Renovation errors can be common and may frequently occur if home owners are not aware of the areas in which something can go wrong. Here are 4 important aspects to avoid in kitchen spaces when a renovation is being planned.
Renovation Errors #1: Not Taking Account Of Lighting
Too much overwhelming lighting or too dark of a space is a common but significant mistake when it comes to kitchen remodelling efforts that can have a significant impact on the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the overall space. Kitchen lighting is an aspect that serves many purposes — from making important work areas properly illuminated for safety and efficiency in order to create a welcoming atmosphere.
If home owners do not properly plan to incorporate suitable and proper lighting, they will end up with a dark and unappealing area within their kitchen space. For example, insufficient or less lighting around the stove, oven or sink area can make it difficult for home owners perform important tasks in the kitchen such as cutting, cooking and cleaning — can also become a danger hazard due to less light.
Ambient lighting that provides overall illumination is also important. Without this element, the lighting in the kitchen may seem uneven as it will cause some areas to be too bright and others to remain murky and dark. Lighting is definitely as aspect that can easily be overlooked often but it is a key element that can enhance a kitchen's design by helping to add depth and placing focus on objects such cabinets or unique architecture that can be present within the space.
Another common error that happens frequently is ignoring natural light sources such as windows which can be added to the space as it helps reduce energy costs alongside create bright and inviting spaces. Additionally, choosing the wrong light bulbs that do not fit the environment such as those that give out harsh and cold lighting can cause a kitchen look more dull and uninviting while fixtures that are too warm tend to give off a bright yellow hue. Proper lighting should be implemented after taking into consideration the layout of the kitchen and choosing which work areas require additional fixtures and assitance.
Installing a lighting system that includes task, ambient and accent lighting as well as encouraging the use of natural light can transform a kitchen from a dull and unattractive space into a bright and cheerful space that is suitable for cooking and everyday gatherings. All in all, smart lighting planning in a kitchen remodel can be a great way to create an aesthetic and functional kitchen.
Renovation Errors #2: Overlooking Ventilation
One of the most overlooked but important aspects of a kitchen renovation is ensuring good ventilation. Ignoring this can lead to various problems especially in the long run โ compromising the efficiency, functionality and comfort of your kitchen overall. A well-ventilated kitchen is important as it helps eliminate smoke, odours and grease from the air that are present when cooking.
Without proper ventilation, these particles tend to adhere to all the surfaces around the kitchen; thus, leaving a sticky and hard-to-clean residue on majority of the cabinets, countertops as well as other kitchen appliances. Due to this, kitchen appliances experience significant wear and tear over time especially when adequate action is not taken โ shortening their lifespan and requiring more repair or replacement.
In addition, poor ventilation can also affect indoor air quality which can eventually contribute to health problems especially in open-plan homes where cooking fumes and smoke odours can easily spread to other areas within the home. This can create an unpleasant environment especially when entertaining guests and spending time with family. In addition, lack of ventilation can lead to more moisture retention within the space — which can cause problems such mould and mildew that can be hard to prevent after a certain while; thus, making your kitchen look messy, sticky and dirty.
To avoid this problem, it is important to install a high-quality hood or ventilation system that is suitable for the size of your kitchen. The system must be able to effectively remove all the residue, grease, grime and moisture from the air due to cooking processes but be silent enough to not disturb the ambience of the home. Also, home owners can make sure the ventilation devices and fixtures are pointing out of the house rather than drawing air in which tends to be ineffective. Good ventilation in the kitchen should not be an afterthought โ it is a key element of kitchen design that increases the longevity, cleanliness and overall efficiency of the space.
Renovation Errors #3: Bad Financial Planning
One of the most common kitchen remodelling mistakes is going over budget โ which can turn a fun and exciting project into a financial burden. This often happens when a home owner tends to become seemingly uncertain of their budget or is slammed with unexpected expenses that they did not see coming. Without a clear financial plan, it is easy to spend unnecessary money on high-end products, luxury choices or on other plans that are not considered as a must have or must do. Even small changes in maintenance and installation can quickly add up and lead to increased costs.
In addition, unexpected problems that may arise after the renovation such as plumbing or electrical issues is also a contributing factor to an increase in costs. To avoid this, it is important to create a budget from the beginning that does not only cover the remodelling expenses, but also is enough for any sort of emergency or installation requirements. Home owners should set their priorities and be ready to compromise on necessary elements. For example, you can stick to cheaper countertop materials to stay within your budget in the case you are looking to install higher-end appliances.
Home owners should always keep track of their expenses during renovations to make sure they are constantly on track and resist the temptation to add upgrades that may not be necessary. Hiring a professional consultant can also help when it comes to avoiding costly mistakes — keeping the project within the desired budget. Going over budget can cause a lot of stress and may also lead to unfinished projects due to insufficient funds. With careful planning and sticking to a budget, home owners can have the kitchen of your dreams within their set budget.
Renovation Errors #4: Choosing Unsuitable Materials
Wrong product selection is also another common mistake in the world of kitchen renovation and can cause problems in terms of functionality and beauty. Since the kitchen is a place that is constantly busy, has high temperatures on a daily basis and is used frequently, it is very important to choose durable and easy-to-maintain materials to be used in the space. For example, choosing porous countertops such as marble granite without having the ability to care for these materials properly over time can cause staining and wear in the long run โ especially if not sealed; thus, making home owners spend more to rectify the emerging issues. These materials require constant maintenance and can become a burden especially when not maintained.
Similarly, choosing flooring materials that are not waterproof can cause cracking or bubbling especially in the kitchen spaces that tend to be messy and busy. Shelving is another important factor to consider and home owners should choose materials that can withstand weight and are strong. Over time, materials can swell or deteriorate from exposure to moisture, resulting in the need for replacements.
Even when choosing a colour for the space, choosing one that does suit can cause more harm than good. For instance, matte finishes may be a popular choice but can be difficult to clean and maintain in a kitchen environment where the entire area is prone to exposure towards grease and splatters. Semi-gloss may be a better option as it is easier to clean and maintain over time.
In conclusion, while aesthetics and overall outlook is important, functionality and durability should also be a top priority when choosing materials for your kitchen. In this case, investing in quality products may be more costly but it can save home owners money and stress in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.
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