In The News

10 Essential Tips for Planning Your Kitchen Remodel

Planning a kitchen remodel can be an exciting but complex project. To help you navigate the process successfully, here are 10 essential tips to consider before starting your San Jose kitchen remodeling project:

Define Your Goals and Priorities

Identify your goals for the remodel. Do you want to improve your kitchen’s functionality, increase storage, update the design, or all of the above? Also, knowing your priorities for the San Jose kitchen remodel can help focus your budget and make sure that the upgrades that are most important to you are at the top of the list.

Establish a Budget

Determine how much you want to spend on your kitchen remodel. Be realistic about your financial situation and prioritize essential upgrades. Collaborate with a professional kitchen remodeler like May Construction who can provide insights into the costs associated with materials and finishes and can help you create a more accurate budget.

Research and Inspiration

Spend time researching kitchen designs, layouts, and trends. Gather inspiration from magazines, websites, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Houzz. Being able to show your design build team examples of what you like (and sometimes what you don't like) is a great way for them to get to know your style so that they can help make recommendations that will align with your aesthetic.

Choose Quality Materials

Invest in quality materials for your kitchen cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring.  High-quality materials may have a higher upfront cost, but they are generally built to last. Investing in quality materials reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements and they enhance the resale value of your home.

Invest in Lighting Design

The right lighting can transform a space. A well-lit kitchen uses a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting which can enhance the overall functionality and mood of the kitchen. Choose lighting fixtures that compliment your kitchen design from elegant to rustic contemporary.

Finalize Design Details

Before construction begins, ensure all design details are finalized as changes made during construction can be costly. And, to whatever extent possible, choosing your materials and fixtures before construction begins can help reduce wait time and mitigate any impact of supply chain issues.

Create a Timeline and Contingency

Create a realistic timeline for your project, including all stages from design and demolition to construction and finishing touches. Talk with your San Jose remodeler about schedule, but be prepared to adapt and make adjustments if needed as the project progresses. Being flexible can help you manage unexpected delays. And it is a wise idea to set aside a contingency fund for possible budget overruns.

Communicate Clearly

Maintain open and clear communication with your kitchen remodeler.  Regular meetings throughout the project are a time when you and your builder can talk about the progress of the remodel as well as identify and address any issues early on. Regular updates and discussions with your contractor can prevent misunderstandings and make sure everyone is on the same page. Also, many decisions need to be made during the course of a project and having regular meetings is a great time to discuss and make decisions collectively.

Plan for Temporary Disruption

Understand that kitchen remodels can be disruptive to your daily routine. Consider setting up a temporary kitchenette in another area of your home. Or, depending on the scale of your project, you may want to live elsewhere for a short period of time.

Enjoy the Process

Finally, remember that a kitchen remodel is an opportunity to create a space that reflects your style and meets your needs. Enjoy the process and envision the end result. And, by working with an experienced professional, like May Construction, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. You’re going to love your new kitchen.

 

Dreaming of a kitchen remodel? Talk to us.