Kitchen Remodel Tacoma is a big investment, but if done right it can increase home value. In today’s market, potential home buyers prioritize functional layouts that accommodate their lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking to refresh your decor or rework the entire space, this article will show you how to maximize your investment.

A kitchen remodel is a major home improvement project, and like any large endeavor it requires careful planning. The most successful remodeling projects are planned with your family’s needs in mind to ensure a functional, usable space for years to come. This is why we recommend spending time deciding why you want to remodel, what spaces you plan on updating and who uses them. This information will help you plan a remodeling timeline and budget that will be achievable.

Once you know why you want to remodel, it’s time to begin the design process with your kitchen remodel contractor. Taking the time to think through your remodeling plans, consider what aesthetics and functionality you are looking for in your new kitchen, and create a budget are essential first steps. A knowledgeable kitchen remodel contractor can help you make informed choices that will meet your needs and increase the return on investment of your remodel.

One of the most important aspects of your kitchen remodel is layout. The kitchen layout you choose should be comfortable and easy to work in. To maximize the efficiency of your kitchen, a Forbes Advisor article recommends following the work triangle concept, which places the stovetop, sink, and refrigerator within close proximity to each other.

Kitchen cabinets are a huge focal point in any kitchen, and can set the tone for your entire kitchen design. For example, traditional wood or walnut cabinets will look completely different from a modern, painted cabinet. The style and color of your cabinets will depend on your desired aesthetic, as well as your budget.

Another popular kitchen remodel trend is adding smart technology and gadgets to your kitchen. From programmable ovens to voice assistants, these modern additions can transform your kitchen into a top-notch culinary space. However, it is important to remember that you will likely only enjoy these features for a few years before you want to sell your home, so it’s best to keep them simple and low-cost.

If you are considering selling your home in the future, it is important to remember that potential buyers will appreciate a more neutral, practical kitchen. Overly customized items will only appeal to a limited audience, and may even detract from the overall value of your home.

Layout

A kitchen’s layout has a huge impact on how the space works. Depending on the functionality you’re looking for and your lifestyle, there are several layout options to choose from. The traditional work triangle, for example, is a tried-and-true design that separates the sink, stove and refrigerator to create an efficient workflow. However, there are other layouts that can maximize your storage and create an aesthetically pleasing space as well.

A major kitchen remodel involves changing the layout of the room, including moving walls and adding new cabinets or appliances. It can be more expensive than a minor remodel, but it’s important to consider the value of your home and how much you want to spend on your kitchen remodeling project. A professional can help you decide which type of remodel is right for your needs and budget.

Minor remodels usually involve refacing existing cabinetry rather than replacing it. This can improve the look of your kitchen without breaking your budget. However, it may not improve the function of your kitchen, especially if the layout isn’t functionally optimized. Drury Design can recommend changes to your kitchen layout that will improve the flow and functionality of your space.

In an open-plan space, a U-shaped layout is a good option for large kitchens that can accommodate a central island. This design can provide ample storage and work spaces and create an aesthetically appealing space that’s great for entertaining.

If you’re looking for a modern and bright kitchen, this layout can make the most of your space by utilizing open shelving and sleek fixtures like luxury kitchen faucets. This kitchen layout is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a good choice for busy families.

For tight spaces, a galley kitchen is an excellent layout for small rooms. This style features cabinets along two walls and places the sink, oven and refrigerator within a triangle formation. This layout is easy to maneuver and offers plenty of storage space for food and dishes.

For an eat-in kitchen, add bar seating and a breakfast nook to this layout. This can make the most of your space and allow you to entertain guests while cooking or cleaning up.

Materials

A kitchen remodel requires the right materials to meet your needs. This includes everything from countertops and backsplashes to flooring and cabinetry. These upgrades not only improve the aesthetic of your kitchen but also add functionality. For example, adding a pantry or increasing storage space will help make mealtime easier. A well-planned kitchen remodel will also increase your home’s value and appeal to prospective buyers.

When choosing your kitchen remodel materials, consider your desired aesthetic as well as budget and maintenance needs. For example, stainless steel and wood are durable materials that offer a warm, modern look. On the other hand, marble and quartz offer a more luxurious look but may be more difficult to maintain. It’s important to visit specialty design showrooms to get a feel for the various options and discuss your preferences with a professional.

Cabinetry is a key aspect of any kitchen remodel as it sets the tone for your kitchen’s character. You’ll have a variety of material options, from natural wood to engineered woods. Natural woods, such as maple or cherry, are more expensive than other options but can last for decades if properly cared for. Engineered woods, such as particleboard or plywood, are less expensive but are prone to warping over time.

Countertops and backsplashes are another important kitchen remodel element as they offer an opportunity to add a pop of color or create a unique design feature. Granite is an affordable choice that offers a variety of colors and patterns, while quartz is an eco-friendly option that’s stain-resistant and scratch-resistant. Both are available in a range of finishes and can complement any style of kitchen.

Tile is another kitchen remodeling material that’s both stylish and functional. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from, including subway tile, which features rectangular tiles arranged in a brick-like pattern, and mosaic tile, which is smaller and can be arranged into a wide range of patterns or images.

Whether you’re looking for a way to make dinnertime more enjoyable or a better place to entertain guests, a kitchen remodel can bring your vision to life. Upgrades like increased storage and new appliances can reduce the amount of time you spend preparing meals and free up space for more family-friendly activities. A new kitchen can even increase your home’s resale value, as potential homebuyers tend to prioritize properties with modern kitchens.

Budget

A new kitchen can add a considerable amount of value to your home. But as with any major renovation project, it can also be expensive.

To minimize surprises, it’s important to set a budget in advance. It is best to do this before you start talking with contractors. A good place to begin is with a comprehensive list of all the things you want and need in your new kitchen. This will help to narrow down the scope of your remodel and give a clear sense of what is and isn’t possible within your budget.

This is a good opportunity to research trends and prices for various materials, appliances, and other components. The internet is a valuable resource for this and will help you develop an accurate idea of what your finished project will cost. Also, visiting showrooms and home improvement stores can be helpful. This will allow you to observe kitchen designs, layouts and products that meet your needs, wants, and style.

You may also find it helpful to visit neighborhood homes that have recently been remodeled. You can get an idea of what is and isn’t working for homeowners, and it will give you a good sense of how your finished project could look.

Kitchen remodels are categorized as either minor or major. Minor remodels are purely cosmetic, while major remodels require extensive construction and floor plan rearrangement. A full-blown kitchen redo typically falls into the major category, and you’ll likely need to move out for the duration of the work or make alternate cooking arrangements.

Cabinets are typically the most expensive component of a kitchen remodeling project, making up 29 percent of the overall costs. This is due to the fact that cabinets are the most visible and most used element of any kitchen, and most homeowners want the latest styles and finishes.

Other costly elements of a kitchen remodel include appliances, countertops, sinks and flooring. It is essential to determine how these components will fit into your overall design and plan your budget accordingly. It is also a good idea to budget for the unexpected, such as unforeseen problems with your electrical or plumbing system, or the need to replace rotted wood.