The 4 Most Common Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes

Content From Remodeling Magazine Article August 2012

What’s the secret to a successful kitchen remodel? Knowing what mistakes to avoid! Almost everyone who has been through a remodel has a war story to share about what they’d do differently. Whether it’s the neighbor’s never-ending remodel, or the friend of a friend whose contractor couldn't get along with the architect, keep your dream kitchen from becoming a nightmare by protecting yourself from these common first-timer mistakes.

Mistake #1: Choosing Design Elements Over Lifestyle

It’s essential that you determine the lifestyle objectives you want your kitchen to hone before you choose its design elements. Why? These objectives can determine the exact types of materials, appliances, and layouts that you should and shouldn’t choose. (Soapstone, for example, is a beautiful counter material, but it requires lots of care—and might not be the best choice for young families.)
Bottom line: Determining your desired kitchen lifestyle before choosing the design elements will save you time and money down the line.

Mistake #2: Thinking Fad, Not Function

Beware of the ‘what’s in’ kitchen. The average kitchen renovation should last 12-15 years, so the last thing you want is for it to feel dated before it’s even paid for. Beware of too-trendy colors and shapes that likely have a short shelf life. Extras like wall-mounted pot fillers are probably only necessary for top-of-the-line chefs; trendy chandeliers might make a statement, but they typically don’t provide appropriate lighting for the space. Similarly, don’t fall prey to over-customization. What works for you today may not work for the next owner of your ho­­me—or even your own family as it grows and evolves.

Mistake #3: Not Hiring Professionals

People often think that doing it yourself is the cheapest route. Not so! Varying aspects of the kitchen require professionals with specific expertise. A kitchen designer is not an architect, an architect is not an interior designer, and a contractor is not necessarily a kitchen designer. Hire skilled (and licensed) professionals who not only understand lead times for your selections but can also test-drive your budget to make sure it’s sustainable. In addition to recommending reputable contractors, savvy design professionals can help homeowners make informed, cost-saving decisions like swapping a kitchen island for a handsome chef’s table or butcher block—that will keep the aesthetic high, prices low and value priceless.

Mistake #4: Letting a Contractor or Design Professional Make Decisions For You

Although it’s tempting to delegate all decisions to the experts (decision-making fatigue is quite common in kitchen renovations!), ultimately it’s the homeowners who best understand their own habits. Is the kitchen also your home office, or do you include the kids in dinner preparations? Those activities might dictate choosing a raised island bar versus a flat island. Flip through magazines, and educate yourself about materials, fixtures, products and costs, “so you will have authentic opinions” when it comes to decision time with design professionals.
Bottom line: Assess your real needs—or even better, what you don’t need—and convey them with confidence.