Sometimes we get to the point where we outgrow our kitchens. That could be literal, in the sense that your family no longer has enough space. Or it could be more in the sense that the room has just fallen flat. Once you recognize that your kitchen is no longer aligning with your lifestyle, it’s time to decide what needs upgrading and why. If you are considering a kitchen remodel in Westlake, you have come to the right place for advice about getting through the process. Let’s break down some things you need to be sure to do.
Overcommunication is Key to a Successful Project
You can’t go into a kitchen remodel in Westlake without a plan. That plan needs to be discussed with your design-build contractor. As you go through with the improvements, you should continue to communicate the details with them. This includes any changes you are inclined to make, or else changes that your contractor feels have to be made. Essentially, you need to get a contractor who is willing to respond to all of your concerns and answer your questions along the way. Assuming that you are on the same page at all times is not the way you should go about any remodeling project. Overcommunicating will get rid of the later headaches.
Skipping Research for Appliances is a No
Kitchens quite literally revolve around their appliances. They have to be chosen from the beginning because, during a full-scale kitchen remodel in Westlake, the design and layout are going to be built around them. For this reason, taking measurements is vital. Just in case the specs are off, you should have your appliances delivered prior to having your cabinets built. And, no matter what, invest in quality. Assess your family’s needs and pick appliances based on which features will honestly support your lifestyle. Know that something may sound like a good deal, but it won’t necessarily be if you never need it. An example of this could be a large-capacity refrigerator for a household of three.
Your Cabinets are a Focal Point of Your Kitchen
As one of the first things people see when they walk into your kitchen, your cabinets should be very eye-appealing. This should be the goal whether you are refinishing them or tearing them out in favor of new ones. When purchasing new cabinets, once again, you have to go into the store with the exact measurements of your kitchen. Without this information, it’s difficult to execute your plan. Some things to consider are whether the corners of the room are square or if the walls lean. Your contractor will work accordingly. A cabinetry tip that works for any household is to take them up to the ceiling. This gets rid of dust and makes your kitchen look bigger.
Color and Lighting Will Make a Big Difference
Design-build professionals believe that, when it comes to a kitchen remodel in Westlake, it’s all in the details. And one recommendation is that you don’t design a monochrome white kitchen. Not only is it more of a challenge to keep looking nice and clean, but it also makes the space feel cold. While that isn’t to say you have to make everything in your kitchen a super pigmented color, incorporating elements of color can certainly liven things up. Another way to achieve this liveliness is through lighting. You should use both ambient and task lighting in the space. The former illuminates the entire room, while the latter is used for cooking activities.
Keeping Alterations to Code is Necessary
Building codes are put in place in order to ensure the safety of homeowners. They reduce costs, damages, and casualties. For a kitchen, these are especially necessary to take into account considering how frequently you are going to be working in and moving about the space. You want to ensure that the work done is protected from any potential hazards. State and local laws set the standards for construction, plumbing, and electrical. The International Code Council’s I-Codes are what specifically address these cases in residential properties. Whether you are performing a kitchen remodel in Westlake on your own or having design-builders take the reins, your property is not exempt from these requirements.
Kitchen Remodeling is a Messy Process
Fear not! The mess that comes with remodeling is temporary. But, in order to guarantee that, you need to prep your house before the project begins. Remember that protecting your furniture is a must so that it doesn’t get ruined during the process. After all, dust has a mind of its own and will happily go everywhere. The materials and workers also aren’t going to be confined to your kitchen. They are going to have to move in and out of your home through passageways. So, any extra precautions will serve you well in the end. If possible, move things into another room. Cover up your vents and tarp off areas that you don’t want touched by the construction.
Passing your kitchen off to get a face-lift can be scary. It’s one of the most valuable rooms in your house, and you want to make sure it’s handled with care. With Bat City Builders, your worries will be out the window. We are committed to adhering to your budget and keeping you in the loop throughout the project. Come have a conversation with our design-build team to get your kitchen remodel in Westlake kicked off.
Photos, in order of appearance, by:
- Jason Briscoe on Unsplash
- Sidekix Media on Unsplash