Each home renovation project has its problems, but kitchen remodels can be especially frustrating and costly. It’s more than the appearance of the space. There are many appliances to choose from, plumbing issues to address, and storage problems to resolve. You and your family still have to eat three meals per day. Takeout is also not an option.
Don’t let the extra logistics of a kitchen remodel convince you to stay with an old space or one that doesn’t suit you. Here are 10 tips to help you get your dream kitchen resurfacing in brisbane.
Plan Ahead
Jill Howard, designer at Jill Howard Design Studio, says, “in a perfect world you would stay somewhere else [during renovation]”. It rarely works this way, but you’re well aware. You should carefully consider the logistics if you plan to stay put for the duration. A temporary kitchen is necessary to complete a kitchen remodel. This will be in your dining or laundry rooms. Have fun! Taylor Hill, Taylor Hill Interior Design designer says that a kitchen renovation is rarely completed in less than 12 weeks. You can save yourself lots of frustration and headaches by expecting the construction to take at least ten-to twenty percent longer than the original estimate.
Study Your Current Kitchen
Hill states that the first thing she asks clients is to look at their kitchen. “Study it. Let me know what you love about it. Let me know what you would change. Howard also says that unless you add to the existing home, you will be working with a certain square-footage. Howard suggests understanding your “why”. You don’t have to force a large island onto your list if the space isn’t available. Howard said, “I encourage people not to force their desires.” Ask the why and you will find other solutions that may work better for your space.
If It’s Not Broken, Don’t Fix It
Hill states that if the windows you have already work well with your new kitchen plan, keep them. Hill says that this is a savings of hundreds of dollars. This advice applies to other fixed elements, such as current plumbing locations. It will not only make it easier for you to plan for unexpected events, but it will also save your precious time.
Talk to the experts
Hill jokes, “I don’t file my taxes because I’m not an accountant.” Hill suggests Hill work with an architect and designer in addition to a contractor, if you have the budget. You’re making expensive decisions and it can quickly become overwhelming without assistance. You can find local designers that offer hourly consultations if you are working on a tight budget. Howard suggests that you have your entire team assembled from the beginning if you plan to hire experts. You’ll get better results.
Make function a priority
Your kitchen should work for you, and your lifestyle. Hill states that function is the most important thing. You can make any thing pretty. Take a detailed inventory of all your items (pots and pans, stand mixers etc.) to determine the best layout for you. Take stock of what you have, and how you use them. Consider your tolerance for maintenance when choosing finishes or other materials like counter tops.
Get Appliances Now
Appliance costs include refrigerators, dishwashers and ovens, electric and gas cooktops, microwaves and ice makers. This will be the largest portion of your overall project budget. You will have to decide early on about your kitchen layout and design. For a cleaner look, add an electrical outlet to your pantry.
The space can influence design decisions
Before making any design decisions, consider how your kitchen will fit into the house. Is it connected to another space? Is there any space that opens into another room? Hill states that Hill’s number one rule is to ensure all elements can sit at the same table. They don’t have to all be the same but they must communicate.
Soften the Space
While function is important in the kitchen, it should also be a top priority. However, the space should be beautiful and comfortable so your entire family can enjoy it. Howard says, “You don’t want your kitchen feeling like the back of an restaurant.” “I treat the kitchen as any other room in the home. Use finishes and textiles to soften the space, and add personal touches such as art.
Open Concept isn’t the Only Concept
We love the idea of a large, open kitchen for entertaining but not all homes need one. Hill says that sometimes people are too eager to start a renovation and end up tearing down walls that shouldn’t be there. Think about your family’s daily lives.
Be timeless, not trendy
Trends don’t age well, especially in the kitchen. I try not to follow them. Howard states that nothing can speed up the demise of a kitchen. If you are drawn to a certain trend, make sure to incorporate it in areas that are easy to modify–barstools and lighting, drawer pulls and the like.
