When you first start thinking about beginning a remodel, the ideas and options are flying through your brain a million miles an hour. We get excited to try every Pinterest idea, DIY option, and magazine picture we have ever saved. These are great inspirations, but it’s important to remember that some of these ideas are best left behind.
Tip #1 - Budget
Make sure you have a true idea of what this will really cost. We all think we know, and many times say, we’ll figure it out as we go. However, this idea usually ends up busting the budget, and then buyer’s remorse kicks in. I tell my clients to pick one or two things that will make them feel spoiled every time you look at them. These are worth every penny.
Tip # 2 - Design
Laying out a kitchen or bath to be sure all storage, space, and design options have been exhausted is what will make your remodel valuable. So many remodels I see often do not explore the space and storage options to the fullest. I see blind corners, appliances in the way of doors and doorway, and key elements, like a trash can, totally missed. This is where a designer can really help to make every inch count. Also the interiors of a cabinet need to be considered, like a pullout tray, cookie sheet storage and a pantry that fits the family, not the space of the room.
Tip #3 - Where do you start?
I work with a ton of clients who have started their project and they began with the cabinets. I understand the thought process behind starting with the biggest visual element, but a successful remodel starts at the floor and works its way up. So that means the floor, to the cabinets, to the electrical. The backsplash outlets, the ceiling lights and the under cabinet lights. Why are we doing electrical? Because the switches for this are in your backsplash, and we are going to cover all this up with tile. So, keep in mind start at the bottom and work your way up.
These are just 3 small tips, but I must be honest this is the tip of the iceberg, and we all know what happened to the Titanic!
Taking on a remodel is a big undertaking, so pull your ideas, your Pinterest inspiration, and your best friends’ wine thoughts. Remember to be open to ideas and insights from your contractor and your designer, they have done hundreds of these, so they’re bringing that experience to the table.
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