Kitchen Renovation Tips

Kitchen spaces are one of the most versatile and used rooms in any home. Your kitchen space needs to look beautiful and function the way you need it to. Though your limited free time and or budgets may make a kitchen remodel or kitchen renovation seem challenging and nearly an impossible undertaking.

When undertaking a kitchen renovation consider how to make the most out of your existing space. Do you need to reorganize dishes, move an appliance or make small cosmetic alterations? There are many ways to improve your kitchen without undergoing major changes.

If you have any questions, consult with any expert to see if there are any simple ways to solve your kitchen issues, or if a small renovation is truly the answer. These 6 tips can help you get the space you need, without spending too much time or money on the changes.

1. Direct Traffic

Make sure your kitchen is designed with a flow in mind and for those using the space. A kitchen that is meant to entertain large groups should have a focal or gathering point. While kitchens built for a family with small children should incorporate a flow that moves children away from major appliances, cutlery or cooktops. Consider how you kitchen flows to help make it become more suitable for you, your guests and your loved ones.

2. Increase Efficiency

Does your kitchen promote wasted steps? Are items that compliment each other stored on opposite ends of the space? Consider storing items that are used together, closer together. For example, cereal can be stored near bowls and your Tupperware can be kept underneath that area where most of your food is prepared. Considering the location of your food and kitchen item storage helps make a more functional space.

3. Kitchen Pathways

The different walkways, island layouts, and appliance locations create respective pathways in your kitchen. These pathways need adequate space to properly function. Pathways for seating or standing should be at least 36 inches wide, while a pathway for cooking should be at least 48 inches. A kitchen with too small of pathways can seem easily over packed and busy.

4. The Island

Kitchen islands are perfect for gathering around, storing dishes, preparing food and serving appetizers. Plan the space on top the island based on what you plan to use the island for. An island poised for storage and aesthetes can boast a large bouquet, several candles and/or fresh fruit baskets. An island meant largely for food preparation needs more countertop space and for cooking items to be strategically located around the island.

5. Consider Clean Times

Design choices, appliance materials among other kitchen materials will impact how difficult the kitchen space is to keep clean. For example, glass refrigerator shelves can catch and contain spills better than wire shelves. Matte finishes on appliances will look cleaner than glossy finishes that have the same levels of dirt or dust. Undermount sinks are prone to catching food crumbs, more than above grade sinks. Consider the future cleaning requirements of your kitchen and considering reorganizing or replace small kitchen items.

6. Focal Points

A kitchen needs to set a focal point to help with entertaining and aesthetics. Too many tables or large surfaces can make the flow in your space seem somewhat sporadic and congested. A large island space with several stools showcases a central area of the kitchen for guests to gather. In regards to kitchen design, to many different finishes, glosses and eye-catching appliances can make the kitchen look too busy. Consider subtle design elements that further promote the focal point or overarching theme in your kitchen in order to create a comforting and functional space.