Planning a Kitchen Remodel in 2012

Friday, December 30, 2011

With the kitchen becoming the hub of family life, it only makes sense that a kitchen remodel is at the top of the list when it comes to home renovation projects. While the finished product will mean a better quality of life, a kitchen remodel is a big endeavor and requires a good amount of planning. To help make the process easier for everyone involved, we’ve put together this list of things to consider.

Kitchen Layout

Many homes built prior to the 1990s tend to have one of three layouts: U-shaped, L-shaped, or galley style. All three layouts make use of the important “work triangle” concept (refrigerator, stove, and sink). But that’s where the efficiency ends – none allow for a gathering of people or usage of space beyond preparing food.

In the past few decades, as more families rely on two incomes, the kitchen is more about social interactions and that less food is prepared from scratch. This means a greater need for storage and casual seating.

Beyond just the “work triangle”, kitchen designs should consider having multiple work centers. This allows for several areas throughout the kitchen for preparing food as dictated by need or access to appliances. The easiest way to implement this concept is through an island.

Finish Materials

Once you have decided on your layout, the next step is selecting materials. It’s easiest to break this into 5 groups: Cabinets, Countertops, Flooring, and Appliances.

Cabinets

Cabinets come in two styles: European (frameless) and face-framed. You can either custom-order your cabinet or find a stock-supplier, like a big-box store. The cabinets will be the dominate feature in the room, so make sure to choose a color & finish that you can live with. Thankfully manufacturers can now create a wide selection of colors, finishes, and materials.

Countertops

Granite, quartz, concrete, laminate, and more. The material choices for countertops range from less expensive to very expensive. Solid materials will be incredibly durable, but will cost more than laminates. If choosing a solid surface, like granite or Corian, it is unlikely that a do-it-yourself will be able to install the countertop.  The cost of a countertop can quickly escalate depending on the material you choose, so make sure to find the balance of look & price.

Flooring

Almost every home seems to have rolled linoleum or vinyl flooring as the default option in the kitchen. Recently, vinyl has started to be manufactured in a number of designs, textures, colors, and prices, making it an inexpensive choice while still playing an important factor in overall design. Ceramic tiles tend to be included in higher-end kitchens can come in a wide range of textures, sizes, and colors. Wood and wood laminate flooring is gaining traction in many remodels as well

Kitchen Appliances

Your appliance choice will have a major impact on both look and budget of your project. The first choice is whether to have free-standing or built-in appliances, as this will factor into the design & layout of the kitchen. Stainless appliances are still the preference of many homeowners for appliance style, but it is still worth exploring other options, especially if it’s an easy way to save money. Besides the obvious appliances (e.g. dishwasher, range, oven, refrigerator, etc.), make sure to spend time on selecting secondary appliances like range hoods, garbage disposals, and wine coolers.

When it comes down to it, the more planning that you do prior to the first swing of a hammer will mean a smoother project overall. Nothing starts to delay a timeline or increase a budget more like having to make major decisions mid-project. If you spend the time to address the details upfront, you’ll be much happier. Take time to talk with your contractor about what you’re looking for, be honest about your budget, and leverage their expertise.If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.