Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY can increase the resale value of your home. It can also make your home a more pleasant go-to space with attractive finishes and colors.
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Appliances can make a big impact on the kitchen design. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, and offer a number of features to enhance kitchen functionality. Before you start shopping for appliances, establish a budget and a layout that fits the size of your space. Then, focus on finding appliances that match your lifestyle and cooking preferences. For example, if you bake a lot, a double oven might be a great addition to your kitchen.
If your kitchen has a modern style, opt for stainless steel appliances for a sleek look that will last. Also, consider choosing panel ready appliances that allow for custom panels to be installed over the front of the appliance to match your cabinetry. Finally, if you’re remodeling to add a traditional touch to your kitchen, opt for white or black appliances.
Choosing energy efficient appliances is not only good for the environment, but it can save you money on your utility bills. Look for appliances that have an Energy Star label or are rated by Consumer Reports or Wirecutter. Additionally, choose appliances with a condensation drying function that will prevent your dishes from leaving residue on the outside after washing. This will help to keep your dishwasher looking clean and smelling fresh longer.
Cabinets
A kitchen remodel can be as simple as replacing faucets or cabinet hardware, or it can involve knocking down walls and creating a brand new footprint. It can also include reworking electrical and plumbing lines. Regardless of the scope, cabinetry plays a key role in the overall look and functionality of a kitchen.
Cabinets are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, finishes and colors. They can also be configured with open shelving, glass doors or a combination of both. Cabinetry is often a focal point in a kitchen and offers ample opportunity to make a statement, so it’s important to think carefully about your preferences before making a final decision.
The cabinet installation process is a critical phase of a kitchen remodel. The first step is demolition, which removes old appliances and cabinets to make way for the rebuild. Then comes the rough-in, during which utility lines are laid in place for things like gas and electric outlets. Once these are in, the floor can be installed.
Next, the cabinets are hung on the wall (upper) and on the base (lower). If your cabinets are going to be refaced or repainted, they need to be sanded down before the paint goes on. A light sanding with 100 or 150-grit helps the paint adhere to the surface.
You can add a little extra style to your cabinetry by adding unique staining or painting. The classic white cabinet look is always in style, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other neutral shades like gray or even black. You can also give your builder-grade cabinets a facelift by replacing the hardware, backsplash or countertops. Small changes like this can have a big visual impact without the hassle and cost of a full-scale kitchen renovation.
Countertops
Countertops are a big part of kitchen remodeling, and there are many different styles available. The choice of countertop material depends on both the style of kitchen and the homeowner’s budget. Some popular options include granite and quartz, although some people prefer to stick with a more traditional countertop material like laminate or solid wood.
If you’re aiming for a high-end finish, granite is an excellent option for kitchen countertops because it looks beautiful and adds value to the home. It’s also resistant to heat and scratches, and it holds up well against stains. However, it’s important to keep in mind that granite countertops require regular resealing and may chip or crack over time.
Laminate is a common countertop material because it’s inexpensive and comes in an array of colors, patterns, and textures. However, it’s important to note that laminate isn’t as durable as other materials and can easily burn or scorch if exposed to direct heat. Additionally, it’s not as attractive to potential home buyers as natural stone or solid wood countertops.
Tile is another countertop material that’s available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. It’s a good alternative to solid surface countertops because it is easy to repair and maintain. It’s not recommended for busy kitchens because it can be susceptible to moisture and stains.
Stainless steel is another option for countertop material that’s gaining popularity. Stainless steel is durable and heat-resistant, and it can take on an attractive patina over time. It’s important to consider the configuration of your sink when choosing a countertop material because it will determine how the faucet and other plumbing elements are installed.
Flooring
Kitchens are the hub of family life, and the flooring in these areas must be able to hold up well to both heavy foot traffic and spills. It also needs to be comfortable underfoot. Some popular options include vinyl, linoleum, and hardwood.
A flooring material that looks good but is easy to maintain is essential in any kitchen. This is especially true if you have young children or pets that tend to make messes. Typically, tile, vinyl, and linoleum are the easiest to clean and most durable options for kitchen floors.
Bamboo flooring is another choice that is becoming increasingly popular. It offers the look of hardwood but is more resistant to moisture and is easier to maintain. It also comes in a wide range of colors and styles.
Other durable options for kitchen flooring include brick, concrete, and cork. Concrete, which can be stained to resemble wood, stone, or other materials, is tough and inexpensive. It is also heat- and impact-resistant, but must be resealed regularly to protect it from damage. Brick is another option that offers an industrial aesthetic for the home, but it can be slippery when wet and will need to be resealed regularly as well.
The flooring you choose will often be determined by your goals for the renovation. Are you hoping to increase resale value? Are you looking to create a space that meets your family’s needs? These questions can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect flooring for your kitchen remodel. Depending on your answers, you might choose flooring that matches the style of your cabinets, works with your kitchen island, or is consistent throughout the entire room.
Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked when it comes to kitchen remodeling, but this is a mistake homeowners need to avoid. The right lighting helps the space feel inviting and can also set the mood. A good lighting plan includes three types of light: ambient, task and accent.
Ambient, or general, lighting is used to illuminate the entire space in a uniform way. It is typically overhead and controlled by a single switch. This type of lighting is useful for a kitchen, especially when the windows are smaller or you’re not getting as much natural light in the space.
Task lighting is used to brighten specific areas of the kitchen, such as under cabinets or over the sink for food prep. This is important to help you see clearly when you’re cooking or doing other tasks in the kitchen. It is recommended that task lights be no more than 2 1/2 feet from the surface they are illuminating.
Accent lighting is used to highlight specific areas or items in the room. This could be artwork, pendant lights above a dining table or even decorative sconces on the wall. This can be a great way to make the room feel unique and to draw attention to certain features of the space.
Decorative lighting is a great way to add a little extra style to the kitchen. This can be in the form of fixtures that use black metal frames, Edison bulbs or even a piece of wood or rattan that gives it an industrial look. If a homeowner is incorporating this into their kitchen remodeling, it’s recommended that the infrastructure be installed during construction (like the junction box and/or recessed box in the ceiling) and that actual fixtures are purchased later.