Completely remodeling a kitchen, especially in an older home, can at times be a daunting task. Considerations for structural integrity have to be maintained, and you are never really sure of what you will run in to when you start knocking out walls. Older homes especially can have unseen problems, such as water damage leading to mold behind walls removed, rotted flooring caused by an unseen or neglected leak and sub-standard wiring can be found. When planning a renovation, city codes and regulations have to be adhered to, often leading to further expense. Remember, when you are finished with your project, you are stuck with it, and there is no turning back.

The cost of renovating a kitchen is dependent on a lot of factors. It depends on where you live, the age of the house, and is of course constrained by your budget. There is no absolute figure per square foot for kitchen renovation.

In a renovation, especially if the house was built before 1950, there are specific issues that you may have to deal with. First, you must rent a large container for waste removal, adding to cost. Although wiring and plumbing only needs to be replaced in the actual room you are working in, wiring must be upgraded from the electrical box to the kitchen. A competent builder will assess the infrastructure by cutting holes in certain areas to inspect for water damage. Lead pipe will need to be removed. Water damage and any sign of mold must be properly dealt with, raising the cost.

A kitchen is dated the minute construction is finished. Building a classic and efficient kitchen takes a lot of homework. Let’s look at some of the hottest trends in kitchen rebuilds:

  • Be sure to match your decor. Nothing sticks out more than an ultra modern kitchen in a shabby chic setting. Plan the kitchen around the theme of your home.
  • Counter-tops are the most regarded item in a kitchen. Upscale homes generally have granite or marble counter tops. They are beautiful and long lasting, but a word of caution is in order – they have a tendency to absorb oils and stains. Although they can be cleaned, this is the downside of these materials. You may wish to opt for the new composite counter-tops that are stain resistant, yet simulate the more expensive (and heavier) marble or granite counter-top.
  • In a lot of kitchens, a single overhead light serves purpose. This is not only frustrating for the chef but makes cooking a much less enjoyable experience. A kitchen needs to be well lit, yet have a homey atmosphere. A smaller kitchen can benefit from correct overhead lighting and task specific lighting such as under cabinets, lighting the prep area. In larger kitchens lighting needs to be more functional, with areas such as cupboards and drawers well lit.
  • Try to apply flooring that contrasts with the appliances and setting instead of matching it. Current trends are towards long plank flooring and the more exotic darker hardwoods such as mahogany and cherry. Trending is terracotta, porcelain and even Spanish roofing tiles. The color goes deep in these materials and gives any kitchen a well designed look.