If you're ready to begin a kitchen remodel, ask yourself why. It'll help you frame your goals for beginning a large project and put costs in perspective. A kitchen designed to maximize resale value of your home will likely look very different from a kitchen designed for entertaining. Take notes, flip through magazines, and source ideas and perspectives from your family and friends.
Once you've answered the important question of "why", you can begin working on create a budget for materials, appliances, cabinets -- and a reasonable timeline for project completion. Use a spreadsheet to determine how much you are willing to spend, including any incidental costs associated with not having a fully-operational kitchen. Be sure to discuss this time budget with your designer.
When you meet with the designer, bring a book of magazine clippings and internet images that represent your wish list and all your notes.
Setting a budget isn't one of the most glamorous steps to designing a kitchen, but it's very important. Start with a careful audit of your finances and be realistic about what you can afford -- and if you'll require financing or lines of credit to complete the work. Consider how the remodel will potentially increase the value of your home compared to the average value of homes in your neighborhood.
Budget for the unexpected, too. Last minute changes carry a time cost and can exceed your budget if you don't build in a small cushion for incidentals.
Think about how the space will be used. Personal taste aside, a kitchen show not sacrifice function for form. Reference your original goals: if you are remodeling for entertaining, think about how people might congregate in your kitchen when deciding where to place islands, countertops, and additional storage. Note: any kitchen design that includes an island should accomodate 42 inches of space from all sides. Your designer will offer options that fit within your budget and represent the best value for your investment.
And don't forget the lighting! A dim, ill-lit kitchen simply won't function well.
The majority of kitchens see a lot of foot traffic, so you'll want to choose a flooring material that's durable and wears well. There's a wide variety of flooring options available to suit your taste, but don't just think about appearance. Durability and ease of cleaning are important factors to consider.
No kitchen remodel is complete without appliances, but there's a dizzying variety of options available. Choosing the appliances that fit your lifestyle and personal taste will be much easier in consultation with a designer. Built-in appliances and custom built cabinetry will create a modern seamless look in your new kitchen.
If you are keeping your existing appliances, paneling the front surfaces in a material that matches your new cabinetry is a budget-friendly choice.
A word about energy efficiency: New appliances are designed to run efficiently, so you'll see considerable savings on utilities over a lifetime of ownership. Look for the Energy Star rating. The higher the rating, the less energy the appliance will consume during operation.
As experienced kitchen remodeling contractors serving Central Pennsylvania, we at Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath understand that creating a realistic budget is often the most challenging part of planning a renovation. Whether you're updating a galley kitchen or transforming your open-concept space, here's our comprehensive guide to budgeting for your kitchen remodel in Central PA. Understanding […]
As experienced kitchen remodeling contractors in the Harrisburg area, we at Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath often hear concerns about navigating local permits and regulations. Understanding these requirements is crucial for a smooth renovation process. Here's your comprehensive guide to kitchen renovation permits in Central Pennsylvania. Do I Need a Permit to Remodel My Kitchen? Most […]
Choosing the right kitchen remodeling contractor in Central Pennsylvania is crucial for your project's success. As experienced contractors at Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath, we believe informed homeowners make better decisions. To help you through the selection process, we've compiled essential questions every homeowner should ask potential contractors before starting their kitchen renovation. Licensing and Credentials […]
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling in Harrisburg, Hershey, Mechanicsburg, Hummelstown, Camp Hill, Boiling Springs, and Lewisberry
Industry Experience: My father has run his own construction company since 1992, and because of this I have been involved in the remodeling industry nearly my whole life. I’ve been with HKB since 2018.
Favorite Part of Your Job: I truly love helping people – whether by keeping things organized behind the scenes, ensuring we have everything we need for each project, or assisting with creative problem-solving. It brings me so much joy to be part of such a great team who are passionate about improving people’s lives by reimagining their living spaces!!
Fun Fact About You: I’m a self-published author, a self-taught artist, and a gigantic Star Wars nerd.
Industry Experience: Starting in 2008, I have been in the construction and remodeling industry in multiple capacities: project coordination, management, design, and sales. I have been with HKB since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: I greatly enjoy getting to know our customers and being a part of their kitchen and bath transformations. It’s an honor to be a trusted partner and see the impact that our team's hard work has on someone’s home.
Fun Fact About You: I’ve tap danced nearly my whole life and have been awarded national recognition. I’ve also recently added dance instructor to my tap experience by teaching and choreographing locally for the last two years.
Industry Experience: I have been in the business as a designer and sales person since 1986, and I have been with HKB since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: To be challenged to create something the homeowner never expected and absolutely loves!
Fun Fact About You: Enjoys golfing, playing poker, and cigars!
Industry Experience: Since entering the kitchen & bath industry in 1988, I have worked in all aspects of the industry including manufacturing, design/sales, representing independent manufacturers, and owning a retail kitchen & bath showroom. I have been working with or employed by Harrisburg Kitchen & Bath since 2020.
Favorite Part of Your Job: Helping customers make their dream spaces come to life! Especially enjoy working with older homes from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Fun Fact About You: I enjoy traveling to other parts of the world. Most recently visited Australia in 2019. I have been to all continents except Antarctica! Next on my bucket list.
