The Ultimate Kitchen Renovation Guide

Are you looking to create the perfect kitchen of your dreams? The first step is to figure out your must haves and create a wish list. Proper planning is the key to success. You can use this guide and free printable checklist to plan any style kitchen renovation. I created this article as a guide for my own future renovation and sought expert design advice from contractors and renovators. Now I am more than happy to share it with you! A kitchen is an investment that impacts your quality of life and the value of your home, so you’ll want to invest wisely.

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The kitchen is the most important room in your home. It’s where we live, entertain, and make wonderful memories. Whether you’re creating a brand new kitchen or updating an old one, the key is to tailor it to the way that you live. When planning a renovation, consider choosing eco-friendly products and finishes that are beautiful and sustainable. You want to design a kitchen that not only makes the most of your space and budget, but also improves your quality of life. The modern kitchen is the new command center where we handle most household affairs. Designing a kitchen involves lots of choice. As you start to weigh all of the elements think about longevity.

Before you get started, ask yourself these important questions.

1. How do use your current kitchen?
2. What kind of kitchen will suit your needs? 
3. Do you like the current layout or do you need more space?
4. Does your kitchen need updating or and extensive remodel?
5. What is your budget with contingency?
6. What permits will you need if any?
7. Are you going to do any of the work yourself or hire a contractor?
8. What is your time table to complete this project?
9. Are you renovating with intent to sell?

Are you wondering how much all of this should cost? Of course! Here is fairly accurate prediction of what each part of the renovation should cost. This should give you some ideas on how to break down your initial budget.

Assessing The Project

If you are working with a small budget and your kitchen is functioning properly, then you may want to consider a moderate make-over. The easiest and least expensive way to change the look of your kitchen is by applying a fresh coat of paint on the walls and painting the kitchen cabinets. Remember to update the hardware. These minor cosmetic changes plus updating the appliances can dramatically improve the look of your kitchen without spending a fortune. If your floors need updating, consider using durable yet affordable eco-friendly linoleum, not vinyl. All of these projects can be done without having to hire a contractor.

A full or partial renovation means a more time consuming and costly undertaking. The advantage is that you can expand the layout, knock down walls, move the appliances, add more counter space, and update the style. For example relocating the stove may involve installing another gas hook up and vent.  Moving or adding a sink will require additional plumbing. Anything that requires venting plumbing, gas or electricity requires a professional. You can easily remove walls, but if the wall is load bearing you will have to take special precautions to support the structure during the process. I suggest hiring a designer or and architect who can assist with the renovation and assure that you get the best kitchen for your money. Re-configuring space means buying new cabinets, which is the biggest portion of the budget.

A major overhaul is the most expensive type of renovation because it involves adding space to enlarge the footprint. There are many ways to open up and reconfigure most kitchens within their existing space. If you have a small kitchen and you want to add an island, breakfast nook or home office, you will need to consider building and addition or taking part of an adjacent room  such as a den or spare bedroom. I personally prefer knocking down walls to create one cohesive open space such as a kitchen, living and dining room combination. Any additions will require and a new foundation and roof, so you will need to factor the labor, materials and permit fees into your budget. I recommend hiring and experienced architect who can design and integrate your new kitchen seamlessly into your home. 
When planning a major overhaul, you will need to be prepared for any plumbing, electrical or structural issues before you begin. Usually these surprises sometimes sprout up once you begin opening up the walls. Don’t skip on fixing any issues that arise just to save time and money. You want your renovation to add value to your home, so be sure to hire a good contractor and make smarter choices. Yes there is lots to think about, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Your renovation does not have to be a nightmare, there are new innovative products and materials on the market everyday to make it go smoother. 

Before you start planning, think about the following questions. Are you looking for low cost or best quality? Do you want to use the kind of products that will last a lifetime? Will you use eco friendly products that have a low impact on the environment? The truth is although there are lots of choices, there is no right answer for everybody. That because everyone has a different budget. What matters most is figuring out what’s more important to you and why. 

Now that you have answered those questions, it’s time to plan. Whatever the scale of your project, first organize your ideas to allow you to make smart decisions along the way. I highly recommend using Pinterest for inspirational ideas! Don’t focus on trends, but think about both style and function before you make any choices. Think about what would suit your households needs in the future.

•  Do you cook in your kitchen often, or entertain regularly?
•  Do you need space for more than one cook? 
•  Do you have enough cabinets and countertop space?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’ll need to incorporate them into your design to make sure the kitchen of your dreams not only comfortable but functional. Remember, you’ll want your kitchen to have lasting value. There are lots of options, but for now you can start planning by answering these questions. 

Next you will need to consider:

• How old is your house?
• Any Asbestos or Lead Paint?
• What kind of electrical wiring is in place and how old it is.
• What kind of lighting will you be adding in the ceiling?
• The kind of insulation in the walls if any.
• What kind of plumbing is in place, how old is it and is it functioning properly?
• Are you adding wiring for computers, smart homes and audio and visual components?
• Can your heating, cooling and Hvac systems handle the changes you want to make.
• Are your walls plaster or sheetrock?

Now let’s think about the style. What style will you choose? There are over sixteen different types such as Modern, Traditional, Contemporary, Rustic, Craftsman, Industrial, Mediterranean, and Beach to name a few.

My personal favorite design is Beach Cottage Style. A beach cottage style kitchen should be light and airy reflecting the colors of the sea. Your design plan should include white cabinets, but if you have dark cabinets that are paintable, consider lightening them up by painting them in a cool coastal blue.

Add shiplap, wainscotting, engineered wood, wood look ceramic tile, or bamboo floors for warmth, and chunky open shelves to display pottery and give the kitchen a cottage feel. Next include natural elements in the decor such as flax and linen, and nautical elements such as seagrass, sisal and driftwood.  Remember to add comfortable seating to keep it cozy and casual. I hope you enjoyed this post. View my Pinterest board Coastal Style Kitchens for more design inspiration.

Shop or find items in Image on this list here.

1. Safavieh Jute Area Rug –https://amzn.to/2lpWAeO
2. Dining Room Chair – Wood Seat – Set of 2 – Blue/Green- https://amzn.to/2mRyyK6
3. Solid Wood Dining Table- https://www.jossandmain.com
4. Kitchen Cabinets- http://www.willowlanecabinetry.com
5. Wood Look Ceramic Tile Flooring- http://www.BuildDirect.com
6. Golden Lighting 3602-L-CH-WH http://www.build.com
7. Seaglass Bottle- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/421368108887254088/
8. Emerald Coast Countertops- https://www.vetrazzo.com/inspiration/sea-and-sand/?lang=en
9. Seagrass Baskets- https://amzn.to/2mYktu6
10. Glass Back Splash Tiles- https://amzn.to/2nyURVd
11. Cabinet Hardware- http://smarthomekitchen.com/black-kitchen-cabinet/black-kitchen-cabinet-hardware/
12. Kitchen Canisters- https://amzn.to/2lm00PH
13. Moen Faucet- https://amzn.to/2ljY3TK
14. Sink- https://amzn.to/2nyTGVN
15. Cabinet- http://www.willowlanecabinetry.com
16. Wall Clock- https://amzn.to/2nsXRlO