Renovations and remodeling are popular with homeowners. 80% of homes in the U.S. are 20-years old or older and can use a renovation, according to Comfy Living. The kitchen is a common place to start. Whether you want to increase the functionality of your kitchen, give it a new and improved look, or just need more room for a growing family, kitchen makeovers are an excellent home improvement project to invest in.

Kitchen remodeling does not happen overnight, however. There are a few things you need to consider before you start your project.

Scale

The first thing to consider is how big the remodeling is going to be. Are you looking to bust out a wall to make more room, install new appliances, and re-do all of the cabinetry and countertops? Or is a fresh coat of paint and matching cupboards enough?

A big factor in deciding scale is your budget. Consider the amount of money you want to spend and plan for unexpected charges on top of that. A general contractor can help you find the best prices on materials in order to fit everything you want, but it will take time and focus to create a realistic budget.

Layout

Many people want to change the physical layout of their kitchen because the current floor plan is outdated and inefficient for their lifestyles. If you fall into this category, take careful note of how you use your kitchen. What is the maximum number of people in the kitchen at any given time? How many meals do you eat and prepare there? Are you lacking in storage space or elbow room?

Accessory parts can be changed quite easily, but the floor plan is more permanent. It's the foundation of the remodel. Again, professional contractors are the best people to consult during this aspect of kitchen makeovers.

Appliances

There are a lot of benefits to upgrading the appliances in your kitchen. If you do nothing else, this should be something you consider from time to time. New appliances will give you better energy efficiency and functionality in your kitchen. You can also position them to give you more room to work. If you don't plan on spending a long time in your home, investing in new appliances can still give you ROI by increasing your property value.

Storage Space

The amount of storage space you need will depend on how much you use your kitchen, and for what. If you love to cook and bake, extra storage space will come in handy and allow you to purchase new tools without worrying about them stacking up on the countertop. If you love wine, installing wine coolers or racks can let you broaden your collection. It's an invaluable part of any kitchen that helps you stay neat and organized.

Countertop Material

An upgraded countertop can increase the aesthetic and practical value of your kitchen. Natural stone and granite are a popular option for many homeowners. The durable material comes in a variety of patterns and colors, allowing you to pick something you feel is the best expression of you. You can also get engineered stone like quartz if you want the look of granite or marble without the upkeep.

Flooring

Flooring in the kitchen needs to be resistant to water damage. Wood flooring can be sealed to increase its protection, but there are vinyl and porcelain options that look like real wood with better water resistance. Stone tiling is another great option, although you need to seal this to protect it from water damage and staining, too.

Lighting

Consider lighting during kitchen makeovers to bring out the best in your kitchen's looks and make it easier to get work done. Warm white lights are recommended for a clean and natural look. Keep the spacing of the lights symmetrical to effectively cover the area of the kitchen. Energy-efficient bulbs can be used to lower your utility bills. You can also use the light fixtures as an opportunity to add a bit of flair to the look of the kitchen.

With a lot of planning and good general contractors, kitchen makeovers can be a rewarding and fun investment. If you need local contractors in Naples, FL for your kitchen remodel, contact Dorian Construction. We specialize in commercial and custom home remodeling and have over 30 years of experience. Call today or visit our website to schedule a free consultation!