Your Remodeling Project

Step 3: Implementation and Construction

So you've determined your design style, wants and needs, had several meetings with your design consultant, and even made a payment or two. You've made it all the way through Step 1 and Step 2 of the design process and are ready for construction to begin. This is the part you've been waiting for! But what really goes on during construction?

1. Prepare for life without a kitchen. Before any demolition or removal of materials starts, you have to plan for how you will live during the construction period. Depending on you timetable, some contractors will set up a temporary kitchen (refrigerator, microwave, and a cabinet or two) somewhere nearby, such as the garage or mudroom area. Other people are content with having a microwave and access to a sink. Whatever the case, you should also take care to remove and carefully pack-away what's in your cabinets, which is why we provide Bella Boxes.
2. Deconstruction. The contractor will begin the construction process by removing any old materials that will not be used in the new design. Cabinets, countertops, tile and even walls will be torn out or knocked down. Dust will fly as the room is being prepared for a new look.
3. Construction and installation. Once old materials are removed, new construction can begin. Based on the project, this may include electrical, plumbing, drywall, and other work. The room will be prepped and painted before installing new materials.
4. Countertop measure and installation. Once the cabinets are installed, the countertop fabricator will come out to take precise measurements for the new tops. From the day of measure, it will take about 2-3 weeks for the countertop to be fabricated and installed. You can begin to use your kitchen again by storing some items in any upper or tall pantry cabinets. Depending on the job, some appliances (refrigerator, range, etc.) may even be hooked up and ready for use. Once the countertop is installed, the bulk of the project is usually complete.
5. Walk-through with designer and/or contractor. It's helpful to walk-through the remodeled space once it is complete to make a "punch list"- a list of items that may be waiting for completion. This could include items that are on back-order (i.e. some cabinet hardware) or an item that was damaged during the installation process (i.e. a cracked tile). 
6. Enjoy! Move back in to the space and make it your own!

While this is our final step, it's not really the end of the process. We love to stay in contact with previous clients. One way we keep connected is by delivering a warranty binder, which contains all warranty, cleaning, and care information for your specific products. This is delivered once the space is complete, and is also a chance for your design consultant to see the finished space. We also love referrals- recommend us to your family and friends who may be interested in their own remodeling project!

Ready to make some changes to your own kitchen? Call us at (608) 271-8241 or stop by our showroom to set up your consultation today!

Your Remodeling Project

Step 2: The Design Process

After putting thought into Step 1 of your remodeling project that was discussed in our last blog posts, you should be more prepared to proceed with the rest of the design process.  Step 2 gets into the nitty-gritty details of your project, and encompasses everything from determining specific door styles and finishes to signing off on labor contracts and beginning to make payments.  This part of the process can be one of the most meticulous, but here are the main steps to be aware of.

1. Review plans and drawings.  After listening to your project scope, ideas, wants, and needs, your designer will prepare a preliminary drawing for you to review.  Remember that nothing is set in stone at this point, although it will usually give you a general direction in terms of design and layout.  When reviewing these plans with your designer, keep in mind the way that you intend to use the space, and make changes accordingly.  Don't be shy if you have questions or changes that you would like to see.
2. Make first payment(s).  Step 2 of the process also involves collecting the first payments for the project.  This is often in the form of a design retainer in the early stages, and later will require a down payment to begin ordering materials and scheduling project labor.  Your designer will better educate you on the timing and amount of these payments.
3. Choose materials.  Begin to think about the specifics of your project.  Now is the time to make selections regarding finishes, wood species, countertop material and color, door hardware, and tile.  Keep the design style and priorities you set during Step 1 of this process in mind.  Making these choices helps to further set your vision for the space and helps your designer to give you the most accurate drawings and quotes possible.
4. Revise plans and drawings.  More often than not there will be changes to the original design.  Your designer will help you think about accessories and other options that are right for your lifestyle.  Think about how you want to store certain items: pots and pans, knives and other cutlery, even kitchen towels and linens. 
5. Sign off and release drawings.  Usually when making the down payment you will also be asked to sign off on the quote, drawings, and other paperwork.  At this point, most decisions have been made, and the order is ready to be placed.  Your designer will also release the drawings to you, which you can take home and show off to all of your friends and family! 

Keep in mind that the timeline for the above steps depends on how quickly decisions are being made and when meetings can be scheduled.  Being decisive is to your benefit if you have a specific project timeline in mind.  Also remember that the more prep work you can do during Step 1 is to your benefit, as it should continue to influence your design and decisions during this phase of the process.