Things to Consider When Doing a Remodel
The holidays are finally winding down and as you reflect on the traditions and memories, where did most of these moments happen? In my family, the kitchen seems to be the “heart of the home.” With most of our traditions revolving around food, naturally we gather in the kitchen. How did your kitchen work for you over the holidays?
My kiddos helped make cutout cookies and decorated them with great Grandma in her kitchen. We created gingerbread houses, enjoyed hot cocoa after sledding and made breakfast Christmas morning; all around the island.
If your kitchen was the gathering place over the holidays, maybe you’re thinking, “this is the last time we are hosting with this kitchen. Something’s gotta change!” Before you dive into a remodel, here are a few things to consider:
1. What works and what doesn’t work in your existing space
Think about your current space. What is it that drives you nuts? Is it the corner cabinet that’s hard to access? Do you have to get on your hands and knees every time you need your favorite cast iron skillet? Maybe you like to have two cooks in the kitchen, but run into each other every time you turn around. Keep a list of these items. It’s so important to communicate to your designer what isn’t working so they can make suggestions that truly change how you use your kitchen and make your daily experience better. Hey, that’s why you are thinking about remodeling anyways; don’t settle with “I can live with it” or “that’s what I’m use to”. BUT it is just as important to know what it is that you love about your space. There may be some elements that are worth keeping.
2. What’s your style
Collect photos of your favorites! Maybe it’s a photo of a really cool storage solution, or it’s an overall picture of a kitchen that excites you; start keeping them. If you don’t want to be ripping pictures from magazines and storing them in a folder a few digital places to keep idea books are Pinterest and houzz.com. Pictures are a great way to communicate what you want, love, and need to your designers and we’ll guide you in defining your style.
3. Have a Budget, plan to go over it
You can plan and plan, but sometimes unexpected expenses come up. However, just because it was not in your original plan, it isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Part of the reason you’re remolding is because you want to be happy in your space; maybe this home is your forever home. You want to do it right the first time, and you don’t want to cut corners or it can cost you more down the road. Budgets are important and that’s why we plan and make selections before we even begin the remodel. When surprises arise, we offer a creative and economical solution. Our staff loves to problem solve, and we’re up for the challenge! And in our experience, these challenges usually add to the beauty of your design.
4. Changes happen, Be Flexible
As I was saying, sometimes changes need to be made which comes along with altering the plan. Often times this also effects the projected timeline. Remember, soon it will all be worth it and we do everything we can to be in and out of your house.
5. Hire one person to manage your home renovations
You don’t have to be the sounding board for your remodel. It’s a full time job, and it can be overwhelming. There are so many elements, big and small that go into a remodel. What you do want is one person to be accountable for your project, and that one person doesn’t need to be you. Working with Cherry Creek, Inc. not only do we have designers, but we also manage every aspect of the project and elite installers. We have a great relationship with the subcontractors we utilize, such as plumbers and electricians and handle the scheduling to be the most efficient.
6. It’s going to take longer than you think
HGTV isn’t real life. Renovations are a big undertaking and take time. In the middle of the process there will be a point you hate us and want us out of your house! Going weeks without a kitchen or bathroom can be a total mess, we get it. But when we get out of your hair and you can enjoy the finished space, all you’ll be thinking is this place is beautiful!
7. Find certified designers and contractors
Hire a contractor, like Cherry Creek Inc. who loves to learn, continue their education, and is certified. Nothing makes us happier than working with our clients to create a space they will make memories in for years to come. We’re by your side to help you envision your space not as it is, but how it could be. We believe every house, kitchen or living area has the potential to be your favorite room of the house, with a little TLC of course.
““Try not to stress out, as my dad says “These are the seeds you sow” … did you need a reno? probably not … but if you are going through one, chances are you are doing good in life, so grab yourself a glass of wine, get some extra sleep and embrace the craziness of this journey.” ”