Planning a kitchen remodel is a huge undertaking. With so much to consider, it can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled our top 6 kitchen renovation mistakes to stay away from. Take these to heart and you’ll be well on your way to the perfect kitchen!
Mistake #1: Focusing on aesthetics vs. function
Yes, everyone wants a beautiful kitchen. But, it’s important to not focus so much on what the room looks like that you miss out on how it should function. For example, a refrigerator mixed in with a line of cabinets may look sleek and streamlined. However, if it’s not near the island, countertops, or other food prep areas, your kitchen won’t be as efficient and functional as it could be.
Tip: Focus on function first. Then, pick out stylish and aesthetically pleasing features.
Mistake #2: Designing for someone else
This one might seem silly to you at first – who designs their kitchen with someone else in mind? The answer might surprise you … a lot of people do! Whether consciously or subconsciously, many homeowners make remodeling decisions based on what they’ve seen in someone else’s house or on what someone else with think.
It’s not a bad thing to ask others what works for them. By learning from others’ successes and failures, you may be able to avoid costly mistakes yourself. But, don’t let those opinions make you choose something that’s not right for your family.
Tip: Evaluate your family’s needs and design a kitchen that meets them. If the result impresses or pleases others, that’s a bonus!
Mistake #3: Not including sufficient storage or workspace
Your kitchen is meant to be worked in, there’s no doubt about that. It will be used every day and multiple times during the day. When you’re planning your new kitchen, make sure to think about your ideal workspace. How big should it be? Do you need multiple workspaces? For example, maybe you need a food prep area that is separate from an area where the kids can sit and do their homework while you’re preparing a meal.
In order for a workspace to be usable, it must be clear of unnecessary objects that could interfere with the efficient use of the space. That’s where adequate storage comes into play. A good set of stock cabinets may do the trick. Or, you may find that custom cabinets are better at fulfilling your specific storage needs.
Tip: More storage means less cluttered countertops and a more usable workspace.
Mistake #4: Ignoring the importance of lighting
Lighting is a critical part of a kitchen remodel as it contributes to both aesthetics and function. Overhead lighting is helpful for illuminating the entire room while accent lighting can accentuate features you’d like to highlight. Lighting directly above work areas and along the toe kick of cabinets are great things to think about if you’re planning on staying in your home and aging in place.
Tip: Plan your lighting so that it meets your needs now AND in the future.
Mistake #5: Failing to budget properly
The “b” word is generally not a favorite among homeowners. However, budgeting is a critical part of any home renovation. It’s especially important for a full kitchen remodel. Expenses include new appliances, cabinets, flooring, lighting, plumbing, electrical, and more. Planning ahead and setting aside extra funds for the unexpected will help streamline the process and enable you to stick to your remodeling budget.
Tip: Determine how much you can spend on your kitchen remodel. Then, pick a design that falls within the budget AND leaves you room to spare to cover contingencies.
Mistake #6: Planning a DIY kitchen renovation
Of all the kitchen renovation mistakes to avoid, this is perhaps the biggest one. With popular TV shows such as Fixer Upper and HGTV, many homeowners feel empowered to do their own remodeling. Yes, there are some projects that are DIY worthy, but a kitchen renovation is not one of them.
Unless you’re a remodeling pro yourself, you’re likely not familiar with everything that must be considered during a kitchen remodel: permits, building codes, plumbing and electrical features, cabinet, flooring, and lighting installations, and more. Plus, there are all the design considerations to think about. Hiring a remodeling company is the best way to get your dream kitchen without all the hassle and headaches that could come from doing it yourself.
Tip: Leave kitchen remodeling to the pros. When you choose the right company, they will design your dream kitchen and make it a reality while staying within your remodeling budget.
Are YOU ready to experience the kitchen of your dreams? Call us at (949) 861-3400 to get the design process started!