The Steps of Planning Kitchen Renovations 

Planning kitchen renovations involves more than simply considering the available budget.  It also involves careful planning in terms of the design, demolitions, installations, and several other important aspects. By following an organized order of projects, the process leads to satisfying results.  This article will list the steps of planning kitchen renovations for an efficient and streamlined experience.

Observe The Current Kitchen

This may sound like an odd first step to planning kitchen renovations. Especially, considering you probably look at the kitchen every day.  However, seeing something and taking a good look at something are two different things.  

For this step, analyze the kitchen and contemplate what is already working well. Pay attention to what you appreciate about the space versus what can use improvement. Perhaps you enjoy the existing layout but it is lacking in storage space.  Or, perhaps the layout is not maximized for functionality but you don’t know exactly what should be improved.  

Think about your cooking habits, the storage needs for both cooking tools and food, and the overall kitchen style.  By looking for things to appreciate, you may quickly discover that the list is ultimately quite short.  Now is the time to improve on such things!

Research Design Ideas

Once you have a list of the desired improvements, think of how these improvements can be highlighted with the proper design.  Whether home design is a passion or you don’t know where to start, looking at magazines and other online resources can be a great place to find inspiration!  

As you search for new kitchen layout and design ideas, think of what your overall vision is.  You may come to find that this changes the more you do research- that’s okay!  This is the whole point of looking at your options before the work begins.  Doing so will also help to provide a rough idea of the cost associated with the desired renovations.  Affordable kitchen makeovers are possible!  The proper planning will help to make all custom kitchen designs in Quebec a reality, regardless of the budget.  

Create A Budget

Having an endless amount of resources would make any renovation much easier. However, it’s important to remain realistic and work within your means.  Firstly, make a list of what needs to be done versus what you wish could be done.  This will help to keep the essential renovations the main priority. 

Secondly, take into account the cost of labor and materials.  As you researched design ideas, you probably got an introduction to the price tag associated with such renovations.  Depending on the materials used and the professionals you work with, the costs will vary.  

It’s important to keep an open mind and explore various options to make informed decisions before the work commences.  Regardless of the renovation plans, it is wise to keep some of the budget to the side in the case of unforeseen incidents and expenses.

Planning and Design

Having a plan and basic design concept should be one of the first goals you have when planning a kitchen renovation.  Therefore, ask yourself a few questions to help set the main goal of the project(s).

• Are there certain needs that take priority over other smaller projects (wants)?  Determine which projects are the most important and focus more on the functionality of the room.  
• Will the current kitchen’s layout suffice or would a different layout be beneficial?  Open concept, U-shaped, galley… there are many different options!  If one strikes your fancy, will demolition be necessary?

• Is there adequate storage?  Can shelving, drawers, or cabinets offer more storage space and improved organization?
• Where will the existing or new appliances be placed?  What makes the most sense functionality-wise?  Will new hook-ups be needed?
• Is there already adequate lighting or would installing more be advantageous?  What kind of lighting would work best?  Under-cabinet, task lighting, decorative installations, etc.?
• What materials will be best for each component?  Countertops, tiles, backsplashes, cabinetry, flooring, etc.  What suits both your style and your budget?

When doing so, remember to include all of the potential costs such as permits, materials, and labor.  Once this is done, you can then see approximately how much of the budget remains for the less pertinent odds and ends.

Take Measurements and Plan The Layout

Take the proper measurements of the space being renovated.  Remember to factor in the location of the entryway(s) and windows in these specs.  This will ensure the layout is more cohesive and will encourage a natural flow to the space and the rest of the home.  

Choose Materials and Finishes

Once you know the desired layout, you may begin selecting the materials for the countertops, backsplash, cabinets, flooring, and appliances if applicable.  If it has been some time since the last renovation, it never hurts to seek advice.  

You may not know what is currently trending or which materials are the most practical and cost-efficient options.  Climate considerations should also be a factor when selecting the materials and furnishes for such a renovation.  Especially, if you experience all four Canadian seasons.  This is especially relevant when discussing insulation and flooring options.

Tiles

Part of choosing the materials involves tile selection.  This may seem like one of the easier tasks but with the endless options available, it may be harder than you think!  Whether it’s tiling for the floor or backsplash, it’s important to consider the size, color, shape, and even texture of the tiles. 

For example, if you want to make a smaller kitchen appear larger, larger tiles can help create the desired illusion.  Larger tiles often have less visible grout lines, which makes a more dramatic focal point.  

Selecting A Style

It is best to consider which tiles will suit the style of the rest of the space.  They should complement the kitchen’s design depending on whether the style is more modern, rustic, or contemporary.  Keep in mind, that the tile you select will also have to work with the chosen cabinetry as well.

