Kitchen Remodel

How Much Does A Kitchen Remodel Increase Home Value In 2023?

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Remodeling

Your kitchen a relic from the past? Whether you’re looking to sell your home or simply want to enjoy an updated kitchen, remodeling can add value and create a gorgeous, modern kitchen for you and your family to enjoy. So much of your daily life is spent in the kitchen. From preparing and eating breakfast to family dinners and holiday celebrations, the kitchen is the heart of the home. In updating your kitchen, you can ensure that space better serves your family and makes day to day life simpler. Even if you plan to sell your home in a few years, a kitchen renovation can help maximize the value you get for your home. In most housing markets, you will not get back everything that you paid for a kitchen remodel, no matter what the size of the project or home. The best way to ensure your home increases in value is to maintain it with updates when needed and stay up to date on the latest home repairs. However, if your home is older or you are ready to update your space, a kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to make it look and feel more modern. Home Value & ROI While most people do not remodel their kitchen solely to increase resale value, according to Houzz’s 2019 Kitchen Trends Study about 5-10% of homeowners do cite increasing home value as their primary reason for taking on a kitchen renovation project. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value Report, kitchen remodeling does have a better than average rate of return and although its dependent on the size of the kitchen improvement project, you’ll likely recoup 60% to 80% of what you paid. With that being said, minor kitchen remodels have the best rate of return (generally around 80%) and from 2017-2020 the project consistently ranked in the top 5 home improvement projects for best investment and return value. Your kitchen’s return on investment (ROI) depends on the location, condition, and selling price of your home. Most kitchen remodeling projects begin at a cost of around $10,000 and continue to climb in price up to several hundreds of thousands. According to HomeGuide, the average kitchen remodeling cost is between $12,800–$21,200 at a range of $100-$250 per square foot. The price of kitchen remodeling and the value that results from those changes is unique to every kitchen design project, but there are a few ways to get the most value for your money. How To Create Value Investing in minor updates like replacing countertops and other outdated pieces while maintaining the existing footprint of the kitchen can help you increase your enjoyment of the space, update your home for future buyers, and increase the overall value of your home without breaking the bank. While minor kitchen remodels tend to have the best cost to value ratio, remodeling can do wonders for your appreciation of the space, how potential home buyers view the space, and the space functions to meet your family’s needs.   A large home with a high value is much more likely to appreciate with a kitchen remodel compared to its previous state, which might not net as much profit once it goes up on the market. Similarly, a small home in a neighborhood with older homes or more rundown houses will gain value from a remodel, since it will stand out from other homes in the area and becomes a more attractive option for homebuyers. Looking at project of other kitchen remodeling projects can provide you with a good idea of what you may like in your new kitchen, as well as the general price range you should expect for the project. Regardless of the size of your kitchen remodel, there are chances that you can make to add value. Check out some of the options for kitchens of every size and remodeling budget. Freshen the space with small updates. Typical costs range from $10,000–$25,000. With a minor kitchen remodel, the focus is typically on updating noticeably older aspects and creating a new face for the kitchen. From painting and swapping out hardware to new appliances or lights, a minor update will help bring new life into the space without breaking the bank. Update paint color Swap out cabinet hardware Install new light fixtures Maintain current kitchen footprint Newer matching appliances Midrange Kitchen Remodel Swap out older fixtures and appliances. Typical costs range from $25,000–$65,000. A midrange remodel is the typical remodel for homeowners and usually consists of updating cabinets, countertops, and outdated kitchen appliances. A smaller kitchen can install higher end modern fixtures for this price range, or a larger kitchen could invest in some careful updates to a few aspects of the kitchen that are in dire need of change. Install new cabinets Create kitchen island Install backsplash New light fixtures Installing vinyl or tile flooring Upscale Kitchen Remodel A complete kitchen remodel. Typical costs range from $65,000–$120,000+. For an upscale remodel, all bets are off. This is the time to create your dream kitchen. Some remodels include a full kitchen gutting and remodel, while others opt for a few luxury items that make the space look and feel opulent. If you have the means, this is the remodel that will make the biggest visual impact. New cabinets Updated countertops New hardwood, tile, slate flooring Altered floorplan Electrical, plumbing, design work Ultimately, It’s Up To You Nobody can tell you when to remodel your kitchen to increase your home value the most. However, you can make efforts to reduce the overall cost of remodeling and design. First and foremost, talk about costs and budget with the remodeling company or designer that will be completing the work. A designer can help you stay in budget and suggest updates with the best return on investment, based on the current age and state of your kitchen. Likewise, speak to a realtor or home selling specialist about what aspects of the kitchen tend to “sell” best. They may even suggest DIT projects that can help boost your home’s value for showings and offers. A bit of DIY work, using reclaimed materials, and talking to the experts about your budget and goals, can go a long way to adding value to your new kitchen. Whether you find yourself deciding between granite and quartz countertops, or debating which flooring material would look best, there is always a trade-off between aesthetics and cost. While you are

How Much Does A Kitchen Remodel Increase Home Value In 2023? Read More »

