Clarify Your Remodeling Needs

Before searching for a contractor, clearly define your goals. Are you looking for a complete overhaul or a simple update? Identify which areas you want to remodel—cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, etc. Set a realistic budget and consider your timeline and any special requirements, such as eco-friendly materials or specific design styles. Having a clear vision will help you communicate effectively with potential contractors.

Do Your Research

Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors. Use online platforms like Angie’s List, Houzz, and Yelp to read reviews and check ratings. Look for contractors who are members of professional associations, like the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), which shows their commitment to industry standards. Explore their website and social media profiles for a portfolio of past projects and client testimonials.

Check Credentials and Licensing

Make sure the contractor is licensed, insured, and properly certified. Verify any specializations, such as training in kitchen design or certifications like “Master Remodeler.” Since kitchen remodeling requires a specific skill set, ensure the contractor has experience in this area, rather than general construction.

Review Past Work and References

Ask potential contractors for a portfolio of completed kitchen remodels to assess the quality of their work. Speak directly to past clients to learn about their experiences. If possible, visit completed projects to see the contractor’s craftsmanship and professionalism in person.

Interview Multiple Contractors

Narrow your options and schedule consultations with several contractors. Prepare questions about their process, experience, timeline, and availability. Discuss your vision for the project and gauge how well they understand and respond to your ideas. Ask how they handle challenges or unforeseen issues that may arise during the project.

Request Detailed Quotes

Ask for thorough, written quotes from each contractor, outlining the scope of work, materials, and labor costs. Comparing quotes will help you understand the typical price range and ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Be cautious of quotes that seem unusually low or high, as they may indicate potential issues with quality or hidden costs.

Review the Contract Carefully

Once you’ve selected a contractor, carefully review the contract. Ensure it includes clear details about timelines, payment schedules, scope of work, and warranties on both labor and materials. Clarify any contingencies, hidden costs, and how the contractor will handle changes or unexpected issues during the project.

Evaluate Communication and Rapport

Pay attention to the contractor’s communication skills during the interview process. They should be responsive, respectful, and willing to address your concerns. Trust your instincts—choose a contractor you feel comfortable with and confident in, as a strong working relationship is key to a smooth remodeling experience.

Trust the Process and Set Expectations

Understand the stages of your project, from design to completion, and set realistic expectations for timelines, costs, and potential disruptions. Be proactive in maintaining open communication with your contractor throughout the process to address any concerns promptly and ensure the project stays on track.

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Ready to find the right contractor for your kitchen remodel? By carefully researching, interviewing, and vetting potential contractors, you can ensure your project runs smoothly and meets your expectations. Follow the steps outlined above to choose a skilled professional who aligns with your vision. If you need expert guidance, reach out to us today—we’re here to help make your remodeling experience a success. Also, be sure to explore our blog for insights on common remodeling challenges and how to overcome them!

The post How to Find the Right Kitchen Remodeling Contractor appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Plan for the Unexpected

The initial budgeting process should be thorough, but even with that, it is crucial to set aside a portion of your fund for unforeseen expenses. Things like discovering plumbing issues behind walls or encountering structural problems during demolition can surely be unexpected surprises and are almost inevitable in any renovation project. It is a good rule of thumb to allocate at least 10-20% of your total budget as a buffer to help cover any of the unexpected costs that may arise along the way.

Quality over Quantity

It might be tempting to choose cheaper materials and appliances to stay within your budget, but prioritizing quality can actually save you money in the long run. Choosing to invest in durable, high-quality materials and appliances will definitely require a higher upfront cost, but more than often they offer higher performance and longevity which reduces the likelihood of repairs or replacements down the road. Take into consideration things like warranties, energy efficiency, and maintenance when making purchasing decisions to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

Watch Out for Hidden Fees

There are of course the obvious costs of materials and labor that are associated with a kitchen remodel, but there are also other fees that you might not be aware of that can catch you off guard. Things like permit fees, disposal costs for old materials, and delivery charges for new appliances. Or if your project goes beyond your planned timeline, some companies might charge additional storage fees for things like appliances if you’re not ready for them to be delivered quite yet. These are the types of things you’ll want to research and factor in as additional expenses when creating your budget to avoid surprises later.

