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Planning a Custom Kitchen Remodel: Your 8-Step Checklist
Are you planning a kitchen remodel? If so, you’re in for a great project! Remodeling your kitchen with custom elements can breathe new life into your home and improve the functionality and beauty of its most important room.
However, embarking on a kitchen remodel can also feel overwhelming. Before you get started, it’s important to do your research and plan carefully. At Freedom Millwork, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners through the process, and we’ve compiled a comprehensive kitchen remodel checklist to help you plan your kitchen remodel and make sure you get the results you want.
1. Set a Realistic Budget
It’s important to set a budget for your kitchen remodel before you get started. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending. Make sure your budget includes all aspects of the kitchen remodel, from custom elements to appliances and installation. Factor in unexpected expenses and allow for a buffer to ensure a stress-free renovation process.
2. Define the Scope
Before diving into the details, outline the scope of your kitchen remodel. How much of your kitchen do you want to remodel? Are you just looking to update the cabinets and appliances, or do you want to do a more extensive remodel that includes new appliances, flooring, and lighting?
3. Choose Reliable Professionals
Entrust your kitchen remodel to experienced and reputable professionals. Look for licensed contractors, skilled kitchen designers, and expert craftsmen to bring your vision to life.
Working with a reputable company like Freedom can help ensure your kitchen remodel is a success. Our team of experienced professionals can help you every step of the way.
4. Design & Layout
Once you’ve selected your professionals and decided on the scope of your remodel, it’s time to start thinking about the design and layout of your new kitchen. Consider how you use your kitchen and the features that are most important to you. Where do you want to put the sink, stove, and refrigerator? Do you need more storage space? Do you want an island? Do you want a breakfast nook? What appliances do you need?
You’ll need to make sure that the appliances are all in convenient locations and that there’s enough space to move around comfortably. Working with an experienced kitchen designer can help maximize the available space and ensure a functional, ergonomic, and visually appealing kitchen.
5. Consider Cabinet Options
Cabinets are the primary storage solution in a kitchen, and the right cabinet design enhances the functionality and look of the room. You’ll want to carefully consider your cabinet options.
If your cabinets are in good condition or a full kitchen remodel isn’t within your scope, refinishing is a great option for a fresh, updated look. At Freedom, we can refinish existing cabinet doors and drawers using exclusive Farrow & Ball paint colors or build new doors and drawer fronts, saving you money compared to replacing your cabinets altogether. For inspiration, take a look at the Freedom Finishing website for a wide range of refinishing options that can transform the appearance of your kitchen cabinets without the need for a complete replacement.
If you want to replace your cabinets, you’ll have a lot of choices to make. What style do you want? What materials? What finishes? Custom cabinets are a great option if you want a truly unique kitchen.
Freedom designs and builds custom kitchen cabinetry from high-quality materials that can be made to fit your exact specifications and customized to match your style. Custom cabinets are more affordable than most people realize, and you are able to get exactly what you need when you choose this route.
If custom cabinets exceed your budget, don’t worry! Freedom partners with several industry-leading cabinet brands, including Signature, Yorktowne, Wolf Home Products, and Bertch, to offer stock cabinetry options that suit every budget and style. You can find the perfect balance between quality and affordability by exploring our selection of cabinet partners.
6. Explore Color Schemes
The colors you choose can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of the kitchen. The tones of cabinets, countertops, walls, and flooring all need to work together to create a harmonious and inviting space that works well with the rest of the house. Also, think about practicalities – you’ll need paint that is resistant to moisture and mold and easy to wipe down. At Freedom, we love Farrow & Ball’s water-based, durable paints specially designed for kitchens and bathrooms.
7. Choose the Right Appliances
Your appliances should be functional, energy-efficient, and fit the style of your new kitchen. When choosing them, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Do you need a gas or electric stove? Do you want a built-in microwave? Do you want stainless steel appliances or a different finish?
8. Decide on Countertop Materials
Countertops are an important part of any kitchen, so it’s important to choose wisely. They should be durable, easy to clean, and fit well with your chosen color scheme. There are many different countertop materials to choose from, such as granite, quartz, marble, or butcher block. Choose one that complements your design, budget, and maintenance preferences.
Remodeling your kitchen with custom elements offers a unique opportunity to transform the heart of your home into a personalized, functional, and stylish space. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can approach your kitchen remodel with confidence that every detail is carefully considered and planned.
Ready to transform your kitchen? Contact the Freedom team to set up an appointment with our designers to discuss your kitchen remodeling project and custom kitchen cabinet needs.