Is it time for a kitchen remodel?

Many homeowners think that their kitchen needs remodeled because of the way it looks: cracked or damaged counter tops, worn cabinets or outdated appliances. What they may not realize is that there are many other reasons why it may be time to do some updating-

Efficiency: Those old appliances may not just look outdated but they could be costing you more than you would expect. Advances in technology have greatly approved the efficiency of appliances, especially refrigerators and dishwashers. Choosing a newer model with delay start options or "half-load" settings can greatly reduce the amount of water that you use. Choosing a refrigerator that uses less energy can make a difference as well. Check out http://www.energystar.gov/ for more information on energy saving appliances.

Children: Depending on whether you have children or plan on having children you may need to consider some updating. Dated appliances may not be safe around young curious kids and their location could be hazardous as well. If your children are grown and moved out you may want to remodel to suit your changing needs for space. You may not be preparing as many large meals or doing as much baking. On the other hand, if you are extending your family you may need to increase storage and preparation space to accommodate your changing lifestyle.

Traffic flow: If there's more than one cook in your household, you may want to consider making more room around the main workspace. If you enjoy entertaining, you may want an open plan kitchen that allows for more social interaction between the kitchen and other rooms.

Universal Design: As we get older our needs change. Can older adults comfortably reach necessary items? Is there enough space for a person using a walker or a wheelchair? These are things you may want to consider when you are planning your remodel. Planning ahead now can greatly reduce stress later.

Location of windows and doors: If you plan to add on a deck, you may want to add a door in your kitchen plans. This will not only offer more accessibility but will expand your kitchen space for entertaining. What about windows? Adding a window or two will bring in that extra sunlight you are missing and allow you to watch over your children playing in the yard.

If you are considering a kitchen remodel, try to make a list of all of the things you like and dislike about your current space, this will help us to determine the most efficient design for your lifestyle.

Check out the pictures below of our latest kitchen remodel:

Before: This Ankeny couple was lacking storage and function with this dated L-shaped kitchen. They needed more storage and new appliances but were restricted in the space as they also needed a place for the kitchen table.

After: New cherry cabinets and granite counter tops definitely increase the "WOW" factor in this new kitchen. In taking a closer look you will find many creative storage solutions such as the pantry pull out next the single dishwasher drawer, the broom storage next to the refrigerator,and the pullout wastebaskets. Changing to the galley style layout, we were able to maximize their storage and create an open yet functional space. Every inch of the kitchen was planned with a storage need in mind. In the dining space, we built in two pantries and a bench with storage below to add seating at the new kitchen table. This gives them great pantry storage and also display cabinets above for the home owner's collection of beautiful glassware. Now that the project is complete and everything is in it's place, the home owner "couldn't be happier".