Your kitchen is the heart of your home and updating or remodeling your kitchen can be very rewarding both for you and your home. Did you know that a kitchen remodel can provide one of the highest returns on investment as far as home improvements go, with as much as 70 percent of costs recouped upon resale?
If you are thinking about updating or remodeling your kitchen follow these 7 tips for designing your dream kitchen to make sure you are covering all facets and design elements that you want your new kitchen to have.
1. Research: Your kitchen is likely to be one of the most popular areas in your home and remodeling your kitchen can be a dream come true if you do it right. Research is always the foundation to deciding what features and style you want your kitchen to have. You should research many different web sites for kitchen remodeling ideas and kitchen remodeling tips to help you concrete your vision of this important area in your home.
2. Consult a Professional: Contact one or a few reputable Kitchen Designers in your area. Ask them if they offer installation as well as design, which many do. A quality kitchen designer can give your ideas direction and help you discover space saving options as well as give you ideas to increase the functionality of your space you hadn't even thought of yet.
3. Planning: Whether you are a do it yourselfer or are hiring a professional kitchen remodeler every kitchen remodel job requires good planning for it to be successful. An important part of the planning process is determining your budget. Once you have planned your budget, you should try to stick to it as closely as possible for the best results.
Keep in mind while planning your kitchen remodel, that without good planning, many kitchens are of poor design. Many will suffer from lack of proper layout, good lighting, storage or ample counter space. So, next let's talk about layout.
4. Layout: Deciding on the right layout for your kitchen is very important. There are many different layouts to choose from such as the U-shaped layout, L-shaped layout, and the Galley or Strip Kitchen layout. Each of these layouts have their pros and cons and so you must weigh what is important to you in the both the design and efficient use of space. While the L-shaped layout is popular and suits most kitchens, most homeowners prefer the U-shaped kitchen which is more compact. To raise counter space and offer new solutions to improve efficiency, a G-shaped layout can be a versatile option since storage and counter space are two important elements in a kitchen. However, large open kitchens are often more desirable showplaces and entertainment centers, and with a G-shaped layout it can close off the kitchen a little bit. Something to take into consideration.
5. Storage: Making sure you have ample storage can reduce clutter and make for a more efficient kitchen. For instance, you might choose to install tall cabinets that reach to the ceiling. This will create an illusion of having a larger more spacious kitchen. A clutter free room is very attractive, so remember to create the space to put everything away. Using roll out drawers, lazy Susan's and other ingenious storage devices will allow you to use the space you do have efficiently.
6. Counter space: Make sure that you are considering counter space when making your design decisions. Not having sufficient counter space when you are trying to prepare a meal or entertain guests can be a real hassle, so make sure you consider how much counter space you will need. If you have the space for an island that is a great design element that can also add functionality, storage, and more counter space for cooking or entertaining.
7. Lighting: Choose lighting that matches your style while helping to create a positive, energy-filled environment for you, your family and friends. One idea is to include natural and artificial lighting, since this will create an illusion of a brighter and larger kitchen. Glass doors can also give the illusion of a brighter kitchen. You may also consider adding lighting such as under the cabinet lights, recessed lighting, sconces, or chandeliers. Remember that neutral colors reflect light in a small space. When you wish to add bright colors, add color with your accessories, small appliances, ceramics or colorful tile.
If you want to redesign your kitchen layout by adding an island and more cabinets or you are looking to do a full kitchen remodel with all new cabinets, modern kitchen appliances, faucets, clean, beautiful countertops, and a new sink, following these 7 steps to help you create an attractive, energy-filled kitchen will enable you to efficiently perform various functions from cooking for the family to entertaining guests.
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