Kitchen remodeling is an exciting opportunity to create the space of your dreams for cooking and entertaining. With some careful planning, you can ensure the project goes as expected and improves the look and functionality of your home. To help you avoid mistakes that could be costly, here’s a guide of some of the do’s and don’ts of renovating a kitchen.

Do:

Aim for a timeless look.

It may be tempting to use this year’s trending color for the walls or your backsplash, but while these make a bold statement, you may also grow tired of them in no time. If you plan on living in your home for several years, consider aiming for neutral colors, finishes, and materials, such as white and gray. As trends come and go, these are timeless and will always match any style.

Incorporate ample lighting.

A well-lit kitchen isn’t just aesthetically pleasing, but also a must for safety and cleanliness. Washing dishes or countertops in dim light makes it hard to spot dirt and grime. You’ll also be working with knives and hot surfaces, and seeing clearly is essential for avoiding burns and cuts. Incorporate as many windows as possible into your design to take advantage of natural lighting, and add light fixtures to illuminate other areas as necessary.

Don’t:

Forget the kitchen triangle.

A poor kitchen layout can lead to a lot of extra walking and an inefficient workflow while cooking and preparing ingredients. As a rule of thumb, the imaginary triangle between your stove, sink, and refrigerator shouldn’t measure more than 26 feet. Each side should be between four and nine feet long— too short and you’ll feel cramped, too long and you’ll waste time.

Go over budget.

At some point during your kitchen remodeling, you may want to go over budget to purchase that high-end countertop or cabinet finish you just need to have. However, if unexpected expenses crop up during construction, you’ll be left with little room to cover these unforeseen costs. Stay flexible and prepare for these issues by staying within budget as you plan your kitchen, and you’ll thank yourself later.

If you need a contractor to assist with a kitchen remodeling, call DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen in Newington, CT. This locally-owned and -operated company helps you create the kitchen and bathroom design of your dreams while staying within budget. Whether you need to tear down walls, replace cabinets, or add new bathroom fixtures, they can make your vision a reality. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings, or call (860) 680-8745 to schedule a free consultation.