1. Everybody wants the whole home makeover scenario – with everything new and shiny. But before you even drive in the first nail or do the first stroke with your paint roller, you have to set a budget. Consider how much you are willing to spend and compare that with the things you want to do. Be realistic for an accurate assessment.
2. If you find out that you can’t spend a whole lot, you must prioritize. See what needs to be fixed immediately and what you can put off for a few more months. This way, you can maximize your resources and do your kitchen bit by bit.
3. Every kitchen can use extra storage space. Storage solutions readily available now may not have even existed when you last had your kitchen done. Consider putting in modern storage systems that make clever use of space and materials.
4. Do a quick inventory of all your kitchen appliances. Do you need new ones? Are your existing ones old but still functional. You might have gone for a new kitchen theme and your old appliances look off with their new setting. You have to assess this and make a decision.
5. Can you do the work yourself? If you are handy around tools and can set aside a few weekends, you stand to save a lot by doing things yourself. However, if you find it difficult or simply don’t have the time, you better factor in the fees you have to pay a professional to do the dirty work.
6. Are you willing to do something entirely new? How about putting in a kitchen island for added functionality as well as a fresh new look.
7. When the kitchen is finished, will you be able to devote the necessary time for its upkeep. Busy people have to have kitchens that require little to no maintenance. If you can’t set aside a few minutes to an hour every day, choose a design that doesn’t require constant cleaning and maintenance.
8. Choose quality materials. Everything in a kitchen has to function and perform aside from looking good. You must base your decision on function as well as form. Be sure that your new kitchen counters and sink can stand up to abuse as well as exposure to heat, chemicals, and moisture.
9. Safety should always come first. Electricity, slippery surfaces, sharp implements, and fire are all present in the kitchen and you have to design it in a way to minimize the danger. Consider also child-friendly solution if you have kids.
10. Protect yourself by availing of guarantees for all new purchases. Appliances and materials have to have full backing and support from their manufacturers.
