While the pros on television often make remodeling a kitchen look easy, the reality is that such a project is anything but a cakewalk. Homeowners who have firsthand experience with kitchen remodeling often recount a host of challenges and lessons learned, wishing they had been better informed to save both time and money.

But fear not, we’re providing you with insights gleaned from our decades of professional remodeling experience. Here’s what to consider when remodeling a kitchen as well as some do’s and don’ts to safeguard your investment.  

Research, research, research

Whether this is your first time attempting a kitchen remodel or you’re a seasoned homeowner attempting it again, start by doing your research. Explore design inspirations and contemporary trends to gather info on various layouts, color schemes, and innovative storage solutions. Magazines, social media, and showrooms can be treasure troves of ideas, providing diverse kitchen styles to ignite your creativity.

Beyond aesthetics, think about the practical aspects of kitchen remodeling. Familiarize yourself with the latest advancements in kitchen appliances, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable materials. 

Take note of real-life remodeling experiences shared by homeowners on forums or blogs; these learnings can offer valuable lessons and help you avoid common pitfalls.

And of course, research labor and material costs specific to your geographical location, and look into potential permit requirements and associated fees. You’ll also want to investigate reputable contractors and read customer reviews to ensure you choose a reliable team for your project. 

Set a budget 

Now that you’re knowledgeable about kitchen trends and costs, set a realistic budget to guide your decision-making and expectations. Consider how much money you’d like to spend, and outline your priorities so you understand what are must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. 

If you have a big family and require a large fridge, then you may have to choose a more inexpensive countertop to make the numbers work. Understanding what is essential versus what won’t make much of a difference in your living style will help you allocate funds. 

Knowing the average cost range for each remodeling component will empower you to make informed decisions and anticipate expenditures. In a nutshell, here’s how you can expect to spend your budget:

• Labor Costs: 25-35% of budget. Labor costs include the wages of skilled professionals involved in the remodel, such as contractors, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and installers. 
• Materials Costs: 35-50% of budget. Material costs account for a substantial portion of the budget and include everything from cabinets, countertops, and flooring to appliances, fixtures, and backsplashes. 
• Permits and Fees: 1-3% of budget. Depending on your location and the scope of your project, you may need to obtain permits and pay associated fees. 
• Design and Planning: 5-10% of budget. Design and planning costs cover the fees associated with hiring an interior designer or architect.
• Contingency Fund: 10-20% of budget. A contingency fund accommodates unexpected costs, such as unforeseen structural issues or design changes that arise during the remodel. It can also cover expected costs such as demolition and removal of old materials, disposal fees, and any additional expenses that may arise.

Give a second thought to kitchen cabinets

Cabinets are usually the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel with average costs reaching around $15,000, so to make a sound investment you should spend extra time thinking about your cabinetry. 

Explore various options within your price range and prioritize where you can allocate your budget effectively. This might mean investing in high-quality materials while opting for a simpler design or choosing a more elaborate style with cost-effective materials.

Also, consider whether you need all new cabinets to begin with. Rather than ripping them out and replacing them wholesale, you could save money by refinishing, repainting, and swapping out the fixtures for new ones that fit your desired aesthetic. Going this route is both a faster process and can free up your budget so you can apply those funds to other areas of the remodel. 

Design for form and function

While it’s tempting to go into a kitchen remodel solely concentrating on the aesthetics or how it’s going to look, don’t neglect how it’ll function when in use. 

A well-designed kitchen layout prioritizes efficiency and accessibility. The arrangement of appliances, countertops, and storage should be intuitive, reducing unnecessary movements and strain. This is particularly important for homeowners of all abilities and ages, ensuring that the kitchen is comfortable and user-friendly for everyone.

At the core of an effective kitchen layout is the concept of the work triangle. This design principle involves strategically placing the three primary work areas—sink, stovetop, and refrigerator—so that they form a triangle. This triangular arrangement ensures that these key zones are easily accessible and logically connected, streamlining the workflow and making daily tasks more efficient.

Kitchen Remodel Dos and Don’ts

Kitchen remodeling isn’t for the faint of heart and can involve a significant investment of time, money, and emotions. To help reduce your risk, we’ve assembled some dos and don’ts you can use to set your project up for success. 

Dos:

Do hire professionals: Enlisting the expertise of professionals is a foundational step in ensuring a successful kitchen remodel. Interior designers and contractors bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, helping you navigate the complexities of design, construction, and adherence to local building codes. Their experience not only streamlines the process but also minimizes the risk of costly errors.

Do prioritize lighting:

Lighting is a transformative element in any kitchen. Adequate illumination not only enhances functionality but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider a combination of natural light sources, such as strategically placed windows or skylights, and artificial lighting, including pendant lights, recessed fixtures, and under-cabinet lighting. 

Do plan for adequate ventilation: Proper ventilation is a cornerstone of a healthy and comfortable kitchen environment. An investment in a high-quality ventilation system helps maintain air quality, reduce moisture buildup, and eliminate cooking odors. Ensure that your chosen system aligns with the size and layout of your kitchen for optimal effectiveness.

Don’ts

Don’t neglect the workflow: A common pitfall in kitchen remodeling is overlooking the natural flow of the space. Avoid designs that hinder movement or create bottlenecks in high-traffic areas. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or someone who enjoys family gatherings in the kitchen, a well-planned layout enables ease of movement and enhances the overall functionality of the space.

Don’t cut corners on quality: Tempting as it may be to trim costs, compromising on the quality of materials and workmanship can lead to long-term issues. Skimping on durable materials or skilled craftsmanship may result in the need for repairs or replacements sooner than anticipated, negating any initial cost savings. Invest wisely to ensure your kitchen stands the test of time.

Don’t disregard safety regulations:

Safety should always be a top priority in a kitchen remodel. Local building codes, electrical regulations, and gas line safety requirements exist to safeguard both your property and its occupants. Neglecting these regulations can not only pose safety hazards but may also lead to legal complications. Always adhere to the prescribed safety standards to create a secure and compliant kitchen space.

Trust your kitchen remodel to Auros

At Auros Home Remodel, we come with more than 20 years of experience in helping thousands of happy homeowners achieve the kitchen of their dreams. Our design professionals can help bring your creative vision to life, and our contractors are praised for their professionalism. We’ve also established relationships with the best suppliers, ensuring you get great prices so you can make the most of your remodel budget. 

Schedule your free in-home design consultation today!