No matter the size of your kitchen, there is always room for unlimited creativity when you have a solid game plan in place.
Story by Ann Butenas | Photos courtesy of Total Home Remodeling
When dreaming of that fabulous new kitchen you desire, it’s exciting to envision exactly what it will look like and for what purposes you will use it. Just the idea of transforming your former kitchen into something more exciting, more functional and perhaps even a bit magical is enough to make you say, “Let’s get started!” Yes, it can be a daunting task, as it may involve complete demolition before initiating the construction phase, followed by all of the subsequent detail work required before the finished product is delivered. You may be required to step out of your comfort zone for a bit, but the end result will be worth it.
But before you even begin to tear down that old kitchen, it is important to have a game plan of sorts at the ready, plotting out the important – and necessary – steps that will ensure your dream kitchen will be cooking in no time. By keeping in mind these important steps, you will give yourself a better chance to ensure the process will be a smooth transition from start to finish.
The experts at Total Home Remodeling know precisely what is required to create that dream kitchen of yours and we asked them to share some of the most important steps necessary to make your dream kitchen a reality.
Gather Ideas and Inspiration
Thank goodness for the Internet, as it is filled with many reputable and inspiring websites filled with some amazing ideas, photos, suggestions and ingenious ideas. Consider sites such as Houzz and Pinterest, and our own homesandstylekc.com as stepping stones and work from there. This will give you a better opportunity to define your style and tastes, as well as help guide the designer/contractor as to what you like and want in your new kitchen. Don’t get overwhelmed. The typical decision process for major projects can be 12-18 months.
Know Your Budget
Remodeling a kitchen takes more than just ideas. It involves money. Having a solid budget in place before you even begin is necessary so that you and your contractor have a mutual understanding of what you want to spend and how that relates to the ideas you hope to implement/integrate into your new kitchen. In the Kansas City area, a major remodel of a mid-size kitchen could cost just over $64,000. Expect an upscale kitchen remodeling project to cost around $126,000, according to the 2017 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report.
Find the Right Team
Among the key players in this project include yourself, the contractor, an engineer (for any structural elements), an architect, and a designer.
Sit Down for a Complete Consultation with Your Contractor
Meet with your chosen contractor and identify your needs and goals for the space. Be prepared to answer such questions as “What kind of look do you want to achieve; for what purpose(s) do you want to use this kitchen and will we need to make any accommodations for specialty appliances or use restrictions of anyone using the new space?” They will work with you to finalize a layout that accomplishes your goals.
Measure the Space
This is vital to knowing precisely what type of layout can be constructed. From there, computer-generated layouts can be rendered to give you a better idea of how the final design will look in your home. This will also give you the opportunity to tweak and adjust things before the actual construction work begins.
Be Open to Any Potential Limitations in Space
For example, many homeowners desire an island as the primary gathering spot and statement piece. Some spaces simply do not have the room for one. By working with a designer beforehand, however, you can create alternate ideas that will work just as well to suit your needs.
Get Legal
While we are not necessarily referring to your spouse or significant other here (although getting their approval should be a critical step in this process!), we are referring to your local city ordinances. If any permits are required to do remodeling work on your home, secure those right away before any work is done.
Know the Flow
After determining your budget and consulting with your contactor/designer, the typical steps of the remodeling process begin with demolition, rough-in, followed by the installation of drywall, flooring, cabinetry, counter tops, backsplash and painting the walls. The work is usually not begun until you have made all of your selections, from colors to appliances to cabinetry and finishes.
Consider Your Cooking Needs During the Remodel
Your kitchen will be out of commission during the remodeling project. While dining out seems like the easiest option, it can be expensive over time. Consider hooking up an oven down in the basement, investing in a hot plate and relocating your microwave. This will require some adjustment your part, but you will at least be able to prepare quick and easy meals during the process.
Let the Work Begin
A standard home kitchen remodeling project can take about six to eight weeks to accomplish. Unforeseen bumps in the road may require the initial timeline to be adjusted. Your contractor should be committed to providing the most efficient construction turnaround time, so your new kitchen will be completed and ready for you to enjoy!
