If you have found yourself stacking groceries on the counter or storing kitchen tools in the living room, it may be time to remodel your kitchen. Kitchen Remodeling Tacoma WA can increase your enjoyment of your home and possibly even add to its resale value.
The biggest benefit is adding space. However, before knocking down walls, be sure to weigh the cost versus the benefit.
Cabinetry is an integral part of a kitchen remodeling project. The cabinets largely determine the kitchen’s layout, countertop, and appliance locations. A cosmetic makeover typically requires only painting, but if you want to add a pantry or relocate the sink or refrigerator, then cabinet removal and construction are in order. This is called a “full kitchen remodel.”
The most common cabinet materials are plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Plywood is a strong material that resists warping. MDF is less expensive than solid wood, but its tolerances are looser, and it tends to bow and sag over time. Solid wood is more stable, but it’s also more expensive and labor-intensive to construct than MDF or plywood.
A kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, so it’s important to choose cabinets that are not only beautiful but functional. Choosing the right cabinetry will create a space that you can enjoy for years to come.
Whether your client is interested in a more traditional look, a sleek contemporary look, or something in between, there are many styles to choose from. Many homeowners are choosing natural wood cabinets to bring warmth and character to their kitchens. Others are selecting white cabinets for a crisp and clean look that can be accented with a variety of colors.
There are also a variety of features available to make browsing the lower cabinet storage easier and more efficient. One of the most popular is a lazy susan, which consists of a rotating shelf that allows items stored in the back of the cabinet to be brought forward for easy access. Another option is a pullout garbage or recycling drawer, which eliminates the need to bend down and reach into trash cans to remove waste.
If you’re considering a complete kitchen remodel, it’s important to consider the amount of storage you’ll need. Using a free design software program, you can see how your new cabinets will fit into the existing space and visualize different configurations. This can help your client get an idea of what their new kitchen will look like before they commit to any changes.
Countertops
While most homeowners focus on the cabinets and appliances in a kitchen remodel, countertops are also an important aspect to consider. Countertops add the finishing touch to a kitchen’s design and serve as a focal point in a home. They also offer the chance to make a statement about your style. Choosing the right counters will help you achieve the look and functionality that you’ve always wanted in your kitchen.
When selecting countertops, you need to consider both the aesthetic and cost of the material. Natural stone and marble counters are a classic choice that are heat- and scratch-resistant. They are pricier than other countertop materials but are worth the investment. Concrete countertops are another great option that is durable, heat-resistant, and available in a variety of colors. Wood countertops are another popular choice for a kitchen because they offer warmth and durability. They can be honed and polished to create a smooth, sleek surface or sanded down for a rustic, cottage-core look. Wood is easy to keep clean and sanitary, but it must be regularly oiled.
Quartz is a popular surfacing material that can mimic the look of many natural styles and is durable and heat-resistant. It doesn’t need to be sealed, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Porcelain counters are another great choice for kitchens that are looking for a high-end, durable material. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors and are hygienic because they don’t absorb food or liquids.
Aside from the durability of a material, you should also consider how well it matches the color of your kitchen walls. The wall color can influence the tone and style of your kitchen, so it’s important to choose a color that will complement your counters. Color also impacts how you feel in a room. For example, blue offers calming effects and improves attentiveness, while red draws attention and can create a sense of urgency.
Flooring
If you want to remodel your kitchen in a way that will really make it stand out from the crowd, consider changing the floor. You can upgrade from simple linoleum to tile or hardwood, and you can even play around with patterns such as herringbone or diagonal planks. Depending on your taste, you might opt for a more environmentally friendly option, such as cork or bamboo floors. These are harvested from trees that regenerate much more quickly than the forests from which solid wood is sourced, making them an eco-friendly choice for your kitchen.
When choosing new flooring for your kitchen, you can also add value to your home by installing it under appliances. This is a great way to stabilize large appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers, which can move or shift over time. It also looks good to potential buyers and can be a selling point if you ever decide to sell your home.
Another kitchen remodeling idea is to install a backsplash behind your sink to brighten up this often overlooked area. You can choose from a wide variety of materials, including colorful tiles and even patterned glass. You might even opt to swap out your standard double sink for a unique vessel sink. This will add personality to your kitchen and is a great opportunity to get creative!
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by doing some or all of the work yourself. But keep in mind that kitchen remodeling isn’t for everyone, and you should never attempt a large project yourself if you don’t have experience. This type of renovation requires removing walls and ceiling drywall to expose the structural framing, and it may involve borrowing space from adjoining rooms or even building an addition. It can also involve moving plumbing and electrical fixtures, adding or modifying ventilation systems, and working with new appliances.
Whether you’re updating an old kitchen or starting from scratch, you can turn your home into the kitchen of your dreams. With the right design and technology, you can have a cooking space that will be the envy of all your friends and family.
Appliances
Many homeowners upgrade their kitchen appliances when they remodel their kitchen. Whether their current appliances are on their last legs or they simply want a new look, buying high-quality refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers can make a huge difference in the room’s aesthetic. Appliances are one of the most expensive kitchen remodeling ideas, and it’s important to select the right ones for your lifestyle and budget. Getting swayed by brand names or innovative features can lead to making decisions that aren’t in your best interests. Choosing appliances that suit how you prepare meals and clean up should be your first priority.
Appliances also need to be matched with the other components of your kitchen. For example, your countertops should complement the color and finish of your appliances, and the cabinets should coordinate with their style. It is easy to overlook this detail when remodeling, but it can be an important part of a successful kitchen remodel.
Adding appliances can also alter the flow and layout of your kitchen. You may have to rearrange the room to accommodate your new fridge, oven, or dishwasher. A professional home renovator can help you design an efficient workflow that will save you time and energy. For example, consider the work triangle concept, which connects the sink, stove, and refrigerator in a way that is both functional and economical.
You should also consider reducing your energy consumption through appliance upgrades. For example, replacing your old refrigerator with a model that has an energy star rating will help you lower your household’s utility bills. Also, choose low-flow faucets to decrease water usage and a tankless hot water system that heats on demand.
Personalizing your kitchen can be as simple as adding a colorful backsplash or swapping out your kitchen sink for a unique fixture. It is important to keep in mind that your kitchen remodeling project may have to be sold someday, so avoid over-customizing the space, which could limit its appeal to potential buyers.
Considering all the different options for your kitchen is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. A professional home renovator can help you narrow down your choices and guide you toward a functional, beautiful kitchen you’ll love for years to come.