In every household or office, a running kitchen or pantry is very important. We all want a kitchen that meets our needs and requirements. Let’s look at a few basics that you need to keep a check on when you consider renovating your kitchen.

 

Budget:

First and foremost, decide your desired budget for the renovations with room for last-minute expenses, and communicate the same to your designer so that you are on the same page. Make sure that the model of all fixtures and equipment that will be installed meets your standards since this will also influence your budget.

 

Time frame:

Do you need the renovation to be completed in six weeks or is it alright if it takes nine weeks?

Think about the time frame you are comfortable with and give your designer the deadline of half of this. More experienced designers and contractors will be able to accomplish the project within the given deadline, however, most contractors will cause delays. Pre-empt this circumstance and make sure you are prepared for any delays by stating an earlier deadline.

 

Permits:

There are certain types of upgrades that require legal permits. This would play a very important role when you plan to sell your house as the buyer would want to ensure that the remodels follow the rules and regulations given by the building or the society committee. Make sure that you have all the necessary permits and licenses in place before embarking on any renovations.

 

Storage Space:

You have your fridge, your stove, your mixer-grinder that requires their respective spaces. Besides these, you also have your microwave, kitchen tools, crockery and more that need their individual slots as well. Please make a list and ensure that they are a part of the design plan and the space for them is distributed as per their individual requirements.

 

Appliances:

When we look at remodelling a kitchen, we often get excited about buying additional flashy appliances for the ‘new’ kitchen. This is usually redundant spending since existing equipment work just as well and would last you a few more years before having to invest in a new piece of kitchen equipment. Make a list of your existing useful appliances, and buy only the absolute necessities. If you do you have purchase any appliances, make sure that they have a resale value in the future. This will come handy if or when you decide to relocate.

 

Ventilation:

Depending on how your kitchen window is placed, you will want to vent out any smells or smoke from the kitchen. Discuss your options with the designer and plan the interiors accordingly. A correct ventilation system will make the environment pleasant and healthy without compromising on the design, especially if your kitchen opens to a living area or family room.

 

Layout:

This is where you'd have to enlist logistical mapping skills. How would it work if all your drawers and appliances are in use at the same time?

If the fridge door is open, will it collide against the kitchen drawer? If the lower cabinet is open, does it touch the floor or the user’s feet? Make sure you thoroughly think through everything before you approve the floor plan. Poor or hasty planning of the layout can cause frustration in the future.

 

Trends:

The latest kitchen trends and high-end equipment may at times not be the best choice. Trendy colors and design fads tend to have a short lifespan and aren't universally appealling. You may not necessarily see the returns on your large investment on the latest kitchenware, and they may have a lower resale value. It’s best to do some research on kitchens that stand the test of time, and consult an experienced designer or contractor before making important color and design choices.

 

Plumbing:

In case you plan to make major plumbing changes like moving your kitchen sink or adding a faucet somewhere, check with your designer and contractor about the feasibility and the overheads behind moving any pipes.

 

Recycling:

Recycling has become vital now; handling trash in the kitchen has gone beyond keeping a bin under the sink. Manage your trash expertly and in a sustainable manner — incorporate sorting bins for recyclables into your kitchen design.

 

Professionals:

Taking on a kitchen design project with the local contractor in order to save money is a common mistake that many make; it can actually waste more money and time. Professional designers have the latest and innovative ideas along with the information, and they can guide you to recognize your needs and help you with an efficient plan that would fit your liking as well as your budget.

 

The style, size, or layout of your kitchen are the details that breathe life into the space. Choose features that fit your look, it can be contemporary, vintage, or cottage. And follow the guideline given with the help of an expert to create a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional.

 

 

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