My dad is hardly a gourmet chef. When I was a kid, his specialty was beanie weenies, otherwise known as microwaved pork and beans with sliced hot dogs. On really deluxe nights, he'd add cheese. Nonetheless, he manages to create a gorgeous Thanksgiving Dinner every year, and for that alone, he's glad for his kitchen's double. If you're like my dad - not a chef per se, but an occasional dabbler - taking some kitchen remodeling ideas from the pros can make all the difference. Here's why.

Personal Enjoyment

I've lived in apartments with tiny kitchens, and when I say tiny, I mean a half-size sink, no counter space to speak of, and no oven ("You don't go out to eat for every meal?" said the disbelieving real estate agent when I asked if there was an oven hiding somewhere). The most ambitious thing I ever made in that apartment was toast.

If you're putting time and money into kitchen remodeling, you clearly have higher standards, and space to cook really makes a difference. Professional kitchen features, like double ovens, big refrigerators and freezers, even double dishwashers, give you plenty of space and make putting your kitchen to use that much more fun.

Resale Value

Kitchen remodeling is a wise investment - kitchens have such an impact on the value of your home. But that doesn't mean that every kitchen remodeling idea will pay off. A giant built-in fish tank, for instance, may not have universal appeal, but no chef can do without professional-grade appliances and plenty of working space. You'll like them, and so will future buyers.

Not all professional-chef-inspired kitchen remodeling ideas will work, but do what you can with what you have. With the right equipment, you'll never have to serve beanie weenies and toast.

About the Author
Dawn West B.A. holds a B.A. in English from Harvard University and teaches writing at Oregon State University.