subject: How To Plan Your Kitchen Remodel [print this page] Kitchen remodeling might seem like a simple project at first glance: Just replace everything in your old kitchen with new materials, update all the old appliances, and make sure you a flexible budget to manage all those purchases. For many homeowners who desire an updated look, it can be cost prohibitive to follow the out with the old, in with the new philosophy. Determining how you routinely use your kitchen and what changes will make the available space more functional is an important consideration.
Many home owners focus on cosmetic updates without really looking any deeper. That isnt always a bad thing if you basically like the kitchen you have. Deciding on a new color scheme to use and whether to go for a Tuscan dcor with lots of artisan tile or a sleek industrial kitchen filled with stainless steel and black glass is certainly one important part of a remodel. Only you will know what your remodeling priorities are. But if you start with a functional, carefully considered plan for your kitchen, you are more likely to end up with the kitchen of your dreams post remodel rather than a kitchen that is simply better looking and good enough.
One of the biggest investments in your kitchen is the cabinetry. But what do you do when you simply dont care for the look of your old cabinets? The most cost effective choice for updating your kitchen is to reuse your existing cabinets if possible. If the cabinets are structurally sound, perhaps a new coat of paint or resurfacing will create a fresh look. This will allow you to invest the money not spent on replacement cabinets on more flashy aspects like the countertop, hardware or backsplash. By recycling and reusing when possible, you can bring new life to an otherwise outdated kitchen. A word to wise remodelers; determine in advance exactly how much refurbishing those cabinets will cost you. If you are not careful how much work and time is going into the updating you can actually end up spending more on refinishing than you would have spent on new cabinets!
Even a basic kitchen remodel can be a very expensive project. While remodeling will increase the design, function and resale value of a home, its important to consider just what you are looking to achieve with a new kitchen design and be sure that it fits your lifestyle in addition to adding to the value of your home.
With just the right planning, and perhaps a bit of help, you can create the kitchen of your dreams!