Modern Kitchen

How To Create A Modern Kitchen: 10 Useful Design Tips

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Design Tips

Utilize Closed Storage for Modern Kitchen One of the best ways to update and modernize your kitchen is to take advantage of cabinet storage and recessed appliances. By embracing closed storage, you can create a cleaner looking kitchen and keep items up and off countertops. Look into inset cabinets, which remain flush with each other and remove the bulky look of traditional cabinet doors. Many modern kitchens look like they don’t have any appliances, until you open a cabinet to access a carefully hidden microwave or refrigerator. Closed shelving creates a minimalist aesthetic for cabinets and appliances that ripples into the design and look of the rest of your kitchen. By utilizing closed storage, you also have access to more work and counter space. Choose Neutral Tones One common feature among modern kitchens is that they all tend to embrace monochromatic color palettes or complimentary neutral tones. The time of flashy kitchens with in-your-face colors and patterns is a thing of the past.Whether you want a warm, bright kitchen or a cool one that speaks of elegance, the best way to achieve your goals is to carefully select paint and feature colors. In order to make your kitchen look modern and stylish, opt for warm neutral and earth tones such as beige, taupe, gray, white, and black. Incorporate A Kitchen Island If you’ve walked into a home built in the last couple decades, then you’ve almost certainly noticed the upward trend of functional kitchen islands. While kitchen islands became popular in the 1980s, they really began to ramp up and take on functional use in the 2000’s. By adding a versatile island in your kitchen, you’re able to create more functional workspace for food preparation or other needs. A kitchen island acts as the focal point of the room and adds versatility to how you can use your kitchen. You can add a large farmhouse sink, bar stools, increase cabinet storage, designate a food cutting or cooking area, and more. Add Seating to Make it Modern Kitchen With more modern kitchens adding kitchen islands and bars, one of the best ways to take advantage of these additions is to add seating to your kitchen. Whether you purchase a couple of barstools or create a comfortable island that doubles as a kitchen table, you won’t regret being able to comfortably sit and enjoy your kitchen. Seating can easily be incorporated into a kitchen island or a countertop that leads to living space, and acts as a natural divider between two rooms–such as the kitchen and living room. By adding bar or counter seating, you can cook and serve food, easily entertain, and add flexibility to the way you use your kitchen. Maximize Lighting Bad lighting can ruin the aesthetic and design of a kitchen. Invest in interesting light fixtures to improve visibility for cooking and entertaining, modernize the look of your kitchen, and make navigating the kitchen in the dark for a midnight snack easier with a dimmer switch or under cabinet lighting. There are a variety of kitchen lighting options, including: recessed, track, under cabinet, suspended, and more. Pendant, or suspended, lighting allows you to choose gorgeous hanging light fixtures. Recessed lighting looks ultramodern and is a great choice for lights that don’t call too much attention away from the rest of the room. Track lighting has a great aesthetic and offers more flexibility to where the light is pointed. The lighting possibilities are endless, but in order to create an updated, modern kitchen you should ensure plenty of lighting that highlights the room’s best features. Update Flooring The most telling sign of an outdated kitchen is an older floor with damage or a dated style of flooring. A damaged floor may have structural issues such an unevenness or sagging in the middle, along with scratches, dents, and other aesthetic damage. Your kitchen’s flooring may still function fine and be in good condition but look “ugly” or outdated for the time. Modern kitchen design features gorgeous flooring in a variety of materials and styles. Hardwood, large tile, slate, and even marble have become staples of modern kitchen flooring. Hardwood allows you to easily mesh living and kitchen space with no interruptions in flooring. Slate is durable, beautiful and versatile. Marble looks and feels high-end and gorgeous. Tile comes in so many different forms and can add distinct style and personality to your kitchen. Use Dark Or Colored Cabinets Older kitchens tend to look dated because of their cabinetry–especially those that select light wood cabinets without designing the rest of the kitchen properly to complement them. Modern kitchens typically have all-white cabinets or dark wood cabinets that look and feel high-quality and durable. Others may choose to paint cabinets to select a color to create a specific kitchen design and theme. Regardless of the color you select, try to stay away from “dated” looks like light and medium colored wood paired with dark colored countertops, cabinets with visible grain patterns, or cabinets that are multi-toned with white and wood. Modernize Your Countertops Another tell-tale sign of an older kitchen is damaged countertops, along with those made of vinyl, laminate, tile, or wood. In order to make your new kitchen shine, consider replacing cheaper tile and grout or vinyl with new granite quartz, and marble countertops. These modern materials are durable, beautiful and will ensure your kitchen looks modern, even if you make no other changes. While each material has its advantages and disadvantages, the “big three” (marble, granite, and quartz) are long-lasting countertop options for your kitchen that come is a huge variety of colors and styles. With so many options, you’re bound to find a countertop that fits your design vision and budget in order to bring your kitchen into the modern world. Embrace Energy Efficiency Replace outdated kitchen appliances and save money on energy bills, while reducing your carbon footprint in the process. By upgrading to modern appliances, you can save money and help save the environment. Swapping out appliances for more

How To Create A Modern Kitchen: 10 Useful Design Tips Read More »

Kitchen Design

Benefits of Renovating Your Kitchen and Bathroom Simultaneously

Bathroom Remodeling, Kitchen Ideas, Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen and bathroom are the most used rooms in the home–for both homeowners and guests. These rooms are the focal points of the home and add value and functionality to the space. From daily tasks like cooking and bathing to celebrations and holiday events, the kitchen and bathroom serve as pivotal rooms in the home, which must be functional and have flair. For a home with an outdated kitchen and an inefficient or too small bathroom, remodeling provides a variety of options to create the kitchen of your dreams or remodel your own personal oasis. When properly renovated, these two rooms can add tremendous value too, and enjoyment of, your home. Remodeling both spaces at once might seem overwhelming; however, tackling one large project, as opposed to two medium-sized projects, can reduce the stress associated with a longer, more drawn out renovation timeline and help you save time and money. Taking on two remodeling projects at once can be a lot to handle, but that’s why you have a construction manager or contractor and a designer to keep you on schedule and in the loop. Tackling both projects at the same time allows for a streamlined remodeling process, ease of coordination, and less stress over the long term. A great time to remodel is while you have other temporary accommodations or support or are remodeling in order to sell your current home. Saves Time Remodeling Kitchen Planning to have both rooms remodeled simultaneously can save time and energy. Nobody benefits from a long, drawn-out remodel–whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or remodeler. Choosing to renovate both the kitchen and bathroom at the same time can save months of drawn-out construction and design work that is associated with another remodeling project. Get an estimate not only to see how much a joint kitchen and bath project will cost but also how long it will take compared to separate remodeling. Avoid the unnecessary inconvenience of losing access to your kitchen, and then losing access to your bathroom. Instead, plan for both rooms to be out of use and make alternative arrangements. Cabinet and countertop installations can be completed in tandem for both rooms, along with plumbing and electrical work–reducing the number of home visits needed for contractors and the time you lose access to important rooms in your home. Reduces Kitchen Remodel Costs Get more bang for your buck by combining renovation projects into one timeline. By selecting one remodeler to handle your projects, choosing similar or the same materials, and reducing labor, you can reduce overall costs. Labor–When it comes to renovation costs, labor is the most expensive aspect apart from materials. Taking on two projects at once allows you to consolidate costs associated with contractor visits, labor, and combines efforts during the process–taking up less time and saving you money. Materials–Electing for a joint bathroom and kitchen remodeling project is also a great way to save on material costs, if you are willing to be flexible. For example, select the same material for cabinets and vanities or for countertops. By choosing to use some of the same materials or design elements, you can order a larger amount of one cost-saving product and use it for both rooms and you may get a better deal. Remodelers and designers also tend to build relationships with suppliers for discount agreements. Remodelers can get a better price on materials from their suppliers by purchasing a larger amount and pass along the cost savings to you. When you consider the cost of contractors coming on different days, limited access to a room, purchasing materials, taking time off work or arranging convenient times to review progress, and then having to do it all over again months or years later, there are plenty of way that scheduling both your kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects at the same time can save you money. Cohesive Home Design Kitchen By using similar materials, colors, and design schemes, you can ensure your kitchen and bathroom have a cohesive design and don’t have to worry about whether the two areas blend well together. A professional designer will ensure the two spaces are flawlessly designed and complement each other at the outset of the project. A simultaneous kitchen and bathroom design project also ensure that years down the road you won’t be worried about finding that exact matching color, material, or design element. With a joint project, you can have one clear vision with one designer and a single professional team that handles everything. During the design and remodeling process, you can work with your designer to create one design board with elements in each space that integrate well into your home’s overall design and color scheme–especially by using the same style of design to complementary colors, textures, and features. Adds Value Along with boosting your personal enjoyment of your home, remodeling both your kitchen and bathroom is a great way to increase your home’s overall resale value. Should you ever decide to sell your home, it will likely be worth more than area comparisons and net you a greater profit. Two newly renovated spaces that age simultaneously add tremendous value to your home and mean that future home buyers are more likely to pay a premium for the home. It also allows you to enjoy and use new features of your kitchen and bathroom, such as energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and water features. You don’t have to worry about either room wasting water, electricity, or the expense or waste of heating both spaces since a remodel can simultaneously integrate updated aspects in both rooms. Contact Us If you aren’t sure where, to begin with, your kitchen and bathroom remodeling or design project, contact the professionals at Kitchen and Bath Masters Design & Remodeling. We provide free design consultations and have a huge selection of gorgeous, durable materials to help you streamline a joint kitchen and bathroom remodeling project. Our expert designers are experienced in helping homeowners create a complete plan to transform any space, down to the smallest details. From the initial kitchen and bathroom design to the complete installation and finishing touches, we have

