Kitchen Remodeling – What You Need to Know

Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY involves fundamental changes to the structure, layout, and design of a kitchen. A remodel typically requires extensive construction work and may involve adding property extensions.

Cabinet refacing is another way to make your kitchen look new without a complete replacement. This option involves refreshing the surfaces and modifying fixtures without altering the fundamental structure of your kitchen.

The layout of your kitchen has a lot to do with how functional the space will be. Whether you’re designing for a small space or need to make room for a big fridge and dishwasher, the layout is important to consider. Especially if you’re adding an island, be sure to allow for adequate workspace around your appliances. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that you can comfortably reach everything within a four-foot radius of the sink, oven, and refrigerator.

When determining a kitchen layout, be sure to consider how much natural light you’ll get in your room. A well-lit, bright kitchen is the best way to prepare food and it’s also a safer place to work, so be sure to keep in mind that your kitchen design needs to include adequate lighting.

You should also keep in mind the safety hazards of your kitchen, including fires, scalding water, cuts, and falls. It’s important to protect yourself and your family by keeping a fire extinguisher visible and accessible, not installing flammable window treatments above stoves or ovens, and choosing clipped or rounded corners for countertops instead of sharp ones.

Lastly, it’s important to understand the difference between remodeling and renovation when choosing a kitchen remodel project. Remodeling involves critical alterations to the structure and layout of your kitchen, while renovation limits structural changes but can offer noticeable improvements. For example, changing the color of your cabinets or adding new backsplash tiles are both considered renovations but don’t necessarily alter the overall layout of your kitchen. Ultimately, it’s crucial to determine your kitchen goals and budget before beginning any work. Then, you can focus on deciding which features are must-haves and which will be optional upgrades.

Cabinetry

A kitchen’s cabinetry is often its focal point, and it can have a big impact on the room’s style. It’s important to evaluate existing cabinetry before starting a remodel and ensure it meets your needs both in terms of function and aesthetics. For example, if you are replacing the stove and refrigerator, you need to ensure the new cabinets will fit properly and provide ample storage space.

A full remodel will involve removing and replacing cabinetry, either with custom built cabinets or prefabricated options. In addition, you may need to replace the countertops and flooring. Other features that might be included in a full remodel are new overhead lighting, a tile backsplash and recessed lights.

During the design process, you can visit cabinet or countertop material stores and suppliers to find the materials that best suit your taste. You should also visit other homes to see what kitchens look like in your price range, and try to visualize how the different elements will work together. For example, a dark floor tile might not look so great with a dark cabinetry, and light counters can clash with darker wall and ceiling colors.

You can choose from a variety of cabinet door styles, finishes and hardware. A popular trend in 2022 is two-toned cabinetry, where the top and bottom halves are painted in two different colors for a unique look. You can also add glass doors to cabinets for a modern and sleek appearance. Other options include rolling drawers and pull-out shelves to maximize storage space in base cabinets. These shelving units can help you better organize and store your utensils, cookware and other items.

Countertops

Countertops aren’t just surfaces for cooking and preparing food, they have a significant impact on the aesthetic of a kitchen. They set the tone for the space and should complement other design elements like cabinets, flooring, and appliances for a cohesive look. This is why it’s important to spend time deciding on the right countertops for your home during your kitchen remodel.

Counters should be able to withstand the wear and tear of a busy kitchen, and they should match your style. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of stone, the durability of quartz or the raw look of concrete, there are endless options to choose from.

Quartz is a popular countertop choice due to its durability and modern appearance. However, it’s important to note that it is more porous than other countertop materials and will require more care. It’s also important to keep in mind that quartz is pricier than other countertop choices, so it may not be a good fit for your budget.

Granite is another popular countertop option and a more affordable alternative to quartz. It’s also a natural material, which means each countertop is unique and will have its own characteristics, including some stains. To make sure your granite stays looking good, you’ll need to wipe up any spills immediately and follow a regular sealing routine.

Stainless steel is another durable countertop option, especially for professional chefs. It’s hygienic and heat-resistant, and it can develop an attractive patina over time. If you’re interested in a contemporary look, stainless steel is a great option for your kitchen remodel.

Appliances

The appliances you choose can significantly impact the overall look of your kitchen. From a sleek, modern stainless steel look to cozy, traditional charm with custom cabinetry, the right appliances can add a personal touch and enhance functionality.

New appliances will also increase your energy efficiency, resulting in lower utility bills and a more environmentally friendly home. Incorporating energy-efficient models like Energy Star refrigerators and dishwashers along with water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow faucets, and tankless hot water systems that only heat when needed will reduce your environmental footprint.

A well-planned kitchen remodel is a smart investment in your home. While a kitchen renovation may cost more upfront than standard versions, the upgraded aesthetic and improved function can boost your property value when it comes time to sell. Prospective homebuyers prioritize homes with updated kitchens and will be more likely to pay a premium for your property.

If your kitchen is cluttered and overflowing, it can be challenging to navigate the space without bumping into items or knocking things over. Adding cabinets or creating a pass-through to the living room are easy ways to open up your kitchen and make it easier to move around.

A kitchen that doesn’t work well for your family’s needs will be a headache to cook in and can even lead to tension and arguments. Working with a design-build remodeler can help you assess your space comprehensively and create a kitchen that perfectly suits your lifestyle. With increased functionality and a beautiful, personalized style, your dream kitchen will be a pleasure to cook in. It will also make entertaining friends and family members a breeze. Whether you enjoy coffee gatherings, dinner parties, or games night with the kids, a functional and inviting kitchen will ensure that everyone feels at home when visiting.

Lighting

Lighting is a powerful element that can affect the overall feel and function of your kitchen. The right lighting can set a relaxing and welcoming ambiance for family meals or accentuate the architectural features in your kitchen to create an eye-catching focal point. There are many options for lighting in your Jacksonville kitchen, including recessed, pendant, under cabinet, and accent lighting. Each type of fixture has its own benefits and can be used in combination to achieve a layered lighting effect.

Choosing the best lighting for your Jacksonville kitchen remodel depends on your personal style and needs. For example, a modern kitchen may benefit from sleek recessed lighting and minimalist pendant lamps while a rustic or farmhouse kitchen would pair well with more traditional fixtures. The right light can also enhance the color scheme of your kitchen, making it warmer or cooler depending on your preference.

Every kitchen requires effective task, ambient, and accent lighting. This ensures that all areas are well-lit, allowing for safe movement and visibility. Layered lighting also reduces shadowing and glare, which is often the result of using only overhead fixtures.

For a more customized and functional lighting solution, consider under-cabinet lights. They can be installed under cabinets, on the floor, or inside drawers to illuminate areas where you store utensils and tools. You can even choose dimmable under-cabinet lights to adjust your kitchen’s brightness based on your mood and tasks.