DIY vs. Professionals

Although it can be very tempting to tackle certain aspects of the renovation yourself as it can save you money, it is imperative to weigh the pros and cons carefully. DIY projects can seem cost-effective in some cases, however, they can lead to costly mistakes if they are not executed correctly. There are certain tasks like electrical work and plumbing that are best left to licensed professionals who know what they’re doing to ensure safety and compliance with building costs. Be realistic about your skills and expertise, and don’t take on more than you can handle. Consider hiring professionals for intricate tasks to avoid setbacks and expenses.

Shop Around

When hiring said professionals and purchasing materials, don’t just go with the first option you come across. Take the extra time to gather multiple quotes from different vendors or service providers. Compare them thoroughly and consider things like price, warranties, and customer reviews to find the best option for you and the best value for your money. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with contractors as well. Some of them are willing to match or beat competitor prices or even offer discounts for bundling services.

Plan for Post-Renovation Expenses

After you’ve just made a large investment in your new kitchen, it is important to budget for ongoing maintenance or upkeep to preserve that investment. Think through things like routine cleaning, repairs, and upgrades to appliances and fixtures over time. Things like this might not affect your project budget, but make sure you work them into your normal life budget moving forward to make sure you are protecting your investment. Additionally, with large upgrades like a kitchen renovation, it is important to update your homeowner’s insurance to make sure coverage is adequate for the new value of the home.

A kitchen remodel can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. With such a large investment, it is essential to approach the project with careful planning and budgeting to avoid falling victim to hidden costs that could put the project on hold. Anticipating potential expenses, prioritizing quality, and shopping around for multiple quotes help homeowners navigate the renovation process to achieve their desired results within their budget. If this all seems overwhelming and you don’t know where to begin, this is exactly what your local Kitchen Solvers is prepared to help you with. We can help work with you to create a budget that works for you and your dreams. Often, we can even offer financing for all or just a portion of your project as well to make it more feasible at this time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to start talking through the logistics of your dreams.

The post The Hidden Cost of Kitchen Remodeling: Budgeting Tips appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Budget Creep

Budget creep has become a cross-industry term that refers to the cost of a project or service rising above the initial planned budget. With any remodeling project, it’s easy to get carried away with upgrades and additions. These things can all pile up and send costs spiraling out of control. To prevent this, start by establishing a clear budget from the outset and organize your priorities and must-haves. Leave a little bit of wiggle room in your budget for unexpected expenses, but ultimately it’s your responsibility to be disciplined about sticking to your financial plan.

Timeline Delays

Delays need to be expected in any construction project, and kitchen remodels are no exception to that rule. Delays can be caused by permit issues, material shortages, or unexpected structural issues—you never know what your contractor might discover behind your walls. Delays can be frustrating, but to mitigate them, work closely with your contractor and create a realistic timeline that builds in some buffer periods for potential setbacks. Remember to stay flexible and patient and keep your eye on the prize—a brand-new kitchen.

Decision Fatigue

Homeowners can often find themselves overwhelmed with design fatigue when they see how many design choices are available to them. From cabinet styles to countertop materials and everything in between, the options can feel endless at times. To help streamline the decision-making process and avoid fatigue, it’s best to start by defining your design aesthetic. Break your decisions down into manageable chunks and don’t be afraid to seek input from professionals who can help narrow your choices down.

Structural Issues

If your remodel requires demolition, it’s not uncommon for unexpected structural issues to be uncovered. Things like water damage and outdated electrical can derail your remodel and add on significant costs and time to your project. To help minimize the risk of surprise, it’s a good idea to invest in a thorough pre-construction inspection to identify any potential issues beforehand. This is where that wiggle room that you built into your budget can come in handy to cover any unforeseen repairs that may arise.

Disruption to Daily Life

It’s important to be aware that a kitchen remodel can disrupt your daily routine and create temporary chaos in your home. Meal prep and cooking can become challenging tasks without access to a functional kitchen. In order to minimize the disruption, consider setting up a temporary kitchen in another part of your home like the basement, garage, or laundry room. Prepare frozen meals ahead of time or stock up on easy-to-prepare meals and disposable dinnerware to make prep and cleanup more manageable. Make sure to communicate regularly with your contractor to stay informed each step of the way to hopefully anticipate any additional inconveniences.

Mismatched Expectations

Misunderstandings and miscommunications can lead to dissatisfaction with the final result. With that in mind, clear communication between homeowners and their contractors is essential to make sure everyone is on the same page and has the same expectations. Before you even begin your project, outline your expectations in detail and share them with your contractor. It’s also a good idea to ask your contractor for a written proposal that clearly outlines things like the scope of work, timeline, and budget. Regularly checking in on this proposal can help address any concerns or discrepancies early on before they become issues.

