Design the Kitchen of Your Dreams

When you walk into your kitchen, what does it say about you? Does it say, "This person understands beauty and function," or does it say, "This person is stuck in the 80s"? If the answer is the latter, then it may be time for a kitchen transformation.
 



 
The Importance of the Kitchen

Have you ever shopped for a home? If so, then you already know that a kitchen can make or break the sale. The perfect home – with an outdated kitchen – may not even get a second look. Kitchen remodeling is a worthwhile investment, if for no other reason than the resale value it brings. In fact, experts say that you will recoup over half of those costs on the resale value the new kitchen brings to your home.
 
Do It Yourself

The good news is that kitchen remodeling is a task you can likely do yourself, if you have some basic skills and the right tools. Start with free or low-cost software that allows you to design the kitchen's floor plan and print blueprints for your project. This should be the starting point for your remodeling project. Once you have the guidelines in place, you will be ready to start the actual remodel.
As you create the blueprint, consider all of the things you do in your home, and give yourself a place to do them. If you envision your kitchen as a place to do homework, sort mail or host small parties, your design should accommodate those activities. Then, sketch out a basic idea, and use the software to design your idea.
 
Kitchen Styles to Consider

Once you have your floor plan, it’s time to start adding the elements that will make up the design. First, you will need to decide what style of kitchen works for you. Choose marble countertops and neutral colors for a classic design, or stainless steel appliances and dark wood cupboards complemented by white countertops for a modern look. You may prefer a rustic design, with rough wood cabinetry and flooring.
As you consider the style, be sure to consider how your appliances will fit, especially if you are shopping for new ones. Modern appliances can be as much a part of the design as the cabinets and floors. Look for something high-tech, like a refrigerator with a built-in water filter or a stove that keeps the food cold before it is cooked. Be sure to consider long-term potential for any appliances you buy.
 
Things to Keep in Mind

As you plan for this major renovation, remember a few basic tips:

• Plan for the time your kitchen will be out of commission. Have alternate eating and cooking plans, like picnics outdoors or meals made on the grill.

• When it comes to drawers, bigger is better! This will prevent your utensils from getting stuck, and will decrease potential headaches.

• Set aside 20 percent over your planned budget for mishaps and unforeseen expenses.

• Measure, measure, measure to ensure everything will fit! Do not forget to measure where your over-the-range microwave will be, because some stoves do not have enough space for them.

Remodeling a kitchen is a lot of work, but with the right planning software and appliances, and a little bit of time and patience, it will be well worth the effort. Not only will it improve the value of your home, but it will make your cooking and entertaining endeavors far more pleasant. So take the time to plan carefully, and start working on creating your dream kitchen!