Benefits of Renovating Your Kitchen and Bathroom Simultaneously Read More »

Countertops

How to Choose the Best Bathroom Countertops

Bathroom Countertops, Bathroom Remodeling

One of the things that can age a bathroom the most is outdated countertops. They look old, dingy, and out of place in a modern home–especially if they are of lesser quality material. Let us help you figure out how to choose the best bathroom countertops for your soon-to-be remodeled space. Discover different bathroom countertop materials, such as granite, quartz, and marble, and decide which stone is right for your space. View countertop stone patterns and designs, along with the many brilliant color options available. Don’t settle for anything less than the best for your home. Choose gorgeous new bathroom countertops and vanities for your bathroom renovation. Decide on Material Finding the right material is probably the most important decision you will make when figuring out how to choose the best bathroom countertops. A staple of modern bathrooms are high-quality materials, including gorgeous stone countertops for plenty of storage space and versatility. Some of the most popular countertop materials are granite, marble, and quartz. Although there are plenty of other stone & laminate countertop options, they are not typically recommended for durability or longevity. These natural stone materials can withstand the hot steam from showers and baths, the water from the sink, and constant wear and tear from daily use. While laminates or less durable stone might peel, chip, or stain, these materials can withstand whatever you throw at them. In order to really make your bathroom remodel shine, consider replacing cheaper laminate, tile, or vinyl with new granite, quartz, or marble countertops. These materials are beautiful, durable, and will ensure that your bathroom looks modern–even if you make no other changes. While each material has its advantages and disadvantages, the “big three” (marble, granite, and quartz) are long-lasting countertop options that come is a huge variety of colors and styles. Granite and quartz are two of the most common high-end countertop materials, but with so many options you’re bound to find a countertop that fits your design vision and budget in order to bring your bathroom into the modern world. Granite Countertops Granite is a durable countertop material that comes in many natural colors and styles and is sure to look gorgeous in any space. Granite can an affordable countertop option, depending on the style you select. Each slab of granite is completely unique and guaranteed to bring a wow factor to any bathroom. Granite is also one of the most popular countertop materials for remodeling kitchens and bathrooms due to the variety of color choices and durability of the stone. The stone also won’t weather or fade from light or sun exposure, so you can expect it to look great for decades to come. When correctly sealed, granite countertops won’t soak up liquid and will stay stain-resistant for the duration of their use. Quartz Countertops Quartz is a slightly harder material than granite, but it may be more affected by heat, so if you decide to install quartz countertops in your bathroom then be careful about leaving the curling iron out. The upside to the materials is that it is much less likely to chip or get damaged by usual wear and tear. Many people may not know that quartz countertops are man-made and consist of quartz chips or quartz dust bound together with resin. Quartz is also non-porous and will remain bacteria-free, which makes it a great option for bathrooms. Quartz typically comes pre-sealed before installation and has very little maintenance requirements. Colors The first step to choosing a color for your new bathroom countertops is to decide between a lighter or darker colored countertop, and then break the decision down further into tones and hues that coordinate with the rest of the bathroom. Consider if you will be using anything directly on the countertop and whether the surface could experience any staining or burning. It’s all too common to see marks left on a countertop or vanity from a curling iron or hair straightener that was accidentally left on. A white or light- colored countertop will show more scuffs, burns, and stains than a darker colored option. There are natural granite countertops in almost every color you can think of, however there tend to be many more options in earth tones of black, white, gray, green, blue, and tan or beige. Deciding between colors is a relatively easy step in figuring out how to choose the best bathroom countertops. Since quartz is man-made, color options are pretty limitless. Resins can be tinted to any hue and the quartz chips can be as uniform or diverse in color or arrangement as desired. Patterns The various patterns and unique design elements in natural stone countertops are a huge draw to selecting these materials for bathroom countertops and vanities. Marbling, speckling, and many other natural stone patterns make granite countertops a favorite for bathroom design. While some people prefer a solid countertop, such as a solid glossy white or slate gray, most people like the look of bathroom countertops with some kind of pattern or unique design element such as marbling. Quartz countertops may have patterns or designs, but they are typically not as dramatic as the natural patterns seen in the granite slabs that are used for countertops. Consider Your Budget Replacing outdated countertops can also go a long way towards making your current bathroom feel like a new space, even if that is the only update you make for the time being. There are some gorgeous countertop options out there, but ultimately the choice you make comes down to what fits within your budget and will look best in your home. If you have a set budget, consider speaking to a home remodeler or designer to get a better understanding of the cost of different countertop materials. Designers work with many countertop brands and materials and can provide both design and budget suggestions. You may find that your budget allows for more options than you imagined. Some man-made materials, such as quartz, can vary hugely in cost. The price of a

How to Choose the Best Bathroom Countertops Read More »

custom kitchen remodeling services

MODERN LUXURY KITCHEN DESIGNS

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Design Tips, Kitchen Remodeling

