Kitchen Upgrade Guide 2024: Everything You Need To Know

Kitchen Upgrade Guide 2024: Everything You Need To Know

How many of us can honestly admit that kitchen remodeling can be super unnerving? Right from planning the basic kitchen layout to finding the right designer to creating that customized cooking space — the process is tedious enough to scare us out of our wits.

Of course, for tips on kitchen remodeling, there is a complete paradigm to refer to. Friends, neighbors, latest interior magazines, endless discussions with the contractors and so on. If we turn to the internet for some original ideas, the sheer number of questions we have and the abundance of results that appear may do more good than harm. So, where do we even start for something as overwhelming as this?

How a Kitchen Upgrade Guide Stops You From Going Disarray?

You need a kitchen upgrade guide just so you don’t drown in information. To overcome the flood of information that comes your way. You know how they say, before you start the journey, better have a map. This guide works just like that.

What we mean is that you need to align your priorities AND your budget, and the right choices will follow.

Now, considering the role played by the kitchen, it goes without saying that any effort invested in this direction is bound to be a big pay off in the future. We are not only touching on the resale issue here but also the changed status of the kitchen space today.

With most of us prioritizing the space that works as the prime of our house, a place where friends, family and the craved ‘me time’ find a common linking point — it is no wonder that our kitchens become the soul of our houses. It goes without saying that it needs to be treated accordingly too.

We get all that, and have you covered! This article answers all the broad questions you may have about your kitchen remodel. You can branch out from there if you need to look for very specific information. This article is basically a great starting point to get to the specifics.

Setting the Right Priorities for Your Kitchen Upgrade

Why are you looking for a kitchen upgrade guide? This is one question you certainly need to ask yourself. The answer will pave the way ahead for your entire project.

Understanding your core motivations will be the cornerstone of your entire project. It shapes your vision, guides your budget, and ultimately, ensures you achieve a kitchen that truly works for you. Here at Kitchen and Bath Shop, we’ve helped countless homeowners navigate the exciting world of kitchen remodels, and we firmly believe a clear purpose is the recipe for success.

Common Reasons to Remodel Your Kitchen:

• Functional Needs Have Evolved: Perhaps your culinary style has changed, or your family has grown, and your current layout no longer supports your needs. Maybe you crave more storage solutions or a more efficient workspace. Identifying these functional roadblocks is crucial.

• Aesthetics Don’t Align with Your Style: Does your kitchen feel outdated or simply not reflect your personal taste? Upgrading finishes, fixtures, and appliances can create a space that inspires and reflects your unique style.

• Safety Concerns: Are there safety hazards lurking in your kitchen, such as worn-out flooring or outdated appliances? Prioritizing safety upgrades is a wise investment in your well-being.

Understanding Your “Needs” vs. “Wants”

Once you identify your core reasons for a remodel, it’s time to differentiate between necessities and desires. Do you absolutely need a top-of-the-line oven, or would a high-quality, energy-efficient model suffice? Prioritizing essential upgrades based on your functional needs will help you create a budget-friendly plan without sacrificing functionality.

Planning with Purpose: Maximizing Your Investment

By pinpointing the core purpose of your remodel, you can now strategically allocate resources. Focus on improvements that directly address your needs. For example, if increased storage is a priority, explore clever cabinet solutions and space-saving organization systems.

The Power of a Kitchen Remodel Expert:

At Kitchen and Bath Shop, we’re passionate about helping homeowners achieve their dream kitchens. Our team of experienced designers can help you translate your needs and desires into a cohesive plan that maximizes both functionality and aesthetics.

Related: Kitchen Permit Costs and What to Look For

Budgeting for Your Dream Kitchen Upgrade: Making Every Penny Count

Every homeowner dreams of a kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional. But kitchen remodels are notoriously expensive, so it’s crucial to plan and budget carefully before diving in. This guide will help you navigate the financial aspects of your kitchen remodel, whether you’re working with a large budget or a tight one.

Prioritize and Plan: Setting Realistic Expectations

• Know your “Why”:
  Before diving into specific materials and finishes, identify your core reasons for remodeling. Is it increased functionality, a complete style refresh, or improved storage solutions? Understanding your “why” will guide your spending and help you prioritize features.

• Consult a Professional:
  Schedule consultations with qualified contractors to discuss your vision and get a realistic estimate. They can help identify areas where you can save money by prioritizing essential upgrades and strategically allocating resources.

Budget Breakdown: Where Does the Money Go?

• Pre-Estimated vs. Planned Budget: There are two key budgets to consider: the contractor’s pre-estimate based on your initial plans, and your own planned budget that factors in your comfort level and wiggle room.

• Breaking Down the Costs:
  Kitchen remodels typically involve several components, each with its own price range. Here’s a general breakdown to help you plan:

  • Cabinets: Typically the biggest expense. Consider refacing existing cabinets or opting for RTA (ready-to-assemble) options.
  • Countertops: Granite and quartz are popular choices, but laminate offers a budget-friendly alternative.
  • Appliances: Stainless steel adds a modern touch, but consider high-quality, energy-efficient white goods to save.
  • Flooring: Tile and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are popular choices, but explore options within your budget.

Stretch Your Dollar: Smart Saving Strategies

• Embrace DIY Projects: Feeling handy? Tasks like painting, installing a backsplash, or laying tile can be done yourself to save on labor costs.

• Think “Refurbish” vs. “Replace”:
  In some cases, refacing cabinets or refinishing countertops can breathe new life into existing features for a fraction of the replacement cost.

