TO CREATE YOUR DREAM KITCHEN OR BATHROOM

 STEP 1 : PLANNING

Determine a preliminary budget and what you think you can afford on your project. When it comes to discussing a budget with your designer, you may be pleasantly surprised or shocked at the ranges of cost; either way, remember to spend only what you can afford.

 STEP 2 : START PLANNING 

What do you like and what do you not like? If you are not sure, start keeping a record. Get a folder and start putting pictures of kitchen and bathrooms that you do like. Clip them from magazines that feature homes, remodeling, architecture, and, of course, bathrooms and kitchens. Also collect samples of fabric, wall coverings and surface that you find attractive. All this preparation will help when you meet with your designer and best of all; it is fun looking at all the great rooms and imagining yours!

 STEP 3 : COMPLETE THE CHECKLIST

It is okay if your clipping largely represents your dream kitchen or bathroom, but keep in mind, your new design must address your actual needs. So next, you will have to evaluate these needs.  There are two checklists for the kitchen and bathroom to help you out. By doing this you can save a lot of time and money, and greatly reduce guesswork. Look closely at how you and your family use the room you are looking to remodel or build and use your observations to complete the checklists.

 STEP 4 : THE BIG MEETING

Now it is time to meet with the designer you have chosen. You may first meet with him/her to look at samples and products. Bring everything you have collected with you. The initial design conference is the time to talk about your wants, needs and budget.  Together you can set priorities for your design that will allow your new dream room to stay within budget.

 STEP 5 : AGREE ON A DESIGN

Happy with the ideas your designer came up with? Great, review estimates and negotiate your contract. Then there is only one step left……..

 STEP 6 : BUILD

After your ideas and budget have been reviewed, your room layout completed, the final materials chosen, and the contractors coordinated, all with your approval, the construction of your new room will begin. Living under construction is never easy. Ask your designer for tips on living under construction and setting up temporary facilities for cooking and cleanup.