Getting Started – The Hardest Part Of Redesigning Your Kitchen

When we procrastinate, most often we’re putting off work that is either physically taxing or that takes up too much of our time. But what about those tasks that are mentally strenuous, like decision making? When considering an interior renovation, the decision to redesign your kitchen isn’t one big decision but rather an ongoing series of smaller decisions, that can often make it difficult to just get started. That’s why more and more people are choosing to work with a professional interior designer. Designers help us realize our visions. More importantly, they help us get started.

A Georgian Interior Designer will approach your new kitchen from a functional point of view — what do you want from your new kitchen? Answers to questions like this one depend on who you are and what you’re going to do. Do you have a large family, do you live alone, are you somewhere in between? Are you passionate about culinary creations or do the extent of your gastronomical endeavours begin and end with the microwave? An honest talk with your designer will help you discover what works best for your unique lifestyle.

Classic layouts such as the galley, one-wall, or any of the letter shapes (U, L & G) are all great starting places because they can be augmented to best suit your needs. Adding an island is an excellent way to create a central hub that can be both a practical work-station and a place where people can congregate — making it ideal for families. Hanging pots and pans above an island is, not only a stylish choice, but a great way to free up cupboard space. Speaking of freeing up space, if room in your kitchen is limited, luxuries such as a walk-in pantry might seem out of the question. However, one advantage of working with a professional designer is that they are adept at creating space, so that the seemingly impossible is suddenly a reality.

From layout, you’ll likely move on to design (i.e. the look and feel of your new kitchen: paint colours, textures, etc.). Your designer will listen intently to words and phrases that you keep coming back to: Light and airy. Open concept. Inviting, but not old-fashioned. Modern, but not cold. Based on these conversations, mood and idea boards of images, sketches, colours and patterns are created and then you get to make your selections.

Choosing appliances can be a daunting task, so having a trusted partner will help you choose between what you want and what you’re actually going to use. If you’re a serious gourmet, or aspire to be, a gas range is probably the way to go. At one time, your range and oven were married together, but no longer. A double wall oven provides easy access as well as the ability to simultaneously cook multiple dishes at different temperatures. If your kids have left home, a smaller refrigerator is both a space and energy saver.

This is only scratching the surface. Sitting down and talking with an interior designer will open up a world of possibilities, and their guidance and expertise will take an overwhelming experience and make it something you’ll look forward to.

Gene Maida is President of Georgian Renovations. Family owned and operated, they have been designing & building dream homes for over 50 years. GeorgianReno.com