Kitchen remodeling will inevitably come with certain challenges, but with careful planning and proactive problem-solving, you can navigate through them successfully without too much of a headache. Setting realistic expectations, maintaining open communication, and keeping a flexible mindset in the face of setbacks will set you up for success when tackling any obstacles along the way. At Kitchen Solvers, we pride ourselves on providing a Pleasant Remodeling Experience. Providing you with a beautiful, functional kitchen that enhances your home and makes your dreams come true is our number one goal—and we make it our priority to make that process as pleasant as possible.

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Evaluate Your Needs & Prioritize

Before diving into any type of house project, you should always take some time to evaluate your needs and prioritize. Figure out which aspects of your kitchen require attention—it could be outdated cabinets, worn-out countertops, or a lack of storage space. Understanding your priorities can help you allocate your budget wisely and make sure you focus on the areas that will make the most impact on your daily function in the space.

Full Remodel on a Budget

DIY Painting

Paint might seem like all too simple of an upgrade, but it can make a world of difference in a space. A fresh coat of paint on the walls and the cabinets can be one of the most budget-friendly ways to give your kitchen a fresh look. Choose light, neutral colors to create a spacious and inviting atmosphere. Do your research on tips and tricks when painting cabinetry as it can be a little bit of a chore but can easily be done on a weekend if you’re focused. This weekend project can transform your kitchen almost instantly.

Affordable Countertops

Just because your countertops might be worn our and dated, doesn’t mean you need to splurge on an expensive replacement like granite or quartz. Consider more affordable options like laminate or butcher block. These options can provide a stylish, fresh look without the hefty price tag. This allows you to use your budget on other essential upgrades instead of spending most of it on your countertop.

Update Lighting Fixtures

A simple swap of outdated lighting fixtures for new, modern, energy-efficient ones is another way to enhance your kitchen aesthetic quickly. Typically, lighting fixtures aren’t too expensive either and can make a huge difference in the space. Consider pendant lights over your island, or under-cabinet LED strips can add style, ambiance, and functionality too.

Cabinet Refacing

New Doors and Hardware

If your current cabinets are structurally sound but just visually outdated, you could reface them by simply replacing the doors and hardware. This can give your kitchen a contemporary facelift without the large expense of entirely new cabinetry.

Laminate or Veneer Overhaul

If you’re looking for a new appearance for your cabinets, you can apply a laminate or veneer to the cabinet box surfaces for a sleek and polished look. Not only does this cover up imperfections, but it also provides a new durable, and easy-to-clean surface. This cost-effective option is a way to achieve a high-end look on a budget.

Open Shelving

By simply removing the doors on a few of your cabinets you can embrace the open shelving trend. This would not only save you the cost of replacing those doors but creates a modern and airy feel for your kitchen. Homeowners choose to display stylish dishware or decorative items to further personalize their kitchen as it can be a little harder to add personal decorations in this space.

Smart Storage Solutions

Pull-Out Shelves and Drawers

Incorporating pull-out shelves and drawers can instantly enhance functionality in your kitchen. These types of storage solutions can be installed in existing cabinets to maximize the space you already have while making items more accessible and increasing the overall function of the space.

DIY Organization

You don’t necessarily need new gadgets and large pull-out shelves or drawers to organize your space. DIY organizing solutions can make just as big of an effect on the function of your space. Taking advantage of unused vertical space with hooks utensils or tension rods for pot lids can ensure that there are designated zones for specific items. Clever organization can make a huge difference in any space, but especially in a space that is so heavily used like the kitchen. Taking the time to really think through how the space functions and what you need in what places can make you kitchen feel brand new.

Upgrading your kitchen on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t truly upgrade the style and function of the space. Whether you choose a full remodel or the more budget-friendly cabinet refacing, these tips can help you attain a fresh and inviting space without breaking the bank. A little creativity and strategic planning can go a long way in transforming your kitchen into a place where you love to cook, entertain, or just be. If creativity and strategic planning aren’t your strong suits, Kitchen Solvers is here to help. We specialize in making your kitchen dreams come true—no matter what your budget is. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home consultation to start dreaming today.

