If given the option to choose one space to renovate, most of would go for the kitchen. We all know what we’d like our dream kitchen to look like, but most of us have no idea where to start. The first step is understanding the kind of kitchen you are looking for, whether you want a modern, functional, or open kitchen where your friends and family members can hang out.

However, before undertaking any kitchen renovation project, remember to seek professional help. Here are a few things you should consider before doing up your kitchen:

Budget

Contrary to popular belief, kitchens are super expensive to renovate. Not only do they require a bunch of laborers, from cabinet makers to plumbers and electricians, kitchen renovation also needs loads of materials and time. Most people invest 10 percent of their houses’ overall value into the kitchen.

Think about all the custom details that go into a kitchen. The first step is deciding the things you want to change and then going to the market to find out its prices. Remember, there are always alternatives to everything, so if you find something you love, but it doesn’t fit your budget, don’t fret- you will find a close alternative.

Lifestyle

Why are you renovating your kitchen? Is it so that your friends and guests can be wowed by it? Do you want loads of natural light? Is there room for an island? Do you only want a kitchen to fry greasy items?

Whatever the reason for the renovation, it is important to discuss these things with your designer before starting the work. Keep in mind the purpose of your kitchen, who will use it, how often it will be used, and whether you have enough space for your dream items and gadgets.

Time

When planning a renovation, many of us tend to become idealistic and believe that our homes will only stay messy for about five days. However, when renovating, it is important to be realistic. Don’t fall for TV commercials that show a kitchen being renovated within 10 minutes.

When you meet with your designer and contractor, ask them for an estimated time frame. Do not follow that time frame too closely. Remember to keep some gap so that even if the work goes over time, you are not bothered.

No Cutting Costs

All of us want to save money. After all, it is one of the most precious things we cannot give up on. However, while sticking to your budget is a smart idea, you do not want to cut costs only to get sub-par work done in the space you will use the most.

Take advice from your designer to see which items in your kitchen need to be replaced. Do not cut costs when it comes to plumbing and lighting, as these are crucial to your kitchen’s ambiance. Sometimes, you may cut costs that will lead to unnecessary expenses in the future.

What are you waiting for? Pinterest some kitchen renovation ideas and save them on your phone to show to your contractor and designer!