Find the Best Kitchen Design and Remodel Company Near You
There’s no doubt that remodeling your kitchen can be a fantastic investment in your home and have a huge impact on your quality of life. So, how do you obtain the design services you need at a price that will fit your budget? It’s not as difficult as you may think! Resources like those available through Alpha Living can guide homeowners throughout the entire process, every step of the way. We can teach you more about kitchen design and connect you with qualified contractors in your area. Read on for our complete guide to kitchen design and remodeling!
Expert Kitchen Remodeling and Renovation
Investing in expert kitchen remodeling and renovation can bring profound benefits to your home and your daily lifestyle. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and a well-designed and functional kitchen can enhance your overall living experience. Expert kitchen remodeling can increase the functionality of your kitchen by adding more storage space, repositioning the appliances, and optimizing the workflow. This results in an increase in efficiency and productivity in the kitchen and a more enjoyable cooking experience!
Questions To Ask Your Professional Kitchen Remodeler
First, you should ask about their experience in kitchen remodeling. An experienced remodeler will be able to provide you with various ideas and can work with you to create a design that’s tailored to your needs and preferences. You can inquire about the number of completed projects and ask to see their portfolio. Next, ask about their license and insurance. Kitchen remodeling is a specialized job, and you want to ensure your kitchen design and remodel company has the licenses and insurance to protect both you and yourself from any liabilities.
Depending on the work you need, you should also ask if they subcontract or hire their team of professionals for plumbing, electrical, and other installation work. This will give you a clear picture of who will be working on your project and their level of professionalism. When you remember to ask about experience, licenses and insurance, staff, and project management skills, you can find the best kitchen remodeler for your renovation project.
What Are the Steps To Remodeling My Kitchen?
Remodeling your kitchen can be a big undertaking, whether you’re planning a complete overhaul or just a few updates. That’s why being aware of the steps involved in the process is a good idea. This is just a general outline, of course. Every kitchen remodel is different and the general contractor you work with will walk you through the process so you can design your dream kitchen.
- Create a design plan: Creating a design plan for your kitchen remodel allows you to visualize the end result, prioritize your expenses, and avoid costly mistakes. You can work with a professional designer or use online tools to sketch out your vision and experiment with different options. This is important for simple remodels or more complicated ones like 10×10 kitchen remodels.
- Hire a contractor: Apart from having the skills and expertise, a good contractor will also help you stay within your budget while identifying potential problems and providing solutions before they become major issues.
- Begin the remodeling process: The actual work of remodeling itself will represent the bulk of the process. Your kitchen design and remodel company will use the plan you created together to bring your vision to life.
- Inspect the finished kitchen: Inspecting your finished kitchen includes checking for any defects, damage, or errors in the work that has been done. If you find anything wrong, you can discuss how to address it with your contractor.
Note that this is just a general outline, the process for each kitchen remodel is unique. At Alpha Living, we strive to simplify this process for you and connect you with the renovation and remodeling service professionals you need.
How Much Will a Kitchen Remodel Increase My Home’s Value?
So, how much of a return on investment (ROI) can you expect from a kitchen remodel? Studies have shown that a properly executed kitchen renovation can increase a home’s resale value by as much as 6% to 10% of the home’s current value. Remember, not all kitchen remodels are created equal. You have to keep in mind that the type and size of your renovation, the materials used, and the location and condition of your home will all affect the ROI.
How Long Does a Typical Kitchen Remodel Take?
The answer to this question can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the project, the materials used, and your contractor’s availability. If you’re only making cosmetic changes like painting, updating fixtures, and replacing countertops, the remodel may be completed in as little as two to four weeks. In general, for more midsize or large-scale kitchen remodeling projects, remodeling will take between three and six months to complete. The kitchen design and remodel company will work with you on your new kitchen and give you a better idea of when construction will be complete.
Most Popular Kitchen Layouts
With countless tasks—from cooking and cleaning to entertaining and eating—the kitchen is a space that requires thoughtful consideration when it comes to design and layout. The kitchen layout you choose can make all the difference in how efficiently and comfortably you can use the space. Let’s go over some of the most common options:
The One-Wall Kitchen
The one-wall kitchen maximizes space and functionality. This type of kitchen design is typically found in smaller homes or apartments where space is at a premium. As the name suggests, the one-wall kitchen is set up along a single wall, with all appliances, cabinets, and countertops placed in a single row. This layout creates a streamlined and efficient space, making it easy to move between the different areas of the kitchen. They’re perfect for individuals or small families who may not need a lot of space but still want a functional and stylish kitchen.