The post Budget-Friendly Kitchen Upgrades: A Guide for Homeowners appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Going the refacing route is significantly more budget-friendly than a full kitchen overhaul. It allows you to achieve a fresh and updated look without breaking the bank. The bulk of the cost of new cabinetry is in new cabinet boxes, so by keeping those structures in place and simply replacing the doors and hardware, you save on both materials and labor.

2. Time-Efficient

A full kitchen renovation can disrupt your daily routine and leave your kitchen (and entire home) disheveled for weeks. A cabinet reface, however, is quick and efficient and can usually be done in 2-4 days depending on the size and scope of the project. This minimizes the inconvenience and allows you to enjoy your new kitchen in practically no time.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Opting for a kitchen cabinet reface is an environmentally conscious choice. By recycling the existing cabinet boxes and framework you are reducing the need for new materials and minimizing waste. The environmental impact associated with the manufacturing and disposal of cabinetry can be detrimental, so every little bit we can do to cut that down make a difference.

4. Versatility in Design

The style possibilities are virtually endless with cabinet refacing. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, or eclectic style you can choose from a wide variety of materials, finishes, and hardware to design your cabinetry to fit your taste. Having this type of flexibility ensures that your kitchen will reflect your style and personality.

5. Preservation of Layout and Functionality

If you have no qualms about your kitchen’s current layout and functionality, there really is no need for a complete overhaul. Choosing to reface instead of replace allows you to maintain the existing structures while giving it a major facelift. This maintains the aspects of your kitchen that work well for you so you know you’ll be able to function smoothly in the new space as well.

6. Increased Home Value

A refreshed and modern kitchen significantly adds to the overall value of your home. Potential buyers are drawn to a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing kitchen. It can be the deciding factor for a lot of buyers as they are comparing homes to one another. Refaced cabinets can be a selling point for your home that sets you apart from the rest of the real estate market in your area.

7. Quality of Materials

During the process of refacing your cabinets, you have the opportunity to upgrade the quality of materials used for your doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. You might also consider upgrading your countertops, backsplash, and appliances at the same time. All these changes not only enhance the visual appeal but also improve the durability and longevity of your cabinets and kitchen as a whole.

8. Enhanced Lighting and Visibility

You might be surprised how much of a difference upgraded cabinet doors can make on the lighting and visibility of a space. Choosing a glass insert door, or simply a lighter-colored door can create a brighter and more open feel to your kitchen. This can make your kitchen more enjoyable and comfortable for cooking and entertaining.

9. Personalized Storage Solutions

During your cabinet refacing project, you have the opportunity to reassess your storage needs in your kitchen and implement personalized solutions. You can incorporate features such as pull-out shelves, Lazy Susans, or built-in organizers for spices, cooking sheets, or pots and pans. These allow you to optimize the functionality of your cabinets.

10. Minimal Disruption

One of the most significant advantages of a cabinet reface is the very minimal disruption is causes to your daily life. As we already mentioned, a reface takes much less time than a full remodel, but your kitchen can stay almost fully functional during the project as well. By avoiding removing all of the cabinetry, you can maintain some workspaces and access to appliances so your kitchen can still be used during the evenings when work is not being done.

As you can see, refacing is a smart investment that combines cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and the opportunity for an updated and personalized design and function for your kitchen. It breathes new life in your kitchen and enhances both aesthetic appeal and function without the hassle and time commitment of a full renovation. Whether you are looking to sell your home soon or create a more enjoyable living space for you and your family to enjoy for years to come, a reface is a great option. If you are interested in learning more about cabinet refacing and if it is the right choice for your project, reach out to your local Kitchen Solvers to set up a free in-home consultation and find out!

The post 10 Reasons Why Refacing your Kitchen Cabinets is a Smart Investment appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Start with Purpose

Before you get too deep into the design process, it is important to determine the purpose of your kitchen island. Are you wanting to add additional storage, extra countertop space, a dining area, or even a combination of all of these? Defining the island’s primary function will help guide you through the rest of the design decisions.

Consider Your Space

Measure your kitchen’s footprint to determine the size and shape that your kitchen island will be. The island must be balanced within the overall kitchen layout, and it should not obstruct the natural traffic flow throughout the space. Adding an island might require moving other appliances around so your work triangle (path between your sink, refrigerator, and stove) is not disturbed. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least three feet of clearance on all sides of the island to ensure comfortable movement all around.

