Kitchens you can cook in, or not

Whether you use your countertops for your culinary masterpieces or a place to pack your kid’s lunch, kitchens are one of the busiest places in any home. That is why it is important that your kitchen reflects your style, provides an environment in which you feel comfortable and, most importantly, that it is laid out in an efficient and organized manner.

Some things to consider when planning a kitchen remodel:

  • Sufficient storage space
  • Pantry: How often do you go grocery shopping and how much storage space do you need for food?
  • Cabinets – For everyday dishes, serving plates, kitchen utensils, and special occasion pieces like porcelain. Your china and everyday cabinets should be separate places in your kitchen so you don’t accidentally chip, break, or ruin those specialty pieces.
  • Giveaways – For everyday utensils, serving utensils, cookware, and silver (most people have at least 1 junk giveaway where they go random things that don’t otherwise have a spot)
  • Shelving can be used for exposed storage or can be placed inside doors and cabinets to help utilize space
  • Hanging pot racks and rails can also help you utilize space and keep your pots and cookware within easy reach.
  • Easy to clean countertops
  • (If you just want to rejuvenate your kitchen, consider putting new laminate or tile over your old countertops)

  • Marble and granite are great if you like to make cakes, but they can be very expensive, consider making an island or countertop if baking is a priority.
  • Corian is a resin-based product that is molded to fit your cabinets. Corian is more affordable than marble and granite and looks very clean due to its flawless design.
  • Stock laminate is the most affordable countertop and is durable and fairly easy to clean except for the seams that can trap dirt.
  • Ceramic Tile: If you really like ceramic tile, consider adding it on the walls between your cabinets and countertops. This is a more practical place for ceramic tile in a kitchen, it won’t get as dirty and you won’t have to worry about staining grout and constant scrubbing.
  • Adequate lighting
  • Adjustable lighting is a nice addition to any kitchen, allowing you to set the mood and accomplish anything from helping the kids with homework to having a cozy dinner with friends.
  • Task lighting is key in a kitchen. Place separate lighting over the stove, sink, island, and other work surfaces.
  • Updating your appliances
  • Remodeling your kitchen is a great opportunity to evaluate your old appliances – new energy-efficient ones will not only look better, they can save you money, too.
  • Adequate electrical outlets
  • Add some extra outlets even if you think you don’t need them
  • Adding an outlet to an island is a great idea!
  • Practical floors
  • Ceramic tile is durable and attractive, but make sure the grout is well sealed so spills and traffic don’t spoil the clean look.
  • Hardwood can really express your style. Remember to take into account the occasional maintenance that is required with hardwoods.
  • Laminate wood flooring is a less expensive option than hardwood flooring that can achieve the look you want and give you the durability you need.
  • Vinyl is the most economical option, is easily maintained, and is available in a multitude of patterns and colors.
  • So how do we take all of these options and create an organized, user-friendly kitchen?

    Choosing a design that suits your needs is the first step.

    Once you have a basic idea of ​​what you need and want, it’s best to make a Planning Checklist to help you get there. This planning checklist should include estimated costs, required contractors, and any comments that will help you explain your project later to contractors bidding for your work.

    Final tips to remember when planning a kitchen remodel project:

    Use Professional Contractors – Your kitchen will not be available for use during your project, so getting professional help to speed up the project is a must

    Explore Your Options Extensively – Consider Durability, Cost, and Maintenance

    Keep your end goal in mind, from function to style