On average, a homeowner will tackle one kitchen remodel in their lifetime. Let that sink in…just ONE! A kitchen renovation is an exciting endeavor, but it can be a large, stressful investment. Living through a construction zone for an extended period of time isn’t necessarily a pleasant experience either.
For those of you who have successfully renovated your kitchen, you know that this tedious process is worth all the time and energy put into your beautiful new space. But for some, there’s that ever-lingering thought of “I wish I would have…” after all is said and done. We hope to erase “Renovation Regret” with our list of things to consider before your kitchen renovation project even begins.
Renovation Regret # 1 – Not Hiring a Kitchen Designer
The constant barrage of renovation success stories on TV and social media has created a generation of DIYers. But don’t be fooled by how easy they make the process look. Sure, these stories might bolster your confidence to make material selections on your own and even install the project, but one regret homeowners face after the fact is not having a professional kitchen designer guide them through the process.
Most consumers have never designed a kitchen before and this uncharted territory can be more than overwhelming. A kitchen designer can help educate you on space planning, cabinetry selections, and materials and finishes. They will guide you through the design process as well as the timeline for your renovation.
Designers have a fresh eye on the potential for your space and will be there to answer any of your questions along the way. They also have a knack for problem-solving, which is imperative throughout this journey. Trust your designer and they will undoubtedly bring your vision to life.
Renovation Regret # 2 : Choosing Aesthetics over Functionality
Now that we’ve convinced you to hire a kitchen designer for your future renovation, it’s important to understand that a beautiful kitchen doesn’t always mean it is functional. Yes, I said it. Scroll through Instagram or Pinterest and you’ll find plenty of perfectly curated, aesthetic kitchen layouts. But have you thought about how those cabinets actually function in day-to-day life? What are they storing in those cabinets and where do they keep their small appliances? Do they even have a microwave?
Each homeowner has different lifestyle demands and their space needs to work in harmony with their daily activities. Functionality needs to always be top-of-mind during the design process. Ask yourself questions like: Where will I store my baking supplies? Do I need to build in seating for my family? How can my pet best utilize the space? Do I want a space to entertain?
Each cabinet and surface you select is meant to help keep you working efficiently in your space so think hard about how your kitchen will work for you.
Renovation Regret # 3 – Not Adding Storage and Organization
The biggest kitchen renovation regret is skimping on storage and organization.
It’s no surprise that investing in a major kitchen remodel is not going to be cheap. In fact, it’s like buying a new vehicle – you have the option to upgrade certain add-on features like automatic wipers and voice-activated navigation. In the grand scheme of things, you quickly realize that the convenience factor of these upgrades outweighs the extra dollars spent.
The same goes for storage and organization. By not upgrading your interior organization when you have the chance, you will realize that your new cabinets do not function to their highest potential.
A recent poll conducted by MasterBrand shows that 80% of kitchen designers recommend these seven storage features for their functionality:
1 – Trash Bin Pullouts
2 – Pantry Cabinet with Roll Trays
3 – Cookie Sheet / Tray Divider
4 – Roll Trays
5 – Corner Revolving / Swing Outs
6 – Deep Drawers
7 – Floating Shelves
These storage solutions will help create zones in your kitchen to keep you organized along the way. Sure, you may have the cabinet space, but by adding in these simple, yet effective, features, you’ll have a dedicated area to house all your essential items and they will always be right at your fingertips.
To explore more storage and organization, visit MasterBrand.com to discover solutions you didn’t even know you needed!