Shapes

Popular shapes like hexagons and rectangles can be eye-catching but if the cabinets are already bright, it may create an overly “busy” space.  Choosing colors that will remain in fashion for years to come will limit the need for constant kitchen updates, so choose wisely!  This also applies to the grout used.  It should complement the tile color while also being easy to clean and maintain.

Durability

Speaking of which, the durability and ease of cleaning the tiles are other factors that must be considered.  The kitchen is a busy and high-traffic area so the tiling must be able to withstand spills, stains, chips, and cracks.

Ceramic, porcelain, glass… there are many options to choose from, all with their pros and cons!  Considering the price of the installation and the varying complexities of the project, we recommend speaking to a professional.  They will provide the best options to suit your needs depending on your lifestyle, budget, and decor preferences.  

Consult with Professionals

Working with a team of designers and contractors will help to pinpoint exactly what the goal is and how to achieve it.  They will use their expert knowledge to create a detailed plan that incorporates everything you desire. At the same time, they will offer valuable input.  

If sustainability is one of the main objectives, be sure to discuss these options from the beginning.  This ensures everyone involved will provide the most suitable and sustainable material options throughout the renovations.  And, they can discuss if and how they use sustainable practices.  It is wise to discuss this before agreeing to any contract agreements.

Every contractor and renovation professional should offer a contract that outlines the extent of the agreed-upon work. This should also include details of the renovation’s timeline, basic procedures, payment, and more.  

Different service providers will have different contracts, making it especially important to read over everything, including the fine print, very carefully.  While many professionals offer prestige services, it is not uncommon for others to take advantage of their clients.  Do not sign anything until you have asked all of the necessary questions and feel confident that you have selected the right contractor.

Local Regulations

The proper professionals can also offer advice on securing the necessary permits and approvals from your municipality as needed.  This ensures that all of the ensuing work meets both Canadian and municipal building codes and standards.

The bylaws may change depending on the city you reside in and the renovations being done.  Therefore, working with a team that knows the most pertinent and updated regulations is key.

Demolition and Other Preparations

The time the project takes changes on a case-by-case basis. However, even while having a general time estimate, it is smart to have alternative living arrangements in place.  This is often overlooked when planning kitchen renovations!

Temporarily staying at another location isn’t often necessary.  However, other less drastic measures can be made.  For example, before the demolition begins and the project truly gets underway, it is wise to establish a temporary kitchen.  By having this set up in another part of the home, the amount of disruption caused throughout the kitchen renovations will be minimal.

Depending on the team you work with, you may need to prepare for the renovations to varying degrees.  For example, some may request for the appliances to be removed, while others may want the old cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring to be removed.  All the while, ensuring that any structural elements are preserved.  Once this is done, the space can be thoroughly cleaned and prepared as best as possible for the new construction. 

Construction

Structural modifications may need to be involved in the renovations.  This can include wall and flooring removals, along with framing adjustments.  If agreed upon beforehand, this is often an opportune time to install or upgrade mechanical systems.  This may include HVAC systems or tending to other plumbing and electrical wiring needs.

Installation

Once the main construction projects have been completed, it is time to install the new elements. Depending on the extent of the renovations being completed, this may include:

• Flooring:  What is needed in terms of durability, style and the layout/function of the kitchen should have been considered while discussing the plans with the contractors.  Now, all that is left to do is lay the new flooring! 
• Kitchen Cabinet Installation: Install the new cabinets according to the new layout.
• Countertops:  Follow the cabinet installation by installing the countertops.  Ensure the proper fit and finish, and make adjustments as needed.
• Backsplash: To provide not only a protective layer but also an extra element of decorative design, the backsplash can make a massive difference to the room’s style.  As mentioned above, selecting the proper tiling for the job is important.  The proper installation is equally imperative; we recommend leaving this to the professionals.
• Appliances and Fixtures: Next, install new appliances and fixtures.  This may include the sink, faucet, oven, fridge, lighting, and several other necessary elements.

Final Touches

Once the main projects have been completed, the final touches of the renovation can be completed.  The trim and upgraded hardware alone can make quite a visual impact. Thus, affecting the overall statement of the kitchen.  Once these have been installed, the kitchen will look more complete.  However, before the official unveiling, all debris and dust should be removed and kitchen items should be unpacked and placed in their new homes.  

If something doesn’t suit the space anymore, take advantage of the opportunity to clear out some of these items!  Reuse, sell, donate, or recycle anything that is no longer of use.  You will be left with a newly renovated kitchen that is optimized for functional use. Along with the added benefits of it being designed according to your style.

Planning kitchen renovations is made simple when you contact WIHM Renovation! If you have met a roadblock in planning the dream kitchen remodeling project you have in mind, please contact us as soon as possible!  Call us today at (450) 452-9990 or email us at office@wihmrenovation.com to get started.  Kitchen remodeling in Saint-Lazare and the West Island has never been easier!