Style and Materials

Your kitchen island should harmonize and complement the existing design theme of your kitchen. Whether your kitchen has rustic farmhouse charm or a more sleek, modern elegance, the new island materials, colors, and finishes should blend with the overall aesthetic of the space. Maybe a waterfall kitchen island is a good choice for your space or even a 2-tier kitchen island. Both of these can be a bold choice but they can add personality and flair to your space. Furthermore, when choosing materials for your island, consider the durability and lifespan of your options. Granite, quartz, marble, and butcher block are popular countertop choices due to their durability. Additionally, choose cabinetry made from solid wood or a high-quality MDF to ensure a solid foundation that will stand against the test of time.

Storage and Function

The ultimate function of your kitchen island lies in your storage solutions. Don’t overlook these important decisions when it comes to your kitchen design. Use drawers, cabinets, and shelving to store pots, pans, utensils, and other kitchen essentials. Deep drawers with dividers can neatly organize cookware and cutting boards. Maximize functionality by adding a built-in wine rack, a microwave, or pull-out trash bins. Adding these elements to your island can streamline your kitchen tasks without jeopardizing appearance.

Light it Up

Another choice to make sure you don’t make too hastily is the proper lighting for your island. Lighting adds both to the functionality and aesthetic of the island so it is pivotal that you make a decision that will enhance both of these. Pendant lights suspended above the island are the most popular choice as they not only illuminate the workspace but also serve as eye-catching focal points. Choose fixtures that complement and enhance your existing design theme.

Room to Graze

If one of your goals with adding a kitchen island is to use it as an additional dining area, make sure you choose seating options that fit into your lifestyle. Bar stools or counter-height chairs can help create a casual atmosphere, while including a cushioned seat can add a touch of comfort and elegance if you choose tufted upholstery. Remember to leave plenty of legroom beneath the counter for a comfortable and spacious dining experience.

As you embark on designing a functional and beautiful kitchen island, remember that balance is key. An island should enhance your workflow and harmonize with your personal style. By carefully considering the purpose, dimensions, materials, storage options, and aesthetics, you can build an island that becomes the heart of your kitchen and a focal point for all who enter. If you’re still not sure where to start after reading through these tips, your local Kitchen Solvers team is here to help you! Call us today for a free in-home consultation to start making your kitchen dreams a reality.

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Enhanced Functionality

Kitchens are not one size fits all. Everyone uses their kitchen differently so when you move into a new home, it can take a while to get used to the new layout and figure out how you want your daily activities to flow. And even if you’ve lived in your home for years, there are more than likely pain points you can point out or things you wish were different. A well-designed kitchen can streamline your cooking, meal prep, and cleaning to make your everything in your kitchen more efficient and ultimately enjoyable. During a kitchen remodel, kitchen functionality should be a top priority. Installing an island for additional counter space, adding custom cabinetry and storage solutions for organization, and upgrading appliances can all empower you to increase productivity in the heart of the home.

Increased Home Value

Not only will you enjoy your kitchen remodel and the increased functionality of your space immediately, but future you will thank you too. A kitchen renovation can significantly increase the value of your home and potential buyers are often looking for updated, well-designed kitchens. Modernizing your kitchen with high-quality materials, high-tech energy-efficient appliances, and stylish, timeless finishes can potentially allow you to command a higher resale price for your home. This is why a kitchen remodel is seen as a smart financial investment that adds long-term value to your home.

Energy Efficiency

As the cost of energy continues to rise, another benefit of a kitchen remodel is to improve energy efficiency by replacing outdated appliances, installing LED lighting fixtures, or upgrading your insulation. All these things can significantly reduce utility expenses and your environmental impact on planet Earth. Water conservation can be achieved through low-flow faucets and efficient dishwashers. Opting for sustainable choices in your kitchen remodel can create an eco-friendly home that promotes both cost savings and environmental stewardship.

Personalized Style and Aesthetics

Finally, and probably the first thing you thought of, a kitchen remodel allows homeowners to create a space that reflects their own personal style and preferences. No matter what your kitchen style may be—sleek and contemporary, farmhouse, or traditional—a remodel gives you the opportunity to bring your vision to life. Being able to customize every aspect of the space from cabinets, countertops, flooring, and light fixtures, means you can design a space that is unique to you and your space and a true reflection of your personality.

As we’ve covered, the benefits of a kitchen remodel extend beyond the surface. Improving functionality, increasing home value, and personalizing your space can truly transform your home and your quality of life. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel but don’t know how to make the most of it, your local Kitchen Solvers can help you see all the possibilities in your space at a free in-home consultation. Our business is making kitchen dreams come true and we can’t wait to hear from you soon.

