Edmonton Kitchen Renovations

We are pleased to treat you with an article on kitchens from our friend, Cindy Donaldson, at Delton Cabinets. As we approach the the renovation season in Edmonton, many of you may be thinking of doing a kitchen renovation. but you might not know where to start. Cindy helps us look at some important consideration when planning for a kitchen renovation.

Getting Started – What to consider when considering a kitchen renovation….

Are you living in an older home? Do you love your home & neighborhood but hate your dated old kitchen? You’re not alone. Like many people you want & need a kitchen renovation. You know the money spent updating your kitchen will add value to your home but don’t know where to start.

Well, what’s on your wish-list? If you don’t have a wish list it’s probably a good idea to start thinking about the things that are important to you. What will make this new kitchen truly yours?

How do you take a wish-list from the realm of dreams to reality? The answer is to get help. Nord Alta Construction and Delton Cabinet have been helping people just like you bring their dreams to life for several years now. Together we will tackle the issues one at a time. Want to know more? Here are some things you’ll want to consider….

Layout

  • Do you want to take a wall down to create a more open plan kitchen?

  • Are you happy with your existing layout but you just want more functional cabinetry, for example; do you need to include more drawers in your space?

Tip: If you’re planning a whole home renovation including windows & siding make sure you plan your kitchen first. A poor floor plan may be improved greatly if windows & doors can be moved to allow for a more efficient layout.

Function

  • Do you need more counter-top space?

  • Would you like to incorporate a recycle centre in your new kitchen?

  • Would a pantry with roll out shelves be a good idea?

Tip: If you don't know what to do to fix your dysfunctional kitchen, or where to start make a list of what doesn't work. Take this list to your designer, and reference it during the renovation and when everythgin is completed.

Style

  • Do you love Cherry cabinetry or the clean look of crisp white cabinetry?

  • Is crown molding a “must” or do you prefer a more modern look?

  • Do you simply love the look of a granite counter-top?

Tip: If you see a kitchen you love in a magazine, tear out the page and picture & save it to show a kitchen designer!

Appliances

  • Have you always wanted a double wall oven or a built in fridge?

  • Do you want to include a wine cooler or beverage centre in your new kitchen?

  • Appliance sizes are no longer standard, there is much to choose from; start shopping early.

Tip: Remember to be realistic about the space you have available. In small kitchens be aware of the space, and keep in mind that a regular range is often the best choice as it give you more additional space and allows for storage.

Other things to consider…

Budget

A beautiful, functional kitchen can also be affordable. If you are like most people your budget will have an impact on your design decisions. It would be nice if we could all afford everything we love but the reality is that most people have to make compromises. If you need help prioritizing we’ll work with you to get the topmost items on your wish-list.

Tip: Add 10% to your renovation budget. This will give you a cushion for unexpected issues that might arise during the renovation. If you don't need to use your "cushion" money during the renovation put it back in the bank, or use it for something you've always wanted such as new dishes, or a quick trip away from home for a weekend.

Measurements

The importance of accurate measurements cannot be understated. That’s why you work with the professionals at Nord Alta Construction & Delton Cabinets. We are there to take accurate measurements for you. In fact when you work with our team your space will be measured at least twice; once by the kitchen designer & once by a kitchen installer. This ensures success on installation day.

Tip: If possible remove all small items from your countertops for the site measure.

Timeline & Practicality

Depending on the scope of your project a renovation may take as little as 4 weeks or as long as 6 months to complete. It’s important to be realistic about the renovation process. Remember things have to get messy before they can get better. Although we all try to be as tidy as possible there is going to be a certain amount of dust & debris around during the renovation process & at some point your kitchen will cease to function. It’s important to have a plan to get through this time.

Tip: If you are planning to stay in your home during the renovation as many people do you may want to set up a temporary kitchen in another area of your home. A folding table with a plastic dishpan & drainer, a mini fridge, hotplate or electric frying pan, a toaster (or toaster oven) & microwave can take you a long way. Retaining the ability to cook simple meals at home will save you from spending money on expensive restaurant meals!

Now that you know where to start there is no time like the present. Contact us today & together we’ll bring your dream kitchen to life!

Cindy Donaldson, Design and Sales Consultant

Delton Cabinet Mfg. Ltd.,13030 - 146 Street

Edmonton, AB T5L 2H7

Phone: (780) 413-2260 Toll Free: (800) 252-9345

If you're in the Greater Edmonton area and are looking for a contractor for you renovation project, visit Edmonton Home Renovations to find information on how to contact us. We'd be happy to speak to you about what we can do to get the ball rolling on your next home or office project.