How Residential Kitchen Remodeling Can Elevate the Look and Feel of Your Home
Residential kitchen remodeling is a popular way to improve a home’s value and livability. The scope of a remodel can range from a cosmetic refresh to a complete overhaul that may require changing or rerouting plumbing and electrical lines.
General contractors that manage remodels usually don’t provide design services, so homeowners need to plan their projects themselves. This is especially important when determining what’s in or out of scope for the project.
Cabinets
Cabinets are a key element of any kitchen remodel and can have a significant impact on the design style. There are many different types, categories and styles of cabinets, and each has its own unique advantages. Cabinetry is also one of the most expensive elements of a home renovation, but it can have a high return on investment, increasing the value of your property and creating a space that meets your needs and fits with your lifestyle.
When you’re ready to begin your renovation, the first step is to set a budget and scope for the project. This will help you identify what features are within your reach and allow contractors to give accurate estimates for the work that’s needed. For homeowners who are going the DIY route, this phase is also an excellent time to research and compile ideas for your new kitchen.
While a professional contractor can handle most of the work, some projects like installing a backsplash and plumbing fixtures may require the expertise of a plumber or an electrician. Most importantly, any structural changes should be handled by a licensed construction professional to ensure that the work is completed safely.
If you live in a condo or co-op, it’s important to check the building’s alteration agreement for guidance on what can and cannot be done during a kitchen remodeling project. In some cases, placing “wet” spaces (like kitchens and bathrooms) over “dry” spaces (like bedrooms and living rooms) is not allowed.
Countertops
Countertops serve as the foundation of a kitchen, providing both functionality and aesthetics. Homeowners can choose from a variety of materials, finishes and customization options to suit their style and budget. For example, edge profiles, such as beveled, bullnose or ogee, offer decorative touches, while backsplash options extend the customization to walls behind countertops. Thickness variations also allow homeowners to tailor their countertops to fit a range of design aesthetics from sleek and modern to warm and rustic.
One of the most popular countertop options is natural stone, which offers durability and timeless beauty. Granite, marble, quartz and soapstone are all popular choices among remodelers. These countertops require extensive sealing at installation and must be treated with care to prevent staining and scratching.
Metals are another unique option for kitchen countertops. Copper and zinc offer a warmer, more pastoral aesthetic that complements cottagecore and traditional home designs, while residential kitchen remodeling stainless steel offers a sleeker look that pairs well with contemporary styles.
Laminate is an affordable countertop option that requires little maintenance and provides the flexibility to match other elements of the kitchen. Homeowners can choose from a wide range of colors and patterns to refresh their kitchens, or they can opt for a more durable laminate that resists water and scratches. Homeowners can also incorporate an integrated sink into their countertops to add a seamless, coordinated look or use a backsplash to complement the countertop material.
Flooring
Flooring makes a bold statement and can elevate the look of any kitchen. It’s important to choose a durable material that will stand up to heavy foot traffic and frequent cleaning. Laminate, tile, vinyl, and wood are all popular choices.
If you’re on a tight budget or seeking ROI, laminate is a good option. It’s cheap to install and inexpensive to replace if you decide to resell your home. It can be a little slippery, so mats are recommended where excessive moisture is present like in front of a sink.
Natural stone and hardwood flooring are more expensive options but they’re sure to add value to your home. They’re also more durable than other materials, and they’ll look beautiful for years to come. Be prepared for more maintenance than other types of flooring.
If you’re going with a more earthy feel, bamboo or cork are great choices. Concrete is another alternative that can be stained or painted to create a unique style. If you’re renovating a condo or co-op, make sure to check your building’s alteration guidelines before beginning your project. They’ll lay out what is and isn’t allowed. For example, placing “wet” spaces (like a kitchen) over “dry” spaces (like the living room) is usually prohibited. This can affect the order in which you complete your kitchen remodeling project.
Lighting
Lighting is a key component to a remodel in any room, but it’s especially important when reworking your kitchen. The right combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting can elevate your entire home experience.
Surface Lighting
One of the most common types of lighting is surface-mounted fixtures that hang from the ceiling to provide ambient illumination. These can be ceiling fans, flush-mount or semi-flush mount fixtures, chandeliers, or recessed lights. Ambient lighting provides soft overhead illumination that gives rooms a warm, inviting feel. It also illuminates the floor and walls so that you can move around safely and complete tasks.
Recessed Lighting
These lights, often called pot or can lights, are small recessed lighting fixtures that can hotel remodeling contractors add a subtle, layered look to your kitchen. They’re great for illuminating a backsplash or to highlight an area of the kitchen, such as an island.
Shed Light on Artwork
As the kitchen continues to evolve into more of a gathering space for families and friends, homeowners are incorporating canvases, framed photos, and other pieces of artwork into their kitchens. Whitehead suggests using recessed, adjustable fixtures to properly light this type of artwork. These fixtures are a cost-effective alternative to hanging sconces or pendants over the artwork. They can be recessed in the ceiling, under cabinets or in a corner, and come in a wide range of color options.
