Make Your Kitchen Work For You - By: Lori Gilder

Even though times are tough, more and more homeowners are taking a good look at their current situations and are finally ready to turn their houses into homes!

Which renovation projects have you been putting off? What remodels are you ready to tackle?

Still the most popular room to renovate is the kitchen. On average a kitchen remodel will yield a return on investment of 75 - 100 %. And you can't go wrong with that.

The function of the kitchen has been evolving over the years and now more than ever it's time re-think and re-design how your space needs to work for you. The kitchen is the heart of the home and takes on several roles throughout the course of a day. It's where meals are prepared, families meet, homework is shared, emails are answered and your work is done.

With such a multi-functional space it's so important to start the planning process as early as possible and ensure that you design it for the way your family really lives.

So start by scrutinizing your current kitchen conditions and identify what works for you and more importantly what doesn't. Then take the steps necessary to implement those changes.

Here are some valuable guidelines to help get you started when planning for your kitchen renovation.

Old Space Problems:

* Your kitchen is too small, way too tired and completely isolated from the rest of your house.

* There are too many openings, doors and walkways in and out of the kitchen, which as a result, reduces the amount of much needed counter space and cabinet storage.

* It's very compartmentalized with an inefficient floor plan and layout.

* It has lousy traffic patterns that cut right through the already limited work station - with collisions at every turn.

* The cabinets are worn and the doors and drawers refused to stay closed.

* You're working in a cave - its dark and dingy with very poor lighting and little natural light.

* Your antiquated appliances work when they want to.

New Space Solutions:

* Use neighboring spaces to enlarge, re plan and redesign your crowded and cramped kitchen. Eliminate the series of openings that have been hindering your kitchen from functioning properly.

* Find some added space from hallways, an oversized pantry, or a corner powder room that's rarely used.

* Create an open flow if at all possible between the kitchen, family room, dining room, mudroom and garage.

* Don't neglect the work triangle that connects the center of the sink with the refrigerator and range. A good rule of thumb to consider is to not have the total perimeter of the triangle to exceed 26 ft.

* If space allows, include and island into your kitchen plans. Typically you'll need a minimum of 13 feet in overall room width to accommodate a 2 ft. deep island.

* Introduce new windows into your beautiful new kitchen bringing the outdoors in - and build in a cozy banquette nestled into those windows, creating a charming space saving eating nook. What a great family gathering area.

* If at all possible, create a greater depth of space by opening up your kitchen to adjoining living areas, allowing for easy communication between cook and everyone else.

Anticipate the cost of your new dream kitchen to run anywhere from 10 - 25% of the value of your home. So spend your money wisely and start the planning process as early as possible to give it the attention it deserves.

About the Author

Lori Gilder, is an Award winning Interior Designer specializing in high-end residential renovations and additions. Lori is the CEO and Founder of Interior Makeovers Inc. and LoriGilder.com. She is dedicated to providing accessible design expertise and guidance, tailored to fit each individual homeowners lifestyle. Sign Up Now to receive your FREE copy of "How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes" http://www.lorigilder.com

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