With the kitchen being one of the most important areas of your home and probably the area you spend the most time in, you want to make sure it reflects your lifestyle and needs. If you’re looking to remodel your entire kitchen, be sure to keep these factors in mind to stay on track.

Kitchen size

The size of your kitchen will play a big role in the overall design of your kitchen remodel. For example, you may want a larger kitchen, or need to work with what you currently have and make upgrades accordingly. Consider what is currently near your kitchen and whether or not you have an open concept home. If you have an open concept home or your kitchen is near underutilized space, such as an unnecessary hallway or a closet that isn’t used, you may have an opportunity to add some square feet to your kitchen.

Current layout

Deciding whether or not you are able to reorganize the current layout of your kitchen will help determine the placement of some integral items in your kitchen, such as your kitchen sink, oven, and whether or not you are able to have an island. This configuration makes up the golden triangle that so many kitchens are designed around. Make sure your desired layout is logistically realistic before you fall in love with something you find on Pinterest.

Infrastructure

Do you live in an older house that hasn’t been updated in a while? Before you dive into a full kitchen remodel for aesthetic purposes, make sure the core components of your kitchen are functioning properly, such as the electrical, plumbing, and refrigerant. Thankfully, if you have a home warranty, some of these items may be able to be repaired or even replaced under your plan, but make sure you work with a professional to ensure everything is in tip-top shape before you start your kitchen remodel.

Eating habits

Do you like to cook? Or are you great at making a reservation? Be realistic in the type of lifestyle you have when you design your new kitchen and be sure to accommodate your needs. If you cook every night for a large family, make sure you design your kitchen to have all your amenities close by, organized cohesively, and get all the gadgets you budgeted for that will make your life easier. If you rotate between five restaurants a week, that’s OK too. Perhaps a simpler design is best for you. You might even be able to reconfigure a smaller kitchen for a larger living room.

Budget

Whether you took out a loan or you have been saving for your kitchen remodel, be sure to set a realistic budget and work within your means. If you took out a large loan, keep in mind that your loan needs to be repaid. Based on the lifestyle you have, try and determine where to splurge and where to save. For example, if you don’t cook often, maybe invest more in making your kitchen look beautiful while having a tighter budget on the appliances, as opposed to families that cook more, be sure to invest in the appliances you use the most and focus on making your kitchen accommodating rather than visually pleasing. No matter your budget, lifestyle, or current status of your kitchen, take a deep breath and get excited! This is your time to get creative and truly create something that you will enjoy for years to come.