Where to start…
The best laid plans…put us here. It isn’t what we planned when we opened Severna Park Kitchen and Bath this January and we have learned so much about ourselves in the process. Starting a small business is in itself scary, and to do it in an unprecedented market really put us to the test. But, sometimes when taking that leap of faith, putting the pen to the paper, believing in your ideas, seems at first so daunting, in the end you ask yourself, “why did I wait so long?”
seeing the potential
Starting a home renovation is not much different. Is there ever the perfect time? No. Do you have to trust your instincts and ideas? Yes, absolutely. And we know from experience with hundreds of clients that in the end, most people why they waited so long to start. So how and where do you start a kitchen or bath renovation? Let’s review some of the best practices for starting your renovation…
Come to an agreement
The internet can be an overwhelming rabbit hole of information and while friends can offer advice, they’re often reluctant to share personal information like the costs of the renovation and what they might have done wrong. First, start with your family and make sure you all agree that it is the right move for your whole family. We are designers here at SPKB, but we often find ourselves in the role of counselors guiding families through renovations that can be, lets face it, stressful. No matter how well planned, hearing and seeing your home taken apart can be an added stress in your already busy life. Most people will only renovate one kitchen in their lifetime, and we get it-it is a big deal! So make sure from the beginning that everyone is on board.
you’ve been saving and working hard for this-make it count!
Determine a budget
Once everyone is on board, determine a budget that works for your family. Avoid making up a magical number, but rather determine a figure that has some wiggle room. We suggest the National Kitchen and Bath Association budget calculator HERE. Remember that this is a national guideline, so your home value will greatly impact the results. For the Maryland region where we live, home values are typically higher than other regions so the percentage of your renovation may be lower. Use your judgement and make sure to share your budget with your contractor and designer. They want to stretch your dollar for you and give you the most beautiful home that you’ll brag about to all of your friends.
Find a Designer (Oh wait! You’ve already found one right here!)
Find a designer to work with. It is important that you feel comfortable and welcome by them. This is intimidating enough, so ditch the designer who makes you feel any of the following:
That you don’t know anything
That your budget is too low
That they don’t have time for you
If you feel any of the above, then it just isn’t a good fit for either of you. Don’t waste any more of your or their precious time. You’re building a relationship with the designer and it needs to have trust and empathy from the beginning.
develop your vision
Find a Contractor
We recommend interviewing up to 3 contractors for your project. It is good to get a range of pricing and ideas from different companies so that you move into the project with confidence. We have built strong relationships with many of the area’s contractors and builders, so if you need direction, we are happy to recommend our preferred companies. Once you have a solid design from your kitchen and bath designer to give the contractor, you will get a good understanding of the overall timeline and budget and move forward with the renovation.
time to get real
Did you know that there are literally thousands of decisions to make when designing a kitchen or bath. Our designers at Severna Park Kitchen and Bath are ready to serve you! From appliance sizes to placement of cabinetry hardware, we have the experience to help guide you through the process. If you’re dreaming of a renovation or working on a new home, we would love to hear how we can best serve you!
Have more questions about the process?
Comment below or email us at contact@spkitchenandbath.com
be kind, stay safe, and keep in touch - the SPKB team
