Top Reasons Why Kitchen Remodeling is Surprisingly Emotional
There is a reason you haven’t started your kitchen remodel: Fear.
There is a lot at stake. Your life will be disrupted in ways you can’t even imagine. You are not sure how much it will really cost. You are worried that you won’t be able to communicate effectively with an interior design firm. You don’t really understand the process and are afraid to trust someone you don’t even know.
I get it. I plan kitchen remodels with homeowners all the time, and I know this whole idea makes you feel out of control and vulnerable in new and uncomfortable ways.
4 Things to Expect from an Interior Designer
Fear of the unknown can be easily reduced if you know what to expect. Here’s what you can plan on experiencing if you work with our interior design firm:
We will spend months going back and forth laying out your design in a floor plan. I will give you 3D renderings. If a floor plan makes no sense to you, you will still be able to conceptualize the new design. We will massage and change this floor plan until every last detail is exactly how you want it.
We will meticulously select each finish and fixture until it is exactly like you have been dreaming about for years. You will have samples of each product or will have visited showrooms to see the fixtures and appliances. I will use all my expertise and experience to point out ideas that are outside-the-box and unique to you.
We will get competitive bids from tradespeople whom I have worked with for years. You will get a comprehensive budget of how much it will cost. You’ll know that it is a fair price and that it will be worth the investment because you will finally be getting your dream kitchen remodel.
We will set a timeline so you know how long you will be without a functioning kitchen. It will be a dusty mess with troops of strangers in your house, and you will feel oddly comfortable with this since you’ll know your project is on track for its deadline.
Will each step be executed perfectly? Will deadlines always be met? Will each problem we encounter have an obvious solution? Nope. No matter how much I try to fine-tune the remodeling process, not all kitchen remodels go smoothly. As a homeowner, you need to understand the reality of this.
If any builder, contractor or designer guarantees that everything with your project will be perfect, they are lying to you.
As an honest designer who knows her stuff, I can tell you that wonky projects are inherent to the remodeling industry. It is the nature of the process. There are so many variables and unknowns that no amount of planning can fully address all of them. At the end of the day, no one can guarantee that everything will be perfect or happen exactly as you expect.
Again, as that honest designer, here is what I actually can promise you:
• I will use my best listening skills to make sure your desires and fears are addressed.
• I will use good communication skills to make sure you know what will happen every day.
• I will have a positive and non-adversarial attitude.
• I will demonstrate understanding and patience.
• I will be honest and act with integrity.
• I will take personal responsibility when things go wrong.
• I will give you a fair price.
The Emotional Side of Home Remodeling
You will be on an emotional roller coaster during your kitchen remodel. At first you will be so excited with the design because it is unique to you and is gorgeous. Months will go by and you might begin to wonder why collecting bids and getting the building permits need to take so long.
After waiting for months (thank you, government red tape!), we will finally sign the construction contract and you will become excited again. Demolition will start, and you will be thrilled, thinking about your gorgeous, new kitchen.
…Then, the remodeling process will become monotonous. The drudgery of the mess and the line of tradespeople at your door at 7AM will make you want it to all stop. In fact, you will call me one Saturday morning and tell me you have had it and all work needs to stop immediately. I will gently talk you off the ledge and work will continue. When my name pops up on your phone, your heart will sink and you will wonder, “Oh, what bad news does she have now?”
Around this time, all the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and drywall will be done and the cabinets will be installed, followed by tile installation, fixture installation, painting, and door knobs.
Despite all the fear, uncertainty, and inconvenience, you’ll finally see it: Your dream kitchen.
How to Start Remodeling Your Dream Kitchen
If you’re looking for an experienced, honest designer who can take you through the remodeling process – from kitchen hell to the apex of kitchen glory, you’re in the right place. Book a Discovery Call with me right to get started.