The decision to remodel your kitchen is a significant one. Many homeowners are hesitant about this sort of project because they are not sure about where to begin. Perhaps an even larger impediment to the prospect of the kitchen remodel is not knowing whether a remodel is even necessary. If you are struggling to determine whether or not you should take the plunge, and move forward with remodeling of your own, you will want to consider some of the following factors. It is our hope that they will help guide you in your quest for renovation and renewal.
Wear and Tear
Every room in your house is subject to the wear and tear of daily life. If you are wondering about whether you should move forward with a kitchen remodel, it is important that you assess the level of wear and tear that has occurred in this space. Take the time to empty your cupboards and remove all of your furniture and accessories from the space. In so doing, you can better assess the bare bones of your space. Do you notice peeling tile? Or do your appliances seem much worse for the wear? If so, these areas are ones that you can start with during the remodel process. Keep in mind that a dilapidated kitchen is far from a space that inspires family gatherings or gourmet meals.
Increased Value
Another reason for pursuing a kitchen remodel is that of seeking increased value. Of course, all homeowners appreciate seeing the value of their homes increase. But, this is not a sufficient reason for remodeling your kitchen.
There are certain conditions under which increased home value proves especially advantageous. If you are hoping to sell your home within the next three years, it may be worth your while to remodel your kitchen. Alternatively, you may want to remodel your kitchen if this space is included within a rental apartment or income property. In both circumstances, potential homeowners and renters consider the kitchen as a major selling point. When remodelling this space, focus on the central elements of the space, such as appliances, flooring and countertops. By focusing mainly on these features, homeowners can envision how they might put their own stamp on the space.
Lifestyle Needs
You may have a kitchen that is aesthetically beautiful, but if this space does not meet your lifestyle needs, you will want to consider a remodel.
You may very well be thinking: ‘What kind of lifestyle needs might this be referring to?’ In the main, you will want to consider the kinds of activities you perform in the kitchen. Do you enjoy cooking elaborate meals in your kitchen, and then lingering over them? If so, your kitchen will require substantial countertop space. In addition, you will likely want to introduce a built-in seating area. This seating area might be created around your kitchen island; or, you might create a breakfast nook. The choice is up to you. Regardless, it is crucial that you question whether or not your current kitchen meets your lifestyle needs.
Datedness
Last but not least, you will want to thoroughly consider whether or not your kitchen is dated. Many homeowners get paralyzed at this stage in the planning process—feeling that they are not sufficiently knowledgeable about what it means to be dated.
Fortunately, there are a wide breadth of resources that can help you determine how current and relevant your kitchen is. Interior designers suggest perusing interior design blogs and magazines to help determine how your kitchen stands up against the competition. Ask yourself the following question: ‘Does my kitchen contain any of the recurring features contained in these images?’ If not, you will want to take pains to incorporate some of these relevant features in your own space. This does not mean introducing every modern feature on the market, however. Rather, choose finishes that you find beautiful and which work well together. For instance, perhaps you appreciate the strength and uniqueness of a granite countertop. If so, this is a great modern focal point worth introducing. Other modern finishes that pair well granite countertops are glass pendant lights, and metallic stove range hoods.
All in all, the decision to move forward with a kitchen remodel can prove problematic. If you are struggling with the decision to move forward with a kitchen remodel, it is important that you consider some of the aforementioned factors. Ask yourself whether your current kitchen meets your lifestyle needs. For example, do you love cooking but suffer from restricted counter space? If so, it is time to introduce some long overdue updates. You will also want to assess the level of wear and tear endured by your space. If the wear and tear in your kitchen surpasses what is normal, you will want to seriously consider a remodel.
