Hey there, design friends! Today, we’re diving into part two of our series on biggest kitchen remodel mistakes. If you missed Part One, be sure to check it out because we covered the first five mistakes. Now, let’s jump into mistakes six through ten so you can plan your dream kitchen without any costly “oops” moments! Make sure to listen to the podcast above for all the details, or read below for a few highlights. Let’s get started!
Listen to the Design Your Home Podcast
Kitchen Remodel Mistake #6:
Forgetting Your Electrical Needs
Electrical planning might not be the most exciting part of a kitchen remodel, but trust me, it’s one of the most important. There are three key areas where homeowners often go wrong:
- Not Enough Outlets: Think about where you’ll store and use your small appliances—like your coffee maker, toaster, or stand mixer—and make sure there’s an outlet nearby. Hidden outlets under cabinets or on the side of cabinetry can keep your backsplash looking clean and beautiful. And don’t forget to add outlets inside appliance garages for easy access!
- Ignoring Large Appliance Requirements: Not all appliances are created equal. Some require higher voltage or dedicated outlets. Before you buy, check the electrical specs for your appliances and share them with your electrician. This will save you from costly surprises later.
- Not Following Code: Electrical codes dictate outlet placement and spacing. For example, outlets should be no more than four feet apart, and islands have specific requirements based on their size. Skipping this step could lead to expensive fixes down the road—especially if you plan to sell your home.
Kitchen Remodel Mistake #7:
Underestimating Costs
Let’s talk about the “B” word: budget. Kitchens are notorious for costing more than expected, and it’s easy to overlook all the little things that add up. Here are some common budget surprises:
- Countertops: High-end materials like quartzite can cost $2,500–$3,500 per slab, and most kitchens need more than one slab. Add in fabrication costs, and the price climbs even higher.
- Hardware: Handles and knobs might seem small, but they can add up fast. A single pull can cost $15–$50, and larger kitchens can easily rack up $1,000+ in hardware costs.
- Little Extras: Don’t forget about things like garbage disposals, outlet faceplates, or even glass for cabinet doors. These “small” expenses can sneak up on you.
Pro tip: Build a cushion into your budget to cover unexpected costs. It’s better to have extra funds than to cut corners later.
Kitchen Remodel Mistake #8:
Ignoring the Kitchen Triangle
The kitchen triangle is a classic design principle that focuses on the relationship between your fridge, sink, and stove. These three elements should form a triangle that’s easy to navigate. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Accessibility: Make sure the fridge door opens into the triangle, not away from it.
- Spacing: Avoid placing these elements too far apart (you don’t want to run a marathon while cooking) or too close together (doors and drawers shouldn’t bump into each other).
- Functionality: Think about how you’ll move through your kitchen. Avoid layouts where the dishwasher blocks access to the trash or sink—trust me, it’s a headache you don’t want.
Kitchen Remodel Mistake #9:
Doing It Alone
DIY projects can be fun, but a kitchen remodel is not the time to go solo. Here’s why hiring a professional is worth the investment:
- Experience Matters: Designers and contractors have been through countless remodels and can spot potential issues before they become problems.
- Fresh Perspective: A professional can help you see your kitchen’s potential in ways you might not have considered.
- Long-Term Savings: While hiring help adds to your upfront costs, it can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes.
Kitchen Remodel Mistake #10:
Choosing the Wrong Materials
Your kitchen materials need to work for your lifestyle, not just look good. Here are a few common material mistakes to avoid:
- Flooring: Some flooring should be installed before cabinets, while others should go in after. So if you get this wrong, that could be a very expensive mistake to try to fix later on.
- Countertops: If you like to place hot pans directly on your counters, avoid quartz—it can melt or discolor from heat. Natural stones like quartzite or granite are better options for heat resistance.
- Finishes: From paint to metal finishes, make sure your choices are durable and suited to your kitchen’s needs.
Final Thoughts...
Avoiding these mistakes will save you time, money, and stress during your kitchen remodel. So to help you get started, be sure to download my Free Kitchen Planning Guide at nestorations.com/kitchen. It will walk you through the first three big decisions you’ll need to make so you can avoid some big mistakes.
And if you’re ready to take your kitchen design to the next level, join me in Kitchen Design Essentials, launching in January 2025. This program is designed to guide you through the entire process, from planning to execution, so you can create a kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional.
Happy planning!
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