Are you planning a kitchen remodel for 2024? If so, this article is for you!
The key ingredient in a successful kitchen remodel is a skilled kitchen designer who can provide the ideal layout. As an interior designer, I’m often called in as a materials consultant to collaborate with kitchen designers. My role ensures that your kitchen reflects your personal style while harmonizing with the surrounding rooms. This partnership allows the kitchen designer to focus on 3D modeling, procurement, and labor contracting, while I help translate your vision into a cohesive design.
Getting Started
Before diving into the process, gather inspiration. Collect photos of your favorite kitchens from books, magazines, and even your favorite design websites. Dissect each image and pinpoint what specifically draws you in—is it the cozy atmosphere, sleek lines, or color palette?
To help you prepare for the decisions ahead, I’ve outlined some essential considerations:
1. Budget
Decide your investment level and leave room for unexpected expenses.
Have high-level discussions with kitchen showrooms, designers, and contractors to gauge pricing, quality, and timelines.
2. Layout
Communicate all your needs and wants to your kitchen designer. Don’t hesitate to ask for revisions to achieve the best functionality.
Be prepared to discuss how you use your kitchen (whether you’re a professional chef or a takeout aficionado!) and the type of storage you need.
Consider unique storage options for silverware, spices, baking trays, and small appliances.
3. Appliances
Think about appliance features you might want, such as a warming drawer, drink or wine fridge, griddle, or water carbonator.
4. Cabinet Styles
Cabinets will be one of your biggest material costs. Choose between partial overlay, full overlay, or inset styles.
Decide on cabinet wood species, glass or metal fronts, or even open shelving based on your style and budget.
5. Hardware
Decide whether you want pulls, knobs, or a combination of both.
Select finishes that coordinate with your plumbing and lighting fixtures. While everything doesn’t need to match, the materials should have a visual connection.
6. Counters
Choose from materials like quartz, quartzite, granite, marble, butcher block, or concrete.
Decide on color, veining, and the edge profile for a complete look.
7. Backsplash
Once you choose a tile, decide on a layout and grout. Alternatively, consider a wall splash (where the counter material extends up the wall) or a four-inch curb with paint for a cost-effective solution.
8. Lighting
Kitchens typically need recessed lights, pendants over the island, chandeliers, and under-cabinet lighting for a layered effect.
9. Plumbing
Faucets can have single or three-hole configurations. Popular add-ons include built-in soap dispensers, sprayers, and pot fillers.
Sinks come in stainless steel or porcelain, in various shapes and colors.
10. Flooring
If choosing wood, decide on plank width, stain color, and whether to go with engineered or solid hardwood.
For tile, you’ll need to choose grout color and directional layout.
Finishing Touches
Your final decisions will include stools, window treatments, rugs, and accessories. Always request samples and focus only on materials within your budget.
Need a Helping Hand?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a second opinion, I’m here to help. Whether it’s a full kitchen redesign or assistance with a few key decisions, I’ll guide you every step of the way.
About Molly HigginsMolly Higgins is a graduate of the New York Institute of Art and Design and holds a BS from Villanova University. A four-time winner of "Best of HOUZZ," Molly is a client-focused designer whose mission is to help families enjoy beauty, comfort, and organization in their homes. An entrepreneur for over 10 years, Molly loves working in Chester and raising her three daughters with her husband, Patrick.