Many have told the horror stories of the kitchen renovation project that began as a simple replacement of the floor tiles or the installation of new wallpaper to change the color and feel of the room. But with some of these projects, the "simple" procedure turned into a complete remodelling of the room, with the associated headaches and costs.



To put it very simply, a good plan is highly recommended. This plan should not be just an idea or some vision that is unrealistic. Unfortunately, many homeowners start a kitchen renovation with fantastic, colourful, exciting ideas and the planning never goes beyond this dream. The kitchen is the room that gets the most traffic in the home. It is the center of activity for most homes, as well, from simple family meals to larger gatherings. For this reason, a kitchen remodelling project should never be started without a good deal of forethought and even a written plan. Some of the items that should be taken into consideration are: wallpaper or paint; furniture; appliances; cabinets; lighting; flooring; and additional storage space (pantry, island cabinets etc.)

Is new wallpaper really kitchen renovation? Is putting a new dining room table and chairs in an existing atmosphere truly a kitchen renovation? Not really. These can be important parts of a larger project. But huge changes that involve disrupting the daily routine of the kitchen should be made carefully, and perhaps with professional help.

Contractors and remodelling experts can be just what is needed for a general renovation in the kitchen. Of course, the cost of the project goes up with the hiring of a pro. If this is not realistic, then the homeowner will have to be the person paying close attention to the details of the task. The professional won't start without a good plan and the do-it-yourself homeowner shouldn't either.

Perhaps the best question to ask would be this: "When is the right time to start renovating the kitchen?" This depends on the age of the home, the overall condition of the house itself, and the condition of the kitchen. If the appliances, cabinets and lighting keep the kitchen from being as efficient as it should be, the time may be right for some remodelling.

What are the two most important components of a remodelling project, especially in the kitchen? Planning and organization are, without doubt, the most important factors in a successful project. Just ask any professional or an experienced homeowner! To return to an earlier idea, new wallpaper or new furniture can be part of a renovation project, but most people would recommend a wider approach to the task. If a complete remodelling is not in the budget, then a plan that includes some of the most critical areas is in order. Keep this in mind: The kitchen should be viewed as a complete "unit" that is meant to provide an efficient and comfortable work space.

Two key items to look for when considering a kitchen renovation are lack of space for efficient work and structural problems (floor, plumbing, condition of cabinets etc.). It is at this point that many homeowners make the mistake of insufficient planning. To often they get into the project only to realize they are on their way to completely changing the floor plan and work space. It is certainly best to be prepared for this. Give sufficient thought to the "lifelines' of the room - plumbing and electricity. Changes and problems with these areas should be addressed well before any design and color changes.

A kitchen renovation project can be successful beyond anyone's conception if a good plan and some careful work are top priorities.