According to the Government of Canada the average age of dwellings in Edmonton is just over 33 years.
As our homes continue to age it is natural to want to update and modernize our kitchens for both function and aesthetic. How we use our kitchens today is very different than the 1950’s model. It really is the heart of the home and is a place not only to prepare food but to gather, do homework, and is a space for everyone to be together. There are many good reasons to renovate your kitchen and the top three benefits of taking on this big project are:
1. More functional space – when renovating your kitchen, it is a great time to think of what has been working and not working for you in the space. Sometimes a wall can be removed to allow for a larger kitchen, or the layout can be reworked by an Interior Designer to increase the function.
2. Energy efficiency – upgrading your appliances to energy-efficient ones, lighting, and even the windows will help reduce your energy consumption. Don’t forget to check with your province or municipality about potential rebates.
3. Increased home value – the return on investment for kitchen renovations is one of the highest of any home improvement. A kitchen renovation could command a 75-100% percent return on investment provided quality materials are used and the workmanship is consistent with the area. Source: Re/max
Due to the complexity of a kitchen renovation, it is one of the greatest improvements impacting both ROI and resale value but is also among the most expensive.
“Industry experts recommend spending 15% – 20% of your homes value on a kitchen renovation.”
Source: Homestars
As you start your decision process, determining if a kitchen renovation is right for you, it is important to acknowledge it is not an easy project. You may be able to plan it well on paper but to execute it successfully, you will need the help of a professional.
The first step in a successful kitchen renovation project is the design. Gather inspiration from Pinterest, magazines even friends and family. An interior designer should be part of your renovation budget to ensure you maximize that return on your investment – simply slapping up renovation materials with no thought to detail, cohesiveness and level of finishes may negatively impact the value of that renovation and your home. A coordinated and professionally renovated kitchen will bring in the largest ROI.
When putting together a budget for your kitchen renovation keep in mind industry experts (2023 Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown: Recommended Budgets, ROI, and more!) recommend spending 15% – 20% of your homes value on a kitchen renovation. Several factors can impact the budget like the size of the kitchen, is it just a refresh or a full- scale remodel, the quality of fixtures and materials, appliances and labour.
It is also recommended once you have a budget estimate you ensure you have 15-20% over and above set aside for contingency to cover any unexpected expenses. The good news is you can expect a 75-100% return on your kitchen renovation and boost your homes value. While an expensive undertaking it will pay off in the end.
Where will all the money go? While there are lots of factors that can impact the budget – especially if you are making structural changes to the home – aside from labour and appliances the largest portion of the budget will go to cabinets and countertops. These two items account for almost 40% of the materials budget.
Source: National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)
In our experience labour costs can often be much higher if a kitchen is being reconfigured or if structural changes are being made such as removing walls etc. Helping you get your project to the finish line will require a team of people. Here are the most common ones according to Homestars:
1. Architect/ Engineer: An architect or engineer may be required if you are making structural changes to your home like removing a wall or putting on an addition. Expect to pay for a site visit and the design work.
2. Designer: A designer will help you get the look you are after ensuring both the layout/function of the kitchen and the overall look are on point. Fees and fee structures will vary on the level of involvement the designer has in your project from a one-time consulting fee to managing the whole project.
3. General Contractor: The contractor will be responsible for managing all the moving parts of the construction phase of the project. This service can sometimes be provided by your design firm or an independent contractor. Make sure you have a good sense of what is being provided for the budget.
4. Trades: Your list of trades will vary based on the size and scope of your project. You will likely need a plumber and an electrician. Sometimes trades are hired independently if you are doing more of a DIY typically if you are going with a contractor, they will have trades they hire/ on staff.
Jostar Interiors: Your Design-Build Edmonton Kitchen Renovation Experts
Choosing the right firm to complete the design and construction work can make or break the renovation experience. Jostar Interiors is an experienced design-build firm; we are there for our clients through each stage of the renovation. We manage the project from initial concept, design through construction phases working closely with our clients to ensure both the design and budget outcomes are being met.
Using our trusted trades and extensive supplier network we can deliver a quality renovation experience. We work with a wide variety of clients and renovation budgets. We have been the top-rated interior design company in Edmonton for over 21 years by Consumer Choice Awards. Need some kitchen design ideas for your kitchen renovation?