Standards of kitchen design have changed so much in the last few decades, from the popularity of bright colors and unique patterns to sleek lines and natural materials, and everything in-between. If your kitchen is reminiscent of another decade, or even another century, since many homeowners leave off remodeling for as long as possible, it’s time for a modern luxury kitchen design. While retro-looking kitchens and trends of the past can and do inspire modern designs, kitchens that have not been updated in many decades can date the overall look and feel of a home. Kitchens that are still in place from another era are usually small, dated, or lack the modern function required of a kitchen to bring the family together, entertain, and cook and serve without interruption. Stainless Steel Appliances Modern kitchens often feature the latest and greatest appliances, not only for the gorgeous aesthetic they provide but also for their energy efficiency and enhanced functionality. Stainless steel refrigerators, ovens, toasters, and microwaves are typically durable, easy to clean, and look great with any color scheme. Glossy White Kitchens One of the largest kitchen trends to come out of the last decade is the modern, glossy kitchen. White cabinets and countertops offer a sleek, modern look and the glossy surface finish makes the kitchen easier to clean. A white kitchen is the perfect way to pair bright colored accents, interesting patterns, or personal touches while keeping the space modern and chic.   Industrial Accents Industrial kitchen design has risen in popularity as more people incorporate building materials typically found in warehouses or factories into the aesthetic of their homes. Elements such as reclaimed wood, iron, brick, concrete, and steel give the kitchen an ultra-modern industrial feel and are easy to incorporate into the space with lighting, hardware, barstools, and other design elements. An open floorplan and stark colors such as black, gray, and white are common elements of industrial kitchen design.   Durable Flooring One of the most important elements of a modern kitchen is style combined with durability. Hardwood, tile, and stone flooring are some of the best options for durable floors that offer a modern look and can endure kitchen wear and tear. Hardwood floors are both a classic for kitchen flooring and a modern staple of design. They come in all types of natural woods and offer gorgeous colors from light browns and yellows to rich mahogany or deep browns. Likewise, tile comes in almost unlimited styles, colors, and options and is easy to clean which is perfect for kitchens that see regular use and abuse.   Quartz & Granite Countertops A staple of modern kitchens are high-quality materials, including gorgeous stone countertops for plenty of cooking, prep, and eating space. Granite and quartz are two of the most common high-end countertop materials. Granite is a durable countertop material that comes in many colors and styles and is sure to look gorgeous in any space. Quartz is a slightly softer stone, but may be more affordable, depending on the style you select. Select a durable, beautiful, and easy to clean countertop to create a luxurious, modern kitchen.   Natural Wood Cabinets Cabinets made from solid wood are the norm for modern kitchens. Most homeowners prefer cabinets in white or other natural wood colors, though others do choose black or gray. Natural wood cabinets are more durable than man made materials, look beautiful, and can last for decades if cared for properly.   Kitchen Islands & Peninsulas It seems like every kitchen nowadays has a kitchen island due to their usefulness and style in the kitchen. From integrating living, cooking, and dining to adding extra storage or prep space, islands and peninsulas are the perfect addition when remodeling a kitchen. Since it’s easy to add barstools to islands and peninsulas, they are great for entertaining guests, having people over for holidays or celebration, and family meals.   Integrated Appliances Modern luxury kitchen design includes a streamlined approach to appliances. Typically, the refrigerator, microwave, and oven appliances are all flush with the cabinets and countertops. Occasionally, the appliance may be built into the cabinet design instead of off to the side by itself, as in the case with microwaves and toaster overs that set above eye level. Integrated appliances allow for a sleek aesthetic that designers and homeowners alike expect in modern kitchens. Exposed Exhaust Hood The addition of the large, exposed kitchen exhaust hood is an element of industrial kitchen design that borrows from large scale restaurant and cooking operations. The exposed exhaust hood provides better ventilation for cooking and serves as a focal point in the room. The oversized and exposed exhaust hood gives the kitchen a modern, upscale look that is suggestive of serious cooking–even if you tend to order takeout more than you whip up gourmet family dinners.   Tile & Stone Backsplashes For a simple way to add style and visual interest that complements the rest of your modern luxury kitchen design consider installing a tile or stone backsplash. From attractive subway tile, colorful tile in different shapes, to slate or more traditional looking stone, there are many options to choose from. Backsplashes are typically easy to clean and have a function in the kitchen since they help prevent water damage, splashes, and spills on walls.   Two Tone Kitchen Colors Creating a theme or design that centers around two colors in the kitchen is a simple way to create a modern luxury kitchen design. Typically, two tone kitchens feature neutral colors or muted versions of brighter colors that are balanced by a more neutral tone. Consider pairing black, white, gray, beige, or other neutral colors with each other or another color that fits the overall design theme of your home.   Plenty of Cabinet Storage Modern luxury kitchen design includes plenty of storage space provided by gorgeous cabinets. Updated kitchens may have counter to ceiling cabinets, cabinets along multiple walls, or even feature custom inserts and cabinet setups. Take advantage

MODERN LUXURY KITCHEN DESIGNS Read More »

Bathroom Remodeling in District of Columbia

Kid Friendly Bathroom Designs

Bathroom Countertops, Bathroom Remodeling

Learn about kid friendly bathroom design to ensure your bathroom is up to date and fits the needs of your family. Bathrooms are typically created with adults in mind and can be difficult to use for small children or children and teens with disabilities. Create a bathroom that your child can use and won’t outgrow as they get older. Bathrooms for children don’t have to look childish or odd. They can be modern, sleek, or any other kind of design that fits with the rest of your home. Check out some of our kid friendly bathroom designs and implement them into your bathroom remodeling project. Adjust for Height Consider the height of items in the bathroom. The standard height for vanities is 32 inches, so ensure the countertop height is lower if this is a bathroom solely for your child or for children to use. To avoid a sink or countertop that is too low for everyone else to use, another popular option is to provide a stepstool for younger children. If a steps tool isn’t possible, or you would like to create a put-together space without resorting to stools and boosters, consider installing a shorter pedestal sink or lower vanity that can be swapped out in a decade when children are a little older and taller. A pedestal or double sink also ensures that multiple children can brush their teeth at the same time and aren’t fighting for space around the sink or mirror. Lower Height Toilets Countertops and cabinets aren’t the only thing that need to be more accessible in bathrooms designed with children in mind. To ensure that children can easily use the bathroom, parents may want to install a shorter-height toilet. These types of toilets have the same plumbing, installation, and functionality as regular toilets but sit much lower to the ground to avoid messes and grant easy access. There are some very sleek designs out there so that it is not immediately obvious as a child’s toilet. You may also want to conder installing a toilet that comes all in one solid piece for ease of cleaning. One-piece toilets make cleaning simpler since there is no break or gap between the toilet tank and the base. Add a toilet paper holder that with an open end to make slipping a new roll on easy. Put Safety First Safety is paramount in kid friendly bathroom designs, so it’s important to consider not only preventing accidents but also keeping children away from hurting themselves. Adults are accustomed to hot water controls, whereas children may struggle with them. For sinks, consider installing a single lever faucet to easily control water temperature and make using the sink simple for smaller children since they just have to push the lever up. Many faucets come with temperature signs of red and blue on each side to make finding a safe, warm or cool temperature easier. Single lever faucets also help avoid as much water waste compared to two running faucets. For the shower, install shower controls with a single knob and include red and blue markings for hot and cold water (thermostatic shower valves). Children shouldn’t be able to dispense water that is hotter than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent access to scalding temperatures, choose a faucet that limits extremely hot water. There are faucets on the market that can slow the flow of water to a trickle to prevent scalding if the temperature is too hot, and even faucets with LED lights that indicate whether the water is too hot. Use Nonslip Materials When designing a bathroom meant for children, be wary of the potential for accidents. Slip and falls are one of the most common accidents that occur in the bathroom, therefore in a kid friendly bathroom design it’s important to include elements that keep children steady to avoid slips and falls. In order to prevent slips, falls, and other injuries consider installing a shower grab-bar and adding a non-slip bathmat in the shower or bathtub. A rug with a rubber backing for gripping the floor placed in front of the sink and shower is also a good idea, since those areas typically get slippery. Another popular safety measure is to add a towel railing that doubles as a grab bar. Make Bath Time Easier In order to make the shower or bathtub a little more accessible for smaller children, you may want to consider adding shower inserts or niche to place hygiene items at their height. You can also install a combination shower and bathtub with flat spaces for placing soap or hair products, so those items don’t get knocked into the shower when in use. Shower inserts can also help facilitate the order of using bathing products, with each item neatly aligned in the order of use. If you can’t add a tile insert or have a shower with no space for sitting items down and aren’t looking to change that aspect, consider kid-friendly shower caddies or shower baskets that hold toiletries.   Make Showering Simple Keep showering safe and prevent messes caused by water damage. Add a hookless shower curtain to avoid the curtain or liner from coming off or becoming tangled. A closed hook curtain liner guarantees that there is no way for kids to accidentally remove a curtain hook from the rod and injure themselves or break something. Get shower curtain liners with magnets in the liner that stick to the shower or bathtub sides, or suction cups. This will prevent water from getting out onto the floor. Add a vent fan to prevent mold and mildew from water damage. A vent fan is part of a kid friendly bathroom design, since kids just have to turn on a switch. To brighten the space up, you might as well add a fun shower curtain for the kids while you’re at it.   Add Plenty of Storage Children typically keep all their morning and bedtime routine items in the bathroom and need plenty of

