In the excitement of remodeling your kitchen, it is easy to get caught up in the eye-catching upgrades, like colors and finishes. While these improvements can “wow” us, the real value lies in the functionality of space. Take advice from an expert. Here are five key factors that differentiate a good kitchen renovation from a great one.
1. Layout and Functionality
The kitchen is often referred to as the “heart of the home.” A good layout in your kitchen makes the time gathered in it practical. Consider the “work triangle,” which is the path between your sink, stove, and refrigerator. This triangle should flow seamlessly, making it easy to transfer hot pans or wet plates across the space. Additionally, considering counter space, storage options, and whether an island or breakfast bar could be incorporated will better tailor the space for your family’s needs.
2. Quality of Materials
With an array of material choices for countertops, cabinetry, and flooring, it can be hard to know which is the best investment. Selecting high-quality materials, such as teak, porcelain tile, and granite, reap multiple benefits. The durability of a material helps it withstand the test of time. A material’s functionality dictates whether it is easy to clean and practical for your lifestyle. The enhanced aesthetics of high-quality materials also enhance property value. While tempting to cut costs, materials are worth the investment.
3. Lighting
Light brings energy to a space. It creates cozy spaces or draws attention to your grandest areas. In a kitchen, using a combination of task, ambient, and accent lighting to create an environment that is safe and inviting makes it the “heart of the home.” Under-cabinet lighting illuminates workspaces, pendant lights add style and focus over islands, and dimmable overhead lights can create a warm ambiance for dining.
4. Storage Solutions
The key to functionality in a kitchen is maximizing storage. Not only will you cook more efficiently, it also will improve the aesthetics. Storage is not always about having the space, but how you utilize it. Incorporating solutions like lazy Susans, dividing cabinetry, overhead shelving, and utilizing wall space for knives will make your kitchen highly functional.
5. Personal Touches
While the kitchen is the “heart of the home,” what makes a house a home is the people in it. Designing a kitchen that reflects your personal style will make it feel your own. Including family heirlooms, unique hardware, and bold backsplashes will make the kitchen your favorite space to be. You can even embrace the seasons by swapping out countertop produce or a festive vase.
Two words to focus on during your kitchen renovation are form and function. Form is the overall aesthetic and what draws you into the space. Function is what keeps you there. Considering the five tips above will ensure your kitchen renovation has both form and function, maximizing the impact of your investment.
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