 | Jason Huang began his career in the home remodeling industry fabricating and installing natural stone countertops after
being inspired by the beauty and elegance of granite and marble. His main goal at Wichita Granite and Cabinetry is the
satisfaction of the customer, excellent service, and sharing knowledge associated with natural stone. A member of the
Better Business Bureau,The Wichita Area Builders Association , and the National Association of Home Builders. Wichita granite
and cabinetry is family own and operated.
|
Home Remodeling and Improvement
2013-03-25 14:02:53
I need help remodeling my kitchen
Q-We're remodeling our kitchen. Do you have any tips for planning?
A-Sometimes remodeling a kitchen, particularly when you're wanting more space, may seem like an impossible task... but it is not. You will find it's like most things you're getting ready to do... plan your work then work your plan. Here are some thoughts on getting started: First - get these items. You will need them:• file folder - multi pocket type (for organizing ideas, magazine cut-outs,• photos, etc. that you might like to incorporate into your new kitchen)• graph paper - for sketching your kitchen layout ideas (you don't need to be an experienced draftsperson)• measuring tape (25' recommended but most any kind will do)• notebook (the kind with several subject sections is the best)Then think about answers to the following questions in 13 very important areas. Write down the questions and your answers. Keep it in your file for later reference. You and your kitchen designer will need to address some or all of these while designing your new kitchen. 1. What is my primary objective? Such as - Do I want a new look, more storage, more counter space, upgrade for resale, etc.? 2. What do I like about my present kitchen? This is very important. You may want to keep certain features in your new kitchen. Don't give up what works. 3. What features of my present kitchen do I most want to change? Such as... I don't like my current cabinet style, countertops, appliances, floor, lighting, etc. 4. What is my budget for this project? You need to "qualify" yourself and when you can reasonably expect to complete a kitchen remodel. Kitchen remodeling is one of the best investments you can make in your home! It is possible to get nearly 100 % return on your kitchen remodeling investment. 5. Can I or do I want to do part of the work? 6. What are the most important functions of my kitchen? It may simply be such things as cooking, family dining, etc. But it may also include homework, budget planning, entertaining, watching TV.7. When do I want to have my remodeling project completed? You need to allow a minimum of 2 to 4 months and probably more realistic, 4 to 6 months. Most custom cabinets take up to two months to arrive after ordering. This does not mean your home will be "torn up" all this time, but it allows plenty of time for planning, order processing, shipping, demolition, installation, moving back into your kitchen and re-organization. 8. What kinds of things will I need to make room for in my new design? You might include a toaster, food processor, blender, coffee maker, everyday dishes, china, bulk groceries, cookbooks, trays, etc. 9. What other special accommodations might I want in the new kitchen... things such as a desk/computer/printer space, eating bar, washer/dryer, baking center, hobby or craft area, etc.? 10. Will I need to upgrade existing electrical or plumbing? The answer here may depend on whether you change the layout of your sink, cooktop or oven. But it also may depend on the requirements of the local building codes for remodeling. 11. Who will be the primary user? Is this person left or right handed, very tall or short, does this person have any special needs? 12. Who else will be using the kitchen? For example, will this become a "two cook" kitchen. 13. Do I want double or single ovens? Two Dishwashers? Two Sinks ? Will children be using the kitchen and what are their ages? Answering these questions are an important first step in remodeling your kitchen. Don't overlook them. The more detailed you can be with your answers, the easier it will be to develop a design that will make you happy and will serve your family for many years to come
