There’s no need to be overwhelmed by kitchen remodeling. While the time and investment involved can be daunting, knowing how to prepare and what to consider beforehand will make the process less stressful. Here are some essential steps to start planning.

How to Plan for a Kitchen Remodel

1. Know Your Wants and Needs

Consider who uses the kitchen, what they use it for, and what’s currently missing that would make life easier. For example, you might envision a large counter for meal prepping, more storage space, or a designated area for entertaining. Once you have a list of changes to make, prioritize them by “need” and “want” since you may not be able to budget for everything.  

2. Consider the Layout

Map how you’d like to arrange your new kitchen. Your map should include room for major appliances, walkways, and counters. One popular layout to consider is the work triangle that positions the sink, refrigerator, and oven/stove in a triangular formation and allows for easy navigation between the three spots while cooking or cleaning. A contractor or kitchen designer can also help you draw up a layout.   

3. Research

Showrooms, hardware stores, and home tours are great resources for learning about materials, appliances, lighting features, and layouts. For each of the categories, be mindful of details like cost, installation, maintenance, and aesthetics. You can also look online or browse magazines for ideas and inspiration.

4. Set a Budget

The cost of kitchen remodeling varies depending on materials, labor, and the scale of the project. A general rule is to plan on spending about 5–15% of your home’s total value on the project. How you allocate the money also varies, but a good tip is to divide your budget into thirds and use one third on cabinetry, one third on labor, and the final third on finishing touches and appliances. Your budget should also include wiggle room for unforeseen costs, such as delivery for appliances or eating out if your kitchen is unusable during renovations.

5. Consult Experts

Hiring experts will ensure that your kitchen remodeling is performed safely and efficiently. Even if you’re tempted to DIY, aspects like plumbing, electricity, cabinetry, and foundational changes should always be done by a professional. Experts can also help you make sound decisions that meet your needs and stay within budget. Top-rated professionals’ schedules fill up fast; be sure to book in advance to reserve a space.

 

Does your kitchen need a do-over? Redebu Builders of Hennepin, MN, can help you every step of the way. They offer a free one-on-one consultation to assess your family’s needs and renovation goals, so that you can have a kitchen created especially for you. Call (612)-298-4302 to schedule a consult or visit the website to see recent projects.