The kitchen has always been a natural gathering place for conversation. With activities already underway, it’s instinctive for others to join in. When guests are present, the host might be busy preparing food or drinks, often with refreshments readily available—because since the beginning of time, sharing a meal has been central to socializing. Even among family members, the kitchen draws people in with its inviting sights, smells, and overall ambiance. So, it becomes a perfect setting to catch up on the day and discuss upcoming plans. Given its role as the heart of the home, a kitchen remodel is essential, making it even more inviting for these shared moments.
A Kitchen Remodel is a Great Way to Update the Home
Because the kitchen is used so much, it needs to be both functional and beautiful. There are several reasons that people decide to remodel their kitchens, some of which include the following.
- It is outdated.
- It isn’t as functional as they would like it to be.
- There is not enough storage.
- Traffic flow in the kitchen area is not smooth.
- The remodel will increase the value of the home.
So, the first step in a kitchen remodel is to determine your “why.”
The Importance of Thorough Planning
It’s important to look at the big picture before you start spending money. If you start picking details to change at random, it’s unlikely that everything will easily fall into place. So, the planning needs to start with a list of everything that you need to decide upon.
- Will the floor plan need to change? If so, it will be much more complicated to remodel and cost more. A new floor plan may mean changing plumbing and/or electrical wiring, which require permits. Be sure to consider this beforehand.
- Consider hiring a remodeling professional who can guide you through the selection of materials and make recommendations.
- Decide how the new kitchen will fit in with the rest of the house. Styles and colors in the kitchen need to add to, rather than detract from the adjoining rooms.
With those decisions made, it’s time to make a detailed timeline of what needs to happen and when. For example, it’s best to decide the size and location of all the desired appliances (refrigerator, sink, stove) before choosing cabinets.
Kitchen Remodel Ideas to Consider
Decide what overall look you want.
Do you want something timeless or are you excited to follow a current trend? Look at some photos of kitchens that have been remodeled and write down what you like about them. If it is a trendy style, that might affect the value of your home.
Work with a contractor.
When you order items sold in bulk (i.e., flooring, countertops, and cabinets), work with a contractor or remodeling professional. They can determine the sizes or quantities that will be needed, and then you can select styles and colors against realistic cost estimates.
Consider styles and materials.
Consider varying the textures of the materials and incorporating pops of color. Moreover, what lighting do you want? If you put pendant lights above an island, don’t choose ones that are too small or make the space feel cluttered.
Also, pick a durable material for the countertops and island. Quartz and porcelain are easy to keep clean and will withstand the test of time.
Re-wiring and plumbing.
Try to avoid relocating the plumbing and electrical wiring. In the case of plumbing, it will be easier to relocate the pipes if your home does not sit on a slab foundation. Ultimately, relocating wiring may require some demolition, so avoid that if possible.
When Choosing a Remodeling Professional, Look for the Best
If you have been referred to someone, make sure to check them out. Find out who they have helped in the past and ask to see the reviews they’ve gotten to determine how they’ll work with you. Will they tailor their services to your needs? What is the process they use?
Luckily, Renee Remodels serves the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Lakeland areas of Florida. They follow a clear process that you can count on, which includes:
- An in-depth, thorough consultation
- Comprehensive recording of client inspiration and detailed needs
- Coordinate on cost, budget, and client expectations
- Draw up a timeline for the scope of work
- Execute the new home build or home remodeling
- Clean up and inspection sign-offs as needed
Renee Remodels is widely known and highly respected. The business has flourished with success after success in complex, high-end home renovations. Contact us today to get started!
