How to Modernize a Small Kitchen

Just because your kitchen is small, it doesn’t mean that remodeling it is a small undertaking. Indeed, a small kitchen remodel can be just as involved as remodeling a larger space. In addition, modernizing a small kitchen presents its own challenges, simply because you’re often trying to cram everything you want into a tiny space.

As such, a small kitchen remodel takes a lot of clever thinking and, often, input from an expert whose done plenty of renovations on kitchens that aren’t very big. There’s plenty to consider when you’re trying to not only update your small kitchen but improve and modernize it as well.

Steps to a successful small kitchen remodel

There’s a logical way to approach any sort of home renovation and even a small kitchen is no exception. You need to be organized and ready to make decisions before you spend that first dollar.

• Begin with a budget – If you’ve been thinking about a kitchen remodel for a while, you probably have some idea of how much you can spend. Maybe you’ve been saving up for this very reason. If you haven’t given your budget much thought, you should. A solid budget that you stick to will help keep the project under control and you won’t be suffering from buyer’s remorse after it’s done.

It can be a good idea to make a spreadsheet that categorizes expenses such as cabinets, flooring, countertops, lighting, paint, and other miscellaneous items. Decide which is most important since you may not be able to do it all. Prior to making the spreadsheet, get some ideas on cost of materials so you can make educated estimates.

• Consider what you want to renovate – If you’ve got enough money put aside for a full small kitchen remodel, that’s great. But if you need to choose where your money will be spent, consider your options carefully. You’ll want to make a list of priorities so is to address first things first, so to speak.

Think about the layout first. Most people with small kitchens don’t have a lot of choice in layout, but if you are indeed able to make a change to make things flow better, then address that first. Next, look around and determine what you could do that would best benefit your kitchen. If your cabinet doors and drawer fronts look old and shabby, consider refacing, which gives you a new modern look at a fraction of the cost of all new cabinets.

Maybe you can live with your current appliances but your countertops need replacing. Put those next on your list. Perhaps your flooring looks fine but your walls need painting. Maybe natural light is at a minimum so you need better lighting. Whatever the case may be, prioritize your needs for your small kitchen remodel and work your way down that list.

• Create a timeline – Are you ready to get started with your project or do you want to wait a bit? If you’re excited about getting started, think about when you want to finish as well. Perhaps you’ll prioritize painting your walls first and then maybe the flooring will go in the following week. Your new backsplash and countertops may happen next and then your cabinets can be refaced or replaced. Finally, you’ll end with the lighting and other special touches. Be realistic. If you’re refacing cabinets, it might only take a few days. But if you’re replacing them, it could take a lot longer. And don’t forget that sometimes materials are backordered, so have a Plan B ready in case it looks like it will take longer than expected to finish the entire small kitchen remodel.
• Determine what part of the project can be DIY – It’s unlikely that you’re an expert at cabinetry, but maybe you can paint the walls or even lay some laminate flooring. Think about whether or not you can save some money by DIYing some aspects of your project. Be honest! If you’ve never installed a backsplash before, do you really want to try now? Also calculate how much you’ll save in terms of both time AND money. Often, the time you save by having someone else do the work for you is worth the extra expense.
• Shop for contractors – Look around and see what individual or company might best tackle your project. Look for not only price but also things like experience, expertise, guarantees, and availability. It’s fine to hire the most revered contractor in your town, but if he can’t start your project until 6 months from now, how realistic is that for you? You’ll also want to make sure you genuinely like the company you choose. It’s no fun working with someone who rubs you the wrong way, so to speak.

Remember, just because your kitchen is small you don’t need to sacrifice design and quality. At www.mrcabinetcare.com, we’re small kitchen remodeling experts and will be happy to share with you our ideas for your tiny space. Call us today for more information on our kitchen products and services.