The term “living room” is a misnomer. If there is one room where we spend most of our waking time, this room is the kitchen. Intimate gatherings with close guests like family and friends also happen in here. The last thing you want when entertaining is a bland kitchen. You want people to say “Wow!” when they enter. Not to worry, you can research and plan accordingly and have a new, improved, “Wow!”-worthy kitchen in no time.
An artist needs a blank canvass to create a masterpiece. The same can be said for you. Rid your kitchen of all the accumulated clutter: trinkets, unused spice bottles, rags, sponges, your tired blender, microwave and toaster – everything. Leave just the sink, counter top, and cabinets. Seeing your kitchen this way allows you to visualize changes more easily. Less distractions also means more creativity. Just plan your meals ahead and have a backup until your kitchen is done. A change of color palette, going with a different theme, maybe just a little organization, whatever the solution, you will arrive at it quicker if you tidy up.
Consider your remodeling contractor’s advice. They have seen and made enough kitchens to know what works and what only looks good on the drawing board. Use a combination of long-term improvements and quick fixes. Also consider your finances and other possible expenses along with your home improvement project. You might be forced to live with a half-finished kitchen if your budget runs out in the middle of renovation. Read the rest of this entry »