A kitchen needs to work with you and your family’s lifestyle. Here are some things to consider before starting a kitchen renovation.
DO YOUR RESEARCH. Visit kitchen showrooms and start getting an idea of the different styles of kitchens and their differing costs. Start collecting images of kitchens you love from interior design magazines or websites.
SET A REALISTIC BUDGET on what you can afford based on your needs and lifestyle. Are you a budding chef, an entertainer or does the thought of cooking send you into a panic? Once you have a budget in mind, add another 10 – 20% on top of that for unplanned expenses.
HIRE A PRO. You may want to consider hiring a kitchen designer that will manage the renovation and construction phase especially if structural changes will be made. Furthermore, a designer will help you choose your finishes so your kitchen will have a cohesive look.
PRACTICAL AND FUNCTIONAL. The kitchen layout is one of the most important factors to consider in the designing stage. Whenever possible, try to make use of the classic work triangle which is the most convenient layout because it saves unnecessary steps. This means arranging the sink, refrigerator and stove, the three appliances used the most, in a triangle pattern.
A KITCHEN SHOULD LAST AT LEAST 20 YEARS so always buy the best you can afford. You want to have high quality appliances. Don’t go crazy buying gadgets you may never end up using and that may take up valuable storage space.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON MOVING in the next few years, consider some cosmetic changes versus a full-on renovation.
A full kitchen remodel can take some time to complete, so be patient and don’t rush the process. – Text by Christine Da Costa
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