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Set a Budget

Like with any home project, it’s going to cost money. Before you get too deep into it, you’ll want to set a realistic budget. Consider your needs and goals for the remodel. Make sure you take into account your financial situation and think through if you’ll be using your savings, paying for it as you go, or if you’ll be financing the project. Be sure to include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses that may come up along the way.

Plan the Design

The design can be the hardest part of the remodel so it might be a good idea to get a professional involved. You probably have a good idea of what style or look you want, but when it comes to layout and how to create a functional kitchen, there is a lot that can go into it. You will have to make decisions on appliances, cabinets, countertops, and flooring and it’s imperative that you choose things that will work well together in the space. Lucky for you, that’s exactly what Kitchen Solvers is here to help with. We’re happy to sit down and talk through all of those choices with you so you know you’re making the right decisions.

Choose Quality Materials

Beyond the expertise that we can offer about kitchen layout and function, Kitchen Solvers wants to make sure you’re choosing high-quality materials for your remodel to ensure both longevity and durability. The kitchen is a heavily used space in the home so you want to make sure you are choosing materials that will stand the test of time. Choosing materials that are both functional and stylish is the way to go. Quartz or granite countertops, hardwood or tile flooring, and solid wood cabinets are a few materials that you’ll want to consider for you remodel.

Hire a Reputable Contractor

When choosing a contractor for your remodel, make sure to do your research. Look for someone who not only has experience in kitchen remodels, but also has a good reputation in your area. Read online reviews and ask your friends and acquaintances which contractors they have had good experiences with. Word of mouth goes a long way, and you don’t want to end up regretting your choice because your contractor will be your main partner along the way. Make sure you communicate clearly with your contractor from the start. Talk about your budget, expectations, and goal timeline early to make sure they understand them and are a good fit for your project. Regular check-ins and progress reports along the way can ensure your remodel stays on track. We might be biased, but these are things Kitchen Solvers will offer along the way.

Plan for Temporary Living Arrangements

Depending on the size and scope of your project, it might be a good idea to set up some temporary living space for the duration of the project. This could be as simple as setting up a temporary kitchen in another area of your home like a laundry room or bathroom. Or, if your budget allows it, you could rent an AirBnB or an extended stay hotel room so you’re comfortable. If you’re close with your neighbors, see if they’ll let you borrow their kitchen for some meal prep or invite you over for dinner a couple of times throughout the process.

Expect the Unexpected

Finally, as we already mentioned, there are bound to be hiccups and changes along the way. Be prepared for delays, changes, and unforeseen expenses. It’s impossible to know exactly what those things might be, but it’s important to set your expectations beforehand so you aren’t surprised by them when they happen. Having a little wiggle room built into your budget will ensure that when the unexpected happens, your project can continue and smooth over somewhat quickly.

By taking these steps and being aware of the general flow of your project, you can help ensure that your kitchen remodel is a success. Planning out your design, using quality materials, and choosing a contractor you trust and have clear communication with can be the key differences between a headache and a dream kitchen come true.

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Selecting the basic layout of your small space will be your first task. Here are a few popular layouts that you might already have in your space.

Galley Kitchen:

Originally inspired by the confines of a ship’s galley, a galley kitchen is an entire kitchen on one elevation or wall. Depending on the size of your space, you may have room for a double galley which would be units on two opposite walls with a small ‘hallway’ between them. You could also create a galley look with one wall of cabinet units and an island between that wall and the rest of an open-concept space. When designing galley kitchens, it is important to consider your kitchen work triangle. This is the path of efficiency between your sink, refrigerator, and cooktop. Consider if children or other traffic will be in and out of the kitchen as you are using it as well. If this is the case, putting your sink and cooktop on the same side of the galley will help minimize the chances of collisions that can mentally emphasize the size of your kitchen.

U-Shaped:

U-shaped kitchens are also a popular choice for small kitchens. U-shapes lend themselves to easily set up your work triangle to maximize efficiency in your space by simply putting 1 of the 3 points on each side of the U. To avoid making a u-shaped kitchen feel too closed-in, consider open shelving instead of upper cabinets on one side of the u. This will help to visually open the space up more. For storage purposes, make sure to use pull-out interior storage units in the corner cabinets like a LeMans or kidney-shaped lazy susan. This ensures that you are taking advantage of every square inch of storage space available to you.

