Tips for DIYing YOUR KITCHEN

Is your kitchen design stuck in the past?

Consider the following tips from designer Lauren Clement before starting your refresh project.

MAKE A LIST. Starting any big project can be incredibly overwhelming. Determine your budget and outline your “dream wish list.” Go through your list and divide the items between what you truly need for your kitchen to function better (appliances, island, cabinets) and those elements you would like for freshening up the design (backsplash, tiling, countertops and lights). “If you have to wait a bit to buy the exact light pendants you love or in order to get the right sink, do that, as it’s not something that you can change later,” Lauren says.

CREATE A PLAN. Having a prepared plan allows you to maximize your time and resources. Once you’ve decided what you’re going to refresh, draw up your design plan. If you’re wanting to update your appliances, cabinets or any other large items, start there and move outward. “Measure everything, lay it all out and sleep on your decisions,” Lauren says. “Taking each element and putting them together into a cohesive overall plan will guide you to a successful design.”

START WITH THE BIG STUFF. If you are gutting the space and starting from scratch, Lauren suggests starting with the cabinetry, since that usually takes the longest to order, produce and deliver. “Start with cabinetry and build out from there, making sure that each element complements the others,” she says. Once these larger pieces have been installed, move on to the countertops, backsplash, lighting and hardware.

GET ORGANIZED. Depending on the scope of your refresh, make sure you’re on top of ordering materials, installation dates and other aspects of your renovation to get your kitchen back functioning in a timely manner. “I like to keep a binder for each aspect of a renovation, and that way, as the work is happening, you have a quick and easy reference guide to help yourself remember what is supposed to be happening, as it is a long process with many details and the binder will be your lifesaver,” Lauren says.

(top, left) This little desk area is a beautiful and functional space for planning meals, checking emails or dropping off the mail. The soft white background allows for the intricate cabinet design and elegant furniture to take center stage. (top, right) The lighting fixtures, with their similar finish and feel, unify the space, while still adding distinction to each area. They also add another layer of interest and elegance to the overall design. “Those kitchen pendants above that massive island add so much artistic appeal, softness and style to an otherwise ‘hard’ space, and they are just so fun to look at,” Lauren says.