There’s only so much a new coat of paint can do to change the look of a kitchen. If the appliances, cabinets and countertops are outdated, it may be time to renovate.

With so many options for color schemes, surfaces and appliances, the renovation process can be overwhelming. Elite Custom Builders specialize in kitchen renovations — read on to get your project started and to find out kitchen renovation cost.


Establish a Budget

It’s important to set a realistic budget. While the dream kitchen you saw on HGTV is beautiful, keep in mind that it probably cost more than $50,000. Establishing a budget is important for your first contractor meeting. If they know what you’re able to spend, they’ll be able to help you prioritize the renovation. Perhaps the cabinets and countertops are the most important and new appliances can be installed later. Your contractor will be able to give you an estimate that fits your budget and your style.

The average kitchen renovation in Morgantown, WV costs $30,000 to $50,000 — the cabinets, appliances and installation are the most costly aspects. Most customers spend around 10% of their home value on the kitchen remodel and see the return on investment when they sell house. Elite Custom Builders are able to work with your specific budget and offer expert advice regarding your options.


Identify Your Style

Do you gravitate toward clean lines, light colors and a modern look? Or warm colors with unique and ornate details, giving a traditional feel? Before you begin your renovation project, it’s important to identify your style. Based on your style, you can start looking for ideas online to share with your contractor.


Consider the Usage

Does your family spend the majority of time in the kitchen? Perhaps you’re a serious cook or baker. Or maybe the kids sit at the counter to eat a snack and do homework after school. Making sure the kitchen is designed to fit your lifestyle is important — you want it to be a space you and your family can use for years to come.

If you have a high use kitchen, you’ll want to make sure your new countertop is durable. Granite is one of the most durable surfaces, along with quartz. While beautiful and great for baking, marble can stain and scratch easily. You’re not bound to one surface though — you can have one marble baking station that matches a granite surface in rest of the kitchen.

Like countertops, you’ll want to consider the durability of your new flooring. Tile is most common for kitchens, although wood is also easy to clean and take care of. If you have an open floor plan, you’ll want to consider flooring that blends well with other areas.


It’s in the Details

The major aspects of a renovation — cabinets, counter tops and flooring — often shadow smaller considerations. Although, the details bring together a space and make it feel cohesive, elegant and unique. To personalize your space, consider the following room elements:

LIGHTING

Lighting can make an otherwise ordinary space feel high-end. Before you consider the light fixtures in your new kitchen, think about the natural light. The light fixtures should work with the natural light. You’ll want to make sure there’s adequate lighting for food preparation over the countertops and oven. If you have an island or counter return that you’ll serve food from when entertaining, you may want a softer light to set the party mood. Combining track lighting with pendant lights or overhead lights will allow you to adjust the lighting to your needs.

kitchen renovation:lighting

HARDWARE

Upgrading the hardware on your cabinets can help achieve your overall look and feel in your new kitchen. Simple clean hardware will give a clean modern feel, while something more ornate and intricate will enhance a classic traditional kitchen. Don’t feel limited to the selection at your local hardware store. Online retailers offer some incredibly unique options that will personalize your newly renovated kitchen.

PLUMBING

Your contractor will help you select a sink that fits your usage — stainless steel is incredibly durable and will never go out of style. Ceramic sinks and farmhouse sinks are also beautiful options, but you’ll want to make sure this is discussed with your contractor — your current sink may be smaller than the one you’d like installed and the contractor will need to account for this in the planning phase. When it comes to your faucet, make sure you consider function first. Modern faucets stand out and look striking; however, the aesthetically pleasing angles can cause the water to run in an awkward direction. Make sure you read reviews and talk to your contractor about what will be best for you.


Selecting a Contractor

When you select a residential contractor, you’ll want to make sure you ask questions and feel completely at ease — trust is crucial.

Ask you contractor to see past work and if possible, any work they’re currently doing. Talk to their previous clients and ask them about their experience. Don’t be afraid to talk to multiple contractors before making a decision. It’s important to find a company with ample experience and a high level of professionalism.

Elite Custom Builders have a combined 70+ years of experience. We serve the North Central West Virginia area including:

  • Morgantown
  • Fairmont
  • Cheat Lake
  • Clarksburg
  • Bridgeport
  • Weston
  • Elkins
  • Davis
  • Preston County
  • Wheeling
  • We also work in the Pittsburgh, Pa., area.

Ready to get started? Give us a call today.