Kid Friendly Bathroom Designs Read More »

Arlington kitchen remodeling consultation

Kitchen Remodel Before & After Ideas

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Ideas, Kitchen Remodeling

Get kitchen remodel before and after ideas to help you transform your kitchen and imagine what the space could look like with a few careful renovations or updates. These fixes can be standalone renovations or part of a larger plan to transform the space and solve any issues with your current kitchen. If your existing kitchen design or layout is a hindrance, consider making these remodeling changes to update your space and start using your kitchen the right way. Speak to an experienced designer to help guide changes in your kitchen and create a space that flows and functions perfectly. Kitchen design requires careful thought and planning to create a space that flows and functions in coherence with the rest of the home. Small Kitchen Small kitchens cost less to maintain and offer simplicity and convenience; however, they may also be lacking in the features and space of a traditional kitchen. If you need to make better use of your small kitchen, consider some of the following options: Open the kitchen up by tearing down walls Add a half wall cutout or window Downsizing oversize appliances Changing the existing kitchen footprint Add a peninsula to increase counterspace and seating A small kitchen’s layout can really make a difference in how you use the space, and a cluttered or crowded kitchen can feel even smaller than it really is. Remove any excess and declutter, then optimize the layout of appliances and ensure plenty of off-countertop storage. Wherever possible, combine functionality and increase hidden storage to ensure countertops are free of clutter and the space looks larger than it is. Use light colored paint and ensure plenty of lights thought the space to keep it from looking dark or even smaller than it truly is.   Closed-In Kitchen A closed in kitchen typically only has a door in and out, separating it from the rest of the living and dining space in the home. Closed-in kitchens are not just limited to small kitchens, either. Plenty of homes with large kitchens are separated from the formal dining or living space due to the time period they were built and the design concepts of the time. In order to open your kitchen up to the living and dining room areas, remove any non-load bearing walls to create an open concept layout. If knocking down walls and creating half wall cutouts are not an option for your kitchen, either due to structure or budget, there are other options. In order to make the kitchen feel more open, add more overhead and ambient light. Often a kitchen can feel closed in when really the space is simply too dark. No Preparation Space One of the most common kitchen problems is a lack of food preparation space, and crowded elbows when too many people are trying to work in the kitchen together. To create more space for preparing meals, chopping vegetables, doing homework, drying dishes, baking, mixing, and any other kitchen related task, add more countertop space. A few popular countertop options are: Quartz– This type of natural stone requires less upkeep than other stones. Quartz is extremely durable, easy to clean, and comes in a huge variety of colors and styles and may cost less than other types of countertops. Granite–This stone is versatile and maintains its look for decades. It has a middling durability between quartz and marble. Granite offers deep hues and tones for a rich color that many homeowners desire for their kitchens. Marble– This stone is the softest of the three, but it has a stunning look that is prized in many luxury kitchens, among other stone uses. Marble is renowned for its white and gray/black pattern than leaves a kitchen looking elegant, whether the design is modern or traditional. Whether you need to replace existing countertops with a more durable and longer counter or feel like a kitchen island would help with your existing space constraints, more countertop space will solve your problem and ensure your kitchen looks and functions amazingly. If there is not enough space for either addition, then you might consider adding a small rolling cart for counterspace or a portable island. If you do not have the space or the ability to add more countertops, it may be a sign that the kitchen is too small and needs to be opened up or expanded out. Lack of Light For a dim kitchen that lacks light, create a brighter space with updated LED lights in a variety of styles or bring a bit of nature inside with windows or French doors. Here are some of the popular options for kitchen lighting: Hanging Pendant Lights Inset Ceiling Lights Under Cabinet Lights White, Blue, & Yellow toned LED’s There are so many different lighting options to brighten your kitchen and a designer can help you create a lighting plan that brightens the space without being overwhelming or raising your energy bill. If you are really looking to brighten up the space, you might even consider adding a window cutout to the outside or French doors to a patio or yard space. If opening the kitchen up is not an option, something as simple as repainting with white or brightly colored paint can also help light up the space. Not Enough Storage The most common complaint that homeowners have about their kitchens is a lack of adequate storage space. If your cabinets drawers are stuffed full, cabinets are crowded with items, and your countertops are cluttered with appliances and regularly used items, then creating additional storage space is a must. If you do not have any existing overhead cabinets, adding some will provide much needed storage and pull the kitchen design together. For small or outdated cabinets, replace your existing cabinets with larger cabinets that offer more storage and functionality. Get cabinet drawer inserts and dividers to make full use of the existing kitchen storage space and add shelves to walls for displaying attractive plate ware, plants, mugs and more. You may also want to add

Kitchen Remodel Before & After Ideas Read More »

