Richmond VA Kitchen Remodeling often involves more than just replacing fixtures and finishes. It can involve expanding a space, adding an island, or changing the floor plan.
To manage costs, set a realistic budget before the project begins and make sure to include a contingency fund. Prioritize your needs and wants, so you can choose which areas to splurge on and which to save on.
The cabinetry and flooring you select for your kitchen remodel will set the tone for both the room’s aesthetic and its functionality. They dictate traffic flow and serve as a foundation upon which other design elements can be built. Choosing the right cabinets and flooring will make your space feel comfortable and welcoming. Whether you start with the cabinets or the floors, there are advantages to each strategy and trade-offs to consider.
Putting down the flooring first can save on time and money. By installing the floor covering (not to be confused with the subfloor, which is the underlayment) before the cabinets, you avoid having to cut it to fit around the cabinets or kitchen island. This also helps you avoid the expense of having to install quarter round along the edges of the flooring.
In addition, putting down the flooring first allows you to choose a material that will complement the cabinets, such as a natural wood or a wire-brushed, low-gloss texture, instead of a tile or other more visually-contrasting option. A good remodeling contractor will assess your needs and recommend the optimal sequencing for your project.
If you’re planning to put down a wood flooring that is thicker than 12”, it can be challenging to install cabinets over it. This is because the thicker flooring will expand and contract more than a thinner flooring. In some cases, this can cause the cabinetry to bow or buck, and it’s difficult to retrofit the cabinets later without tearing them out.
Another reason that some contractors prefer to put down the flooring before the cabinets is longevity. They feel that putting down the flooring first will protect it in case you decide to remodel your kitchen again in the future and change the footprint of the cabinets or islands. It’s important to treat your floor like a permanent installation, so installing it before the cabinets will help ensure its integrity for years to come.
Of course, if you’re a DIYer or working with an experienced remodeling contractor on your project, the choice is yours. We can’t say which is the best way to go, but we can tell you that whichever strategy you choose, you’ll want to work closely with your remodeling team throughout your project so that each aspect of the renovation stays on track.
Appliances
If you’re looking for a kitchen upgrade, new appliances are the way to go. The latest appliances are typically more energy-efficient than older models, and they often come with built-in features that can make your life easier. Plus, they’re much more stylish than what was available even just a few years ago.
The first step in choosing the right appliance package for your kitchen is to determine what your needs and budget are. Then, create a design plan that includes your preferred aesthetics and any special functional requirements you may have. For example, if you entertain frequently, you might want to add a warming drawer or larger capacity ovens. On the other hand, busy families might prefer a speed-cooking oven that can save time in the long run.
Once you’ve determined what type of appliances you need, choose a color suit that matches the rest of your kitchen. Stainless steel is the current favorite, but black and white are also popular choices. Then, decide if you’ll be purchasing all new appliances or replacing only some of them. If you’re replacing only a few pieces, consider keeping the original color to maintain consistency.
When it comes to pricing, keep in mind that appliances are one of the most expensive components of a kitchen remodeling project. That’s why it’s important to shop around and compare prices. You can often find good deals at local big box retailers, online sales and clearance outlets. Additionally, many manufacturers offer rebates and promotions geared toward major holidays or during the summer months.
Lastly, don’t forget to factor in the cost of installation and removal if you’re planning on moving appliances during the remodel. Hiring a professional to relocate your sink, stove or refrigerator can add up quickly. Similarly, hauling away your old appliances can cost $50 to $150 an hour.
Ultimately, the best value for your kitchen remodel isn’t necessarily in buying the most expensive items, but rather in choosing those that will increase functionality and appeal to the widest possible audience of future homebuyers. For example, a custom walk-in wine cellar may be a dream feature but might limit the pool of potential buyers in your area.
Lighting
When it comes to kitchen remodeling, many homeowners overlook lighting. However, this is a crucial element that should be considered in the overall design of your kitchen. The right lighting will enhance your cooking, food preparation, and dining experience. In addition, it can brighten up dark corners and create a more inviting space.
A well-lit kitchen can help your chosen color palette pop, making it appear more vibrant and true to life. It will also help reduce the need for artificial light during the day, which can save on energy costs. For the best results, choose natural lighting options such as larger windows and skylights.
Using the right type of lighting in your new kitchen can help make tasks easier, such as reading recipes or cutting vegetables. You may even want to include under cabinet lighting, which is ideal for highlighting decorative items on countertops or adding a unique design element. You can also incorporate recessed and pendant lights to add a more elegant touch.
Lighting can be one of the most cost-effective ways to update your kitchen, so make sure it’s included in your renovation budget. Energy-efficient LED bulbs are a good choice as they use less energy and have a long lifespan. They also come in a variety of colors so you can change the mood as needed.
As you plan your lighting, consider how you and your family will use the kitchen. For example, will you be hosting dinner parties or doing crafts in the kitchen? This will help you determine which fixtures and features are most suitable for your needs.
When deciding on lighting, it’s important to choose fixtures that match your interior design scheme. You can achieve this by selecting fixtures that have a similar style to your other decor, such as pendants or chandeliers. Alternatively, you can opt for more modern lighting fixtures that can add a bold and eye-catching look to your kitchen.
When choosing a light fixture, it’s also worth considering whether or not it will work with your smart home system. For example, some lighting systems allow you to control the brightness and temperature of the lights with a smartphone app or by using voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Space
A kitchen should be comfortable, welcoming and spacious for everyone in your family. Having enough counter and floor space allows for multiple cooks to work at once and invites conversation, so you’ll have more time together as a family. Increasing the amount of natural light and adding houseplants will make your kitchen feel more luxurious, while helping to purify the air.
When you’re ready to begin your remodel, choose a professional home remodeling contractor with experience. They will help you navigate the process, make informed decisions and bring your vision for your new kitchen to life.
Most kitchen remodels include changes to cabinetry, countertops, appliances, lighting, backsplashes, flooring and plumbing. It’s not uncommon for a full-blown kitchen remodel to also include structural changes such as moving walls or removing doors.
The kitchen’s floor plan is the biggest consideration when reworking a space. A good remodeler will understand the importance of a flow-friendly layout and provide a detailed floor plan for your review. This will help to ensure the final remodel design meets your needs and satisfies a realistic budget.
When it comes to kitchen cabinetry, there are many options that can be tailored to meet your needs and style preferences. Some cabinetry options are more budget friendly than others, but the quality of the materials and craftsmanship should not be overlooked.
Having the right storage solutions in place is essential for any kitchen, regardless of size. Adding hidden or pull-out pan racks, baskets, trash bins and other unique storage elements will help to keep your new kitchen organized and free of clutter.
If you’re looking to expand your kitchen, removing a wall can increase the available floor space dramatically. However, it’s important to note that interior walls can contain plumbing and electrical services which may require relocation during the remodel, increasing the complexity and cost of the project.
For a less costly kitchen expansion option, a breakfast bar and peninsula can offer similar functionality without changing the footprint. Additionally, homeowners can install a movable island to accommodate their needs while keeping the kitchen open to other living spaces for sociability and entertaining.