New kitchens are a great way to increase the value of your home for resale or to enjoy the lasting quality of entertaining at home. If you are venturing into this project, it is important to consider some professional advise whether you are tackling the project on your own or using a licensed company. Take a look at this list of suggestions as you dive into your new project. Enjoy! Be well…

APPLIANCES

Avoid choosing your appliances last. It’s much easier to choose cabinets and countertops to fit the appliances, rather than the other way around. This is because appliances require more consideration with regard to water piping, electricity and other utilities. For example, you may desire a kitchen island with an additional stove-top. Choosing this item last may also create a new estimate to be provided by your remodeling expert.

WORKFLOW

Plan for your kitchen’s busiest areas such as the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Make sure these are in an efficient location that is relevant to your work and to one another. Mostly referred to as the “work triangle”, it’s important to have organic flow while your hosting, cooking or entertaining. Before you remodel, be aware of what is in your way now, then change it.

STORAGE

Consider every storage area you want to have in your new kitchen. Storage details will increase your kitchen’s efficiency and will also save you money. Many new kitchen remodels forget to consider small spaces, extra tool areas and other nooks. These are much more costly to add on down the road.

COUNTER SPACE

Try not to settle for less counter space. There are many ways to expand without interrupting appliance placement or workflow. Kitchen islands, decorative corbels, shelving can create added room for your countertop. Keep in mind also that many kitchens now have an exposed look, which means it’s ok to display chef knives, tools and other equipment as long as they fit the aesthetic.

SURROUNDING SPACES

Once you get started and the tear-outs begin, paint drippings and other construction debris can wander into other areas of the house. It’s easy to shield your demo areas using clear plastic tarps and painters tape.

BUDGET

A budget is an essential part of any kitchen remodeling plan. Make a list. Dedicate your finances to the items that are most important to you. Here’s a tip: kitchen cabinets usually require to use about one-third of the typical remodeling budget.