Kitchen Remodel

10 TIMELESS KITCHEN DESIGN TIPS & IDEAS

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Design Tips

The two primary reasons that people choose to remodel their kitchens are to update an outdated design and to create a more functional space. Many people may own a home and initially feel satisfied with their kitchen, then a couple of decades later decide that it no longer suits their style or meets their family’s needs. By selecting timeless kitchen design ideas and elements, homeowners can save thousands of dollars because they don’t need to remodel aspects of their kitchen as it quickly becomes outdated. In order to prevent your kitchen from dating itself too quickly or getting caught up in trendy kitchen elements, read up on these 10 timeless kitchen design ideas to get inspired for your next kitchen update. Quartz, Marble, Granite (The Big 3) Countertops Anyone planning to remodel their kitchen is aware that there are many different countertop options to choose from; however, the top three materials are quartz, granite, and marble. Quartz–For cleanliness, ease of use, and durability, quartz is the natural choice. Quartz countertops require less upkeep than other stones, but typically leaves you with only variations on white stone countertops. Granite–For gorgeous stone details and colors, opt for granite countertops. Granite offers deep hues and tones for a rich color that many homeowners desire for their kitchens. Marble–For gorgeous luxury and that one-of-a-kind aesthetic that marble is so well known for, select marble countertops for your updated kitchen. As a rule of thumb: Quartz is the most durable, and popular countertop choice Granite has middle durability, with a wealth of color and style options Marble is the softest stone of the three, and is prone to scratching over time Open Kitchen Layouts Closed off kitchens are a thing of the past and they aren’t likely to come back. An open kitchen layout allows you to cook, entertain, serve guests, and easily combine living and dining space. Not only is an open kitchen more functional for most homes, it also causes both the kitchen and living space to feel larger, even if they maintain the same footprint as before opening the divide between the two rooms. Tear down any non-load bearing walls to open your kitchen and create a more inviting environment. If you have a wall that can’t be taken down, consider removing a half wall or creating a half cut out or window through to the kitchen. Integrated appliances allow you to create kitchen designs where appliances can function as stylish statement pieces or subtly merge into surrounding cabinets or countertops. Single Level Kitchen Islands Modern kitchens often feature updated kitchen islands with one level for bar seating, additional space for food preparation, a sink, and sometimes even have cabinets for additional storage. A single level island makes the kitchen feel more cohesive and the island feels integrated into the space, as opposed to adding it as an afterthought. A large countertop-height kitchen island with a waterfall edge allows you to make the most of the counter space for prep work and cooking, while also integrating more seating with barstools. Work with a designer or remodeler to ensure that your kitchen is large enough to add an island. Some spaces can feel more cramped when you must walk around an island or when an island cuts off needed space. Modern islands should be treated like furniture. It serves as both a functional element and a focal point in the kitchen. Integrated Appliances Clean lines and tucked away chaos are features of the modern kitchen, and integrated appliances are just one way that you can make your kitchen look larger and function better. The days of clunky appliances that stick out like a sore thumb is a thing of the past. With clever panels and built-in nooks for appliances, modern kitchens can easily integrate appliances to stay flush with cabinets and countertops, providing more space in the kitchen and sleek design lines. Whether you choose to “hide” your appliances behind a cabinet door that sits flush with the rest of your cabinets or just have them align with countertops and cabinets, integrating appliances is a fantastic way to save space and create a sophisticated kitchen design. LED Lighting LED lighting has made a huge different in both energy consumption and the look of interior design. These adaptive lights allow you to brighten up your kitchen space at a fraction of the energy cost of traditional lighting. LED lights are no longer the chilly, bright white that they used to be. Modern LEDs have so many options for brightness, color, and style. Newer LED lights are also more efficient and longer lasting than traditional halogen and fluorescent light bulbs. LED lights can be inset into the ceiling, hang down as pendant lights, act as under cabinet lighting or ambient island light for illuminating the kitchen in the dark, and so much more. White Kitchens A white kitchen is a classic design choice that can accommodate a variety of appliance choices and fit well into any home. Having bold, funky colors in the kitchen can really enhance its style and your enjoyment of the space, but they are best expressed through temporary furnishings and elements–such as small appliances, curtains, towels, cushions, and other small touches. A neutral or white color on cabinets, appliances, walls, and other permanent kitchen features will help your kitchen stand the test of time and stay classically brilliant in the coming decades. Some might argue that a white kitchen is boring, but in truth, a clean white kitchen never goes out of style, tends to go with any design, and offers endless possibilities. White cabinets are a timeless, classic design element that align well with different types of countertop colors and materials, floor types, and other aspects of design. You can add some personality with different cabinet pulls or knobs and integrate other small touches of white in the kitchen to pull the overall design together. Open Cabinets/ Shelves While everyone can appreciate more storage, having a slight imbalance of upper to lower cabinets is fairly common

10 TIMELESS KITCHEN DESIGN TIPS & IDEAS Read More »

Bathroom Remodeling in Annandale

How to Remodel Bathroom on A Budget?

