Time To Redo the Kitchen?

The most common remodeling project that we encounter is probably the kitchen remodel. As it is both the physical and social hub of most homes, it does deserve particular attention in its redesign. However, often requests focus on adding space, or storage, or more appliances or bigger this or that without first analyzing how we want to live and work and entertain in the kitchen. Bigger is not necessarily better and often, expensive high-tech appliances and other shiny things are simply a waste of money.

If you have a budget, as most of our clients do, then these are mistakes to avoid:

1. 1
   Falling in love with an inanimate object. An appliance, a stone slab, a light fixture — or the worst sin, from a budget standpoint: a brand, which is not even an object, it's just a symbol.
2. 2
   Adding more storage for its own sake. Without first organizing and prioritizing what you use most often for easy access and quick storage and — forgive me — gifting or donating duplicates, obsolete and rarely-if-ever used tools, dishes and cooking utensils.

1. 3
   Designing for future buyers, to impress your friends, or to follow a trend or fashion. Excellent flow and convenience, flexibility for different circumstances including outdoor meals, abundant prep space and a place for everything you NEED (emphasis intended), and excellent task and general lighting are the foundations of a great kitchen design — regardless of what kind of pulls the cabinets have or whether one used quartz or quartzite for the countertops.
2. 4
   Not being forthright with yourself about how much you cook, and what you cook. A new kitchen can enhance your existing habits and avocations, but it's unlikely to change them. The kitchen should reflect the real you and how you live. Some of the most expensive and elaborate kitchens we have designed are almost never used, because the owners simply don't cook much.
3. 5
   Pre-judging materials and finishes based on minimal information and social bias. For example: laminates or veneers are bad, hardwoods are good. Gas is superior to induction. Natural stone is too expensive. All the appliances should be the same brand. High-end names are a must (see Item 1) for a great kitchen…

Obviously if price is not an object, go ahead and select all Viking, Miele, Wolf or Sub-Zero appliances — but you will not have a better kitchen than if you select alternatives that can cost 50%–60% less.