A kitchen remodel is one of the most significant upgrades a homeowner can do. It can add value to your home and help with the resale.
Today’s kitchen has evolved from a tucked-away backroom to a showplace that connects to dining and living spaces. This requires thoughtful design to maximize functionality and create a cohesive look.
Countertops
Countertops are a major focal point in any kitchen and can be used to set the tone for the rest of the design. Today’s options range from technological materials to natural stone.
Solid surface countertops (Corian, among others) are nonporous and can withstand the abuse of well-used kitchens. They can also be molded to incorporate sinks and backsplashes seamlessly.
While not as hygienic as other surfaces, wood countertop ages beautifully and is easy to clean. According to a University of Wisconsin study, wood kills bacteria more quickly than plastic.
Cabinetry
Cabinets are big-ticket items that deserve careful consideration. An experienced kitchen design professional will ensure that your choices align with both the functional and aesthetic goals of your space.
Closed storage options, such as opaque cabinets, are ideal for tucking away everyday must-haves, while open storage solutions, like shelves and see-through cabinets, offer a fun way to showcase your prettiest wares. Consider color blocking your cabinets in a bold shade for a dramatic statement.
For a budget-friendly upgrade, paint your cabinetry a new color. This simple DIY hack works well with most cabinet colors and finishes.
Flooring
The kitchen floor is a high-traffic area that can endure heavy wear and tear. Consider your budget and the style you wish to project in your kitchen when exploring flooring options.
A patterned tile or geometric design is impactful in small kitchens and can help delineate a space. A herringbone pattern is a popular choice, but can be pricey to install.
Timber looks stunning as a kitchen flooring option, and can complement the wood used in cabinetry or smaller accessories. However, it is susceptible to water damage if not treated properly.
Lighting
The kitchen is a place to prep food, socialize and even work from home. That’s why lighting is so important for this hive of activity.
Think about a variety of lighting options to suit the style and functionality of your kitchen. Choose task lighting to illuminate countertops, sinks and the cooktop; mood lighting for a soft glow in sociable spaces; and feature or decorative lighting to highlight art pieces, flowers and other design accents. Look for fixtures that offer controllability to direct illumination as needed.
Appliances
Appliances are hard to swap out once installed, so it’s wise to choose them first. Pick ones that meet your needs and fit the kitchen design you’re going for.
Some brands, like Cafe, are gaining popularity for affordable options that still feel luxe with customizations and smart integration. Others, such as Viking, are on the high end but offer plenty of bells and whistles to justify the upfront investment.
Stainless-steel appliances are always in style and can add value to your home, according to real estate experts. Clad them to match cabinetry for a cohesive look.
Islands
Whether you want to be a hibachi chef or simply fling shrimp from the stovetop, a kitchen island is a must-have for any open-plan home. They increase counter space and storage while adding a unique look to the room.
If you don’t have the budget for a custom-built island, there are plenty of off-the-shelf options to fit any size kitchen. Consider a rolling island or cart that can be pushed against the wall when not in use.
Booths
Kitchen booths are a popular choice in contemporary homes. They offer an easy way to create a cosy and inviting kitchen space with the added benefit of hiding away unsightly storage underneath.
For small spaces, consider a U-shaped kitchen booth that’s flanked by windows. The natural light will help to warm up the space and make it appear bigger. Adding neutral benches and cushions will keep the space feeling calm. Alternatively, opt for a quirky head roll that’s similar to the color of your door and one of your pillows to add extra personality.
Storage
Stackable bins and baskets can help corral small items, like cookie sheets and baking trays. A kitchen remodeling project is also a great time to invest in new drawer organizers to keep everyday essentials within easy reach. Layering heights of storage is another great way to coral items and elevate the aesthetic. For instance, upper cabinets can be closed for a streamlined look while open shelving can hold more decorative elements like favorite antiques or pretty canisters.
Sky’s the limit when it comes to cabinets, but for a custom look consider cabinetry that extends all the way to the ceiling to house eye-level appliances and dry food larders.