Bathroom Countertops, Bathroom Remodeling

  While each remodeling budget is different, the amount of time and energy that you want to put into updating your bathroom can help offset some of the costs–especially if you are willing to a little bit of extra research, DIY, and creative planning. We’ve put together some cost-saving ideas to help you remodel your bathroom on a budget. Do Some Research Prior to getting started on your bathroom remodeling project, it’s important to research not only how much the changes you want will cost, but also how to plan out and reduce costs. If you want a full bathroom remodel on a strict budget, there are some areas that will require sacrifices. Start by looking at bathroom remodeling projects that have similar features and updates as what you would like to do to your own bathroom. This will help you get a general idea of how much your remodel will cost and which aspects tend to be most expensive to update. You may also want to speak to a remodeling company or design expert to determine your options for fulfilling your must-haves while keeping costs low. A bit of research will help you go into the bathroom remodeling process with realistic expectation as well, so you aren’t left disappointed with the outcome or surprised by estimates you may receive. Create & Plan Your Budget It’s easy to get carried away and splurge on an item here and there, but those small costs tend to add up fast. While having a budget is important to reining in costs, planning out how you will spend the money goes an even longer way towards remodeling your bathroom on a budget and ensuring you don’t break the bank. Even if you haven’t created a bathroom remodeling budget set in stone, creating a rough budget can help you narrow down remodeling choices and start conversions with designers and remodelers. A fixed budget also allows you to determine which aspects of your bathroom need to be updated and which parts you’re alright with keeping. You will need to either adjust your expectations or your budget to find the perfect give and take solution to ensure the best possible outcome. Clean First Sometimes a room can feel old and outdated because it doesn’t appear as new as it used to. A thorough professional cleaning can leave your bathroom looking just as great as when it was new and could save you a lot of money on repairs. You may not need a new bathtub or updated tile, if the only problem is a bit of dirt or staining. Before you jump to replace those old tiles or remodel your bathroom flooring, deep clean the areas that you would like to update and determine if an update is still necessary. Many times, a thorough, professional cleaning can make parts of a bathroom feel brand new again. Something as simple as hiring a professional cleaner to come and clean your bathroom can help you determine which aspects of a remodel are essential and which were purely aesthetic and just needed a bit of deep cleaning. Buy Used or Reclaimed Materials Many bathroom remodelers can help you get ahold of reclaimed or only slightly used materials for your bathroom remodeling project. In the U.S. there are many secondhand shops and materials stores that offer surplus materials for home improvement projects, such as the Habitat for Humanity Restore, along with discounted or older materials from remodeling companies. Before buying brand new materials, consider whether a slightly used or reclaimed material would serve the project just as well. In addition to looking for materials at second-hand stores, and online buy/trade/sell websites such as Craigslist or Freecycle, tell friends and family about your bathroom remodeling project and ask them if they have any extra materials or ideas for keeping costs down. You never know, you might find that perfect rustic farmhouse sink or gorgeous porcelain accent tile to incorporate into your bathroom. Best of all, reclaimed materials are usually a fraction of the cost of buying new or special orders. Professional remodelers have experience getting quality materials for less and may be able to help you select items that cost less money but still look and function great. Focus on Fixtures Update faucets, vanity pulls, lights, and other small details that can change the look and feel of a room. You’d be surprised at just how different a small bathroom feels with updated lighting, new drawer pulls, and a modern sink or faucet. Not only do these small details really help a space feel new, they are also inexpensive and allow you to put your own flair and personality into the room. Here are just a few items that you can replace to make your bathroom look and feel new: Sink Faucet Vanity/cabinet pulls Showerhead Overhead or vanity lighting Bathtub Faucets Toilet tissue holder Vent covers Updated mirrors Storage baskets/cabinets Part of the fun of remodeling is putting your own design preferences and stylistic choices into the space, so have fun with the new features you decide to incorporate. Update the Paint to Bathroom Remodel Paint is an effective way to make a room feel updated without spending too much money. If you do decide to DIY painting your bathroom or bathroom cabinets, get all the materials you will need handy and watch a few video tutorials before you begin painting. If you aren’t a great painter or would prefer to have a professional handle the work, painting is still an affordable way to update your bathroom and ensure it looks incredible. Either way, it’s easy to give your bathroom a fresh face with new paint. Whether you are changing the color on your bathroom walls or updating your vanity cabinets with a new color, paint is an inexpensive way to freshen the bathroom and make it feel like a new space without breaking the budget. Painting your bathroom walls offers a simple way to change the look and feel of the room, especially when coupled with small hardware changes and accessories. Painting cabinets or wall trim allows you to save room in the budget and get rid of any unsightly cabinet chips, stains, or peeling. If you’re tired of an all-white bathroom, add some color. Conversely, if you hate the outdated color or want a more sophisticated space, go monochromatic with grays and whites. Refinish Instead of Replacing

How to Remodel Bathroom on A Budget? Read More »

Small Kitchen

Small Kitchen Remodeling Tips & Ideas

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Ideas, Kitchen Remodeling

Smaller kitchens save space in your home, are more affordable to renovate, maintain, and clean, and offer efficient use of the space you do have. If you are a frequent cook or spend a lot of time in the kitchen, being confined to a small space can take its toll. Whether you’ve found your dream home and the kitchen is on the small side and lacking, or you’re tired of your current small kitchen, we’ve come up with a few small kitchen remodeling ideas and tips to help you maximize space and enjoy your kitchen more. Open It Up Open the kitchen up to the rest of the home. While you may not be able to knock down walls, there are a few simple things you can do to make the kitchen feel more accessible. If possible, carve out a half wall or window space to look out into another room. BE mindful about leaving object on the floor or obstructing the walkway. Closed in kitchens seem smaller and feel like a box–especially those with only one doorway. Turn a square, penned-in kitchen into an open space by knocking down a non-load bearing wall. Once the kitchen is opened up, it will look and feel larger even if it has the same square footage as before. A kitchen designer and remodeler can help you safely remove a wall or a portion of a wall to open up your small kitchen. Update Old Finishes Small Kitchen Many kitchens look small because their cabinets and appliances are bulky and cramped or out of date. You don’t have to change any aspect of the floorplan to gain space, simply swap out outdated appliances and materials for modern, streamlined options. Choose a taller, thinner refrigerator, if possible. Select a half oven as opposed to a full one. Opt for cabinets that are flush against other appliances. Take the time to pare down the appliances and objects you don’t use as frequently and prioritize space. Add Vertical Storage Additional overhead cabinets and shelving add storage space and draw the eye up to the vertical area of the kitchen. Neatly hang utensils, pots, and pans to add flair and utilize adaptive storage, but be careful with how many items are stored openly on overhead shelves. Too many items hanging and stacked out in the open can make a kitchen appear cluttered. Open storage looks great when everything is evenly spaced, and only a few items are on display. You may even find that you enjoy showing off your favorite dishes or prized cookware. Get Adequate Lighting A dark kitchen tends to look smaller, since less of the space is illuminated and can’t be viewed. To make a small kitchen feel larger and less claustrophobic, lighting is key. Add brighter overhead lighting in addition to under cabinet ambient lighting. More lighting that compliments the kitchen will make the space feel larger and more modern. Consider overhead track lighting with multiple bulbs in a decorative piece, along with under cabinet ambient lights that add style to the whole house. Open large windows, or see if it’s feasible to create a window cutout in the kitchen to bring in more natural light. Use Lighter Colors Paint the kitchen white or in light colors to make the space appear larger and brighter. White upper cabinets are also a great way to accomplish this brightening effect and allow you to take advantage of all the space your current kitchen has to offer. While you don’t have to go white on every element of design, do stick to lighter colors, such as lighter blues, grays, beige, and other neutral tones. Dark kitchens also tend to look older, so try to stay away from dark wood cabinets and dark colors on the wall. It’s fine to mix it up, but keep some light colors or accents in the kitchen to make it a brighter space that doesn’t appear smaller than it actually is. Install An Island Everyone loves a good kitchen island–if you have the space for it. If your kitchen is situated all along one wall, an island might be a good way to get more counterspace and create visual appeal. However, this redesign only works if the kitchen is already semi-open to another room and not closed in. Add an island to extend the kitchen out into the living or dining space. Island bar seating also allows you to turn a small kitchen into a combination kitchen and dining room. The island acts as a multi-functional workstation, extra storage space, and can also provide seating with the addition of a few bar stools. Get Smart With Storage Small Kitchen Up your storage game by storing items in cute baskets on top of cabinets, investing in cabinet and drawer inserts, and using all available vertical space to keep items off the countertop and floor. Additional storage makes the kitchen look neater and larger, since less clutter on countertops gives the illusion of more space. Here are some easy storage tips: Store items in boxes on top of cabinets Add drawer inserts to maximize space Keep clutter off countertops with jars Add extra cabinet shelves to utilize vertical space Add wall shelves to store attractive dishes or cookware If you don’t and won’t use something, get rid of it Opt For A Peninsula For those with a kitchen too small or oddly situated for a kitchen island to work, consider the advantages of a peninsula instead. The sought-after kitchen island is great, if you have the space. For small kitchens that don’t open to a living or dining room, use a countertop bar area for both kitchen prep and seating and dining. A peninsula is typically slimmer than a kitchen island and offers more versatility. With a peninsula, you can use the counter space for food prep, utilize the other side of the counter space for seating and eating, increase cabinet storage, and are usually able to keep the same kitchen footprint. Keep It Simple Small Kitchen Don’t attempt to pack everything into a small space. A tiny kitchen can have multi-functionality, but it can’t be a jack-of-all-trades. Don’t try to install full sized appliances, large cabinets, an island, and more items into an already condensed or cramped space. Make changes that simplify the kitchen and allow you to do more with less. Consider purchasing appliances that have multiple functions or are smaller versions of typical appliances, such as a toaster oven. If you need more storage and a dishwasher isn’t essential, skip it in favor of cabinets or other appliances. If you aren’t sure how to design your kitchen, try getting inspirations from other kitchen designs or visualizer tools. Get Expert Help Do you want to update your small kitchen to add functionality and increase space? Avoid making mistakes with the most important

