As much as a renovated kitchen is an inviting proposition, the process can be
intimidating. Tracy Maxwell of Granite Transformations has guided many customers
through a kitchen renovation and is well aware of their concerns.
“People are afraid to make the wrong
decision,” she suggests.
It’s understandable, the business owner explains, since customers are likely to
invest from $10,000 to $20,000 and they don’t want to spend it the wrong way.
Maxwell says the number one question is what do I do first?
The first step is a home visit.
“Our designers will go out with the colour schemes and the granite colours and
really help, right in their own space, to find out what’s best for them.”
The in-home design consultation reveals the way customers live, the way they
use their space, the décor in other areas of the home and what kinds of things
they like to have in their house, according to Maxwell. She says the kitchen is the central part of
your house and it has to flow the rest of your house. If it doesn’t fit, the
warmth and atmosphere that a design should achieve will be lost.
Kitchen renovators have many style choices although they may not be aware of their
options or how those options play into their tastes. Maxwell breaks kitchen
styles into several categories including ultra modern, contemporary, French
country and traditional.
High gloss lacquer-finished cabinets, often in strong colours, say ultra
modern. Flat panel doors add to the “really sleek” look that often incorporates
open shelving instead of upper cabinets.
Contemporary style is another take on a modern look but is “not over the top”.
Maxwell says that this style lends
itself to relatively plain Shaker-style cabinet doors.
A French country kitchen is ideal for those who like soft, light colours and
painted finishes. Think of cottage-inspired décor.
If you like the look of natural wood cabinets then a traditional style kitchen
will be your choice. These classic kitchens feature raised panel doors and wood
tones with nothing too extreme.
Once a customer’s style has been set, Maxwell says she views the process like a
funnel, starting with big concepts and then narrowing down to finer details.
“You start with the broadest category first which is your colour pallet,” she
explains.
This step sets up the choice of cabinets, countertops and backsplash. Details
like the sink and faucet often relate to the type of appliances selected. Still,
the overall style remains the guide.
To arrange for a free design consultation to find out your style or for more
information, go to
GraniteTransformations.com.
