Tried-and-true steps for a kitchen remodel

(June 29, 2022) — The kitchen is a multitasking living space within our homes.

It’s where we cook and entertain and help our kids with homework and projects. It’s where we store all kinds of things, from cooking appliances and serving pieces to food, beverages and so on.

The kitchen can also be a quiet place to sit and enjoy some down time, sipping on your favorite morning coffee or evening cocktail, or reading your favorite design blog.

With so many activities taking place in the kitchen, it’s no wonder that much thought should be put into each and every step when redesigning them.

Hardly an overnight success

Redesigning a kitchen takes time, from the concept stage to partnering with a contractor, sourcing and collecting materials, and the installation and finetuning. Whether you are gutting the space or just making a few decorative adjustments here and there, a kitchen remodel is not something that will occur overnight.

Planning the redesign of your kitchen is an exciting first step. The slate is blank, and the design options are endless.

If you’re working within an existing space, you will have certain parameters. For example, does the refrigerator need to stay where it has sat for the last 15, 20 or even 30 years? Or is there a better location that might create a more functional workflow or one that tucks the refrigerator away so your sink and window, or range with beautiful backsplash and ornate hood, become an unobstructed focal point?

Contractor can be crucial

Partnering with a contractor for your kitchen remodel is just as important as the conceptual redesign. A contractor will be your go-to person for the duration of your project, so it’s best to find someone who fully understands your vision. Someone you can hash out the details with and someone who, at the end of the project, will be invited to your Labor Day BBQ.

Kitchen remodels have been going on for a long time, so yours will certainly not be the first. For the most part, there is a tried-and-true sequence of events from the first day of demo to the last day when the decorative lighting and drawer pulls are installed.

Yet unpredicted projects may come up, like a repair that was unforeseen until the drywall or flooring are removed. A good contractor will walk you through your options for a speedy and efficient repair and, most importantly, keep you moving forward on your overall remodel.

Choices to fit any style

Selecting your materials and fixtures is another blank canvas waiting to take shape. Lovely rustic ceramic painted tiles and hard-working, industrial-strength porcelain for the floors. Quartz, cement, butcher block and stone countertops as a strong foundation for whatever tile you desire. Blown glass pendants that will float over the island, and a grand drum shade chandelier with metal accents that illuminates the dining table. Appliances in classic stainless, or an array of enameled colors, and intricate, but sturdy plumbing fixtures.

You can find inspiration for your kitchen remodel just about anywhere: local showrooms, online design sources, your favorite design shows, model homes. If you aren’t sure what design direction you’d like to take, I find it’s helpful to acknowledge the products you have no interest in – like a certain finish, style, manufacturer or even price point.

And then … suddenly, it’s go time.

You have partnered with a great contractor, made functional floor plan updates with classic plumbing fixtures, cabinets with clean lines and functional storage, and your tile and countertop materials exude your personal design aesthetic.

Knowing how far to go

Keeping our kitchens looking chic and well-functioning is important so we can use them to the fullest.

Every so often, your kitchen requires a decorative update – painting existing oak cabinets a neutral color, new lighting, or an appliance or two. But if your kitchen is more than 20 years old, it may be time for a complete remodel.

There are many beautiful kitchen designs that are timeless and classic, regardless of their age, but when cabinet doors and drawers stop functioning, storage becomes virtually impossible, and you have your appliance repair person on speed dial, these may be indicators that your kitchen is reaching out for a re-do.

Contact Jennifer with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.