Small Kitchen Remodeling Tips & Ideas Read More »

Kitchen Cabinets

15 Kitchen Design Mistakes to Avoid

Kitchen Design, Kitchen Design Tips, Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen is the most popular room to renovate in the home, alongside the bathroom. Renovating and redesigning can make the kitchen more functional and beautiful, but it can also become a nightmare if done incorrectly. Learn from others’ mistakes before they become your own by checking out these 15 kitchen design mistakes to avoid when planning your renovation project. Ignoring the Kitchen “Triangle” The three most used items in the kitchen tend to be the refrigerator, stove, and sink. Keep this “work triangle” of refrigerator, stove, and sink clear to prevent spacing and functionality problems. For example, don’t place your refrigerator in a space that allows it to swing back into your pantry or stove. Don’t block one appliance with another or make it difficult for more than one person to be in the kitchen at a time. You should be able to stand in front of an appliance or drawer and open it completely without bumping into another part of the kitchen. Underestimating Storage Needs for Kitchen Design Most homeowners tend to think they have plenty of storage, until the plates, bowls, utensils, mixers, storage tubs, and everything else come spilling out or get over stacked in cupboards and drawers. When designing your new kitchen, make sure you have enough storage-cabinets. You may even want to consider creating a pantry space for food and extra cooking appliances. It can be nice to have deep cabinets with a lot of storage but is frustrating if you can’t reach or easily access the items you have stored inside. Consider installing cabinet drawer dividers, pantry pullouts, and a Lazy Susan. These cabinet add-ons increase efficiency and are more costly to install down the road, so you’re better off including them in the initial kitchen design. Use vertical wall space for added shelving. Limiting Counter Space Things have a way of piling up on the counter whether we intend for them to or not. From toasters and other small appliances to fruit, condiment shakers, and other and knick-knacks, counter space is gone before you know it. When planning your kitchen, one of the easiest design mistakes is limiting counter space. An easy fix to designate one or two areas to specific actions in the kitchen–such as an area of the counter for cooking prep work, a space for doing homework or bills (such as a bar or island), and a space for cooking and appliances. Not Getting Enough Light Nobody want a dark kitchen, especially when there are so many lighting and fixture options. Don’t get stuck cooking, cleaning, and doing prep work in the shadows of the kitchen. Get enough light from windows, overhead, and accent lights. From recessed lights, pendant, track, and many other options there is no reason to stay stuck in the dark. Just don’t go overboard with mixing and matching. You’ll end up with strange light gaps or dark spots or a too bright kitchen that gets hot. Look into getting under cabinet lights for nice ambiance at nighttime for those late-night gatherings or midnight snacks. Inadequate Ventilation Kitchens need plenty of ventilation, and while it may not be the first thing on your design list, it should a priority. A poorly ventilated kitchen will have smoke alarms going off every time you cook, forcing you to open doors, turn on fans, and manually fan away smoke. A lack of ventilation is not safe. It makes the kitchen smell like smoke, and traps steam and other items from properly airing out of the kitchen. It is also possible to ruin and warp your cabinets and other wood finishes with too much steam. Get a nice vent hood that is close to the stove to ensure proper ventilation in your kitchen. Getting Island Size & Placement Wrong Kitchen islands embody the style of a modern, spacious kitchen. However, installing an island that is too large or too small ruins its purpose and functionality. Placing an island in the wrong spot means maneuvering around it and creates an awkward footprint for the kitchen. An island may not be the best use of space in a small kitchen and often leaves people moving around the island to get any work done or access other parts of the kitchen. Prior to installation, try blocking off the area where the island will go and determine if it’s a good size and placement. Forgetting About the Backsplash Don’t forget about or neglect the backsplash. A tile or stone backsplash helps protect your kitchen walls from water, steam, grease, and other dirt and grime that could cause damage. It also ties kitchen together, since the backsplash can have multiple colors from throughout the kitchen or add some flair to monotone kitchens as an accent wall. A backsplash is an inexpensive way to add color, textures, and functionality to your new kitchen. Doing Too Much with Too Little Without a defined scope of work, it’s easy to make the mistake of trying to do too much with too little budget, space, or time. Sometimes the design changes and work can get out of hand on a kitchen renovation project, especially if you have a limited budget or a small kitchen space to work with. Don’t expect new cabinets, new countertops, new floors, a kitchen island, and a floorplan alteration when you have only budgeted $10k for remodeling. Likewise, if you have an 8×10 kitchen, it may not be worth it, or even possible, to stuff $100k worth of materials into a small kitchen space. Not Getting Guidance for Kitchen Design Some homeowners start a project with so much enthusiasm that they get ahead of themselves and the project they have undertaken. Don’t DIY without some guidance and always get expert advice before you make any structural or large design changes. Even if you plan to do some of the work yourself, consult with a kitchen designer. They can supply a detailed 3-D design, helpful tips and ideas, and ensure you don’t encounter problems that prevent the project from moving forward. While you don’t need a designer to select every knob and pull for you, it can be very helpful to get their input and advice–especially if you have no prior design or DIY experience. Changing the Floorplan Kitchen Design It can be especially tempting to gut an entire kitchen and begin from scratch with a new layout and design, but it can also be costly and create an awkward kitchen. If possible, only change your kitchen’s existing layout for functional improvements, otherwise you could be wasting your time and money. For small, closed in kitchens, consider knocking down a non-load bearing wall to open the space up to the rest of the house. The less plumbing and electrical work that needs to be done, the more cost efficient the

15 Kitchen Design Mistakes to Avoid Read More »