So... Where to begin? Starting a project, the right way.

Over the years HGTV has made remodeling look so simple and easy that most people don’t realize how much planning really goes into making that 60-minute show happen from start to finish. Even the experts usually have a budget to work with and a timeline to stick to. So let’s be realistic. What is it really going to take to get your project started?

Working through each step of the remodeling process can help you determine if you are ready to have your home ‘under construction’. Is the project within your budget? And is the timing right?

Here at Walker Woodworking, we take a different approach to remodeling, making the kitchen or bath remodel process easier for everyone. During this four-part series, we will look at the 4 phases of remodeling. We will also give you some great planning and budgeting tips to consider.

Phase 1: Planning & Budget.

Starting your remodeling project with a realistic budget will save you time, money, and disappointment.

Phase 2: Making your selections.

Finalize your decisions.

Phase 3: Tearing it all out and replacing it with new.

What you can expect during this part of the process.

Phase 4: Finalize!

Finishing touches, getting those final details completed.

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Before you get started on a remodeling project, consider the following tips to keep in mind.

Be prepared to take a little time off of work.

Keep in mind that kitchen & bath centers are usually open Monday – Friday, typically 9 to 5:30 – with limited Saturday hours and Sundays being closed. Lucky for you, we are open 7 days a week! While a showroom may be open on a Saturday, you may not be able to meet with a professional designer during this time. You should be prepared to take some time off work to meet with various professionals in order to make the necessary decisions to complete your project.

Think realistically about your lifestyle.

We like to know as much as possible about a client’s habits, likes, and dislikes. Many people have an unrealistic vision of how they will live once they have a new kitchen. As professionals, we have to design for real life, not fantasy. Having your kitchen organized and functional can make your daily tasks easier.

Don’t get stuck on a fantasy wish list.

When selecting items to add to your kitchen, ask yourself – Is this essential and worth the cost? For example, you may want a pot filler, a faucet on the wall behind the stove. It can cost about $1,000. Is it worth the extra expense? Maybe you would rather use those funds on a nicer tile for your backsplash.

You will need a lot of patience. Major renovations are not completed quickly.

Most likely, it will take much longer than you thought. Including the planning process, most renovations take a minimum of three to six months and more likely nine months. If this is a major renovation and you can vacate your house during the construction, this would be most ideal. Your life will be less chaotic, your nerves less frazzled, and the job will go faster.

Don’t focus on perfection until everything is finished.

Delivery and installation can be tense. There’s been a lot of anticipation and when the big day comes, the truck arrives, and clients begin to ask questions. Walk away and give the installers a chance to install your cabinets. When you come back you will be surprised and amazed.

Appliances are expensive.

Appliances can be as much as 40% of your total remodel budget — especially if you’re hung up on brand names. For most people, the only major difference between ordinary and professional appliances is the price! But people who take their cooking seriously, are often willing to spend the extra money. Pro appliances are more robust, more powerful, less disposable, faster, and will handle more heat. They look and in fact, they are better designed.

Do you really need all of that counter space?

People think too big, too grand. They often want too much. For example, If you think an island can’t be too big, you’re wrong! Bigger is not always better. We design our islands to meet the client's needs and proportion with the kitchen space. We have actually built islands that can’t be reached in the center simply because the customer didn’t listen to their designer’s advice.

Keep your kitchen modest if you care about resale value.

You want the look and design to be timeless, not trendy. Resist your impulse to be creative and experimental with your materials. Keep your door style simple and your colors neutral. For example, think white, with a gray or brown stained island. You want to use well-respected brands for cabinetry and appliances, even if you have to spend more than you’d like. You want the association of quality attached to your kitchen.

Spend what your kitchen deserves.

If you want your kitchen to look amazing, don’t spend too little. Doing it on the cheap end often looks like…well…what it is. Remember the old saying, “You get what you pay for.”

Now that you have had a few tips to consider, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty details by contacting us to get started on that project of yours!