It seems everyone wants a new kitchen these days. I have done more kitchens than anything else in my design portfolio.
When taking on a kitchen renovation, the task is exciting and daunting at the same time. The process can be overwhelming, but so rewarding when you get the kitchen of your dreams.
Renovations can be expensive, and costly mistakes add up.
Here are a few things to consider when making the leap into the unknown.
The complete gut and rebuild will be the most expensive option. Depending on the scale, you may be removing/adding walls, adding new windows, tearing up old flooring and adding new.
When a project includes demolition, you really need the advice of a professional. An interior designer or decorator, or kitchen designer will help with the layout of the space.
There will be electrical and plumbing work to do, and measurements to take. You will need to choose paint/wallpaper, countertops, backsplash, flooring, sinks, faucets, lighting and fixtures, window treatments and appliances along with the obvious - cabinetry with hardware.
There are options. I recently completed a kitchen "facelift" for a client rather than completely gutting. We kept the footprint of the kitchen the same to cut costs, and finished with the following detailing:
- Added new shaker door fronts while keeping the box of the cabinet the same;
- Installed custom crown mouldings;
- Removed old barn board from walls and existing valance;
- Added quartz countertop, butcher block on island and marble backsplash;
- New sink, faucet, hardware and appliances;
- Recessed lighting and new fixtures in front of windows and over table;
- Added a larger countertop, posts, trim and chairs to the existing island;
- Brought Roman blinds and new chairs to the dining area along with artwork and accessories;
- Painted walls and cabinetry.
By keeping the basic area the same, there was no need to do a complete renovation.
Make sure you choose your finishes wisely, and put your money where it counts - such as new countertops, backsplash and finishes.
To see more of this transformations, visit http://www.sonyakinkadedesign.blogspot.com/
