| interior design
The Kitchen
Quite possibly the most important room in the American home, for
many families, a kitchen is the social center of life. It's more
than a room for cooking and dining. It's a place for conversation.
A place for projects. A place for special gatherings and lazy Sunday
mornings. So, it's no wonder that we all want a kitchen that suits
both our tastes and our lives. But creating a new kitchen for your
home can be an expensive endeavor. Before you begin, follow these
tips from Art Institute of Pittsburgh faculty member John Franke.
Educate Yourself
Learn about appliances, surface materials, storage units and all
of the big ticket items that you'll soon be purchasing. Start collecting
ads, photos, articles and magazines about kitchen design and products
available today. The market changes often and decisions can be overwhelming.
Be sure to give yourself enough time to really think your project
through. After all, it's a major investment.
What Is Your Kitchen For?
Break down your project into basic functionality. Is the kitchen
the center of your existence? Are you a gourmet cook? Is it a mere
status symbol? Why own a six burner, industrial stove if the only
thing you know how to make are reservations? Identifying the primary
functions of your kitchen should be the first step. Ask yourself
what you need and what you want. Does your kitchen need a simple
color and wallpaper change? Does it need a cabinet and countertop
facelift? Or are you considering a floor to ceiling overhaul?
Budget!
Set a realistic budget. A kitchen is a major investment, but it
should never be worth more than 10 - 15 percent of the overall market
value of a house. Factor budget overruns of about 10 percent. Keep
this money as a reserve for unpredictable expenses. Once you've
established a budget, carefully select priority items. Many people
overspend on extravagant choices. For example, you may not need
3-inch thick granite countertops when standard laminate will serve
the same purpose.
Consult the Pros
Shop around for a kitchen designer to help you. Consider an independent
consultant who specializes in kitchen and bath remodeling. Or seek
the advice of a kitchen planner who works for a contractor or home
improvement center. Professionals can offer important advice on
surface materials, appliances, warranties, zoning regulations, efficiency
and effective use of space. They'll also be able to help you see
beyond the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen and will raise issues
you may not have initially considered.
Shop with the Pros
Shop where the pros shop. The best deals and concepts can be found
at restaurant supply and equipment distributors. Ideas can be found
at expensive kitchen shops, but the drama of color and lighting
can often be duplicated with a much more affordable interpretation.
Let each home center know that you're shopping around. Walking
around with a notebook full of prices and quotes will let your salesperson
know that you are doing your homework and that you're looking for
their best price.
Color Crazy
Remember that a kitchen re-design is not something most people can
afford to do often. Be sure not to get carried away by colors and
trends that will soon become outdated. Before you make a major investment
in the season's hottest colors, recall the avocado green and harvest
gold kitchens of the 70s. Keep it simple and it will always be stylish.
By John Franke
Faculty Member, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh |
