A kitchen remodel is an opportunity to get everything you want on your wish list. But, like everything in life, it’s easy to make mistakes along the way.
Many of these mistakes often have to do with poor planning or layouts that simply aren’t conducive to a good workflow. Skipping steps or completing tasks out of order can contribute to these inefficiencies, so it’s always best to be methodical and ensure that every detail gets its proper due.
Doing it Right The First Time
A remodel is a big investment. Doing it right the first time will help you avoid ongoing problems, and it will probably save you a lot of money when it’s all said and done.
With that in mind, here are a few common mistakes to avoid when remodeling:
Don’t Ignore the Layout
Efficiency is number one in kitchen design, but this goes out the window when dishwashers are on the opposite wall from the sink, and cabinet and fridge doors open into the work area.
Beyond that, your kitchen should be safe and easy to navigate. Your work pathways should meet dimension specifications so you and your family can pass through safely. Your appliances should never be underneath windows, as this kind of layout can pose a safety hazard. In a well-thought-out design, everything should be carefully measured and meticulously planned. Think about how you use the kitchen. How many cooks will be working in there at once? And (probably most importantly) what’s not working now that the layout can fix.
Design for Optimized Workflow
One fundamental premise of kitchen renovation is the ‘work triangle.’ In your kitchen, you should be able to move easily between the range, fridge, and sink. These are the areas that get the most use when you’re cooking and cleaning and should be the most accessible. A well-designed layout should maximize your efficiency when you’re at work in the kitchen.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of kitchen designs out there that forget about or even flat-out ignore this number one rule. Having to take those extra steps because of a poorly-designed workflow can be a major hassle when you’re busy.
Don’t Skimp on Cabinetry
Installing new cabinetry can cost a pretty penny, but it may be worth your while. Refacing and refinishing are both great alternatives for sprucing up existing cabinetry, but it’s only effective if your cabinets have good, strong bones.
Your cabinets endure a lot of wear and tear. You’re constantly opening doors and drawers, and storing lots of heavy items. With age and weight, cabinets may start to sag, and water damage and pests can do a number on their structural integrity. Perhaps they simply weren’t installed very well, to begin with. Whatever the case may be, if your cabinets are not sound, giving them a facelift just won’t cut it. If the structure isn’t good, investing in new cabinetry may be the way to go.
Invest in Longevity
As with rotting or sagging cabinets, there’s no point in holding onto kitchen components that are clearly past their prime. Warped flooring, malfunctioning appliances, and swollen countertops may be a sign that it’s time to make some changes. When doing this, you may be tempted to choose the most affordable solution, but be wary of cheap components that look good but won’t stand the test of time.
Cheap materials may need touch-ups or replacements to keep them looking good. A slightly pricier textile with a longer lifespan could end up saving you money in the long run. It’s possible to find a happy medium; budget-conscious isn’t synonymous with poor quality. When making your selections, choose materials that are within your budget, but that are also durable.
The Order of Business
In remodeling, order is key. We see a lot of mistakes that stem from improper planning and follow-through. From demolition and inspection to installation and finishing, there is a right and wrong way to go about a renovation. Don’t be a homeowner with a good design and a bad plan!
Partner With a Professional
Fortunately, there’s one very simple way to avoid these common errors! Working with a kitchen designer takes a lot of the guesswork—and mistakes—out of the remodeling process.
Design professionals are intimately familiar with what it takes to remodel a kitchen. They know the rules and regulations and can assist you with safety, design, budgeting, and more.
The design-build team at Winthorpe will cheerfully guide you through every step of your renovation. With more than 30m years of experience in the Maryland and Washington, DC, area, we have what it takes to give you the kitchen of your dreams. Reach out today, and let’s get started!
