HOW TO PLAN YOUR NEXT KITCHEN REMODEL
Homeowners spend more money on completing kitchen remodels than on remodeling any other room in their homes, and with good reason. Kitchens are the heart of the home and primary gathering spaces for family and guests during parties and holidays. An organized, well-designed kitchen equipped with the right appliances for your needs, plenty of space to cook, and ample, easily accessible storage brings joy to the entire home. Whether you’re remodeling your existing kitchen or designing one from scratch, keep these tips in mind to get the most value—and enjoyment—from your new kitchen.
1. Evaluate and plan.
Experts recommend spending as much time on planning as you would on actual construction. Start by evaluating the overall style and function of your existing kitchen. What do you like and dislike? Is it short on prep space? Is the flooring past its prime? Next, imagine the kitchen you want. Will it have more counter space? Clean tile flooring? An eat-in space? If you want an open kitchen, how many walls will have to come down? Plan a kitchen that suits your lifestyle, personality, and budget. Prioritize features you need and build in a few “bonus” items you’ll enjoy, such as a wine refrigerator or a mosaic tile backsplash.
2. Take measurements.
You don’t want to order a new refrigerator only to find it won’t fit in the allotted space. Measure the widths, depths, and heights of doorways, walkways, spots for appliances, countertops, and the room itself.
3. Sketch the layout.
Where will you put the refrigerator, range, stove, and sink? As a general rule, keep appliances and water fixtures in the same locations. You’ll save on construction costs associated with rewiring or changing the locations of plumbing pipes.
4. Island or no island?
Many homeowners love kitchen islands for the extra space and versatility they provide. You can use an island as extra prep space, a casual dining counter, or a bar for your next party. An island can include a small sink, extra cabinets, bar seating, and other accessories. The island should complement your kitchen and increase efficiency. You’ll need at least 36 inches—ideally 40 to 42 inches—of space between the island and cabinets. Work aisles should be 42 to 48 inches wide to accommodate more than one person.
5. Cabinets and hardware.
What types of material and finishes do you want? Changing the cabinet material or color can transform the look of your kitchen. Consider ergonomic features such as extra drawers and pullout shelves. Integrated appliances, which are a popular trend, blend seamlessly with cabinetry. For an energy-efficient way to light your countertop, choose cabinets with built-in under-cabinet LED lighting.
6. Appliances.
These make up the largest share of your remodeling budget, so plan wisely. Choose quality-brand appliances that fit your kitchen’s layout and include features that make chores easier. If you don’t cook, skip the professional-grade eight-burner gas range, and consider a speed oven or steam oven instead.
7. Countertops and backsplash.
Think realistically about your budget, your needs, and the wear and tear of everyday use as well as color and style when choosing a countertop surface. Stone countertops like marble, quartz, and granite are all excellent choices, although marble and granite generally require a bit more maintenance than engineered quartz. The material you choose for your countertop may also be used for the backsplash, or you could pair a clean white quartz countertop with a more decorative porcelain or glass tile backsplash.
8. Flooring.
Quality flooring will add value to your home. It also lays the foundation for your kitchen’s style and function. Options include classic hardwood, tile, polished concrete, and more. Consider your lifestyle (do you have kids or pets?), maintenance tolerance, comfort (will you be on your feet for hours?), style preferences, and budget. Many engineered hardwood and even laminate flooring options offer the look of natural wood, but they are more durable, they require less maintenance, and they cost less.
9. Lighting.
Lighting affects the functionality and appearance of the kitchen. Don’t let it become an afterthought. Choose a variety of lighting for versatility and optimum style. Recessed and track lighting add depth; task lighting, such as under-cabinet LED lights, highlights work spaces; and accent lighting, such as a chandelier or modern fixtures, adds character.
10. Paint.
Color sets the mood for your kitchen, and you have limitless “moods” to choose from. To narrow it down, remember that white, gray, blue, green, red, and yellow shades shine in the kitchen. Marry white walls with brightly colored accents for a modern look. Add warmth with red walls or cabinets. A touch of light blue on the ceiling or a wall can create a clean, calming feel. Imagining a new kitchen is an exciting yet challenging process. For professional guidance on creating your dream kitchen, call European Cabinets & Design Studios or download their kitchen design guide. Based in Palo Alto since 2002, European Cabinets & Design Studios offers comprehensive home design services. To learn more about their custom kitchen cabinets and other services, visit their showroom at 864 San Antonio Road, Palo Alto, or call 650-8430901.