Thinking about remodeling your kitchen? Remember the golden rule of any home-improvement project: The more planning you do up front, the happier you'll be with the final result. Use this checklist to get started and keep yourself on track.
Three to Six Months Ahead
SET UP A FILE to keep track of ideas, products, names and business cards. Look through books and magazines for ideas, tagging pictures of rooms and products that appeal to you. Make careful notes of manufacturers, product ID numbers and where you saw the product.
MAKE LISTS of must-haves and wishes, so you'll know clearly where you will and won't compromise. Keep in mind what's working and not working in your present kitchen, including storage, counter space and traffic patterns.
VISIT MODEL HOMES and friends' remodeling projects, again noting what would and wouldn't work for you. Carry a camera to record ideas that you like.
BEGIN RESEARCHING CONTRACTORS. Check with local professional associations, ask friends for referrals, note yard signs of remodeling work in progress. Many home-improvement stores also offer full-service design and remodeling help.
GO WITH PRO. If your project involves major structural changes, it's important to have an architect or professional designer involved; the contractor may make some referrals. Even a straightforward face-lift can benefit from professional design input.
INCORPORATE UNIVERSAL DESIGN ELEMENTS, such as raised or lowered appliances, HELP DESK For more ideas and advice: National Kitchen & Bath Association National Association of the Remodeling Industry National Association of Home Builders Smart Consumer Services.
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