Art Deco by Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinets
Combine the convenience of this contemporary kitchen with the nostalgia of its retro styling, and it’s a match made with Brookhaven Cherry cabinetry using two door styles in contrasting matte finishes. Pilasters used between the stacks and rows of Vista cabinets create the geometric design.  Pinpoint glass and brushed metal inserts, reflective accents and the coordinating flooring complete the look.

Is it time to remodel your kitchen? Do you need to replace the countertops, or does the whole thing need to go?  Either way, it’s a big commitment, not only in time, but of money as well as the inconvenience that comes with undertaking any remodeling project.
 
Of course, the benefits are well worth it in the end.  You get a beautiful kitchen designed to fit your lifestyle. Seriously consider your options when looking at any remodeling project.  A kitchen remodel tends to have a high rate of return on investment. In most cases, it will almost pay for itself when you sell your home.

Your first step should be to set a realistic budget for the project. You can’t do anything until you have figured out how much you are able or willing to spend.  That means doing your homework—read magazines, visit showrooms, talk to friends and neighbors who have recently remodeled.  It will take you some time to do this. But your research will be rewarded by having realistic expectations of the process. Below are several areas you should focus your attention.

Kitchen Cabinet Spaces

Nothing increases value to your home like new cabinetry. Efficient storage in a kitchen offers greater pleasure, usefulness, and an improved aesthetic. This is one area where choosing quality and value are paramount. California based cabinet makers are unable to provide  the kind of top coat finish that resists scratching, burning, and even acetone.  Investigate manufacturers located out of the area that can provide this topcoat. The cabinets will continue looking new for years. Also, most of these manufactures offer some type of warranty on their products, unlike most local shops.

Countertops

A beautiful countertop can be the finishing touch on a new kitchen. The Los Angeles area is fortunate to have numerous suppliers of granite and marble.  Stone counters, even in small quantities, can say a lot about your home.  There are also several man made choices like Caesarstone of Silestone to consider. These options offer solid color choices that can accent a very contemporary styled kitchen.

Shopping for Contractors

Get bids from several contractors.  Remember, while price is important, choosing the company with the lowest bid is not always the best idea. You can sometimes find that the lowest bid is comprised of lesser quality materials, or worse, the contractor has left an important element off the bid. Insist that the bid is completely itemized. Never agree to an open ended contract that is simply a “cost plus” arrangement. You will find you have no control over the budget and are at the mercy of the contractor.
 
Remember, the eventual success of your kitchen project depends on how well it suits your purposes.  If you feel you have difficulty in describing what you want, collect clippings from magazines and turn them over to your designer. Don’t be bashful, it’s your home… and your money!