A kitchen remodel can be a major undertaking, changing everything you know about this important space in your home. It can involve tearing down walls and reconfiguring plumbing to completely reinvent the footprint of your kitchen, in partnership with design and contracting professionals. It often involves replacing (not just repainting or refinishing) all the major surfaces in a kitchen, like floors, countertops, sinks and custom cabinets, as well as installing new appliances. And it’s a time for making some bold choices when it comes to color, design and décor.

Whether you want to sell your house, make it more comfortable for your family to live in or you just feel like a change is in order, there are plenty of reasons for taking on a kitchen remodel project. In fact, according to real estate website Trulia, kitchens and master bathrooms are among the most important upgrades homeowners can make to get a good return on their investment when it’s time to sell.

Functionality

A big goal of any kitchen remodel is to improve functionality. Maybe your current kitchen layout doesn’t suit your lifestyle anymore, or it doesn’t have enough storage for all the things you use to cook and entertain with. Or, you might find yourself bumping into each other constantly when cooking or eating, which can lead to miscommunication and frustration.

When you remodel your kitchen, the opportunity is there to address these issues and create a space that fits your lifestyle perfectly.

It’s also a great opportunity to add in or rework your storage options. For example, adding in drawers instead of basic shelves can be a great way to make the most of your cabinet space. Drawers offer more organized storage that makes it easier to find things, and they’re also a nice visual upgrade over standard shelves.

Another common functional improvement is installing pass-through windows from your kitchen to the yard, which can be a fun and easy way to bring in natural light and fresh air. Or, you might want to install a breakfast bar or an eat-in island to provide space for family and guests to gather.

It’s also a chance to add in more modern energy-efficient appliances, which can make your home more environmentally friendly. If you’re unsure of which appliance model will work best with your kitchen, it can be helpful to consult a professional to help you make the right selections. It’s also a good idea to think about warranty and support options, as these can be different from one brand to the next. Also, consider your long-term goals when choosing your equipment. For example, if you’re planning to sell your home in the future, will your equipment be in style for the type of buyers you are targeting? Keeping your goals in mind can help you stay within budget and avoid spending money on features that might not appeal to potential buyers.