Kitchen remodeling can be major or minor, but the basic question is usually the same: which features to include when remodeling your kitchen. So, here are some things to include in your kitchen remodel, suggested by kitchen remodeling contractors.
Smart Storage
Storage is one of those things you always want more of. And in a place like a kitchen, smart storage is the name of the game. Smart storage is about creating more storage without making it obvious or appear cluttered. Storage is seamless and is out of the way when you don’t need it.
But how to incorporate smart storage? Choose deep drawers as your lower cabinets. You can put a lot in them, including pots, pans, small appliances, and items that usually take up counter space or hang on the wall. And you can also use them for any other stuff as well.
Moreover, you should never have cabinets without pull-out shelves. They allow you to access the entire cabinet space, otherwise, the back end of the cabinet is usually hard to reach and left unused. But if pull-out cabinets are not your thing, then choose drawers.
Not only that, but you should also include vertical dividers for trays and boards, magic corners, slide-out pantry, ceiling-height cabinets, toe-kick drawers, under-sink organizers, drawer organizers, appliance garage, kitchen island storage on both sides, and more.
A Functional Layout
If you’re changing your kitchen’s layout, then you need to come up with a functional layout that improves workflow and doesn’t create obstructions. These are common kitchen layouts:
L-shaped kitchen layout: The cabinets and counter space are arranged in two adjacent walls forming an L. It’s a good layout for small to medium kitchens.
U-shaped kitchen layout: You have three connecting walls with cabinets and counter space forming a U. This layout is suitable for medium to large kitchens.
G-shaped kitchen layout: This layout is like the U-shape one, but there is counter space and cabinets added to the fourth wall too, partially. So, it offers more workable area and storage, but only good for large spaces.
Galley kitchen layout: The cabinets and counter space are parallel to each other. Suitable for smaller or narrow kitchens.
One-wall kitchen layout: You have cabinets and counter space connected to one wall only. Great for small kitchens. You can also use it for large kitchens when you want to have a one wall of counter space with an island.
You can choose any layout, but it should be right for your space and your requirements. For instance, if you have a small kitchen, a U-shaped kitchen may not work because the space will feel cramped. You should consider a one-wall, L-shaped, or galley kitchen in this case.
A Range Hood
A range hood is a common kitchen feature, but in case it seems unnecessary or too traditional, we also recommend having a range hood. Ventilation in the kitchen is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most vital things for a kitchen, and a range hood helps with that. Even if you’re not performing a major kitchen remodel, installing or replacing an old range hood can drastically improve your kitchen ventilation.
Range hoods remove smoke, grease, odors, and dust particles from your kitchen. And ducted hoods remove harmful gases as well. This makes your kitchen a more comfortable space, and your kitchen becomes easier to clean too because there will be less grease and dust to deal with.
Durable Materials
Many homeowners consider aesthetics but overlook durability. If the cabinets, flooring, and countertop materials are not durable, you will need to replace them sooner. This will cost you a lot of money. So, it’s better to pick durable options that will last you a long time.
For flooring, look for vinyl, natural stones, ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, concrete, engineered hardwood, bamboo, and reclaimed hardwood flooring.
When choosing cabinet materials, you should select hardwood, but if it’s expensive for you, pick plywood, engineered wood, composite, reclaimed wood, thermofoil, laminate, or high-density fiber (HDF). You can also browse Timberlake cabinets Rockville.
Countertop materials must be durable too. So, pick from granite, quartz, quartzite, soapstone, recycled glass, and porcelain slabs. In addition to that, appliances should be made of stainless steel or aluminum.
Pull-Out Trash Bin Near A Corner
Pull-out trash bins are common features, but they can be a hindrance. If you like chopping food and keeping the pull-out open for that period, someone else in the kitchen could trip over it. So, make sure the pull-out trash is installed in the corner area of the kitchen.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Cabinets are right above the countertops and can block light. But there is a way to improve the lighting and also the aesthetics of your kitchen. It is by using under-cabinet lighting.
Under-cabinet lighting creates a big impact and it’s a very cheap upgrade if you choose LED lights. Many of these are simple to install, so you can do so without the help of any electrician or contractor. So, even if you forget this detail during the remodel, you can DIY it. But if you want perfect installation and impact, consider this during the remodel.
A Charging Station
Phones, tablets, and other gadgets are parts of our lives now, so you have to think of ways to use and charge them in the kitchen without creating clutter. You can do this by including a charging station. Put your gadgets in that, plug them in, and keep them hidden (drawer-like charging station) or organized (open-shelf-like charging station).
Hidden Outlets
Speaking of electrical, you should also consider installing hidden outlets under the cabinets and the island so you can easily plug in appliances when needed. This is a minor thing, but an important one. The last thing you would want is to run short of outlets and have to use a power strip. Using something like that in a kitchen is a tripping and an electric shock hazard.
Eco-Friendly Features
Eco-friendly kitchen updates can help you save money while you will also be doing your part in saving the environment when remodeling your kitchen or adding a kitchen to your house. You can begin by choosing eco-friendly materials like bamboo, reclaimed hardwood, cork, linoleum, and recycled glass.
Moreover, design the kitchen to allow ample natural light and consider proper ventilation and insulation options. Plus, install energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and water-saving faucets.
Never Skip Backsplash
Backsplashes are really common in kitchens, but if you’re thinking about skipping them, then don’t. They have many benefits, like they improve your kitchen’s appearance, make cleaning easier because you can wipe the surface conveniently, and also improve your home value.
And if you want to make it the focal point of your kitchen, you can. There are huge color and pattern options in porcelain and ceramic tiles, so you will find something great for your kitchen.
Conclusion
Remodeling a kitchen is a big task and it may be hard to know which features to add, but with this guide, you will know which ones are non-skippable. If you need help in deciding on which features you want or anything else, get in touch with kitchen remodeling companies Bowie.
