KITCHENS

When performing home improvements, kitchens typically provide the best return on your investment dollars.

Planning

How will you use your kitchen?

- gathering spot

- cooking

- entertaining

- how many people will need to eat in your kitchen at a time

- how much storage do you need

1. Start with a sheet of graph paper (1 square:1 foot scale)

2. Measure off the size of the kitchen

3. Mark any immoveable objects or objects you don't plan to move (plumbing, doorways, windows,...)

4. Cut out pieces of graph paper for the furniture you plan to put in the kitchen

5. Cut out pieces for cabinet sizes you'd like to try to fit

Workflow

- Leave at least 36" to walk between cabinets, tables and chairs. Prefereably 42" or more
- Work triangle (refrigerator, sink, stove): try to plan for unimpeded flow between these three areas with a total distance of 12-26 feet
- ensure you leave enough room to open appliances and to exchange appliances - leave enough space so appliances aren't blocked in by other things (i.e., islands or walls)

Lighting
Remember that this is a work area. Recessed or pendant lights work well in kitchens. Find out how big the spot of light will be to determine how many lights you will need.

Cabinets
Two main options:
1. Custom - can be very nice, made to YOUR specifications and designs but 1/2 to 2x more expensive than pre-made $$$
2. Pre-made - can be very nice, comes in MANY different woods, finishes, styles and sizes. Get these at most building centers. Get a catalog and begin experimenting with the different sizes on your graph paper $$

Countertops
Lots of options. Some of the more common in approximate order of increasing price:
Laminate - lots of colors and styles to match any decor $
Tile - looks nice but the grout lines can catch crumbs and harbor bacteria $
Corian® - a solid surface material made by Dupont $$$
Concrete - sounds like a wierd option but can be colored and looks very nice $$$
Stainless Steel - modern, somewhat industrial looking. Some may show fingerprints $$$
Quartz - Zodiaq®, Silestone®, $$$$
Granite $$$$

Flooring
Vinyl - has been in use for many, many years. Comes in lots of grades and styles $
Laminate - can look like wood. tile or many other styles. Quite durable $$
Wood - may show dents from dropped cans but gives a nice, rich look $$$
Tile - may chip or crack with dropped cans. Ensure floor is adequately stiffened to prevent flexing and cracking $$$

Most kitchen remodels will cost upwards of $40,000. If you are able to perform much of the work yourself and don't require the most expensive materials, you may be able to get by for MUCH less. If you're going to be in your home for five years or more, think about livability. Make your house your home.