Bathrooms and kitchens are the most remodeled rooms by homeowners. Reasons vary, from wanting to update outdated designs to a desire to replace old appliances with newer, more energy efficient models.

They’re also among the most expensive rooms to remodel. How expensive depends, but kitchen remodels in the Annapolis area typically range from $22,000 to $131,000, according to a report by remodeling. For cost details, read our blog on how much kitchen remodeling costs. If you’re planning to spend that much money, you’ll want to take every step you can to make sure the project turns out exactly the way you hope. Here are 5 mistakes you can easily avoid while working on your kitchen remodel:

Skipping a plan

As with any home improvement or remodel project, your kitchen remodel should be carefully planned out long before construction starts. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends at least six months of planning. This includes creating a budget (don’t forget to factor in contingencies — they will happen.)

To make a strong plan, study your existing kitchen. Keep a notebook and jot down things you do and don’t like about it. Think about your workflow, where people most often walk through and congregate, and what features you use the most often/don’t use at all. Consult with a design professional who can help you figure out the best design for the space you have, and flag any potential problems you might be missing.

Skimping on storage/counterspace

Cabinets and countertops take up most of a kitchen remodeling budget, but don’t let that keep you from investing in what you need. Consider small add-ons and features, like extra cabinet dividers or unique uses of otherwise unused space (like a toe-kick drawer beneath the main cabinets). They will add to your kitchen’s efficiency and storage capacity, and are much more expensive (and disruptive) to add later. Keep in mind, too, that kitchen remodels add to a home’s value, so you’ll get back much of what you spend.

Poor lighting

Often overlooked, lighting is one of the most important aspects of any room. That’s especially true in the kitchen, where you’ll want focused lighting in certain areas like over the sink or countertops to aid cooking and cleaning tasks. You may also want softer lighting for dining, or accent lighting to show off certain design elements. You’ll also want to make sure that your light fixtures fit well with your overall design. Proper lighting can tie a room together perfectly, while poor lighting can ruin an otherwise beautiful space.

Choosing appliances last

It’s easy to jump straight to your floor tile and backsplash pattern, but pick out your appliances first. It’s easier to match your other design elements to your appliances than the other way around, plus the size and shape of new items can have a big impact on your kitchen’s design.

Not having fun

Kitchens are meant to be a functional and high-use space, but that doesn’t mean they have to be ugly or boring. One of the biggest benefits you can get from a remodel is a refreshed space that suits your unique tastes. Splurge a little bit on that backsplash you love, or go for the upscale oven. If you can’t quite afford to do what you want right now, maybe hold off another six months until you can have the fixtures you really love. It makes more sense to invest in a kitchen that will meet your needs and bring you joy than update just because.

One of the best ways you can avoid these mistakes and more is by visiting with a reputable design build firm like TailorCraft Builders. Give us a call at (443) 261-5704 or email us here. We’d love to hear from you!