KITCHEN REMODELING TIPS

 

 
A well-thought-out, detailed plan is a must for any kitchen project. Whether you design the kitchen yourself or work with us formulating a plan is the first step.

Determine a realistic budget that works for you. Some hidden factors that may affect your budget include:

  • Is this new construction or a remodel?
  • Do you need to move any walls or are you happy with the existing space?
  • Do you need to move, replace or add any windows or doors?
  • Are there existing appliances you would like to keep, or will you be replacing them?
  • Are the sink and stove locations appropriate or will plumbing and gas lines need to be relocated?
  • Is the existing electrical wiring up to code or will it need to be modified?
  • Is the floor in good shape or will it need to be repaired or replaced?

Whether it is new construction or a remodeling project, there are also a multitude of finish options that will affect your budget, such as lighting, countertops, appliances, and wall or window treatments. Take some time to compile a "wish list" of cabinetry options, and gather pictures showing colors, fabrics, and appliance options you like. Once you have these key questions answered, we can help you determine the most effective cabinet solutions for your space and budget.

There are three basic kitchen functions to consider and arrange to create an ideal kitchen: storage, preparation and clean-up. And the following points will help you sort through those issues.

Typical Kitchen Layouts

For the last few decades, most kitchen designs have been based on three standard layouts: the U-shaped kitchen, the L-shaped kitchen and the galley kitchen. Those all make use of the classic work triangle concept that basically positions the three major kitchen components (refrigerator, stove and sink) in a triangular pattern. That was determined to be the most efficient layout in the 1950's, after a research study on kitchen usage showed that most women:

  • Stayed home during the day
  • Worked alone in the kitchen
  • Cooked most foods from scratch
  • Needed storage space for about 400 items

Tracking Modern Trends

More recently, research has recognized the changing use patterns in the kitchen. It found that most women now:

  • Work outside the home
  • Share the cooking
  • Prepare very few foods from scratch
  • Require storage space for 800 items

After this study, guidelines provided to the industry pros with minimum standards for kitchen efficiency, convenience, traffic spaces, distances between items, and countertop and cabinet space.

Multiple Work Centers

Designers now think in terms of multiple work centers or work stations within the kitchen in order to allow more than one person to work efficiently without getting in anyone else's way. Work centers are a little less formal concept than a classic work triangle since you can basically create a station anytime decent counter space is provided next to a major appliance or sink.

Adding an island is one of the most common ways to program multiple work centers into a kitchen. It might block the clear paths of the classic work triangle, but an island creates 2-4 small work stations along its perimeter. These stations can become major work centers if a second sink is added or the cooktop is pulled away from the wall and set into the island. Even without an island, you can create distinct work centers simply by separating the microwave oven and the cooktop/range.

For example, placing them on opposite sides of the sink—setting the microwave near the refrigerator/freezer—provides counter space for food preparation at each appliance.

Finish Materials

Choosing the right finish materials is another critical part of the kitchen remodeling process. Here are some things to consider in five primary categories.

Cabinets:

There are two basic cabinet styles: European-style (frameless) and face-framed cabinets. Either can be ordered from custom or semi-custom cabinet-makers or from stock supplies. Each style has a variety of door, wood and finish options. Cabinets vary in degree of construction quality so look for small details like roll-out and tilt-out drawer features.

Countertops:

Countertop choices range from very durable, yet very expensive materials like granite, quartz or solid surface to the less expensive, but attractive choices of ceramic tile and laminates. 

Flooring:

Recently, sheet vinyl has been the predominant flooring choice for moderately-priced kitchens. It has a variety of textures, designs, price ranges and has virtually replaced linoleum that was popular in our grandparents' era. Ceramic tile has always been popular in kitchens, and wood floors are gaining popularity in both moderate and high end kitchens.

Kitchen Sinks:

Kitchen sinks are made of materials such as solid surface, cast iron, stainless steel and plastic. Mounting styles are either top-mount or undermount with a combination of sizes and features: single-bowl, double-bowl, deep or shallow. Faucets offer different finishes: polished brass or nickel, brushed nickel, chrome, stainless steel. Other options and price ranges include pull-out sprayers, single-levers, double-handled.

Appliances:

The main appliance choice involves built-in or free-standing styles. This decision definitely factors into the overall design. In addition, you'll choose between side-by-side refrigerators or units with top or bottom mounted freezers. Besides the traditional gas or electric issue, range options include: halogen or smooth-top cooktops, double and/or convection ovens, trash compactors, microwaves, range hoods and down-draft vents.

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