It’s tempting to find a fantastic picture on Houzz – one that sums up your Chicago kitchen remodeling fantasy – and say, “There! That’s it! That’s exactly what I want.” In the world of design, that’s like giving a big, huge answer without ever hearing the question(s). Sure, there may be things you appreciate visually, stylistically and even functionally – but you aren’t seeing all the ins-and-outs that make that kitchen work for you (or not).
That’s why we always feel it’s best to begin the design process in a more left-brained or logical, linear way before diving into the broader, left-brain creative spectrum. The resulting kitchen design will have a sound, integrated and synchronistic skeleton waiting to be adorned with beautiful outer layers.
The Most Important Questions You’ll Ever Ask About Your Chicago Kitchen Remodel
The following are the most important questions to answer before finalizing aesthetically-detailed decisions about your upcoming kitchen remodel.
Are you listing the home in the next 24-months?
There’s a lot of information out there about what you should consider if you plan to resell your home. However, homeowners planning to remain in place should remodel their home based on their own style and preferences. Never make remodeling decisions based on the “what if we resell” idea as this keeps you from living in a kitchen you love.
Are you taking your home’s architecture into consideration?
Ideally, the design of a home’s interior should echo the design of the exterior. Here in Chicagoland, we have ample historical homes – ranging from Victorian to Craftsman, and including Mid-century modern onward. While you don’t have to be an archictrual purist, your home will retain better overall integrity (and resale value) if you find a design style that is complementary, rather than completely incongrous.
Have you prioritized kitchen function?
It’s so important that your kitchen functions with respect to its occupants. Everything from layout and the decision between one kitchen island or two, to lighting design and appliance location should focus on how your household uses the kitchen space day in, and day out. All of the stylish finishes can be selected from there.
How high-tech do you need appliances to be?
Yes, those amazing Wolff ranges are all the rage. Sure, smart fridges are awesome if you have a large family. However, many of the high-dollar, designer appliances out there are overkill for the average homeowner, particularly if you aren’t an amateur chef of baker. High-quality is important, but forgoing fancy appliances you don’t need gives you extra kitchen design budget dollars to play with elsewhere.
Are you playing it too safe?
This ties back to that initial question; in a fear of going overboard with eclectic features that will become outdated, homeowners can wind up erring on the side of boring and bland. Don’t be afraid to design with a flair for the personalized, favorite and bold if it aligns with your tried-and-true taste preferences and you don’t see yourself selling your home anytime soon.
Want to make sure you ask all the right questions so you design a Chicago kitchen remodel that serves you well for the next decade or two? Schedule a consult with us here at Kitchens & Baths Unlimited.
