Our Design Process
ONE: Start with an Idea
All good projects start with a dream ...
The first step in planning a new kitchen or bathroom is one you may have already made, probably because it's such a natural place to begin. Build an idea file. This is nothing more than a collection of things that appeal to you. Look through magazines and tear out photos of rooms, products and surface samples that catch your eye. Keep an open mind about what you can afford at this point. The purpose of your idea file is to help you create a vision, a look and a feel that best reflects your personal tastes. The idea file will act as a constant reference point for your plan.
Keep in mind as you begin that nothing is written in stone and there are no unbreakable rules. Modifications or adaptations you may want in your kitchen or bathroom are probably available also.
TWO: Look Closely at the Space
Take a moment to really consider the area ...
Careful observation of how your family uses the kitchen or bathroom is a critical step in creating a successful new design. Note existing traffic patterns and determine how accessible the important features are to all family members. Question everything, don't overlook the obvious. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself:
• Are you a one-cook or multi-cook family?
• Does everyone join in the cleanup or is it one person?
• Should your plan include an eating space?
• Are your meals elaborate affairs, or do you eat and run?
• Do you have enough storage space?
• Are your cabinets adequate and logically planned?
• What small appliances do you need ready access to?
• Do you need a message center?
• Do you want a range or a built-in oven?
• Would you like to recycle?
THREE: Map Out the Terrain
Look at the existing design and function ...
As you make your observations, it also helps to map out your routine on paper. The best way to evaluate the functionality of a space is to give yourself a clear picture of what works and what doesn't work. As you do this, be sure to note all the obstacles that keep your current kitchen from meeting your needs. Here are some of the things to look for as you walk around your kitchen. Dozens of others will come to mind as you get into this process.
• Is this a one or two person kitchen?
• Do you have a comfortable work triangle?
• Is your work triangle out of a major traffic pattern?
• Are your counters at convenient heights?
• Do you prefer a window above the sink?
• Is the lighting adequate?
FOUR: Set a budget
Improvements can be made with any amount ...
Money is always an object, so this is a good time to determine just how much you want to invest in your kitchen or bath. Keep in mind that these are the two most popular places in the home to remodel. Since a good portion of everyone's day is spent there, be sure you budget enough to make those rooms come as close to your vision as possible.
The purchase of a new kitchen is in the same price range as the purchase of a new car with just as wide of a range. The same minimums and maximums apply. The only way to be sure of how much you may need to invest is to identify the space provided and allow us to do an estimate. This will be done at no charge and no obligation. Drawings will not be released until an agreement to purchase has been made.
As you review your financing options, remember most firms will want 50% when you sign the contract, 40% at delivery and the balance upon substantial completion.
FIVE: Designing and Installation
Finally, we can pull everything together ...
Your initial meeting with our designers should be at our showroom. It's important to note where all of the architectural features are in order to integrate them into the new plan. When you sit down with our designer, you will be asked various questions about your project and lifestyle. We are going to listen and work one-on-one with you to make sure the finished room reflects both your personal taste and how you use your home.
From this we will develop a design. More ideas may come after the designer visits your home to survey the space and take careful measurements.
The next step is to decide how much of the project you want us to coordinate. We leave the additions and structural remodels to other contractors. Apex Cabinet does not do any plumbing or electrical work; however, we have established working relationships with quality subcontractors that can assist in your project. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, we will be happy to provide materials only. If necessary, we will make arrangements with your builder, architect, and/or designer to coordinate the installation. Be sure existing cabinetry is empty and appliances are removed.
