Unlike a kitchen makeover, which involves repainting or swapping out hardware and appliances, a complete renovation overhauls everything. Typically, this requires a design and construction team.
Modernization, incorporating smart home technology, and improving energy efficiency are common reasons for a kitchen remodel. Ornate moldings and pilasters can add up quickly; keeping them minimal will keep your project within budget. Contact Kitchen Renovation Tacoma WA now!
Cabinets are the backbone of a kitchen and play a key role in creating the overall style and tone. There are countless options for materials, hardware, and door styles; with the right selections, you can make an elegant traditional, transitional, or contemporary feel. As the focal point of the room, it’s important that you invest time in selecting a cabinet style and material that is representative of your personal taste.
This is also the time to install any plumbing fixtures, such as a sink, faucet and garbage disposal. For those who are installing a built-in microwave, refrigerator or stove, this is the time to handle these installations, as well.
Many homeowners are able to make a significant savings by keeping their existing cabinets and merely re-facing them with new doors. This option is often less expensive than a full kitchen renovation and eliminates the need for rewiring or rerunning the existing water, gas and electrical lines.
Depending on the current condition and layout of your kitchen, this is the time to assess any structural issues that might need to be addressed during the project. Removing walls, reconfiguring the floor plan and addressing any other structural changes can be costly, and it’s important to consider your budget before moving forward with this phase of the remodel.
This is also the time to select and install any new flooring. Whether you’re opting for a new vinyl, ceramic or wood floorboards, it’s important to work with design and construction professionals who can ensure that the installation is seamless and meets all necessary approval requirements in your building. If you’re working with a renovation consultant, they will likely provide you with a timeline and checklist to help keep the project on track.
Countertops
Countertops are a major component of the kitchen, acting as a focal point and communicating your style. They also need to be able to stand up to the heat, spills, and scuffs that come with regular use. That’s why selecting the right countertops is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in a kitchen remodel.
You’ll find a huge range of countertop options, from the budget-friendly practicality of laminate to the high-end beauty of natural stone. Granite is the most popular choice, with homeowners preferring its durability and the upscale look it adds to their kitchens. It can be expensive, however, ranging from about $40 to $100 per square foot, Home Advisor notes.
Quartz is a good alternative for those who want the beauty of natural stone but don’t want to pay for granite’s premium price tag. It’s highly durable and stain-resistant, and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
Wood countertops are another option for those who want a warm, rustic look. They can be made from several types of wood, including cherry, maple, hickory and walnut, and (when sealed) are sanitary for food preparation and can withstand hot pots and pans.
Tile countertops are a less-expensive alternative to larger slabs of materials like marble, quartz and granite. They can be used in a wide variety of styles, from classic squares to subway tiles and trendy hexagons, and can also be grouted to create a pattern or design on the surface. Tile countertops can be a challenge to maintain, however, as grout lines can collect dirt and grime over time. A backsplash can help offset this issue by covering the walls under and around the countertops, providing a clean finish to the space.
Flooring
Flooring is an essential part of any kitchen remodeling project. It ties in with the overall design of the space and can provide an opportunity for homeowners to express their personal style. However, it is also an important functional component in a busy kitchen. It needs to be durable enough to withstand heavy footfall and the spills, splashes and general grime that tends to accumulate in this area of the home. In addition, it should be slip-resistant to protect family members from injury if they fall.
The best kitchen flooring material will complement your existing style and aesthetic, as well as suit your lifestyle in terms of durability and maintenance. It should also be a good fit for your budget. For example, natural wood floors add warmth and classic beauty to a kitchen. They are popular in open-concept homes, and come in a wide variety of species, stain colors and finishes to match any design scheme. However, they require regular sanding and refinishing to ensure that the surface remains durable. Wood flooring also isn’t water-resistant, so it can warp if exposed to moisture for long periods of time.
If you like the look of wood but don’t want to deal with the maintenance, consider engineered hardwood or vinyl. Both are water-resistant and do a great job of resisting stains. Another affordable option is tile. Incorporate large, rectangular tiles into a backsplash or go for porcelain tile that resembles rare marble to create a luxury look at a fraction of the cost.
Appliances
A kitchen remodel should include new appliances to replace old or outdated ones. It’s also the best time to upgrade to energy efficient or space-saving models. This will help save money in the long run. It’s a good idea to research the types of refrigerators, dishwashers, stoves and microwave ovens available to find what features and options will fit your cooking style and family’s needs.
Choosing the right kitchen appliances can have a major impact on your kitchen layout and cabinet design, so it’s important to make sure you understand what sizes and dimensions will be available before you start shopping. A well-thought-out plan can ensure that you’ll be able to find a package that fits your style and budget.
Reynal says a key consideration is creating an effective flow when designing a kitchen. She recommends locating dish and glass storage close to the dishwasher, trash bins close to the sink, and pantry storage near the refrigerator. She also recommends including extra drawer storage for small appliances such as blenders and toaster ovens.
If you are planning to install a built-in coffee maker, consider how frequently you use one and how often the equipment might need replacing. A better option might be to choose a nice, high-quality countertop unit and hook up a coffee station with a separate water line.
Depending on the size of your project, you may be without a working kitchen for an extended period. Plan ahead and figure out how you will cook and eat for the duration of the renovation. Eating out can get expensive and tiresome. Try these tips to prepare for a successful kitchen remodel.
Lighting
A kitchen is not complete without adequate lighting. This upgrade will not add much to the cost of your renovation, but it will help set the tone for your space, improve functionality, and make your home more energy-efficient.
Overhead recessed lighting is an excellent option for general kitchen lighting, eliminating shadows and glare while casting a warm glow. You may also want to install dimmers for more control.
Pendant lights are another great option for a focal point that will define the kitchen’s space and create a more personal touch to your décor. However, it is important to keep in mind that these fixtures are more for style and less for illumination. Your contractor will likely recommend using a large fixture that is big enough to create visual interest, but not so big as to obstruct sight lines and limit your ability to move around the kitchen.
Under cabinet lighting is another essential component that will provide task lighting for cooking or cleaning areas, and it will make it easier to access frequently used items. These lights are typically installed under the upper cabinets, but they can also be placed on the floor or inside of a cabinet. The best bulbs for this type of lighting are a soft white or warm yellow color, as opposed to a brighter daylight bulb.
Many homeowners remodel their kitchens to stay current with style trends and features that enhance the overall value of their homes. Other reasons include changes in lifestyle that necessitate a more spacious layout, an upgrade to new appliances, or improved energy efficiency. Regardless of the reason, your local contractor can provide quality upgrades and expert installation services.