From: Zillow Porchlight

Two experts weigh in on how to put your money where it counts.

A high-end kitchen remodels could easily drain your wallet. The nationwide average for a major kitchen remodel — replacing all appliances, installing a sink and faucet, and repainting walls — is $62,158, according to Remodeling magazine. And in cities like New York, those costs edge even higher.

A modest kitchen remodel, in which the cabinets are left in place, is $20,830 on average, and that’s not even accounting for labor delays or electrical issues from outdated wiring, which is common in kitchens.

Fortunately, there are ways to keep costs down without going batty. Here, two renowned interior designers share their tips for renovating a kitchen.

Consider how long you’ll be in the home

“Do you plan to be there two to three years, which means reselling is very important? Or do you plan to be there five to 10 years?” says Elena Frampton, creative director at Frampton Co in Manhattan. “That makes a difference in terms of design direction.”

If reselling is a factor, focus on basic, clean cabinetry and new appliances. If you’re staying longer, it’s about personalizing the space.

Evaluate the layout

“Ask yourself if you want your kitchen to be open or closed,” Frampton says. The answer will determine not only the kitchen’s layout but also how it interacts with adjacent spaces.

Factor in pantry space

Homeowners forget this frequently used storage space all too often. Frampton recommends including it in your plans.

Choose cabinets wisely

When remodeling a kitchen, you really need to understand how you live, how you cook, and how you like to organize things. “Know what you prefer and not necessarily what the marketplace is offering as a standard,” Frampton says. After all, the kitchen has to be functional.

If you’re annoyed by setting the toaster on top of the microwave every time you finish using it, you may want an appliance garage to keep gadgets and gizmos more accessible. “Focus on how it works for you,” Frampton adds.

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