Things to Keep In Mind When Remodeling a Kitchen

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the few investments in a home that can provide a return greater than 100%. The kitchen is the heart of any home, and people desire a kitchen that is functional, open, and inviting. The kitchen is about so much more than preparing food. The kitchen space often serves as a place where family and friends gather. From entertaining to homework, the kitchen serves many functions in a home. Before you become serious about planning a remodel, make a list of all the things you want your kitchen to do. When deciding on remodeling your kitchen on the south shore, the first question you should ask yourself is whether you want an update of the bones of your kitchen such as new appliances, countertops, and appliances or whether you plan on enlarging a small kitchen. If you plan to increase the structural footprint of your kitchen, then remodeling will disrupt your home for some time.

The perfect kitchen is one that meets the needs of you and your family. Open kitchen designs are popular for family life and entertaining. The kitchen often flows into the living area, giving a clear line of sight to small children at play and inviting guests to mingle as you prepare a meal. The fundamental considerations when planning a kitchen remodel are listed below.

Function above form

Of course, you want a stylish kitchen that reflects your taste, but if finances or the bones of your kitchen mean compromising, always choose what makes your kitchen more functional. In an open floor plan, kitchen storage cabinets are critically important. Tools and appliances are necessary for a fully functional kitchen, and adequate storage helps you keep your kitchen looking neat while allowing you to have the things you need. 

Kitchen cabinets can now be fitted with sophisticated storage solutions that make use of every bit of cabinet space. New storage solutions put an end to deep dark corners that are awkward to access. An abundance of countertop space is also an essential consideration in any remodel. You should also consider what major appliances you want and how they will fit into the overall design. 

Style is an important factor when remodeling a kitchen

Style is an essential consideration for your enjoyment and pleasure in a kitchen remodel, as well as playing a significant role in increasing the value of your investment. You want your kitchen to blend with the style and aesthetics of the rest of your home. Attention to continuity matters in any design, but never more so than if your remodeling project changes the kitchen to a more open concept. 

Lighting

Lighting options can often be overlooked, but lighting is critically important in giving new life to your kitchen. Natural light is important, and often hard to come by in traditional kitchen designs. If you are doing a complete remodel, consider ways to allow more natural light into the kitchen. Light fixtures can make a significant style statement in your kitchen. At the same time, recessed lighting in the ceiling, as well as soft lighting under the cabinets can help showcase your cabinets and countertops. 

The kitchen should be well-lit without seeming overly bright. Having several different lighting options can help you set the mood and meet the needs of any occasion.  Nothing can spoil the effect of a beautiful kitchen faster than dim or dated lighting. 

Know your budget

In a kitchen, quality matters immensely. Know the budget for your project and make sure you are working with a contractor and design team that will respect your budget. The last thing you want to do is spend your entire budget changing the footprint of your kitchen only to have to skimp on quality countertops, or having to use subpar appliances. 

Give careful consideration to ways you can save money on your remodel to spend more on the things that matter. New cabinetry will make up a large part of any kitchen budget. If you have quality cabinets that appear dated, consider painting them instead of replacing them. New pulls and handles may be all that is needed to give your cabinets a fresh look. 

Make a list of must-haves for your kitchen, and then be open to suggestions about where you can save money. The things that matter most in the overall style and quality in your kitchen are quality countertops, cabinets, appliances, and fixtures.  Price those things yourself to understand how much will be left in your budget for the rest of the project.