Thinking about a kitchen remodel? Here's six smart tips before you begin

Remodeling a kitchen is a huge undertaking: it's the space you use most in your home, and now you’re thinking about disrupting it.  This month, Milwaukee Lifestyle Magazine interviewed Matthew Jahns to give his insights before you dip your toe into the kitchen remodeling waters.

• It’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed.   

  
  There’s so many details to consider: Can you take down that wall? How can you get more natural light?  Is a kitchen remodel even a wise idea right now? And the biggest question of all: Will your kitchen turn out the way you’ve imagined it?  Hire a trusted professional to guide you into making the smartest decisions for your home and bring your vision to life. 
  
  
  
  

• Don’t worry about trends.

  
  If you’re drawn to it, do it. Whether it’s a color, a texture, or a surface you just love–use those details in your space. While we may all want a classic look, the only look that truly has staying power is the look you love.  Trust your instincts and go with what you like.  If you feel like you’re too indecisive to make those big decisions alone, hire a company you trust to guide you through the process.  With the right partner in place, your kitchen will turn out beautifully.
  
  
  

• A kitchen remodel will be the most expensive investment in your home.
  
  

  …But it’s going to be okay, I promise. Your kitchen is the center of your home and plays the most influential role in how your home feels and functions.  Of all the spaces you could invest in, the kitchen is worthy of every cent you put into it, and your investment will pay off financially and will enrich your life on a daily basis.  If you’re not sure what amount is a worthy investment for your kitchen, study the real estate data on your neighborhood and see what your ROI will look like with a gorgeous kitchen. 
  
  

• There is no perfect time to remodel
  
  It’s true–there’s always a reason that it’s not a good time.  Of course, we want our clients to be as thoughtful about their remodel as we are, but there will always be an obstacle to any renovation, especially in the kitchen.  But you know what?  If you wait another year, that’s another year that you don’t have your kitchen.  Next year, the current obstacles may be resolved, but there will be new obstacles.  It takes some time to properly design and build a well-planned kitchen, so let’s start the process now and by this time next year, you’ll be so thankful you did. 
  
  

  
  
  

• You pay for what you don't see. 

  
  Most of the cost of your kitchen remodel will be in the details that you won’t see (think plumbing, design/planning, electrical).  Most of your kitchen project costs will be invested into unseen, but very necessary things. You don’t see how much time or how many details your kitchen designer pored over for your kitchen, but you’ll appreciate it when you are enjoying your well-planned space. You may not immediately grasp the quality of well-constructed cabinetry, but it’s evident years later when they’re still performing beautifully.  You won’t immediately appreciate the durability of finishes on tile or countertops, but after the wear and tear of everyday use, they’ll still be beautiful years later. It’s like looking out for your future self: invest in quality on the front end and you’ll be grateful that you did.
  
  

• Consider your adjacent spaces.
  
  Often, the kitchen is situated close to nearby spaces that may need updates addressed as well (think plumbing in the powder room & cabinetry in the mudroom).  It may be wise to consider addressing these spaces while overlapping tradespeople are already working in your home. You may be surprised at how much you can save by addressing these spaces while also being efficient with your time and money.

Are you ready to talk about your kitchen remodel? 

Click here to see the feature in Milwaukee Lifestyle

Contact Us. 

Tags: press / mke lifestyle / Kitchen Remodel / Kitchen Renovation