Before the Remodeling Project Begins

Here are a few things you should think about before you begin your kitchen remodeling project.

1. Why Are You Remodeling? 

Kitchen remodeling is about more than just aesthetics. What are the reasons you want to remodel your kitchen? It could be better utilization of space, added functionality, or to integrate this space with other areas of your home.

Determine exactly what you want to achieve before you start planning your kitchen remodeling project. This will help you to streamline the renovation process.

2. Set a Realistic Budget 

Before you begin remodeling your kitchen, it’s important to consider your budget against the value of your property. You don’t want to invest a large amount of money if the value of your home is trending downward.  Thorough research is required to come to an estimated cost before you go out and start buying appliances and materials.

3. Plan Kitchen Appliances Early 

Don’t wait until the last minute to start thinking about the appliances you want in your new kitchen.  Most remodeling projects face unexpected costs. You don’t want to opt for lower quality products because you’re almost out of money. When looking for appliances, consider:

• Quality and longevity
• Energy efficiency
• Size
• Features and technologies
• Flexibility and ease of use

There’s no rule for how much you should spend on new kitchen appliances. The quality and range of appliances you go for will depend on your overall budget and needs. As a general rule, you should leave about 20% of your budget for new appliances.

4. Hiring a Professional Contractor

Doing it yourself is a more cost-effective approach to kitchen remodeling, but it is not without risk. Think realistically about what will require the skills of a professional such as a kitchen designer or a contractor.

Changing the layout of a kitchen might require a change in plumbing or electrical outlets. It is best not to attempt these on your own, but rather employ the expertise of a reputable remodeling professional.

5. Understand What Makes a Great Kitchen Design

Today the most desired kitchens are part of an open room concept. They are connected to the dining room or living area and include a central kitchen island. If you decide to integrate your kitchen into the rest of your dining or living spaces, consider materials that are aligned with the rest of the space. 

6. Pay Attention to Details

Small details make a big difference. From the backsplash, tiles, flooring, and cabinets, make sure you consider every element of your new kitchen design. It’s also important to consider the material you choose for things like your kitchen island, breakfast bar, or countertops.

For a more sophisticated look, choose wooden, marble, or granite surfaces. Wooden surfaces add character and charm without going over budget. Lighting is an essential element in kitchen design. There are many options to choose from. Take your time to shop around for the best deals.

7. Choose Your Color Scheme 

Neutral colors are best if you’re planning to put your property on the market soon after renovating. Kitchens with white cabinets or a light-colored palette appeal to a range of tastes and appear clean and bright.

If you’re remodeling your kitchen because you feel like a change, rather than for selling, you have more room to get creative. Decide on the overall look you’re going for. You can update your space into something more modern or an Italian style kitchen. The style you decide will dictate the color scheme.

Ready to Renovate?

Whether you are looking to completely renovate your kitchen, install new cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, add a walk-in pantry, or doing something in between, Finnteriors can help. Our experienced remodeling experts can guide you to find a style and taste within your budget. We have built a reputation of honesty, integrity, and quality work.

Let us take your small, drab, outdated kitchen, and replace it with a magnificent updated gourmet kitchen. We can handle all of your remodeling needs. Contact us today for a free consultation.

With the new year beginning, remodeling projects are already being planned. One space that must stay updated is the kitchen. Kitchens are the focal point and most used rooms in most homes. They provide a space for gathering and entertaining with family and friends.

Deciding how to give your kitchen a fresh look can be overwhelming. There are so many design options, materials, and appliances to choose from. Before you start selecting colors, understand your needs in the kitchen.  Whatever you need, knowing the newest trends in kitchen remodeling can guide you in creating the kitchen of your dreams.

The Most Popular Kitchen Trends

If you’re looking to redesign your kitchen and become a trendsetter, you can gain some inspiration with these remodeling trends for the new year.

1. Dark Cabinet Colors

White cabinets are still a classic choice, but new colors are here. A rise in dark-colored cabinetry over the past few years has made it a growing trend for this year. Dark blue, black, and olive green have been the most popular dark colors for kitchen cabinets. These colors can act as an accent color on an island or all the cabinetry. They also provide a dramatic feel to a kitchen. Dark blue cabinetry pairs well with gold hardware. 

2. Open-Shelving

The farmhouse kitchen design has grown in popularity due to one of its features, open-shelving. Homeowners are doing away with upper cabinets and opting for ways to display their mugs and spices.  Most of us can’t reach the top shelves anyway.

Open-shelving makes a kitchen appear larger. It also allows for more productive use of countertops.

3. Effective Storage Solutions

There is usually wasted space in a kitchen.  Functionality is a top priority in kitchen remodeling designs. One way to make a kitchen functional is to have proper and adequate storage. This makes cooking and daily living easier by organizing your kitchen better. Effective storage solutions include:

• Appliance garages for small appliances
• Drawer dividers for cutlery and utensils
• Pull-outs for spices and tray dividers
• Caddies for pots and pans
• Wastebasket cabinets

Deep drawers are another effective storage solution that homeowners are demanding. Larger and deeper drawers makes kitchen tableware and even pantry items more accessible.

4. Quartz Countertops

One of the most beautiful materials you can implement into a kitchen’s design and decor is quartz. It is very durable and easy to maintain.  It comes in a wide range of colors and stone patterns. Homeowners are installing more neutral colors like grey, taupe or white finishes that offer a cleaner design.

5. Smart Kitchens

Technology is everywhere in homes these days. It can be integrated into appliances that can be added to a smart kitchen remodel .Sensors and smart devices can be added to older kitchens such as motion sensors on faucets that can sense the presence of hands underneath. 

The smart kitchen extends to automated lighting as well. A bright kitchen is ideal, so having enough lighting is essential. With smart lighting, you can automate it based on time or color.

6. Multipurpose Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are an important element in remodeling designs. They provide extra countertop and work space as well as a place to gather. Some kitchen designs incorporate two islands:  one containing a sink for food preparation and storage, while the other island is used for extra seating and entertaining.

You can design islands with under-counter appliances and extend into living spaces with open plan concepts. It allows the kitchen to be multi-functional without all of the clutter.