This is the second in a 4-part series that will examine the cost of remodeling or upgrades vs. the potential value or enjoyment of your home.
The kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where your family gathers to eat and talk about the day, and it’s where your guests always seem to end up when you get together. Does your kitchen reflect your taste and meet the needs of your family? Let’s look at a few ways you can increase the value and functionality of your kitchen.
Cabinetry
Whether you’re looking for custom, semi-custom, or budget cabinetry, there is something out there for everyone. Stained cabinets are classic, and never seem to go out of style, but there are many options for homeowners who want a more contemporary look. Today’s kitchen cabinets are trending towards white, cream, and shades of blue or grey. Often, homeowners will choose light colored upper cabinets with darker base cabinets. Another option is having the uppers and lowers in the same color, with a contrasting island. Custom items like pull-out spice racks and pantry shelves add convenience and make finding ingredients a breeze.
Countertops
Granite and quartz remain customer favorites, but they may not be in line with your budget. Laminate countertops look better than ever and are available in dozens of colors and patterns. New countertops are also a great way to freshen up the kitchen if you aren’t ready to replace the cabinets.
Lighting
Back in the day, kitchens generally had one light over the sink and one in the center of the room. Today, task and accent lighting are the way to go. Recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, and decorative pendants illuminate workspaces and give you options to control the amount of light in the room. New LED and CFL bulbs cost a little more, but they pay for themselves by lasting longer and saving energy.
Flooring
Are your kitchen floors showing their age? Tile remains a classic, but we’re seeing many of our clients opt for luxury vinyl tile (LVT). This product looks like tile, but it has a lot of advantages that tile doesn’t. Most LVT products have a rubber or cork backer which makes them warmer and more comfortable to stand on than tile. While some of these may have faux grout lines, they are much easier to clean than real grout!
Appliances
Stainless steel appliances are still the go-to for kitchen designers. With so many styles and features to choose from, you may have a hard time deciding which ones are right for you! New appliances may carry big price tags, but the energy savings will offset that over time.
PRO TIP: Using the services of a kitchen designer in conjunction with your builder will save you time and frustration. A proper design will ensure that the materials you select will work (and fit) in your new kitchen. Our Kitchen Designer and our Selections Coordinator are here to help!
