Remodeling your kitchen can be a big undertaking, but Laguna Kitchen and bath is here to help! Your kitchen remodel can be relatively easy and painless with these kitchen design ideas. We’ll start with your kitchen remodel cost and include plenty of other tips you might not have thought about. After you check out these helpful hints, be sure to contact us to get started on your kitchen remodel.

1: CREATE A BUDGET AND STICK TO IT

The reality is that money is the driving force behind a lot of life’s decisions. You can remodel your kitchen without breaking the bank, but it’ll take some careful planning. Count on spending about 10% to 15% of what your home is currently worth for a complete kitchen remodel. This will ensure you get the quality you want without spending too much. Be sure to leave room for unexpected issues like plumbing or wiring. Consider the market and whether you’re interested in a low, medium, or high-end kitchen.

2: CONSIDER KITCHEN SIZE

Some homeowners end up not having enough space to fit everything they want into their new kitchen. Take careful measurements of your kitchen to determine the dimensions you have to work with. You’ll also want to take into account things like counter height based on your height. Some people cook every night, while others mostly order take-out. Make sure your kitchen won’t be too crowded with all your new fixtures and appliances.

3: DON’T FORGET LIGHTING

Your ideal kitchen should have no glare or shadows. You can achieve this with a mix of fixtures and lighting layers. Choose recessed ceiling fixtures for overall light. Pendants and chandeliers work well for islands and dining areas. For areas you’ll be cooking in, consider under-cabinet task lights or fixtures with diffusers or frosted glass. You’ll want to install a separate switch for each light source, preferably conveniently located near the doorway. Dimmers are also a popular option.

4: ALLOW YOURSELF TO INDULGE A LITTLE

Don’t get so caught up in your budget that you don’t allow yourself to indulge and get the kitchen you really want. If you can’t afford to have a nice kitchen remodel, now might not be the right time to start your project. Try not to go over the top with tile patterns that are too busy or appliances that are too bright. You want your kitchen to be perfect for you without alienating potential future home buyers.

5: STAY GROUNDED IN REALITY

Start with your dream kitchen and then make adjustments grounded in reality. A big bay window might sound fantastic, but it may not be practical with your existing kitchen space. If you have a small, cozy kitchen, you’ll want to stay away from oversize professional appliances. Pick out your favorites from a catalog, but do your best to understand how they’ll translate in your kitchen without lying to yourself.

6: LIVE THE ISLAND LIFE

Kitchen islands are more popular than ever before and for good reason. Make sure your kitchen is large enough to accommodate an island comfortably. An oversized island can block traffic and workflow, as can a poorly located one. Ensure you’ll be able to open cabinet doors on all sides of your kitchen island. You might not be able to opt for that island sink or cooktop because it won’t leave you much room for anything else. You can build a full-scale model island to try it out before you buy it.

7: INCLUDE A BACKSPLASH

A backsplash can really tie a kitchen together and create a focal point. It also makes cleanup much easier. You have many choices when it comes to kitchen backsplashes, but don’t let that overwhelm you. Backsplashes are often installed shortly before project completion, but they don’t have to be. Choose one early and have it installed at the beginning stage of your renovation.

8: SET UP A TEMPORARY KITCHEN

Kitchen remodels can take time, and you’ll be inconvenienced during them. Setting up a temporary kitchen will allow you to cook, wash dishes, and make your morning coffee while the project is underway. Build a makeshift kitchen by saving a few of your old cabinets and countertops. You won’t need anything fancy, just something functional. Use appliances such as a toaster, hot plate, coffeemaker, microwave, and mini-fridge. You won’t have to order pizza every night, and it’ll make you appreciate your new kitchen even more.

START YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL TODAY
Laguna Kitchen and Bath is ready to help you get the kitchen of your dreams. We help homeowners and contractors in the Orange County area, so contact us today to learn more and get started.