This month’s Feature ……

“Getting Started”

Planning to remodel your kitchen ? 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: 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
   what you can reasonably expect to complete. 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. 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.
   
6. When do I want to have my remodeling project completed? You need to
   allow a minimum of 3 months. More realistic, 4 to 6 months. Most
   custom cabinets take 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.
7. 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.
   
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Who will be the primary user? Is this person left or right handed, very tall
    or short, does this person have any special needs?
11. Who else will be using the kitchen? For example, will this become a “two
    cook” kitchen.
12. 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.
    Make an appointment today to plan your new kitchen www.inspiredinterior.com