One of the most common home improvement projects in the U.S. is kitchen remodeling. When asked which room in their house they would most like to remodel, Americans overwhelmingly chose the kitchen. And that's a good choice, because kitchen remodeling has the highest average return on investment when selling your house.

A wise investment

According to a report by MSN House & Home, kitchen remodeling projects generally pay back at least 90% of the investment and almost always help sell a house faster. The report estimates that minor kitchen remodeling projects ($2,000-$8,500) return 94% to 102% of the cost, while major kitchen remodels ($9,000-$25,000) yield around 90%. A similar study by Remodeling Magazine found comparable results; the national average for cost recouped for a minor kitchen remodel was 88%. This means that you'll enjoy a new kitchen and it won't cost you much in the long run.

So where do you start?

First you have to decide on the scope of the remodel. You can spend a few thousand dollars to spruce up your kitchen by simply revitalizing the cabinets, replacing countertops and installing new faucets. Or you can go for a complete makeover by redesigning the floor plan and starting from scratch - or somewhere in between.

The possibilities are endless

How you choose to remodel your kitchen depends on your personal taste and budget. You can replace countertops, sinks and faucets, refinish or replace cabinets, change the flooring, install new lighting, and replace appliances. You can also paint, wallpaper or tile the walls, install a new ceiling, replace the doors - there really is no limit.

Start by examining your wants and needs. Clip ideas from magazines. Visit some home improvement stores to get a better idea of what's out there and the costs, so you can discuss your options with your kitchen remodeling contractor.

New efficiency for the modern age

When designing your new kitchen, think of the three basic functions that are usually targeted for improvement: storage, preparation and clean-up. How can you make your space more efficient?

Traditionally, kitchen layouts have put the three major kitchen components (refrigerator stove and sink) in a triangular pattern. But things have changed from the 1950's. Food is no longer mostly made from scratch so we need double the storage space. And meals are more likely to be prepared by several people. Therefore, modern kitchen remodels focus on work stations that allow more than one person to work efficiently without getting in each other's way. A popular choice to create multiple work stations and increased storage space is to add an island.

Follow NKBA guidelines

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) has created a set of guidelines for planning your kitchen with the highest level of safety and functionality. The guidelines provide minimum standards for kitchen efficiency, convenience, traffic spaces, distances between items, and countertop and cabinet space. Ask your kitchen remodeling contractor if they're familiar with these guidelines.

You may want to hire a Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) to help you with the project. CKD's have several years of experience in kitchen design and have completed a rigorous set of tests administered by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Although this is a national accreditation program, the CKD designation is not required to work in the field.

Trust the value of experience and a good reputation

Non-CKD contractors and interior designers may have the experience and ideas you're looking for, as well as other licenses or accreditation. Whatever certification a contractor possesses, it is a good idea to check references and have a look at the contractor's previous work.

Stu Silverman is a home improvement advice columnist and freelance writer.