Why are you remodeling your kitchen? You'd think a straightforward question would have a straightforward response such as, "We want a new look."

7 Motivations to Move Forward With a Chicago Kitchen Remodeling Project

While aesthetics almost always play some role, there are a variety of reasons we are hired for Chicago kitchen remodeling projects. Here are seven of the most typical motivations:

1. It's broken. If a kitchen is old, things like cracked and chipped tiles, plumbing leaks, broken or near-broken cabinet doors and defunct appliances are all triggers for a re-vamp. Often, the replacement of one fixture leads to the replacement of another, and pretty soon you have a full kitchen remodel on your hands.
   
   
2. It looks like the set of the Brady Bunch. We have seen some pristine, 1970's kitchens that aren't broken at all but simply don't fit in with the modern era (proof that high-quality materials and craftsmanship can last for multiple decades). But, when you can't stand the olive green laminate or 4.5-inch Spanish tiles with thick grout anymore, it's time to update.
   
   
3. You just moved in. Sometimes, as much as our clients hate to rip out a kitchen in good shape, the kitchen style in their new home simply isn't theirs. As one of the most (and often the most) used room in the house, it's essential that your kitchen matches your household's taste and lifestyle. We can do everything in our power to tear things out in a way that allows them to be re-purposed and/or recycled.
   
   
4. You're moving out. This is often a combination of Numbers 1 and 2. Your kitchen was livable for you, but might be considered a detriment to future homebuyers. Remodeling your kitchen before a sale can add thousands (and sometimes tens of thousands) of dollars to your home's market value.
   
   
5. Things have changed. Until recently, the 20th century kitchen was largely designed around the concept of a kitchen work triangle - placing the fridge, stove/oven and sink in efficient proximity. These days, that formation doesn't always fly and sometimes homeowners are ready for a full layout change, that also includes style-based changes.
   
   
6. Thinking ahead. The 2008 housing crash had all of us shaking our heads, thinking, "what do we learn from this?" Many learned it made better sense to stay in a home you love (and that is largely paid off - or will be) rather than playing the real estate market as an investment tool. Aging-in-place and designing livable homes allows homeowners to live comfortably in their own home regardless of age- or life-related physical changes.
   
   
7. Eco-friendliness. From energy-efficiency to using renewable and/or low-VOC finishes, sometimes homeowners are ready for a kitchen update that is as eco-friendly as possible. Some of the upgrades you make can earn potential rebates and/or tax credits as well.

What's the reason for a potential kitchen remodeling project? Visit the showroom at Kitchens & Baths Unlimited for inspiration and experienced design tips that will help you get the most for your budget.