Unforeseen issues often make themselves apparent during or after remodeling your kitchen. Here are a few helpful tips you can employ during the planning stages to avoid some common problems and get you on your way to a happy kitchen remodel.

Jumping in too soon, then changing your mind.

Thorough planning and attention to detail are essential to a successful outcome. Of course, you can always change your mind midway – but expect it to affect the timetable, the budget and your contractor’s temperament.

Deep, dark (and scary) corners.

Avoid wasting valuable space by including one of the clever corner storage solutions offered by our manufacturers, such as a traditional lazy susan or a base blind pullout pantry. They’re all designed to increase usable storage space and make corners a lot more accessible and a lot less scary.

Here today, hated tomorrow.

While you can more easily update wall coverings, accessories and hardware to reflect the latest, cutting-edge color trends, consider choosing cabinetry, appliances and countertops that you know you can live with for a good long time. Go door-to-door looking for trouble. Think about how each door and drawer will open. Be sure they do not collide when opened and that appliance doors being opened will not restrict access to other areas of the kitchen.

Sinking into old habits.

If the view out the kitchen window is less than appealing (or even if it is) consider moving the sink to a center island or overlooking an adjoining area to be closer and more connected to family activities.

The dark ages.

Instead of relying on just one overhead fixture for light, check out today’s choices to lighten and brighten up your kitchen. Consider under-cabinet lighting to illuminate the sink or cooking area. Go with recessed or track lighting to brighten up dark corners or to spotlight decorative areas. For added impact, place strips of lights above cabinets or in the toekick area. Feeling enlightened yet?