Kitchen Renovation - Don't OverImprove

Upgrading your kitchen can add value to your home. However, don't over-improve. A savvy kitchen renovation includes more than just refinishing cabinet doors or a new backsplash. It usually includes replacing or upgrading major appliances with energy-efficient models.

If you live in an apartment or condo, consult your building's alteration agreement to ensure the work is permitted.

Layout

One of the first steps is to determine what layout works best for the space. It's important to consider the flow of your kitchen and how you will use it.

Unless the changes are cosmetic, the kitchen renovation will require some demolition and plumbing reconfiguration. This can be a noisy and messy process, especially when walls are removed or if new plumbing is installed.

Single-wall kitchen layouts work well in tight spaces. If possible, stack storage solutions to maximize the area. Galley kitchens are compact, and a good choice for smaller homes. If a peninsula is added, the layout becomes an L-shaped kitchen and optimizes traffic flows.

Appliances

A kitchen remodel will often involve replacing or upgrading appliances. This could mean new refrigerators and microwaves to match the color scheme of the new kitchen, or more specialized appliances like a wine fridge, coffee maker or dishwasher drawer.

The appliances chosen can impact almost every other aspect of the remodel, such as layout, plumbing, electrical, countertop cut outs and cabinets. Therefore, they should be selected early in the process to allow time for installation.

The same goes for lighting fixtures. Ambient, task and accent lighting will have a big impact on the overall look of your kitchen. Taking the time to research and save images of lights you like can help make this decision easier down the line. Lighting options include flush mounts, pendants and wall sconces.

Cabinetry

Cabinets can account for 30% to 40% of a kitchen remodel’s costs. If your current cabinets are still functional, but in disrepair, you can consider a paint job instead of replacing them.

Professionals divide kitchen redos into two categories: minor and major. A full-on renovation requiring new construction and floor plan rearrangement generally kicks the project into major territory.

The planning phase is when you determine what your scope will be, says Ariana Lovato, a design specialist with Honeycomb Design in Shell Beach, California. It can range from a cosmetic refresh to a total gut, which might mean tearing down walls and may require permits. It’s also when you order and schedule your custom cabinetry. Most builders work in a logical order, installing countertops and flooring before the cabinets arrive, to avoid having too much equipment in one place at once.

Flooring

The right kitchen flooring is key to a well-functioning space that will last. The kitchen is a high-traffic area, so the right material needs to be durable and water resistant. Concrete is a popular choice and can be stained to look like stone, tile, or wood. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly options.

Other durable options include porcelain or ceramic tile, luxury vinyl planks that are water-resistant and have a wood-look finish, and cork flooring made from ground up natural materials for a soft underfoot experience. Hardwood floors are a classic style that adds warmth to any kitchen. However, they do require a bit more upkeep and may be susceptible to moisture.

Lighting

The kitchen renovation Sydney requires lighting to support the function and beauty of the space. There are several layers to consider, starting with task lighting for workspaces. This includes under-cabinet lights, pendants over the island and recessed LED downlights (also called “pot lights”).

As kitchens become more of a living/gathering space, homeowners are often displaying artwork on the walls. Recessed, adjustable fixtures that shed light on art are available in a wide array of styles and beam spreads.

If you live in a condo or co-op building, your renovation timeline will likely depend on how quickly you can get approval from the board. This is where working with a fullservice design-build firm can make the difference in staying on schedule and mitigating any unforeseen delays. Generally, these firms can handle all aspects of your remodel from the start to finish.