Setting Goals for Residential Kitchen Remodeling
Whether you’re planning to upgrade your kitchen for the sake of aesthetics or to increase your home’s value, setting goals will help determine the direction of your remodel.
Assess how you use your kitchen on a daily basis to determine what your goals should be.
Understand that some walls are load bearing and cannot be removed.
Cabinets
Cabinets aren’t just slabs of wood nailed to one spot; they’re an essential component of a living space that keeps your home clean, organized and tidy. They can add a touch of style that complements your countertops and backsplashes, and even offer concealed storage to hide unsightly items. Experienced kitchen remodelers can utilize multiple storage solutions to maximize your space, including pull-out cabinet organizers and pantry cabinets, as well as open shelving and under-counter spaces.
Some homeowners opt for a more minimalist look with their kitchen remodeling projects, and refacing cabinets may be the perfect solution. This cost-effective kitchen upgrade can drastically improve the aesthetic of residential kitchen remodeling your home without the hefty price tag of a full remodel.
While a beautiful kitchen is the goal for most homeowners, functionality is just as important. A beautifully remodeled kitchen can significantly increase your home’s value, and potential buyers will appreciate the well-designed layout and practicality of the space.
Choosing the right material for your cabinetry is also an important decision. There are many options available, such as solid wood, MDF, plywood and particle board. Solid wood cabinets are made from a single piece of homogenous wood, while MDF and plywood are engineered from multiple layers of wood glued together. Particle board is constructed from pieces of wood with a core, and is usually less expensive than MDF and plywood but can crack or warp over time.
Countertops
Countertops are an important design element that complements the overall style of your kitchen. There are a variety of materials to choose from, including natural stones and manufactured products. A wide range of color and finish options, along with edge profiles and backsplashes, can further customize your countertops. You can also use inlays of different materials to add visual interest and a personal touch.
For a contemporary look, consider quartz countertops. These durable, stain-resistant surfaces are easy to clean and are available in a range of colors and patterns. Quartz is also lighter than granite, making it easier to handle during food prep. Another popular option is tile. These versatile countertops come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and are easy to install. However, they are not impervious to stains and will require regular sealing.
Reclaimed wood and butcher-block countertops add a rustic and homey feel to the kitchen. However, they require extensive sealing and special care around high moisture areas.
Other options for countertop surfaces include recycled paper and onyx, which are both durable and visually appealing. These types of materials can be more cost-effective than natural stone, but they do not add much value to the home. Concrete is a more expensive option but offers a beautiful and unique look that can enhance the kitchen’s aesthetic.
Flooring
Floors are the foundation of any kitchen, and they provide endless opportunities to enhance your space. If your home has an open-concept design, you can extend the flooring from living or dining spaces into the kitchen for a seamless, cohesive look. Hardwood floors are a popular choice, and they’re durable enough to withstand heavy traffic and resist staining. Tiles are another great option for kitchens because they’re heat- and water-resistant and come in a variety of styles to suit any personal aesthetic.
If you want to install a wood floor but don’t have the budget for solid oak, consider engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl (LVT). These multilayered forms of PVC are durable and offer an authentic look at a fraction of the cost of real wood. They also come in tile and plank shapes that resemble natural wood or stone, so you can get the look of a natural material without the price tag or maintenance concerns.
Laminate is a great kitchen flooring option if you’re looking to balance budget with ROI. It’s cheap to buy, easy to install, and won’t hurt your home’s resale value if you decide to move.
Heated flooring is an added bonus that makes winter cooking a pleasure. You can have radiant floor heating installed under any type of flooring, but it works best with heat-conducting materials like tile and stone. It may add to your electricity bills, but it’s well worth the cost for warmth and comfort.
Lighting
When planning a kitchen remodeling hotel remodeling contractors project, lighting is an important aspect to consider. This is because the right lights can help you achieve your desired ambiance for both cooking and gathering. They can also add a touch of luxury to your kitchen design.
Decorative lighting adds accent to your kitchen and is meant to draw attention to specific design elements of the space. This type of lighting is often installed above a dining area or island, or it can be used to light up artwork on the wall. It is a great way to highlight your personal style and make it shine in your renovated kitchen.
Under cabinet lighting is an underutilized and overlooked part of any kitchen. Installing this kind of lighting will provide both task and accent lighting for your cabinets, making them more functional and aesthetically appealing. Under cabinet lighting is available in a wide range of options, from simple strip lights to fully custom rail kits that integrate lighting and power outlets into the backsplash.
It is important to set goals for your kitchen redesign at the beginning of the process, as this will help you stay on track throughout the renovation. It is also important to understand the scope of your remodel, as this will affect your timeline and budget. The scope can range from a cosmetic refresh to what Ariana Lovato of Honeycomb Design calls a “total gut.” If you’re considering a complete overhaul, it’s best to start by obtaining permits and getting your home ready for construction.
