Tips on Planning a Kitchen Renovation
Deciding to go forward with a kitchen renovation is a big step. Maybe it’s something you’ve been thinking about for a while but are waiting for the right time or weighing your various options. When you finally make the decision to move forward, the excitement sets in!
Along with the excitement might come some feelings of uncertainty. Where do you begin? How do you prepare? These feelings are normal, but with a bit of planning, you can keep them at bay.
If you’re planning to start a kitchen remodel, grab a cup of coffee, read through this post, and begin to make a list of your own!
Step 1: Set a budget
Before you dive in and begin designing your dream kitchen, it’s a good idea to first figure out your budget. Determine how much you’re comfortable spending and what you think you can get for that price. This way, when you move onto step 2, you’ll know the type of finishes you can afford.
During this step, it’s important to consider how large of a renovation to plan for. Are you looking to keep the current layout of your kitchen or are you planning to knock down walls and redesign it all? Answer this and you’ll have a much easier time setting a budget, as these two options vary in cost.
Step 2: Establish priorities
Now that you have a budget in mind, it’s a good idea to establish priorities. Some people go into this process knowing they want to redo everything – new cabinets, countertops, appliances, backsplash, finishes, etc. – while others are more comfortable picking and choosing what they’d like to get done. Knowing this ahead of time makes the entire process easier.
Step 3: Gather inspiration
Before you dive further in, it’s a good idea to have a few thoughts on what you want in your new kitchen to help the next few steps go smoother. It’s fun looking at inspiration, but it can also get overwhelming fast! With helpful social media outlets like Pinterest and Instagram, it’s simple to narrow things down.
We suggest first trying to find your kitchen style. Once you find the style you like, save a collection of your favorite photos, so they’re easy to reference during the entire process.
Step 4: Kitchen Designer or not?
Most people choose one of two options when planning a kitchen renovation: Do you want to work with a designer or do things yourself? Keep in mind that hiring a contractor is not the same as hiring a designer – a contractor might be able to give you some ideas, but they generally do not touch the design side. You either have to hire a designer separately, or design the kitchen yourself. Both are great options – it just depends on what you prefer!
Step 5: Hire a contractor
Now that you’ve determined the very basics of your kitchen renovation, it’s time to get started! The first step is to hire a contractor. Meet with a few different ones, so you can weigh costs and choose the one that’s right for you. When you’ve made a decision, share with them your overall budget, priority list, inspiration photos, and either your ideas for design or drawings from a designer. Make sure to discuss timeline as well – remember, you’ll be without a kitchen for some time, so you want to ensure that you have approximate start and end dates ahead of time.
If you are working with a designer, he/she will likely be sourcing your materials for you and working hand-in-hand with your contractor. However, if you are doing the design yourself, you contractor should be able to source all materials for you. You’ll of course get to choose what you want, but your contractor will do all the ordering, pickup and installation.
Keep in mind that contractors will typically source everything, except countertops. When it’s time to choose your countertop, move on to step six.
Step 6: Visit a marble and granite showroom
Choosing your countertops is one of the most exciting parts of a kitchen renovation! We recommend visiting a kitchen countertop showroom or warehouse in your area, so you can talk with a professional about your options and the process. Even if you have an idea of the type of stone you want in mind – you might change your mind once you can see and feel the different types of stones.
If you’re in the New York or Connecticut area, be sure to visit the Academy Marble showroom. We have the largest warehouse and selection of natural and engineered stone for you to browse. Feel free to stop in anytime!
Step 7: Prepare your home
Before the actual renovation begins, it’s a good idea to prepare your home. Though going through a renovation can be hard at times, a little bit of planning will make things easier. If your kitchen is open to other rooms of the home, ask your contractors to hang plastic sheets from the ceiling to block the construction area off. This way, you’ll have a place to unwind with your family and avoid getting sawdust all over your home.
It’s also a good idea to think about your food options – you might want to consider getting a small refrigerator to use until your new one arrives, so you are able to keep the essentials on hand. Grilling dinners, or using electric pots and pans, are great options if you’re looking for alternatives rather than eating out.
Step 8: Keep Calm
Your renovation might not go exactly as planned – if you know this going in, you’re much more likely to keep calm during the process. If things get tough, set your mind on the end result – your beautiful, new kitchen!
We hope this article helps you when it’s time to plan for your very own kitchen renovation. Just remember that a little planning will go a long way. Good luck!
For help with your kitchen plan and countertop selection and installation, visit Academy Marble in Rye NY or Bethel CT.
