Kitchen Remodel is more than a visual upgrade. It can add resale value and make a home more functional for families.
Before jumping into a major project, homeowners should determine their goals and plan a detailed scope of work. Experts suggest focusing on what’ll be most used and avoiding styles that may look outdated in a few years.
Cabinetry is responsible for a significant portion of the budget for any kitchen remodel. Cabinets are:
- The “bones” of the kitchen.
- Keeping your cooking, dining.
- Serving utensils and dishware safe, organized, and accessible while adding to the overall style and function of the kitchen.
The word “cabinet” comes from the Latin word cabinetum, meaning a box or cupboard with doors or drawers. Cabinets come in a variety of styles, sizes and finishes, each designed to meet different needs and match varying aesthetic preferences. Depending on the size of your kitchen, style, construction materials, and desired storage solutions, cabinets can be made from wood or other durable materials. Cabinets can also be frameless, face-framed, or a combination of both styles. Face-framed cabinets have a front face frame that adds strength and stability to the cabinet box. The cabinet door is then mounted on top of this frame. Frameless cabinets do not have a front face frame, leaving the entire side, bottom and top of the cabinet box exposed for easy access.
Both wood and laminate remain popular choices for cabinet construction. Natural hardwoods such as oak, maple, hickory, and cherry are strong and attractive options. More economical choices include engineered wood, thermo-fused laminate and particleboard. Solid wood cabinets are more expensive, but they offer superior durability and longevity.
Besides the material, color and sheen (from matte to high gloss), you may want to consider the door hardware and cabinet accessories. These may include pull-out trash cans, spice racks, cutlery drawers and pots and pans slide out organizers. These are available to maximize your storage space, reduce clutter, and make cooking and cleaning a more enjoyable experience.
Before beginning your kitchen remodel, it is a good idea to prepare an area in which you can temporarily store all of the new cabinetry and other products you have ordered. This will help to prevent a delay in your project, especially if you have ordered custom or semi-custom cabinets that need to be built to your specifications. It is important to communicate with your designer about any changes in appliance selections, as these can also affect the dimensions of your cabinets.
Countertops
When you’re replacing countertops in a kitchen remodel, it’s a decision that’ll have a significant impact on your entire space. It’s important to work with a countertop contractor that understands your vision and can help guide you through the process. It’s also important to choose a countertop material that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Choosing the right countertops will affect your kitchen remodel in many ways, including how it looks and its resale value. It’s important to consider all of your options when choosing a new surface, including the color and texture as well as the size and shape.
If you want a natural look, granite is a popular option that pairs well with traditional and modern kitchens. This hardy stone is resistant to heat and moisture and holds up to scratches. Granite is available in a wide range of colors, and it’s easy to find a style that will complement your cabinets.
Marble is another timeless choice for kitchen countertops. It’s a luxurious surface that works best with transitional and contemporary designs. Its natural patterning makes it versatile, and it can be used to create a sophisticated look in any kitchen. Marble is more sensitive to stains than other types of stones, so it’s important to seal them regularly.
Concrete countertops offer a high-end, modern look that can be customized in many different ways. You can have them dyed any color, pour them to any size, and even inlay them with materials like broken tiles or sea shells for an artistic look. They’re a good choice for any kitchen, from craftsman to cottage.
A trend that’s picking up steam is the “raw edge” countertop. It’s created by chiseling the edges of the stone, producing a ragged — but uniform — finish. This style can bring a rustic feel to modern kitchens, and it pairs nicely with wood cabinetry.
Another unique counter surface is terrazzo, which is a blend of cement and colored pieces of marble, glass, recycled stone and other materials. This trendy material is a popular alternative to granite, and it’s available in a wide variety of styles and colors.
Flooring
A new floor can give the kitchen a fresh, clean appearance that complements other design elements. Many people decide to put down flooring after installing cabinets but before adding countertops. This method prevents having to cut around cabinets later and allows the homeowner to choose a style that will work well with their cabinets. It also eliminates having to install quarter rounds and keeps the cost down.
Another big decision is the type of flooring to use. There are many options available, and each one has its pros and cons. For example, natural stone products like granite or quartzite are beautiful but come with a high price tag. Laminate and solid surface products are less expensive but are not as durable. It is important to consider your needs and budget before making a selection.
Durability is one of the most important features to consider in a kitchen floor. It is important to have a material that can stand up to the high amount of foot traffic and frequent spills. The material should also be able to resist drops of pots and pans. Finally, the material should be water-resistant to prevent damage from splashes or spilled cleaning products.
Most kitchens in homes are not designed with a lot of storage space. Creating more storage space is often a goal for homeowners during their kitchen remodel. This can be done by adding pull-out pantry shelves, baskets, and other unique storage solutions.
If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, it’s important to have a clear vision of what you want the end result to look like. Having a kitchen designer or contractor can help you find a solution that fits your style, needs, and budget. They can also help you identify potential problem areas and suggest solutions.
A professional kitchen remodel NY can bring new life to your home and increase its value. However, a remodel is a big investment, and it’s crucial to set a realistic budget before beginning the project. A budget will help you stay on track and avoid costly mistakes.
Appliances
During kitchen remodels, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to purchase new appliances. Considering they often come with matching styles and finishes, these items can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. Additionally, some homeowners will opt to purchase appliances that offer advanced features. Whether it be a hidden microwave or a warming drawer, these devices allow you to customize your kitchen experience and showcase your personal style.
What are the most expensive parts of a kitchen remodel?
While the cabinet and counter installations are arguably the most significant aspects of a kitchen remodel, the appliances are also an essential part of the process. Buying a brand-new refrigerator, stove, oven, and dishwasher is a considerable investment for most homeowners. However, there are ways to save money on these upgrades during your kitchen remodel.
For example, many homeowners choose to purchase Energy Star-qualified appliances. These units are designed to be more energy efficient than standard models, which can significantly lower a homeowner’s monthly electric bills.
Other cost-saving measures include installing LED lighting. This type of light typically costs less than traditional fixtures, while still providing a high level of functionality. It’s also a good idea to opt for dimmable lights in your kitchen. This allows you to set a more intimate and cozy mood in your space while also keeping the area well-lit when cooking or cleaning.
If you are looking for a way to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank, consider a home equity line of credit (HELOC). These loans can provide you with funds that you can use as you see fit. This allows you to spread the cost of a kitchen remodel over time, which can alleviate financial pressure and reduce the overall project timeline.
In the end, your kitchen is a place where you create memories with friends and family. It’s a space that should be enjoyed by all and showcases your culinary taste and personality. For these reasons, we encourage you to explore a wide range of unique appliances that can help you elevate your kitchen remodel.
