Realistic Expectations for Kitchen Renovations

Taking on a kitchen renovation is a big task! Anyone who has been through the process knows that well. The choices and decisions can seem endless. Coordinating and planning are definite musts. But after all the hard work, the end result is well worth the energy put into it all.
So, all of this got me thinking... Are there things home owners should know right off the bat in order for the kitchen renovation to go more smoothly? The answer is, "Yes!" And, after chatting with my co-workers, here is what we came up with.

Realistic Expectations for Kitchen Renovations:

1) Decisions, decisions, decisions...
         There are so many! But fear not! That is why you've hired a designer. Our job is to understand your wants and needs so we can narrow down options which work with your specific project. Your job is to let us know what you do AND don't like so that we can go into the decision making process on the same team.

2) There is no such thing as a stupid question...
         And that is the truth! As designers we work with cabinetry, codes, appliances and colors on a daily basis. You, as the client, most likely do not. We totally get that. So, ask away! Make sure you understand exactly what we're talking about while we're talking about it. This will only help to minimize surprises in the end.

3) It's OK to Trust...
         Training, experience and vision all work together to make your designer an expert. So, when it comes to that one big choice and your designer has a strong opinion about it, it could very well be the right way to go. We know it is hard to let go of the reigns, but sometimes, you have to trust that we do know best. And even if you don't go with what we've suggested, at least you've taken the time to listen and consider our ideas. Then, no matter what, you'll know you made an informed decision.

4) Nobody is perfect...
         Not even designers. ;) Although you may feel as though the design for kitchen should be exactly what you have been seeing in your mind, it might not be. So, expect revisions. Anything from a single drawer to the whole layout can be changed in the design process. Don't be discouraged if it takes 2, 3 or even 4 revisions to get to your dream kitchen. This is your opportunity to make it your own space. Just remember the more of your opinions you share with your designer, the faster you'll get there!

5) A House is not a Home...
         Without a kitchen. I believe that is how the saying should go. A kitchen renovation takes THE most used room of a house away. Depending on the individual project, that time frame can be anywhere from a couple week to a couple months. Some clients chose to set up a "mini kitchen" in another room of the house. Others with longer construction phases sometimes decide to stay at a relatives home. Another good idea is to plan for a summer renovation so you can utilize your outdoor grill. Either way, make a game plan and know how you and your family are going to deal with the construction phase.

6) Money Bags...
         This isn't anyone's favorite part of a project. But paying is inevitable. A good thing to keep in mind is that your designer is on your side. We know how to use your budget to its greatest potential. Putting the money in the right places can make all the difference in the world. Most of the time we start with your dream kitchen, including everything you want in the price. Once you see your max cost, we can revise as necessary. (In some cases, not at all!) Depending on your tastes vs. your budget, this could mean compromising, but that is how you figure out your priorities. What are you willing to let go of in order to gain? A kitchen renovation is most certainly an investment. Let us help you make the very best of the money you put into it.

7) Hiccup!
          With a project as large and as detailed as a kitchen, there will be hiccups. The important part is knowing that whether an extra piece of trim is needed or a side panel has been delivered with a crack, we'll be there! Having an entire kitchen renovation finished without a single glitch is nearly an impossibility. We do everything in our power to avoid those glitches altogether but, more importantly, we stand ready to expedite solutions to any issues that do arise.

8) Customer Service with a Smile...
          At KB Details, the kitchens we design are our babies. Because of that, aside from our main goal being to make our clients happy, it is also to bring our design to life in the most flawless way possible. We strive to streamline the process in order to lessen the install time, create a supportive relationship with the contractor, and maintain the good rapport we have already made with our client. So, expect awesome service! We take pride in our work and we take pride in how many of our clients have become friends.

~Bethany~

The Importance of Working with a Kitchen Designer

As kitchen designers we are repeatedly asked, what are the benefits of working with a designer rather than a stocked box company? The most important and most clear reason, in my opinion, is customization. Renovating a kitchen is a big investment and we understand that. So, in the process, why not make your new kitchen the space of your dreams?! For this "On The Water Addition" my client had a few specific needs that had to be met in the re-design of her kitchen. 

First was space. There needed to be plenty of seating for her family and friends to sit comfortably while she was busy cooking up a storm in her new kitchen. There also needed to be enough counter space so that the prepared food could be served from a spot in the kitchen other than her work areas. In order to accommodate that, we configured a large asymmetrical island that provided enough space for everyone to sit. Then, we designed a long, easily accessible, built-in buffet. With the windows above, it really becomes the focal point of the room.

Secondly, because of that entertaining, she needed to know that the clean up process wouldn't be a slow one. To make sure that didn't happen, we incorporated an additional "clean-up station" in the island. This included an extra sink and full size dishwasher. Now the home owner can be assured she won't be wasting quality time with her guests in order to finish cleaning the kitchen.

Third, the importance of recycling was expressed to me. She needed a place to keep her cans and bottles organized but, at the same time, out of sight. So, designed into the floor plan and disguised by the cabinetry is a base cabinet that allows the family to send cans and bottles to the basement. There the cans and bottles can be sorted into their correct bins. 

 And last but not least... coffee! My client wanted to make her morning routine of coffee making easier and less of a hassle. Her Keurig was going to be decently far from the sink areas. So rather than having to bring the Keurig to the faucet across the kitchen, we designed a faucet specifically for the Keurig itself. Now, no more spilling water on the floor!

I guess my point is that if you're going to be investing your time, money and energy into such a large project, the choice is clear! Work with a professional and make your new kitchen a unique space built just for you!

Bethany Gardner, Designer for Kitchen & Bath Details