Where do your family and friends typically gather for an evening indoors? For most, the kitchen has become the heart of the home ––and why not, with the proliferation of open floor concepts and central island countertops. Amid all that enjoyment, however, continual wear and tear may cause the space to need some updating. If you love using your kitchen as a central hub for guests and are due for an update, here are some common and potentially costly remodeling mistakes to avoid. Read on to learn more!
COMMON REMODELING MISTAKE #1: WASTED SPACE
What are you going to do with all that space? Chances are, it’ll become a corner for all that dreaded “stuff” without a home. We want to encourage you to avoid this, as it’s one of the top remodeling mistakes. Space is a good thing, and with the right game plan, all that space is functional.
Do you want to walk a mile to make a meal or stare into nothingness? Probably not. Choose an area of the kitchen that can double as meal prep, dining, or family time –– create a breakfast nook, use floor decor or plants, or invest in ‘in-cabinet’ appliances. These are subtle and creative ways to add flavor to your space without sacrificing square footage.
COMMON REMODELING MISTAKE #2: UNDERESTIMATING THE WORK
Ah, another one of the most common and most dreadful remodeling mistakes any eager homeowner could make. Have you sat down to assess the amount of work needed to accomplish your remodeling utopia?
Remodeling a kitchen is a BIG undertaking. It can be stressful, anxiety-laden, and frustrating. Don’t be discouraged because the pay-off is worth it –– but also, don’t be surprised if it’s more complicated than you first imagined. Take some time to think about the scope of work, set reasonable expectations, give yourself adequate time, and trust the plan.
COMMON REMODELING MISTAKE #3: FORGETTING ABOUT STORAGE
You can never have too much storage space. Yes, the more storage, the more stuff –– but the less storage, the less space to fit all the things you have. In our experience, homeowners rave over ample storage, and this feature has become dearer to them over the years.
While the design phase is underway, think about what “makes sense.” Where will you store your pots, pans, dishes, utensils, on and on? Note storage trends for appliances, drawers, and other cabinet ideas.
COMMON REMODELING MISTAKE #4: LIGHTING
This profound yet straightforward feature can be easily “hidden.” Want a simple and affordable way to lighten the mood in your kitchen space? Address your lighting situation. No one wants to socialize in a dingy and dark room –– choose warm temperature lighting and an additional window or two for a more natural look. This will increase comfort, delight, and appeal when hosting your closest friends and family.
COMMON REMODELING MISTAKE #5: INSTALLING COUNTERTOPS BY YOURSELF
We’re not saying that you can’t do the project yourself. Sometimes, a handy mother or father is better than a professional contractor. However, if you’re anything like the everyday homeowner, a remodeling venture can get a bit riskier than a simple DIY project.
Aside from the big-ticket items like electrical, plumbing, or load-bearing walls, refusing to consult a professional countertop installer could prove detrimental to the project. They’ll know how to size and plan for things like chipping, recommend better designs, and material alternatives to save you money and ensure longer-lasting quality.
REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN? CONTACT BAD LIZARD GRANITE & QUARTZ!
You’ve done the research. You’ve picked the samples. You’re ready to implement your kitchen renovation ideas –– but you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed to do it alone. Don’t worry.
Our Bad Lizard Granite & Quartz team is here to help make your dream a reality. When it comes to countertop fabrication and marble installation, we’re some of the best in West Virginia.
Call us at 304-472-6483 or contact us online today if you have any questions.