Renovating your kitchen is a BIG investment that will pay off for years to come. It also can increase the overall value of your home. The considerations can seem endless, but it will be well worth it when complete.
Don’t make costly design mistakes. When renovating a kitchen, there is much to consider — cabinetry, islands, appliances, lighting, backsplash, flooring, and much more. Before you embark on your reno, you’ll want to avoid these common kitchen renovation errors to help you save time, effort, and money!
Mistake #1. Not Planning the Kitchen Layout
Consider your everyday routine — what are your family’s needs and lifestyle? How often do you cook, what appliances are most important, and how much storage is essential for your family. This will ensure that you get the most out of the space.
Is the kitchen the main space in your home for socializing or entertaining? Does it double as an after-school homework zone or hangout for your kids? In this case, pay attention to seating choices and countertop space.
Livability and good design go hand in hand. Designing your dream kitchen is not about what is trending; it is about developing a functional space that fits the way you live.
Mistake #2. Neglecting the Details
Don’t neglect or overlook the details. Small things that can make a BIG impact in your kitchen include:
Ceiling — A contrasting color or wallpaper can make a statement.
Cabinetry — Don’t skimp on features such as drawer dividers, pantry pullouts, lazy Susans, or other storage add-ons. You won’t regret it!
Cabinet hardware — Beautiful hardware can elevate your space.
Work zones — A functional workflow will take into consideration the proximity of food prep, cooking areas, refrigerator, and the prep counter. Consider how the doors open for cupboards, refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher — and how they may open simultaneously. No one wants to close a drawer to open the one next to it.
Outlets — Maximize the outlets in your kitchen by hiding some within the island, the backsplash, or even a drawer.
Design a functional and efficient kitchen with Onsite Construction. Request a consultation today! We will turn your dreams into reality.
Mistake #3. Making Lighting a Low Priority
Many homeowners make the mistake of forgetting to include lighting in their kitchen remodel project. Adequate lighting is crucial to a functional and beautiful new look.
When designing your kitchen, pay attention to the lighting sources over your stove and countertop. These areas are where you spend most of your time preparing food, cooking, and entertaining.
Ideally, you should incorporate at least three types of lighting into your kitchen remodel:
- General overhead lighting to illuminate the room
- Task lighting that is more focused, such as pendant lights
- Accent lighting, such as under- or over-cabinet lighting, or along the toe kick of your cabinetry
Mistake #4. Overlooking Storage
An efficient kitchen space should be a priority — don’t skimp on storage! If your kitchen plan allows, incorporate a pantry for dried goods, and don’t forget to maximize your space with drawer dividers, cabinet expansions, and lazy Susans.
Excess storage space is rarely a problem, but a shortage is always an issue.
Mistake #5. Choosing Appliances Last
Waiting to choose appliances can cause extra work and stress on you and your contractor. It is imperative to know the size and specifications of your appliances before beginning the remodel. The measurements have a direct effect on the surrounding design and materials.
We suggest that you choose your appliances first. It is easier to design the cabinetry and countertops around them for a perfect fit instead of the other way around.
Mistake #6. Having Tunnel Vision
We know a kitchen remodel is an exciting endeavor, and it’s easy to get overly focused on your vision, but don’t lose sight of the bigger picture. Your kitchen should fit in with the overall aesthetic of your home, and any colors used in the kitchen should match or contrast with the colors used elsewhere.
Consider how the elements of your space will tie together, including:
- Backsplash
- Cabinet hardware
- Fixtures
- Flooring
- Wall colors
- Millwork
Look toward the future. You may not be ready to sell, but include features that will add the most value to your home if you decide later to put it on the market.
From beautiful flooring and backsplashes to functional storage, our pros know how to design your dream kitchen! Call Onsite Construction today to get started, (813) 579-5789!
Mistake #7. Not Hiring a Design Professional
If you are a fan of HGTV, you might think it will be easy to renovate your kitchen by yourself. What could go wrong?
Taking on some DIY projects can be more costly and time-consuming than you might realize. You can tackle many tasks on your own, but it is essential to work with a licensed contractor to ensure that all the necessary factors are considered throughout your remodel.
There will be plumbing and electrical plans during a major renovation, and perhaps even structural or permitting issues that must be addressed. Can you do that on your own? If you are not qualified to do the work, it is far safer (and cheaper) to use a trusted professional who has the skills to get the job done right the first time.
Dream, Design, and Build a Beautiful Kitchen
A kitchen renovation can be a BIG project, but we are confident you will be happy with the result when you choose our builders at Onsite Construction to get the job done.
Make your kitchen renovation dreams a reality! Call for a design consultation and quote for your Tampa Bay area home today, (813) 579-5789!
