Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom is one of the most complex projects in the Interior Design profession. The statistic above 90% or 102% rings true, IF the design composition of the remodel is congruent with the home, space and is pleasing to view.

The amount of technical detail to accomplish the remodel or design is very extensive. Note some of the decisions:

Kitchen

Electrical:

GFI outlets are regulated by local code requirements.
Do you have enough power for the various new appliances?
Lighting: task, ambiance or reflective?
Decorative fixtures, ceiling cans or low voltage

Appliances:

Gas or electric?
The appliance packages can range from a few thousand up to $70,000
Critical to appliance choices—include the following criteria:

How do you cook? How do you entertain? How long will you live in this space?

Plumbing:

How difficult is it to move water-or drains?
Do you need more than 1 sink? Pot fillers over the stove?

Flooring:

Maintenance - Tile is two times as hard as wood?
Alternative floors cork and bamboo are gaining popularity

Which trade is scheduled first? last?

Bathrooms:

Are you remodeling in the same foot print?
Will you be changing the wet items, the sewage stack is a critical consideration.
Light your face-not the top of your head.
Tile can range from $4-$5 a sq foot to $500 a square foot.
Finish schedule for your bathroom - choose colors and textures which you will like in 2, 4 , 6 years?

Do you remember avocado appliances?

Deb's tips:

Hire a professional—in selecting these expensive and permanent choices
Remember-the expense is not just a bathroom or kitchen –it is a home equity purchase.
Save the pop ideas-or trendy looks for transitional products—towels in the bath or tea kettle in kitchen
Classic installation in the kitchen and bath will pay for them selves.
The accents can then be traditional or contemporary.

Save money, invest in a professional who can stretch your dollars-eliminate mistakes AND improve the value of your home. An interior designer is your advocate and translator to accomplish a smooth remodel.