Home Improvement Tips
Home Builder: How To Begin A Kitchen Remodel
by Pegi Miller
(Article from Home Appliance magazine)
So you've decided to take the plunge and remodel your kitchen. Congratulations! Maybe you've been fantasizing about it for some time, or perhaps you watched a home improvement show that inspired you... NOW WHAT?
First and foremost, knowledge is power. The more research and investigating you do, the better. Knowing what you need comes first. How do you use your kitchen? What is your biggest complaint of the way your kitchen works right now? Are you looking to improve the aesthetics of your space or to fix how it functions? Let's all assume that you've already identified your goals and you're ready to start shopping for appliances. This can be a fun process or it may totally overwhelm you. Relax and approach it as a researcher. For example, everyone is concerned with value. Have you checked out any consumer reports? There are a lot of great looking products out there, but do they have a good track record?
The first rule is that form follows function. As great as something looks, it needs to work well and last past its warranty! I can't tell you how many times I've been in homes looking at kitchens to remodel where the client loves the existing countertop, but there is an outdated, built-in blender cut into the countertop that no longer works. Built-in blenders were the space savers of their day and part of the "forward-thinking" kitchens in California, but they flopped. No one knows what to do with them, other than to camouflage with an artistically placed fruit bowl. I do realize that some people prefer the latest and greatest gadgets, just make sure you do your research before designing your space around them.
Do you have a preference of brand? Some designers insist on every appliance of the same brand. While you want to keep the look of the appliances similar and match finishes, sometimes you may need to choose different brands based on what your needs are: and it's ok! (think function, function).
If you're updating appliances in an existing space, make sure you triple check the dimensions of the new appliances. This is especially true with built-in ovens, which seem to have changed sizes through the years. If the built-in oven you choose isn't the same size as your existing, check with your contractor as to whether or not your cabinet can be altered to accommodate it. If in doubt, always consult an expert before you purchase!
Appliances are being offered in new fun colors these days, but is the desert sand color of today the avocado of tomorrow? There's really no telling, but if you're planning on staying in your home for the next 10 or so years, do what you love. If you have fallen in love with a royal blue Viking range, go for it; just incorporate the color in your overall design.
For those of you who are remodeling a kitchen in a house to sell or one that you may live in for less than 5 years, make sure that you use more general and user friendly appliances. Choosing from the basic colors is a safe bet. Stay away from a look or style that is trendy or very different than the overall style of your home, otherwise you'll need to find a buyer with the same taste. In an average size kitchen, forget blowing the budget on the deep fryer and the built-in wok. The next owner may not be a gourmet cook that appreciates it and more storage space always trumps trendy gadgets. If, however, you are remodeling a sizable kitchen, certain appliances are expected, such as warming drawers, refrigerator drawers, and vegetable sinks. It's choosing the right appliances to ensure you are making a good investment.
Happy shopping!
About the Author
Pegi Miller was Director of Design for Plaskoff Construction. Ms. Miller's design projects and paintings have been featured at the New York Design Center and the Brunnier Gallery and Museum.
