Even a simple kitchen renovation that would include the replacement of the old cabinets, countertops, water supplies, and flooring is a big project, let alone a complete remodel. Kitchen remodeling projects usually include more fundamental changes, like changing the structure and form of the room.
In either case, you have lots of thinking and planning to do – even if you find a reliable kitchen renovation contractor. In spite of all the advice you may receive, some things are entirely up to you. And the decisions you need to take about the kitchen flooring, the cabinets, the materials, and so forth are endless. It’s a joy; a headache too!
But how many times does an average family invest in kitchen makeovers? Perhaps once, unless there’s sudden damage. One smart way to make this project successful? Focus on the little things as much as you plan to focus on the essential parts of a kitchen remodel. It’s always the little things that make the big difference. So, may we have your attention, please!
The right kitchen lighting is a big thing – natural & artificial
Part of the kitchen installation is the lighting. Part of planning the kitchen reno is figuring out whether to enlarge the window or not. Both the natural and artificial lighting will either make or break your kitchen remodel. You need bright light over all working spaces. No wonder there’s a variety of options when it comes to under the cabinet / over the countertop lights. It’s important to have mood kitchen lighting too. And that’s easy to do. You can get dimmable lights. But it’s essential that there’s a lot of white light over the areas where you prep meals.
It’s equally essential that you have good lighting inside the cabinets, especially in the under the countertop cabinets which are usually dark. Depending on the kitchen size and how many work areas you create, you can install pendants, recessed lighting, under cabinet task lights, over the island lights, or even let a chandelier become the focal point.
If this is a kitchen remodeling project and you can enlarge the window, do it. Even if you don’t have the greatest view in the world, it’s important that you get plenty of natural light in the kitchen. It’s a way to save money too.
Function is necessary when it comes to kitchens
Whether you cook once a week or three times each day, the kitchen is a work area. When you enter the kitchen, you roll up the sleeves, put the apron on, and start working. Hence, your goal should be to make your work here easy. If you usually work on the kitchen island, you could plan of getting some stools or install footrests. The latter is also a way to protect your cabinets from the shoes.
The size of the sink shouldn’t be neglected
A 24-inch sink is the standard small size. Some families started choosing 28- & 30-inch sinks lately. In order to choose the right size sink, you need to consider your daily needs. It’s vital to know that the sinks are measured from back to forth (width), how long they extend in the counter (length) and how deep they are (depth). You need them deep enough to fit a large bowl. The width and the length should be big enough to fit your biggest pans with ease. So, a 33-inch sink could give you ample space but if you have a double oven, it’d be small. If you can fit an oversized sink, go for it. But remember to get a faucet that turns.
Leave space for the hot pan
Do you remember how urgent it feels when you carry the hot pot – just out of the oven – and try to find a place to leave it? Leave some room on the countertop just next to your oven and make sure there’s a wooden surface there so that you won’t get burned next time.
Big items in small kitchens create huge problems
If this is a small kitchen renovation, think big in ideas only. Don’t get big appliances, huge islands, and things out of proportion. It’s important to be able to open cabinets and move around without bumping into stuff.
Go for timeless color schemes
When it comes to kitchen design ideas, and specifically the topic on the table is colors, we always go with our heart. We often choose hues that match the rest of the home décor, especially if this is an open plan kitchen. But what about if your dining room or sitting room is reddish or dark green? Or brown? For your kitchen, prefer more subtle, neutral hues that are timeless and, believe it or not, versatile. They create the basis where you can build-up other colors with objects and accessories – which are easily replaced. That’s a smart way to refresh your kitchen often too.
