Oct 4 2007
In honour of National Kitchen and Bath Month celebrated this October, kitchen and bath design experts associated with the SEN Design Group seek to inform homeowners of the invaluable investment, appeal and prestige, updating a kitchen or bath adds to the overall home and resale value.
"Indeed, creating a new kitchen or bathroom that fits a family's needs, space, and budget like a glove is a complex, lengthy process. I highly recommend that you do your research, take it one-step at a time, and think of the many years of enjoyment you will reap," comments Ken Peterson, CKD, president of the SEN Design Group, a national organization of independent kitchen and bath professionals. "Before embarking on a kitchen or bath remodel, make sure you select a professional that is licensed and insured, and be sure to check recent referrals."
Kicking off the National Kitchen and Bath Month celebration, SEN offers the information below to inform homeowners of what to expect when beginning the remodeling process.
Educational Approach
- Interview several potential candidates, especially firms that focus exclusively on kitchens and baths
- Confer with friends and neighbors on their past remodeling experiences
- Request to see a copy of the contractor's certificate of insurance
- Ask for a list of recent references and make follow-up phone calls
Planning
- Envision what you want - begin by collecting images from magazines and newspapers
- Write down your ideas, thoughts and concerns; prioritize your needs
- Create a general plan and budget for the entire project
- If available, visit a designer's showroom
- Ask to see design layouts and several case studies
In lieu of the month, now is a great time to start thinking about making home improvements. With the immense amount of resources available, homeowners can be prepared prior to the start of the process.