Once you decide to forge ahead with a kitchen remodel, it can be tempting to rush right in and begin ordering all your favorite appliances, finish details, etc. But, just as the turtle beat the hare in Aesop's famous fable, you will benefit by taking the time to design the perfect plan, and hire the best Chicago kitchen remodeling contractor, to ensure you're 100% satisfied when you reach the finish line.
Here are 6 tips for a successful kitchen remodel:
- Plan, plan, plan. Pay attention to your current kitchen. What do you like about it? What do you wish was different? Do you have room to expand, or are you limited to your current dimensions? Start keeping a list of your wants and needs so you can discuss them with a professional kitchen designer.
- Meet and interview professionals. Most professional kitchen designers and contractors offer some type of free consultation. Take advantage of that opportunity to get to know different design/build professionals in your area. In addition to getting good ideas, or being warned about potential concerns with your current plan, you will also get to know them. After meeting with a few, you'll have a good idea of who you want to work with for your project.
- Verify licenses and references. Don't spend one minute speaking with a designer or contractor that doesn't have a current professional license. Contractors should also be licensed and bonded, which can be verified as well. These help to demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and integrity.
- Create - and stick to - your budget. It's important to have a concrete budget when you begin to design your dream kitchen. Keep in mind that 10% to 15% of this fund should be considered an "emergency reserve." It's a rare remodeling job that doesn't have something unexpected come up, usually when contractors open existing walls and find plumbing, electrical or other issues that need to be addressed before construction can continue.
- Draw schematics. Begin sketching out your ideas, or bookmark webpages or magazine clippings to bring with you to your consultations. Keep these early schematics focused on overall design, layout and spacing rather than aesthetic choices. This provides contractors with an idea of what will go where, as well as the quantity of materials that will be needed so they can come up with ballpark construction figures.
- Select your finish preferences. You may already know exactly what you want. Or, perhaps you have an idea of what you want but don't know how it will all come together. This is what professional kitchen designers are for. They can take examples of what you like, and help you to integrate those in a cohesive kitchen designthat combines your taste and style with an efficient layout. Things to consider include:
- Lighting design/fixtures
- Flooring
- Countertops
- Cabinet style and finishes
- Appliances
- Kitchen sink and faucet
- Decorative cabinet and drawer hardware
Contact Kitchens & Baths Unlimited to design a stylish and functional kitchen remodel in your Chicago-area home.
