Kitchen Myth's: Part 3

Myth: “I’m not going to have any clutter in my new kitchen.”
 

Fact: One homeowner recently ripped out her crowded pantry to make room for a lovely butler's pantry area with glass front cabinets. Now she doesn’t have a pantry—and no place to store everyday dry goods and cereals. She thought she could adapt, but how can she when there’s insufficient storage space?

         

Whether we like it or not, life is messy—in kitchens both new and old. That’s why adequate space to store it is essential. One of the most common mistakes among homeowners is that they want kitchens that open into other rooms, and they don’t plan any upper storage for china and glassware. There needs to be a balance between function and style.

 

 

Myth: Bigger is always better

 

Fact: Like so many homeowners, Ms. Doe finally got a massive kitchen for entertaining, but now she walks endlessly from one appliance to another. This is one mistake that homeowners have to live with for a long time, since kitchen renovations are done only once every 15 years or so. While you’re still in the planning stages, consider adding a task or bar sink next to your refrigerator, on a central island or near your cooktop to reduce the need to cross those distance. Because kitchens are such a large investment and not remodeled very often, it's important to choose quality over quantity.

 

 

Next time we will explore some other kitchen myth's. If you have any you would like added to the list or questions regarding some we have already discussed, don't hesitate to contact me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Kitchen Myth's: Part 2

This week we will continue with our kitchen myth series. I would love to know if you have any you would like to add to the list. Email me at the address below.

 

Myth: “I don’t need a designer.”

 

Fact: Not every kitchen project requires a designer. But many of us need someone to help us see the big picture and oversee the entire project, including coordinating the efforts of the architect and builder or contractor. They also help see potential problems and are able to come up with solutions or navigate through potential changes at may need to be made. These experts earn their keep by saving you money in the long run, and save your time and sanity by keeping your project on time and under budget. Even if you have a very clear picture of what you want, a designer can hone in on how to best realize your remodeling dream.

 

 

Myth: “I can add that easily at a later time.”

 

Fact: One client insisted she didn’t need a microwave, but when her husband was transferred and they had to sell the house, the missing microwave was a big issue among potential buyers, even those who admired her gorgeous cabinets. It's best to add features to your new kitchen during, not after, renovation. Even if you’re not ready for a flat-screen television in the kitchen now, it’s best to prepare for their future installation by running cable and electrical lines. Just because you don't use a microwave today, doesn't mean your needs wont change in a year or two. Keep your options open.

  

Lighting is another element that often gets overlooked in a remodel. Opt for a variety of kitchen lighting fixtures throughout the kitchen, especially under-cabinet lighting, since it illuminates counter top space far better than overhead lighting alone.

 

If you prefer to tackle your kitchen renovation in stages, one aspect or area at a time, just make sure to plan carefully so everything fits together harmoniously—both stylistically and functionally--when your space is finally complete.

 

I look forward to dispelling more myths with you next time. As always, don't hesitate to contact me with any questions at jessica@webbercoleman.com