L-Shaped:

L-shaped kitchens are very practical in small spaces but there are a few things to keep in mind with this layout. First of all, if there is a window on one wall of the space, choose to put your upper cabinets on the windowless wall. This allows you to have an entire uninterrupted wall of cabinets to maximize storage. On the wall that has the window, consider open shelving on either side of the window with the kitchen sink placed under the window. Of course, still consider your work triangle by placing your cooktop on the opposite side of the L from your sink. Additionally, with an L shaped kitchen, you will have your back to your family and friends as you cook so if that doesn’t sound ideal to you, an L-shaped kitchen might not be the best choice for you.

Design Tips for Small Spaces:

After you decide on which layout works best for your space, there are still some design and décor choices you can make to further optimize your kitchen. Maximizing the amount of natural light in the space will automatically make it feel larger and more open. If your budget allows it, consider adding windows or a sliding door on one end of a galley kitchen to allow light to flow into the entire space. Using open shelving or glass doors in your upper cabinets will create visual depth and keep the kitchen from feeling closed in or crowded. If your personal needs allow it, you might consider skipping the upper cabinets altogether. This will definitely make your kitchen feel larger, taller, and more open. If you have space for it, consider a movable island that can be used when needed but also tucked out of the way when smooth, uninterrupted movement throughout the space is needed. Additionally, an island with pedestal legs rather than cabinetry below it will open up the lower visual space rather than cutting off the line of sight from one end of the kitchen to the other.  This small detail can change the entire feel of the space as pictured below.

Whatever your goals are for your small kitchen, our designers and teams at your local Kitchen Solvers are ready to help you accomplish them. We have experience in almost every size, style, and type of kitchen and are eager to help you discover your kitchen’s full potential no matter what the size. Give us a call today for a free in-home consultation and we can start dreaming together.

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Consultation

At Kitchen Solvers, we always start with a free in-home consultation. During this meeting, we’ll confirm that your kitchen is a good candidate for a reface and talk about your goals for your remodel. We’ll get a sense of your budget, style, likes, and dislikes. We’ll also ask if you have any photos of other kitchens that you have liked and are inspired by. We’ll bring some photos of kitchens we’ve done in the past to see if there are things you’d like us to recreate in your space as well.

Creating a Project

After that initial consultation, we’ll start putting together the pieces of your project. We’ll get detailed measurements of your kitchen and pick out project materials, fixtures, and finishes. We may ask you to come into our showroom to have you look at samples or we could come to your home again to make these decisions. Once we have all the measurements and design decisions made, we’ll get the final quote put together and present you with the detailed plan for your new kitchen.

Order Up

Once the final details have been agreed upon, we’ll get all the materials needed on order. In a refacing project, this is often the step that takes the longest. Depending on the availability and lead time of our vendors, we’ll get you a tentative start date for your project. We’ll also get in contact with any subcontractors that might be necessary for your project. For example, if there is plumbing or electrical work needed, we will get one of our trusted professional colleagues scheduled to help out.

Preparation

Once the materials have arrived and an official start date is set, it’s time to start preparing your home for installation. This includes emptying your kitchen cabinets, moving any furniture, and making space in the garage for us to work. After that, we’ll come in and remove your existing cabinet doors and drawer faces, set up some protective coverings over the areas we will not be remodeling, and get all the cabinet boxes ready for their facelift.

Installation

Once all the prep work is complete, we’ll take a few days to install your beautiful like-new cabinets! We intricately cut and install a real wood veneer or maintenance-free laminate on your cabinet boxes. We take our time to ensure that our work is perfect and seamless on each box. We then add your new cabinet doors and drawer fronts as well as new hardware and hinges to make sure each door and drawer functions smoothly and properly. After everything is installed and any needed subcontractors have finished their jobs, we’ll get everything cleaned up and ready for the big reveal!

Your NEW Kitchen

Finally, it’s time for you to enjoy your new space! We’ll do a final walkthrough with you and make sure everything is complete to your liking. Then you can get your items put away and organized and start using your new kitchen—we hope it’s everything you dreamed of. We’ll grab some photos and videos of the space to share with future clients. If you’re inclined, we love when customers share their positive experiences with friends and family or on our review sites.

Every project is unique, but we hope that this general timeline gives you a good idea of what you can expect if you choose your local Kitchen Solvers to help make your kitchen dreams come true. We look forward to hearing from you to set up that initial free in-home consultation soon!

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