Remodeling Your Kitchen? 2 Things You Need To Do First

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If you are planning an upcoming kitchen renovation, you might be more focused on tile backsplashes and appliance features than you are about the big picture. Unfortunately, making decisions haphazardly might cause problems in the long run—especially if you won't be renovating again anytime soon. Here are two things you need to do before you start your construction project:

1: Think About Workflow

Before you get carried away with the small details, think about the overall workflow of your new kitchen. After all, if the layout isn't right, you might find it hard to cook meals or entertain in the space. Here are a few things to think about when you draw up plans with your contractor:

• Counter Space: Where will you chop vegetables, use kitchen appliances, and serve family-style dishes? Make sure that you include an adequate amount of counter space, so that you don't feel cramped in your own kitchen.
• Drawer Locations: Although it might be easy to stash drawers across the room in less noticeable locations, it might not always be convenient to run back and forth to stash wooden spoons and plastic bags. Try to place drawers near main work areas, so that you can easily access the things that you need.
• Storage: That stainless steel food processor might be pretty, but do you really want to keep it on your counter around the clock? Ask your contractor to draw in loads of spare storage, so that you don't lose counter space to objects that can be stored elsewhere.

To plan an effective work area, try to imagine yourself in your new kitchen. Where would you want that work island and bank of drawers? Do you need to watch your children as you prepare dinner? It might seem like overkill to mull over the layout, but a few careful decisions could save you a lot of heartache down the road.

2: Analyze Appliance Sizes

When you are in the middle of an appliance store, it can be hard to compare the sizes of the equipment you see with what you have back home. Lofty ceilings and vast showrooms can make the largest refrigerator seem run-of-the-mill, when it might not even fit through your front door. However, being able to find the right appliances for your kitchen is the key to creating a fully functional workspace.

Before you go shopping, talk with a contractor (such as one from Alleva Construction) about the cabinet measurements of your new kitchen. How much space is allocated for the refrigerator? What about the range? In addition to looking at width, check the depth of the allocated space. That dishwasher might look silly if it sticks out three inches beyond your counter.

By taking the time to make wise kitchen renovation decisions, you can make your investment count.     

30 March 2015