The Galley Kitchen
A galley kitchen features two parallel cabinets or countertops separated by a narrow walkway. With everything within close reach, this design allows for seamless cooking and cleaning, making meal preparation less stressful and more efficient. The long, parallel countertop and cabinetry design created by the kitchen design and remodel company also maximizes storage space. Some galley kitchen designs also incorporate a window to provide natural light, which makes the kitchen feel less congested and more spacious.
The L-Shaped Kitchen
An L-shaped kitchen layout features two adjacent walls perpendicular to each other, forming an L shape. This design allows for the creation of separate work zones within the kitchen, with one wall typically reserved for cooking and the other for cleaning and storage. The corner space between the two walls can be used for installing cabinetry, a sink, or even a breakfast bar. This design is particularly effective for small to medium-sized kitchens where space is at a premium.
The U-Shaped Kitchen
A U-shaped kitchen is a design that utilizes three walls to create a horseshoe shape that surrounds the cook. It creates a natural flow for cooking and cleaning and offers room for multiple cooks to work together without getting in each other’s way. The appliances, sink, and counters can be placed along the walls, while the center of the kitchen can be used for an island, a breakfast bar, or a dining table. With this design, the cook has an unobstructed view of the entire kitchen, making it easier to coordinate meal preparation and cooking.
The Island Kitchen
An island kitchen layout is an interior design trend that involves incorporating a standalone counter unit into the middle of the kitchen area. This provides extra workspace and storage, serving as a functional and stylish addition to any modern home. The island can be used for meal preparation, cooking, dining, and even socializing with friends and family. The island can incorporate a sink, stovetop, or even a small refrigerator, you just need to discuss it with your kitchen design and remodel company.
The Peninsula Kitchen
A peninsula kitchen layout is characterized by a kitchen island or counter extending from a wall or cabinetry, thus forming a ‘peninsula.’ It can either be rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped, depending on the available space and the homeowner’s preference. This option gives you additional counter space and a perfect spot for a bar-style seating area or a breakfast nook where homeowners can enjoy a meal, socialize, or work while still being a part of the kitchen conversation.
Types of Kitchen Remodels
The amount of work you do on your kitchen will likely depend on numerous factors, ranging from your budget to the size of your family. That’s why there are different types of remodels to think about. Whether you just want to make a few minor updates or go for a complete kitchen overhaul, there are remodeling solutions that can help.
Small/Minor Kitchen Remodel
A minor kitchen remodel involves making some basic changes to your kitchen without tearing down walls or making structural changes. This type of renovation is perfect for those who want to update and modernize their kitchen without spending a lot of money or disrupting the entire home. Some of the common changes that a kitchen design and remodel company makes during minor remodels include updating the cabinets, replacing countertops, adding new fixtures, and installing new flooring.
Midrange/Partial Kitchen Remodel
A midrange or partial kitchen remodel is typically a combination of cosmetic and functional changes that can improve the look and feel of your kitchen while addressing certain problem areas. Unlike a full-scale renovation, a midrange or partial kitchen remodel can be completed relatively quickly and with less disruption to your daily routine. It’s a smart choice for homeowners who want to update their kitchen without the cost and upheaval of a major renovation.
Major/Upscale Kitchen Remodel
A major or upscale kitchen remodel is an extensive renovation project that involves a complete overhaul of your current cooking space. It encompasses a wide range of updates, including new cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, light fixtures, and more. The process can be complex and detailed, but with the right planning and execution, it can result in a stunning and functional space that adds value to your home.
What are the five kitchen premises?
When designing a kitchen, there is a lot of conventional wisdom that you can rely on to guide you and your design team. A certified kitchen designer will be familiar with trends and timeless remodeling staples, but it’s never a bad idea to become a more informed consumer yourself. For those who are unfamiliar, there are five key kitchen premises that should be discussed with a kitchen design and remodel company when designing a kitchen. Let’s take a look:
Preparation (Floors, Shelves)
Preparing meals is a crucial activity that takes place in every kitchen, and the efficiency of this task depends largely on the design of the space. This is why preparation is one of the main five premises that should be considered when designing a kitchen. Proper preparation involves creating a flow that allows cooks to move easily between different areas while having all the necessary tools and ingredients accessible.
Cooking (Cooking Equipment and Appliances)
The kitchen layout should be designed in such a way as to support efficient cooking and food preparation. Cooking appliances should also be strategically placed to facilitate smooth movement from one task to another. Keep in mind that having the right kitchen equipment can make cooking enjoyable and stress-free.
