Cover photo via Sean Anderson Design
Hey everyone!
Are you ready to give your kitchen a makeover? Whether you’re a master chef or a takeout king, your kitchen is the heart of your home. But before you start tearing out cabinets and installing quartz countertops, listen up! Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid when tackling a kitchen remodel, so you can have the kitchen of your dreams without any nightmares.
Not having a clear plan or budget:
Don’t go into your kitchen remodel blindly! It’s important to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your kitchen remodel, as well as how much you can afford to spend. Without a plan and budget, you may end up overspending or making decisions that don’t align with your end goals.
Photo via M&M Interior Design
Skimping on materials:
Cheap materials may save you money right now, but they may not hold up as well over time and may need to be replaced sooner. This can end up costing you so much more in the long run. So don’t be afraid to splurge a little on those fancy cabinets and countertops if the budget allows!
Ignoring your plumbing and electrical systems:
If your plumbing and electrical systems are outdated or in need of repair, it’s important to address these issues during your remodel. Neglecting these systems can lead to costly problems down the line. So don’t forget to check on your pipes and wires!
Underestimating the time and disruption:
Remodeling a kitchen can be a major undertaking, and it’s important to be realistic about the time and disruption it will cause. Make sure to plan ahead and communicate with your family about the impact the remodel will have on your daily routine. Also, be aware that during a remodel unforeseen issues can come up that may extend the original timeframe. It’s best to keep yourself and your family prepared for this possibility.
Photo via Light & Dwell
Not hiring a professional:
While it might be tempting to try to tackle your kitchen remodel on your own, it’s important to hire a professional to ensure that the work is done correctly and safely. A professional kitchen remodeler will have the skills, experience, and tools to get the job done right. Also, a contractor would have considerable knowledge on city codes and any permits that may be needed.
Not considering your lifestyle:
Your kitchen should be designed to meet the needs of your household. Be sure to consider your cooking habits, the number of people in your household, and any other factors that might impact your kitchen design. Style and design are great, but they should be aligned with the way you live first and foremost.
Not considering the layout:
The layout of your kitchen is important for both function and aesthetics. Be sure to consider the placement of appliances, storage, and other key elements to ensure that your kitchen is both functional as well as visually appealing.
Photo via Scout & Nimble, Design by Haus Love
Not considering storage:
Adequate storage is key to a functional kitchen. Be sure to keep in mind your storage needs and include plenty of cabinets, drawers, and other storage solutions in your kitchen design. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself when you’re not digging through piles of pots and pans to find the one you need.
Not considering lighting:
Proper lighting is important in any kitchen. Be sure to include a mix of task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting in your design to ensure that your kitchen is well-lit and functional. Great options for lighting would include pendants, sconces, flush mounts, and under-cabinet lighting. Lighting can also play a huge role in overall design of the kitchen, so don’t be afraid to mix it up!
Not considering the future:
While it’s important to design a kitchen that meets your current needs, it’s also important to consider the future. Do you have other remodel plans in the future that will affect the kitchen design? Will your family grow? Are the appliances you have what you want long term? These factors can all impact your kitchen design.
Photo via Studio McGee
All in all, remodeling your kitchen can be a fun and exciting experience. However, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes in order to ensure that your kitchen is both beautiful and functional. With a clear plan, a budget, and a professional to guide you, you’ll be well on your way to the kitchen of your dreams. Happy remodeling!
xoxo
Whitney
For more design inspiration, check out our previous post to see if an open floor plan is for you!
