in your kitchen as you create.
How many people use your kitchen? If you often cook with others, consider how you use appliances and counter space, and how the kitchen should be laid out to provide room for more than one person to work together.
Is your kitchen the place to entertain? If you love having company and the kitchen is your gathering place, the first aspect to think of is space for people in the kitchen. Another great idea is including a large pantry where you can hide “the mess” from the company as you prepare the meal.
2) What look do you desire?
You can answer this question by doing a little research. Look through magazines, at show homes and online (Houzz is an excellent place to start) to find looks you are drawn to. Also think about the rest of your home, and make sure the finishes will flow through the rest of the living space, particularly if you have an open-concept layout.
When you have a look in mind, take pictures, measurements and information to a professional, as they can help perfect your design. One of the best online tools for helping design your kitchen is Houzz’s Ideabooks. It’s a great resource for collecting ideas and allows for easy collaboration with your designer or contractor
3) What is your budget?
A kitchen remodel can include small, inexpensive changes, or be a large-scale, expensive project. Understand what your budget is and plan accordingly so there are no surprises.
Don’t hesitate to reveal what you are really willing to invest. Revealing your budget opens a entirely new dialogue that will aid you in making your investment decisions.
4) What is included?
Kitchen remodels can be as simple as updating cabinets to a complete redesign. You will need to decide how biog your project will be and if it fits your budget above. Some items to consider are: cabinets, flooring, counter tops, back splash, paint, colors, sinks, faucets and lighting.
5) Should you ask for help?
Some people have the time and the eye to complete a project DIY. Others need a little help. For the amount of money you are likely to invest on your kitchen remodel, asking a professional is well worth a small, extra cost to ensure that every detail is finished perfectly.
Knowing your answers to these questions will help you design – and get – the kitchen you want.