Kitchen remodels can turn into expensive ventures, especially when delays or repairs cause unexpected issues. Yet, when executed with proper planning, remodels make up for the cost by enhancing the home and increasing its value. Despite the allure of choosing countertops and paint colors, homeowners should note that a successful remodel starts with asking the right questions.
Though a kitchen designer can answer many remodel questions, we believe that the most important questions are those that homeowners ask themselves as they begin the planning phase of their remodel. We compiled this list of questions to help homeowners clarify their intentions to their designers by first clarifying it for themselves.
1. What is the primary goal of the kitchen remodel?
This is a significant question because the priority of the remodel will determine its budget, process, and timeline. Homeowners may wish to update the style, expand the floor plan, find more storage space, accommodate accessibility issues, increase their home’s value, improve the room’s functionality, or a combination of goals.
In many cases, growing families are looking to expand the usable area of their kitchens to accommodate more chairs, storage, or workspace. In other cases, homeowners want to get their kitchen’s aesthetic in line with the architecture of the home or current stylistic trends. Additionally, remodels can help homeowners sell their homes for a higher price if they focus on marketable aspects.
Having a well-defined primary goal helps homeowners in the planning phase of their remodel. When a designer is hired, they will be able to make specific recommendations for the remodel that align with these established priorities.
2. How much longer will I own the home?
This is an important question to set the right goals and expectations before beginning the remodel. Homeowners who only plan on living in the home for a few more years may not want to invest in personalized design decisions. Those who plan on moving should look for design traits that will increase the value of the home without overspending on features with limited appeal.
On the other hand, homeowners who plan on staying in their homes for longer should prioritize bringing their dream designs to life. Since they will be the ones more likely to reap the benefits of an expensive remodel, they may prefer to prioritize their personal vision over potential resale value.
3. How do I use the kitchen?
A kitchen should reflect the lifestyle needs of its owner. A homeowner who enjoys cooking elaborate meals from scratch should design a different kitchen than one who prioritizes simplicity and convenience. Kitchens that entertain guests, double as remote workspaces, or need to accommodate multiple cooks at once should be designed with different amenities, flows, appliances, space allocation, and more.
By considering how the kitchen will be primarily used, designers can make other essential decisions concerning the floor plan, the selection of appliances, the design of cabinets, the distribution of counter space, and more. This question acknowledges that great kitchens should be designed for the owner, not just the home.
4. What is my realistic budget?
Budget is an important consideration before beginning a kitchen remodel, but the question encompasses more than the price of cabinets, counters, tile, and appliances. Homeowners need to set a realistic budget for the project that also includes potential project delays, hidden repairs, and other compromises.
For example, if a designer needs to change electrical or plumbing systems to accommodate new appliances, this can lead to higher costs and unexpected repairs or delays. Homeowners should not budget the project to the exact spending limit of the tangible materials and other purchases. Instead, they should budget with a buffer of at least 10-15% of the project cost to account for unexpected issues.
Experienced kitchen designers help homeowners evaluate their proposed remodels and compare them to their budgets to scale the project up or down according to their needs.
5. What is my timeline?
Depending on the complexity of the remodel, the timeline can vary significantly. For many homeowners, a specific event or deadline is a significant driving force of their remodel, so flexibility may not be an option. For example, the remodel may need to be finished for a family reunion, party, or other gathering.
For other homeowners, the timeline is not as strict. In either case, the planned length of the project should include not only the remodeling time but also lead times on materials and a margin of error for potential delays.
Contact Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath to Start Your Kitchen Remodel the Right Way
At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, we partner with experienced tradesmen, designers, and material suppliers to customize kitchen remodels for each client. This list is designed to help homeowners mentally plan their kitchen remodels, set the right emotional and financial expectations, and start the process the right way.
We have an expansive selection of floors, cabinets, and more to help you visualize your new kitchen. Contact our team today to continue planning your kitchen remodeling, answering the essential questions, and turning your dream design into a reality.
