The key to a successful kitchen remodeling project is planning. A kitchen remodeling project can be a daunting project. While poring through online concepts, gathering information, and enjoying a trip to the local decor retailer are all great fun, it’s always a good idea to keep the big picture in mind. Consider the space you are working with and any ideas for expansion, what exactly you can accomplish with the space that you have available – and a solid plan that will give you a set of guidelines you can work with – stick to. A project like this can quickly get out of control, especially in scope and budget. Ground rules are important. However, keeping the planned parameters in mind, your remodel will proceed without a hitch – and you may even find that you have saved money during the remodeling process. So, if you want to renovate kitchen Leesburg VA hire MW Burke.
Budgets are Key
Carefully considering your budget is one of the most challenging tasks when it comes to any kitchen remodeling project. However, it’s at the foundation of everything that you will be trying to accomplish – and should therefore be the first part of the planning phase. Remodeling a kitchen can represent a major investment – consider the scope of the project, taking into account the limitations of the budget. The help of a neighborhood realtor can be invaluable – they can provide you with current information on just how much value you can expect to add to a property through a kitchen remodel. Review a selection of remodeling publications – and check out some of the excellent available websites. These sites can provide both inspiration and hints on how to save money during the remodeling process. If the project scope will demand additional finance then investigate a home equity loan – or even finance from suppliers for cabinetry and modern appliances. Many suppliers will offer attractive terms such as zero interest for up to a year. Then consider how much of the work you can do yourself or buy updating existing fittings rather than replacing them (cabinets are good candidates for facelifts).
Consider the Existing Layout
Expert interior designers strongly recommend sticking with the existing physical layout of the kitchen. The approach saves money and simplifies every step of the project. However, this approach still leaves plenty of room for changing things up – for instance, cabinets can be relocated. But you will save a significant amount of money by leaving major systems such as plumbing, electrical supply, and gas as they are. Your fridge and sink(s) may have to remain where they are; other changes, such as installing open cabinetry where it was once closed, are entirely doable.
Keep in mind that you may have to add new waterlines if you consider upgrading fixtures such as sinks and appliances like dishwashers and ice-makers. Your wiring will also have to be brought up to code. However, try and avoid relocating gas piping for your new cooktop and oven or re-routing heating, and HVAC solutions – that sort of work can cause costs to escalate very quickly.
Evaluating an Addition
Homeowners often want to enjoy more space, which can be the prime motivation for the kitchen remodeling project. However, before removing walls, consider the return on investment in that extra space. That extra budget could be used to upgrade cabinets to hand-made units or even invest in superior appliances.
However, if you are convinced that extra space is an absolute must, take a careful look at the rooms next to the kitchen. You may be comfortable sacrificing some of the floor space taken up by a multitude of smaller rooms such as a laundry room, pantry, and bathroom – and combining them all into one super-functional and attractive kitchen space. Once you have taken all these factors into account, consult with a licensed, professional, and experienced architect or kitchen planner. These professionals will have experience in how best to utilize your existing space by reconfiguring ceilings, dividing walls, or even suggesting new window space approaches to give the kitchen that open and airy feel – all without going to the expense of adding an additional room to the planning.
But the most significant contribution to a successful kitchen remodeling project is a clear vision of what you want to accomplish.