Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY is one of the most important upgrades homeowners can make to their home. It adds resale value, as well as functionality to the most used room in the house.
A quality kitchen remodel can save you time, money and headaches down the road. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your project.
The kitchen remodel design stage is where homeowners and designers collaborate to envision and plan the ideal kitchen layout and aesthetic. Kitchen remodeling professionals also use this time to select the right materials from suppliers, including kitchen countertops, sinks, faucets, backsplashes and lighting fixtures, to ensure they match the overall design vision.
Designer Kate Marker merged circa-1920s nostalgic charm and pure circa-2020 sophistication for this kitchen remodel, which included knocking down walls to open the space and adding rustic whitewashed pine beams to the ceiling. The resulting cook space is now a glamorous focal point that’s balanced by an antique blue-gray island and Amish-crafted flat-paneled cabinets.
A well-thought-out storage scheme is essential to any kitchen. Incorporate pull-out pan racks, wall-mounted pot and pan holders, or even under-counter drawers to maximize available space for cooking utensils and supplies. It’s also a good idea to include multiple electrical outlets throughout the space, particularly near your workspace. This will make it easy to charge electronic devices, such as phones, tablets, and laptops.
One of the most popular kitchen remodel trends is a transitional style that blends classic and contemporary features. In this kitchen, dark blue cabinets set a warm backdrop for stainless-steel appliances and a sleek countertop with integrated sink. A stacked tile backsplash ties the look together.
Whether you’re going for a small facelift or major transformation, you’ll want to consider your goals and budget. A minor refresh will likely yield a higher ROI than a major remodel, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report. Regardless of what you choose, it’s important to communicate your design goals clearly to your contractor so that they can be executed on-time and within budget.
Layout
Your kitchen’s layout, a harmonious arrangement of countertops, appliances and storage spaces, is the key to making this highly-used room work well. A variety of layouts exist, but the best one will depend on the space you have available, your needs and your lifestyle. Your professional kitchen designer can help you find the right layout for your home.
One-Wall Kitchens
Often found in studio apartments and lofts, this basic layout uses cabinets and appliances along a single wall to maximize efficiency. If possible, the refrigerator should be positioned so that it opens away from the stove to avoid interfering with workflow. If you opt for this design, be sure to take advantage of vertical space by installing shelves and overhead cabinets where possible. A kitchen island also improves the functionality of this layout.
Galley Kitchens
Also known as corridor kitchens, galley layouts are a lean and efficient option for tighter spaces. Two walls facing each other characterize this kitchen layout, which keeps all working zones within easy reach. This design works well in small homes and snug condos, and can be expanded with the addition of an island.
U-Shape Kitchens
The most versatile design, the U-shaped layout provides countertop and storage space on three walls, which enables a smooth flow of workflow. However, this layout is not ideal for smaller rooms, because it can feel crowded. If you do choose this layout, be sure to install plenty of corner storage solutions, such as lazy susans, to make the most of your space.
Appliances
During a kitchen remodel, you will likely need to replace your appliances. This can be a great opportunity to upgrade your refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, oven and other essential cooking equipment. It is also a good time to consider upgrading to energy-efficient models that reduce your electricity costs and help protect the environment.
Upgrading your appliances can make a dramatic impact on the look of your kitchen. Newer appliances come in a wide range of designs that work with traditional or contemporary aesthetics. For example, you can opt for flush installation where the appliance blends in with the cabinetry. Appliances can also be customized with custom panels that match the cabinets.
Another benefit of a kitchen remodel is increased storage space for all your cooking tools and knick-knacks. Adding additional cabinets, shelving units and walk-in pantries is a great way to organize your kitchen and keep it looking clean and uncluttered.
A well-organized kitchen makes it much easier to cook, clean and manage your household. It can also improve family health and well-being by fostering social ties and making it easier to spend time together.
Kitchen remodeling can increase the number of people who can comfortably use your kitchen. Having an extra fridge and oven allows you to entertain guests without having to go out for meals. It also allows you to keep more food in the house for easy meals or snacks.
A modernized kitchen is a selling point and can attract homebuyers who appreciate the latest features and materials. You can also recoup some or all of your investment when you sell the property. Moreover, homeowners often find that they enjoy spending more time at home after undergoing a kitchen remodel.
Cabinets
Cabinets provide storage and a workspace, and can be designed in a variety of styles. They may be built in, or they can wrap around a kitchen appliance, such as a refrigerator. They are also available in a variety of materials, from solid wood to manufactured veneers. Cabinets are often the focal point of a kitchen, and a way to express a homeowner’s style.
Cabinet construction consists of a six-sided wooden box or carcass closed on five sides, with a door or drawers on the sixth. A cabinet can be framed (the door sits inside of the frame, called inset), or it can be unframed, where the door is attached to the front of the box itself, a design known as overlay. Framed cabinets tend to be used in more traditional kitchens, while overlay construction is often seen in contemporary designs.
The door style can have a significant impact on the aesthetics of the cabinets. Some doors are flat, or slab-like, and offer a clean, modern look. Others, like shaker doors, have a simple center panel that is reminiscent of vertical wall paneling. Beadboard is another popular choice, and accentuates a rustic or country kitchen design. Other doors are decorative, such as raised panels or fluted arches. Some doors are even glass, allowing homeowners to display collectibles and fine china.
The size of the cabinets depends on a family’s needs, and how the cabinetry is used. For example, a family that entertains may want more cabinets for food prep and serving, while a family with small children might prefer deep drawers to accommodate big pots and pans. Cabinets can also be arranged to maximize space by wrapping around a kitchen island, or to allow for more storage in the corners of a room.
Countertops
Kitchen counters are a focal point of any kitchen and the right surface can boost both the look and functionality of your home. There are many options available to choose from including natural stone, recycled glass, and durable laminate. When shopping for countertops, consider your budget and maintenance level. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance material, granite is an excellent choice. It’s resistant to heat, moisture, and chipping, and it comes in a wide array of colors to suit any decorating style.
Quartz counters are another attractive and durable option. They’re easy to clean and are stain-resistant. They come in several finishes, and they can be customized to include a backsplash. If you’re looking for a more dramatic option, consider waterfall counters. These sleek surfaces extend all the way to the floor and add a touch of modern style.
Adding custom kitchen features during a remodel can make your home stand out in the market. Prospective homebuyers tend to prioritize homes with updated kitchens, so you’ll likely recoup much of your investment when you sell your property. Additionally, kitchen remodels can improve the overall flow and efficiency of your kitchen, which can save you time and money in the long run. However, it’s important to work with a professional contractor so that your new space meets all your family’s needs and goals. They can also help you design a functional layout that suits your lifestyle and space requirements. This includes creating more storage, enhancing lighting and reorganizing the overall flow of your kitchen.