• Shop Around and Compare Prices:
  Get quotes from multiple contractors and suppliers for cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring. Don’t be afraid to negotiate!

The Power of a Kitchen and Bath Shop

A knowledgeable kitchen and bath shop like ours is your one-stop resource for navigating your remodel. We can help you:

• Find the Perfect Balance: We offer a wide range of products at various price points to fit your budget and style.

• Expert Design Assistance: Our design team can help translate your vision into a functional and beautiful kitchen layout.

• High-Quality Materials: We source top-quality products that are both stylish and durable, ensuring your remodel lasts for years to come.

Budgeting for your dream kitchen doesn’t have to be a headache. With careful planning, smart shopping, and the help of a qualified kitchen and bath shop, you can create a space you’ll love for years to come.

Related: Kitchen Remodeling Ideas that Will Surely Pay Off in 2020

DIY or Remodeling Company – Making the Right Call

This one is tricky because…hey, DIY saves money. On the other hand, you also want the project to come off right in the end without any flaws. You also need it to be intricate and meticulously done.

In fact, it often happens that in our mad pursuit to save big bucks, we end up scooping much more dough on DIY experiments than what we had planned in the beginning.

The solution? The key is to find a balance between DIY and professional help. As mentioned above, basic resurfacing of cabinets, repainting, adding a creative backsplash and even tile flooring can be taken up by DIY enthusiasts.

For the rest, we have professional contractors to help us out. Let’s admit they have years of experience behind them and the right skills to handle any unforeseen crisis. Of course, you can share the ideas and state your preferences. Other than this, it is better to let them handle the heavy stuff, including plumbing and wiring.

Related: 5 Easy Ways to Reinvent Your Old Countertop (Without Installing a New One!)

Making Your Kitchen Stand Out But Not Too Much

What we mean is that your kitchen should synergize with the rest of your home. This can only be a result of thoughtful architecture and creativity.

In our opinion, it is an imperative for the tone of your kitchen, the style adapted and most importantly, the design vocabulary, to fit in with the rest of the house. The final output should come across as a separate identity under no circumstances. For instance, if your entire house has a beach resort vibe going on, and you install pendant lights and hi-tech under countertop lighting — it will stick out like a sore thumb. One says warm, other says sci-fi. Not a good match, right?

That’s why the themes have to align. As a rule of thumb, anything you do in your house must necessarily form the part of the larger picture. Find out if your new project falls in with this design equation. Otherwise, time to go back to the drawing board!

Related: Mistakes with Your Kitchen Remodel Design You Must Avoid in 2020

Do You Need More Storage?

This is very subjective. But if you are anything like a regular American family, the answer in most cases is a big fat yes.

Of course, your storage needs will change with time. Your kids will become teens. Many of you may even have elderly parents or relatives living under the same roof as you in a few years. Basically, as time passes by, your storage needs will keep altering and amplifying.

It follows that your new kitchen must have more cabinets, drawers, shelves, corner units, pantry and such stuff for extra storage to meet every arising need. After all, you don’t want to base your requirements just on your current needs, right? You have to plan ahead of time.

Additionally, you also want to move ahead with the time and want a changed storage vocabulary that fits in with the contemporary styles. Essentially, new cabinetry is almost always a very strong reason why kitchens look different after an upgrade.

Do You Need to Upgrade the Kitchen Appliances?

Can we visualize a kitchen sans kitchen appliances?

Appliances define our kitchen and bring in a visual grace and style here. Not to miss out on their functional presence, of course. But if your kitchen has outdated or bulky ones, it is time to go shopping for new ones.

For most of us, kitchen appliances meant a picture of odd-shaped gadgets peeping in from every corner a few years ago. Now, the new design language asks for sleek ones with clean lines and high-tech features. This is precisely why concealed appliances have been making waves in the kitchen industry lately.

These appliances add a fine élan to your kitchen interiors besides saving up on space. Ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, chimneys, hobs, etc — all built-in with the new energy-saving efficiency capabilities, also save a lot of your time, money and energy over time.

Does Your Kitchen Need More Lighting?

Lights. The ultimate mood setters. Ah, the difference that ambient lighting can bring to a kitchen can run into volumes.

And there are so many to choose from. Lights under the cabinets, for instance, serve as efficient task lighting when working. When in a mood for a little serene ambiance you can simply dim them. On the other hand, visual treats like Pendant lighting do wonders for your kitchen environment. A series of small pendants in a small kitchen can create a very refined look. They work well for islands too. Then there are recessed, low-power lights. You can have them over the sink area as well as prep areas that do not have cabinets above them. You can also have LED strips along the edges of cabinets and a chandelier for a dramatic impact.

Honestly, given that there are SO many options, the only advice you need to follow here is to have enough of it in your kitchen. You want a comfortable lit environment when you work, but anything beyond that is completely up to you. Remember to set a dedicated budget for this as well, and you can take your fancy!

Related: Cost of Kitchen Remodeling

Final Words

No kitchen upgrade guide will help pave a way for a smooth kitchen remodel unless you start from proper planning. And planning means figuring out your priorities and setting the budget to meet those first. The rest shall follow.

Don’t forget to include a lot of storage and lighting for both functional and aesthetic reasons. They can make all the difference in your kitchen upgrade. Lastly, be sure to be clear about what you want and to discuss it with your remodeling company.

We want the best for you – as a homeowner, as an individual, or as a remodel enthusiast. We find that our social media platform attracts countless people to share exciting transformation of their homes, and they find best quality answers to their kitchen and bath remodeling questions. Join us here to find out more about us, and to gather more inspirations. Let’s stay connected to make a difference for your home!