You have decided it’s time to remodel your kitchen. You have a Pinterest page of ideas, a stack of color swatches and a collection of home remodeling magazines that would make any HGTV lover envious. You have done a great job getting inspired, but now it’s time to get started. Follow this handy checklist to help you prepare for your kitchen renovation.
1. Get your measurements. This includes your appliances, counter heights and shelving heights in addition to the square footage of your kitchen and the current layout of cabinets. These measurements provide you with a solid starting point for designing your next space and knowing where to increase or decrease space.
2. Map out your dream kitchen. Sketch out your dream kitchen to scale. Then put it in a drawer for a couple of weeks. Pull it out and see if your sketch works with how you use your kitchen or solves issues you are experiencing—modify as needed. Then put the sketch back in the drawer and review it again in another two weeks. This process will help you refine your vision before you engage with a designer or start the renovation process.
3. Prioritize your wish list. As with any project, there are things we want and things we need. Prioritizing your top 2-3 wants with your top 2-3 needs will give you a solid (and short!) list to help to you focus in on the best design and function of your new kitchen. Additional wants and needs can be considered bonus items to be added if they fit into your design and budget.
5. Consider adjacent spaces. Are you planning to remove walls? Does your kitchen connect to the dining area or family room? Be sure to consider these spaces when planning your renovation and budget.
6. Consider adjacent spaces. Are you planning to remove walls? Does your kitchen connect to the dining area or family room? Be sure to consider these spaces when planning your renovation and budget.
7. Decide on appliances. Deciding to keep or replace your kitchen appliances depends on the age and efficiency of the appliances, your budget and overall design. While keeping existing appliances can keep renovation costs down, replacing inefficient older appliances can save money over the long-term.
8. Get estimates. Estimates ensure you have accurately planned for materials, labor and time, and that your budget is line with your goals.
9. Engage an expert. Renovations are complex projects and working with a designer or contractor can help ensure a smooth process. They will help you refine your design and offer insights while helping maximize your timeline and budget. An expert can often save you money.
10. Get your kitchen ready for renovation. Prepare meals. Pack away unneeded items. Protect adjacent spaces. There are lots of things to do to get your kitchen ready. Here is a checklist to make sure you have covered all the bases.
Remodeled Your Kitchen? Share Your Tips and Stories With Us!
We would love to hear your kitchen remodeling experiences. Leave a comment here, share your pics with us on our Facebook page or send us a message on Pinterest. Feel free to also send us an email or give us a call! You can reach us at 952-737-7088.