Food Storage (Cold Storage Equipment)
Food storage is an essential premise of kitchen design as well. Regardless of the size of the kitchen, it’s crucial to have a well-organized food storage system that can accommodate the various types of food items and kitchen tools. With the ever-increasing popularity of meal prepping and home cooking, you need to ensure there is enough space to store these items safely and effectively.
Serving (Benches and Work Surfaces)
Having adequate serving space in the kitchen is critical so meals can be prepared and served efficiently. This includes the area where food is plated and served, as well as the space where guests can sit or stand to eat. Without enough serving space created by the kitchen design and remodel company, one may end up with plates stacked on top of each other or guests might have to squeeze into a small area to eat. Furthermore, having ample serving space makes the kitchen more functional for entertaining.
Cleaning (Store Rooms and Cupboards)
Designing a kitchen that will stay clean is an often overlooked aspect of kitchen design, but it’s one that can make all the difference in both the functionality of the space and the feel of your home. For example, using countertops made from materials like quartz or granite can make wiping up spills and stains a breeze. In addition to materials, using smart storage solutions like pull-out pantry drawers can greatly reduce clutter, making your space easier to keep clean
Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Remodeling
What is a realistic budget for a kitchen remodel?
The cost of a kitchen remodel is typically between $13,000 to $40,000, with the average being around $25,000. This number varies meaningfully depending on factors such as the size of your kitchen, materials used, and labor costs. Basic kitchen remodels can start at $10,000 while a complete remodel involving replacing multiple appliances can exceed $80,000.
What color cabinets never go out of style?
While there are numerous colors to choose from, one color that never goes out of style for kitchen cabinets is white. White cabinets create a clean and timeless look in any kitchen style whether traditional, modern, or transitional. This versatile and classic color can easily blend in with any color scheme or decor and make the kitchen feel bright and spacious.
What is the most expensive cost of a kitchen remodel?
When working with a kitchen design and remodel company, the most expensive cost in a kitchen remodel is usually the cabinetry. High-quality, custom-made cabinets can be expensive, and this cost can increase if you choose customized features like soft-close drawers and doors, pull-out trays, or built-in organizers. Other costs in a kitchen renovation include countertops, appliances, and labor.
What do you wish you knew before remodeling your kitchen?
Before starting a kitchen remodel project, you need to think carefully about how you want to update your appliances, design a functional layout, and set a realistic budget.
What is the most efficient kitchen layout?
The most efficient kitchen layout is the one that allows for effortless movement between the three primary work zones: the cooking zone (which includes the oven, stove, and microwave), the storage zone (which includes the refrigerator and pantry), and the sink/cleaning zone. This configuration is called the ‘work triangle’ and is recommended by experts within the industry.
Why is the kitchen sink always under a window?
The reason behind this design choice is primarily functional. The sink is the area of the kitchen where the majority of the cleaning and washing is done. Placing your kitchen sink under a window provides ventilation for the area, especially when the window is opened. In addition, it eliminates bad odors caused by cooking and ensures the kitchen remains fresh.
What is the least efficient kitchen shape?
The least efficient kitchen shape is typically the U-shaped kitchen. U-shaped kitchens often consist of three walls of cabinetry and countertop, which can make it difficult for multiple people to work in the space simultaneously. This can lead to a bottleneck effect where everyone is trying to access the same area at once. A kitchen design and remodel company will help you avoid an inefficient layout.
Where should a fridge go in the kitchen?
Your fridge should be easily accessible from all areas of your kitchen. This means avoiding placing it in corners or tight spots that can be difficult to reach. Consider the flow of traffic in your kitchen and make sure your fridge is placed in a convenient location that won’t impede your movement.
Where should the stove be placed in the kitchen?
The stove should be placed in a spot that allows for easy cooking and movement around the kitchen. It should be situated away from any potential hazards, such as windows, doors, or high-traffic areas. You also need to choose a location that provides sufficient ventilation to avoid any build-up of heat, smoke, or moisture.
Get A Free Kitchen Remodeling Quote Today
You can tell just from this guide that remodeling your kitchen can be a long process that requires attention to detail and thoughtful planning. You have to decide how substantial of a kitchen remodel you’re interested in, choose the right layout, secure financing, find a contractor, and much more. It can take a lot of time and energy, but the hard work is more than worthwhile. By taking advantage of the homeowner resources and database of contractors available at Alpha Living, you can find a kitchen design and remodel company and get your kitchen remodeling project started off on the right foot.