Know Your Vision
Any successful company has a vision and mission statement that acts as a compass to drive its decisions. It allows the company to stay focused on the big picture without getting sidetracked. You should have the same, deciding at the start the feeling you want your new kitchen to have.
- Sleek and modern?
- Warm and cozy?
- Traditional and timeless?
If you're not sure what style you prefer, spend time searching the HomePortfolio database of kitchen products and designer room images. When you see something you like—even if you aren't entirely clear on why you like it—add it to your portfolio. Over time, themes will emerge. This information will be invaluable when the time comes to meet with your kitchen designer.
Know Your Needs
Determine exactly why you're about to undertake a kitchen renovation. Are you looking for more storage, better flow, upgraded appliances, an updated style? Any or all of the above? Being clear on your reasons for beginning a renovation will help you allocate your budget (more on that later) and get you through any rough patches that may arise.
Know Your Budget
We know, we know. This is very much an unpleasant part of the project. But trust us: Now is the time to think about the budget, not once you're halfway into the renovation and realize there are no funds remaining for such pesky items as appliances. Rather than thinking of a budget as a limiting factor, think of it instead as a guiding factor. In truth, the very act of allocating funds will help you realize where your priorities lie. If cooking is your passion, direct more of the funds toward appliances and consider scaling back a bit on fixtures or finishes.
The NKBA offers these guidelines for how a budget for a high-end kitchen is typically allocated:
- 48 percent on cabinetry
- 18 percent on countertops
- 15 percent on appliances and venting
- 6 percent on faucets/sinks/plumbing
- 5 percent on lighting/electrical
- 5 percent on flooring
- 3 percent on wall treatment/molding/trim
