When it comes to kitchens, a remodel begins by determining its scope

By mapping out your kitchen remodel and detailing everything you intend it to include, you take the best steps toward preventing going over-budget and avoiding unexpected drawbacks. This process is essentially one of preventive measures and may include the research of related styles until you are able to narrow your favorites down to a single motif. Locating the right creative pro to work with could be your next priority. Then, detailing the entire range of work and calculating a budget should follow with ease.

You must first ponder how far are you planning to go with your remodel? Will it be entirely cosmetic or are you tearing it all out and starting from scratch? Will it require plumbing or electrical work? So many options present themselves; it’s easy to become overwhelmed. After you’ve done the research, try putting together a wish list, compare it to your budget and start there.

You can begin preliminary work right now. Especially if you have any sort of craft background, you may want to make what is called an “idea book” which is essentially a scrapbook dedicated to the kitchen ideas that you find appealing. Inside, all manner of related clippings are pasted tastefully throughout the pages, photos of various kitchen wares you desire or want to emulate. It’s a great way to get your project started as it will provide some source material from which to reference.

Your endeavor will be made much easier – and accurate – by employing the services of a designer, architect or contractor. Any one of the three can help narrow the range of the project and work out the logistics until they are entirely compatible with your established budget. If you have the opportunity to consult with more than one recommended adviser, a second opinion should never be overlooked.

Ask family or friends if they would confidently refer someone they’ve worked with previously. They’ll likely only recommend those whose results were satisfactory. You should also check online, make some calls, and schedule interviews with other local laborers. Ask to see examples of their work – in person, if possible. Once you have two or three candidates you’re interested in, have them come to your home to look at the area and discuss the possibilities. They’ve already won you over by asking the right questions and assuredly throwing around some general numbers, now you can get down to business. Find out what they’ll need to make this happen.

One question a pro might ask could be if you are doing the remodel within/around the existing design? Do you plan to move the sink or gas range (which would mean a whole other level of work)? Do you want it to open to another room that it currently doesn’t? They may advise you to consider that characteristics specific to the home such as age, type and layout must all be weighed in the scheme of what’s to be done. On your end it would be best to get a general idea of cost for every idea you have. The right collaborator will be able to accurately indulge you. This consistent interaction will be beneficial to maintaining a relative budget.

 

And that could be the last step in determining the scope of the project – the budget. Go down the list with the contractor and factor in everything you want. New appliances, countertops, cabinets, tile, flooring lights, etc… the more you become aware of and settle on for your vision, the easier this discussion will be. Your professional can tell you what’s realistic, urge you to compromise when necessary and keep you in the realm of practicality.

Remember, you’re in the driver seat, you’re the boss. Be prepared to assume that role and all it includes. Be ready to make decisions. Once the project gets going you can relinquish the reigns a bit to your chosen professional – and you’ll probably be happy to do that by that point!