Remodeling your kitchen is exciting, but does require advance planning to do the job right. The last thing you want to do is is make a decision you will later regret.

Often, people are anxious to complete their kitchen make-over. They fail to do the necessary research to ensure that their space will be the most efficient, cost effective and attractive.

The investment of time and money is valuable and your kitchen should reflect your efforts.

Let’s take a look at several key points to keep in mind when remodeling, to avoid any mistakes:

Limited Kitchen Counter Space

Ample counter space is crucial to a well functioning kitchen. The ability to have more than one cook in the kitchen at the same time is ideal.

It’s also nice to leave some small appliances on the counter, such as toaster ovens and mixers. With limited counter space, that isn’t possible.

You will definitely save money on the expense of counter tops if you have less to purchase, but it may not be the best solution. Consider a lower grade granite or other stone to offset the costs, so you can still have plenty of space to cook and entertain.

Extreme Kitchen Trends

Even though it is currently “your kitchen”, keep in mind that one day, you may decide to sell your home.

If your kitchen is off the charts with extreme, trendy features, you may have a difficult time finding someone with the same taste. You don’t want to have to invest more money in the future to remodel your kitchen again.

Don’t be afraid to show your own personality, but going overboard may not be the best decision.

Lack Of Functionality

For a kitchen to have the best functionality, it should be arranged in the “work triangle” layout. Doing so, will ensure that you can efficiently prepare meals.

The sink, stove and refrigerator should placed in a triangular position. Avoid putting one of these elements off by itself outside of the triangle.

You also want to keep placement of utensils, pots, pans and other cooking items within close range for maximum efficiency.

Limited Lighting

Not enough light in a room can lower moods and make the space feel closed in. If your room lacks natural light from windows, adding extra light fixtures will help brighten up the space.

Incorporating extra lighting is also a benefit to kitchens with windows. Strategically placed can lights and LED accent lights under the upper cabinets, will make your kitchen glow at night and give off just the right amount of added light.

Range Hood Ventilation

Ventilation from a typical range hood does little to clear odors and grease particles from the air. It also does nothing to reduce the heat from cooking. Investing in a quality ventilation system is a bit costly, but is well worth the expense.

An effective ventilation system takes the stale cooking air through duct work and out of vents which are mounted on the roof or a side wall of the home.

Conclusion

If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen, set aside some time to look at ideas online of the different elements you want to change. Carefully plan your budget and prioritize your wants and needs.

The points mentioned above should be kept in mind. Speak to a professional designer from a reputable company. They will help you choose the best features available for your kitchen’s shape and size. Soon you will be cooking and entertaining in your brand new kitchen.

For further reading, check out: 6 Back Splash Ideas That Are Easy To Clean and Kitchen Remodeling – Maximize On Your Return.