Home > House & Home > Remodel Your Kitchen

Remodel Your Kitchen

Whether you use your kitchen primarily for food preparation and storage or as a family gathering spot, it is important that your kitchen be attractive as well as functional. For many, that involves undertaking the intimidating task of remodeling your kitchen. With so many options, where should you begin if you want to improve your kitchen? Here are some expert tips to get you started on your kitchen improvement project.

Kitchen Remodeling Checklist
Before embarking on your kitchen improvement project, consider the following:

1. What functions does your kitchen serve? Do you use it primarily for entertainment? Is it a gathering space? Do you use it for work or mainly for meal preparation?
2. What size is your kitchen? Measure your kitchen’s dimensions, paying careful attention to wall space, windows and doors, appliance location, etc.
3. What is your budget for your kitchen improvement project?
4. What changes do you want to make? Will you focus on any of the following?
   • appliances
   • cabinetry
   • countertops
   • flooring
   • heating and cooling, plumbing and/or electrical
   • layout and design, including work space and storage
   • lighting
   • special features.
5. Who will make the changes? Will this be a do-it-yourself kitchen remodeling project or will you hire a contractor for the job?

Small Kitchen Improvements Make a Big Difference
For those on a limited budget or those who are short on time, simple changes in your kitchen can make a big difference in its functionality. Visit home improvement stores or Web sites to fuel your creativity. Why not try these minor ways to improve your kitchen?

• Paint the walls of your kitchen with a bright cheerful color, or wallpaper your kitchen. Yellows and reds create a cozy glow, while blues are cool and sophisticated. Lighter colors make rooms appear larger.
• Revamp your kitchen floors with wood laminate, tile or carpet panels.
• Refinish your cabinets by stripping, sanding and repainting them.
• Spruce up your cabinets and drawers by changing the handles and hinges.
• Choose one pattern or a dozen different ones to liven up the room.
• Change the lighting in the room.
• Buy new kitchen rugs.
• Install a new kitchen sink.

Getting Started on Kitchen Remodeling
Once you’ve armed yourself with a few kitchen improvement ideas, you can begin your remodeling by discussing your project with a home improvement expert or contractor or by planning the project using a home improvement software program such as Smart Draw or Home Design Platinum. Both will offer ideas, suggestions, and pricing.

A well-designed kitchen, whether slightly improved or completely revamped, will make a family’s time in the kitchen more pleasant. In addition, it can dramatically increase your home’s resale value. Isn’t it time for you to improve your kitchen?