There is nothing quite as exciting for a homeowner as a kitchen renovation. It inevitably gets the wheels spinning, the dreams of the proverbial gourmet kitchen vividly coming within reach.
This is especially true for new homeowners who want to update the property and make it indelibly their own.
Unfortunately, many kitchen projects have a way of underwhelming. Whether you try to get too cute and create a space that is a high-maintenance nightmare or simply face a budget shortfall, there are countless ways that a kitchen renovation can go awry. To avoid this unsavory scenario, keep reading as we explore 5 pro tips every new homeowner should keep in mind when performing a kitchen renovation.
1. Have the Budget in Place
Budget is a top concern with any type of renovation. There are countless stories of projects getting stalled in a state of partial-completion due to insufficient funds.
This is especially problematic in a kitchen renovation. A partially-completed kitchen means no place to cook. No matter how much you love Chick-Fil-A, you (and your wallet) will get tired of drive-thru every night.
If you are taking out financing for the project, you may only be able to get enough to cover estimated costs. As renovations invariably have a way of going over budget (weather delays, material shortages, etc.), it is advisable to have an additional 20% saved above the estimate to be on the safe side and guarantee that the job gets done.
2. Know Your Limits as a DIYer
One of the most liberating things about being a homeowner is not having to answer to anyone. You don’t have to submit a service request to change a lightbulb. You have free reign to do it yourself.
While the ability to don the safety goggles and go to work is enticing, be honest with yourself about what you can and cannot accomplish. Although it is fulfilling and potentially money-saving to do certain tasks yourself, the results can be dire if you botch a kitchen project. Overloaded circuits. Water leakages. Poor ventilation.
If there is any doubt, swallow your pride and call a professional. Not only will they be licensed and bonded to tackle the job, but it will save you the stress and financial heartache of a project gone wrong.
3. Open Up the Space
Kitchens of old were closets tucked away in the back of a home, meant for cooking and dishwashing.
Today, the kitchen is far more dynamic. It is a central hub for all household activity.
Therefore, find a way to open your kitchen up to make it more inviting and multi-functional. Tear down a wall and replace it with a kitchen island. If this is too much of a logistical problem, consider a partial wall with bar seating and pass-through functionality.
4. Select the Best Countertop Materials
The countertops are arguably the most important kitchen attribute. They are the quintessential example of a feature that needs to be both functional yet aesthetically stunning. The countertops will house many hot dishes, confront countless spills, and be a central component of any household get-together. At the same time, they will be the first thing most onlookers notice when assessing the space.
As such, leave laminates and compressed wood surfaces to mid-range apartment complexes. For countertops that make your new kitchen truly yours, opt for stone surfaces. When selecting the best stone for kitchen countertops, the top material ultimately comes down to personal preference. A few of the best options include:
- Marble – with its deep veining and diverse color options, this is the premier choice for homeowners who want a timeless, elegant look for their kitchen
- Granite – with its outstanding resistance to heat, impact, and etching, granite is ideal for those kitchens that will get heavy-duty usage
- Quartzite – this stately stone surface offers a unique blend of marble-esque beauty and top-notch resistance to staining and etching
Another trending option is engineered quartz. Though technically not a natural stone countertop, it uses ground mineral quartz bound with a high-quality epoxy resin. It can be fabricated in any number of colors and designs to mimic the appearance of natural stone while providing the ultimate in nonporous kitchen surfaces.
5. Remember the Kitchen Triangle
The sink, stovetop, and refrigerator.
These are three areas of the kitchen that are a lock to be used when preparing any meal. They should form a triangle that optimizes access to each while limiting movement required.
For homes featuring an island, have the stove and refrigerator side by side along the wall with the sink at the apex, located in the island. Some homeowners like the stovetop in the island, but this is a bit of an acquired taste, as it limits options with oven/stove combo units. A galley kitchen may utilize a similar arrangement, with a bit more flexibility on where to put each of the “big three,” as the stove will look more at home along either wall. For traditional kitchens with countertops along the walls, aim to have two of these three elements sharing a wall with the third along the other, forming a right triangle for optimal functionality.
Avoid These Common Mistakes and Enjoy the Fruits of Your Kitchen Project
Kitchen renovations are among the most exciting projects for a new homeowner, but it’s important to keep a few points in mind to get them right. From having a realistic budget to designing the perfect “triangle,” consider any of the tips listed above to make your dream kitchen come true. For more of the latest trends in renovation and home improvement, explore the resources at Homewares Insider for additional thought-provoking reads!
