“I would love for my general contractor to walk out on my kitchen remodel half-way through!”
Said NO. ONE. EVER.
We’ve heard the horror stories — and perhaps you’ve actually lived one (eeks, we truly hope not) — but we could definitely go without hearing another one when it comes to a kitchen remodel.
That’s why we’re gonna talk about how to plan for a kitchen remodel and give you our best tips to help you keep your sanity, stay within budget(ish) and pick the right people for your project.
HOW TO PLAN A KITCHEN REMODEL (WITHOUT LOSING YOUR MIND!)
Whether you’re all in for this kitchen remodel, or you’re an innocent bystander (your partner just got a very wild hair whilst bored), we have some key words of wisdom to help you with a process that isn’t always linear and can test the best of us.
1. BUDGET FIRST
You probably have a general idea of what you want.
Heck, perhaps you have very specific ideas of what you’re going for (thank you, Pinterest and insomnia).
Now it’s time to figure out a budget.
Whatever you decide is the budget you’re working with, don’t forget to add at least 20% (on the higher end) for comfortable padding (and we’re not just talking about insulation here).
Remodels don’t always go completely as planned and you don’t want to be stuck wondering where that extra money will come from (hmmm…does my kid really need college?!).
Decide on a kitchen remodel budget that works for you and your family, with some extra “just in case” money love to help you through.
2. RESEARCH AND WORD OF MOUTH
From the kitchen layout to the cost of items (granite or quartz?) and everything in between, research is key for decision making.
Visit model homes (take a virtual tour during this pandemic, of course).
Eyeing your neighbor’s decor? Ask them if they’d be so kind as to send you pictures of their kitchen layout.
And most importantly (because you can’t skip out on a quality general contractor/remodeler) let your research and word of mouth guide you to the person who will bring this vision to reality.
The team that will help you with your kitchen remodel is one that can potentially make or break a situation, so let quality, recommendations and time be your guide. Wait as long as you need to for the right team!
3. PLAN YOUR KITCHEN LAYOUT
Because a kitchen is one of the most utilized rooms in your house (neck and neck with the sacred bathroom), it’s vital to ask yourself key questions to help you get the layout that is just right for your kitchen and lifestyle.
If you haven’t heard of the kitchen triangle, get familiar with it.
The concept behind the kitchen triangle focuses on you, the cook, and three points — sink, fridge, and stove. The cook should have the ability to move freely between those three points, without the distance being too far away or too close together.
It’s the freedom and movement you’ve been dreaming about for your kitchen.
4. NOW IS THE TIME FOR HIGH-QUALITY
If you love the renovation process, please feel free to buy and gamble on low-quality items.
If you, however, want to get it right and are banking on not having to do this again for a very long time — or never again — buy high-quality countertops, appliances, and cabinets.
These items last longer and will save you stress and time in the long run.
5. MAKE A PLAN AND EXECUTE (BUT BE FLEXIBLE GRASSHOPPER)
Now that you have these tips, make a plan for your most functional and inspiring kitchen remodel and get to work.
Keep in mind “FLEXIBILITY” as your mantra during this time, especially when a timeline gets stretched, or follow-through doesn’t happen like you thought it would.
Be flexible enough to finish this project, so you can enjoy it when it’s completed!
Have any questions?
Need help with your home design project?
Stop by the Sol Granite showroom today and let us help you bring your design dreams to reality!
Sol Granite
4804 Dillon Drive (Behind Texas Roadhouse)
Pueblo, CO 81008
719-544-3085