Here is what you need to know for the best kitchen redesign.
What is a kitchen redesign?
A kitchen redesign can be a full renovation or just a few changes to update the look of your kitchen. Whether you are looking to increase home value before selling or transform your kitchen to enjoy for years to come, a kitchen redesign can offer many benefits. Before starting the redesign process you can pick up some magazines or watch some inspirational shows to decide what style you like best. Next, you should review your finances to decide what your budget is. Budget can be the ultimate determiner of what you may be able to complete for your kitchen redesign. If you have a smaller budget, you may be able to get a similar fresh start feeling by simply updating the countertops, appliances, lighting fixtures, for example. If you are looking for a complete renovation, a larger budget may be needed to accomplish all the different components of a full kitchen redesign. Kitchens can be one of the most expensive parts of the home to redesign and renovate depending on the types of materials used, the quality of the appliances, and the size of your kitchen. A kitchen redesign consists of layout, work surfaces, flooring, appliances, storage space, and design features like paint, color scheme, lighting, and much more. Depending on your needs, wants, and budget, you can choose to address any or all of the components of a kitchen redesign.
How do you redesign your kitchen?
Once you have a budget, you then can decide if you are looking to complete a full kitchen redesign and renovation or simply make some updates to help give your kitchen a fresh new look. Here are some of the major components of each of these two different approaches.
Full kitchen redesign and renovation
- Layout: Layout is essential to making an efficient workspace that at the same time balances space for socializing. For efficiency, your layout will want to keep the space between your main workstations as short as possible while still allowing room for multiple chefs and easy clearance between counters and appliance doors. The main workstations may include the range/oven, cook prep counter space, kitchen sink, and refrigerator. At the same time, your layout design is addressing these issues of efficient use of space, you may also want to include space for socializing, whether it be a kitchen island with a breakfast nook or how the kitchen layout flows into the dining space.
- Storage: After the layout, storage is the next major component you will want to address. Storage includes all the cabinets whether above or below the work surfaces. Where do you want to have storage for kitchen appliances like blenders, juicers, toaster ovens, food processors, etc.? What about your cooking utensils? Do you want luxury storage spaces like a wine cooler or extra freezer space? The smaller your kitchen, the more creative you may need to get with your storage options.
- Social space: Part of the social space planning will be addressed in the layout stage, however, what kind of social space is ideal? Is your kitchen large enough for a kitchen table? Maybe a large kitchen island with plenty of additional seating? The social space component of a kitchen redesign can allow the chef in the family to tend to the cooking while still interacting with their family and/or dinner guests.
Smaller kitchen update
- Lighting: By changing and/or adding lighting in your kitchen, you can give your kitchen a new feel. By using accent lights under cabinets, or by the type of lighting in your kitchen, you can bring a new design element to your kitchen for not a lot of money.
- Paint: Try painting your kitchen a new color. A fresh coat of paint and a new color scheme can do wonders to change the feel of your kitchen.
- Countertops: New countertops are another great way to upgrade your kitchen and give it a new look.
- Cabinets: Instead of replacing all of your kitchen cabinets you could paint them, stain them, or replace the cabinet doors for a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.
- Flooring: Adding hardwood, stone, or ceramic flooring to your kitchen will update your kitchen with a dramatic new look and feel.
Should you hire a professional for a kitchen redesign?
Although hiring a professional for a kitchen redesign is not a requirement, it can be helpful in many situations. If your kitchen is too cramped or it doesn't flow, a kitchen design professional can help you maximize space efficiently. If you are looking to add in all the latest technology to a kitchen to make it modern and futuristic or you want to implement all of the latest kitchen design trends, a professional kitchen designer will be educated and up-to-date on all the latest features. Or maybe you are renovating a very old house and need to update the kitchen to code? A kitchen designer can work with a local contractor to ensure the design is compatible with all the recent building codes. There are many benefits to using a professional for a kitchen redesign, however, if you would like to go it alone, that is an option that many homeowners choose.
What should you know before doing a kitchen redesign?
If you are not going to hire a professional kitchen designer and instead you opt to go it alone, there are a few things you should know before and during the kitchen design process. First, you may want to establish some goals to determine what it is you hope to achieve by redesigning your kitchen. Once you have established you goals, you should set a budget that is realistic and that leaves some space for unexpected expenses. Next, you may want to choose your appliances to see how much of your budget will need to be allocated to appliances before you can choose materials and design features for the rest of the kitchen. If you are changing the layout of the kitchen, appliance placement should be considered when developing the layout. After that, you can then choose what types of materials you would like to use, what kind of design features you would like to add, and the color scheme. Last, you then must decide how much of the project you can DIY and how much of it you should leave to the expertise of a general contractor.
When is the best time to redesign a kitchen?
A kitchen should be updated or renovated every 10 to 15 years to address wear and tear and to keep up with design trends that make homes more valuable. When it comes to the time of year you should redesign your kitchen, you may want to first plan it around a time where your family can live with the inconveniences of having a kitchen under remodel. Second, you should consider times of the year when general contractors are not as busy and may be more willing to adjust prices accordingly.
Is redesigning a kitchen worth it?
When it comes to redesigning and renovating a kitchen, it is nearly impossible to get a 100% return on your investment. However, the overall value of your home may increase and you may have a much easier time selling your home with an updated kitchen versus a kitchen that is out-dated and that needs work.
Can I upload a picture of my kitchen and redesign?
Yes, there are several online tools, both paid and free softwares, that allow you to upload a picture of your kitchen to preview potential kitchen design ideas. You can add everything from cabinets to appliances, from countertops to design features and even furniture. You can also play around with color schemes to see which colors would give your kitchen the feel you are looking for. At Skipp, you can have a professional surveyor come take measurements and create a 3D design of your kitchen that can be uploaded online. Using the 3D image, a professional designer can remotely plan your kitchen redesign.
How does Skipp create a kitchen redesign plan?
Redesigning a kitchen should be well-planned and properly-executed. To truly ensure that your kitchen redesign is done right and your budget is utilized in the smartest way, you should work with Skipp. Skipp helps homeowners create spaces they love. From the design process to the finished product, Skipp can make the remodel process easier and cheaper too. First, we’ll send a professional surveyor to capture a 3D scan of your home and gather all measurements. Next, Skipp will help you create a customized plan based on your needs. Three layouts can be provided with costs so that you can pick the one you like the best. Once you select a layout, we can move onto the design. During the design process you can take advantage of access to hundreds of brands and one on one support. Last, is time to get construction documents ready. Skipp provides contractors with everything they need for a smooth and precise renovation process. Plans can also be used to obtain any necessary permits. With close relationships with top-rated contractors, Skipp offers an average savings of 40%. At Skipp, a complete kitchen remodel can be budget-friendly, fund, and rewarding for years to come.
