If you haven’t heard, the housing market is kind of crazy, currently. I should know, after all I’m in the middle of staging my house to prepare for sale! Now, whether you view the fluidity of the market as a good or bad thing comes down to your position as seller or buyer at the time. But no matter your stance, one thing is for certain: the cost of housing is increasing. That fact alone makes it easy to understand why so many people are opting to renovate their existing homes instead of buying new ones. A kitchen renovation is a great way to not only add value to a home, but also to increase its functionality! If you’re ready to give your kitchen a refresh, consider hiring an interior designer to assist with your renovation! I’ll talk you through it in the blog.
The Heart of the Home
Far too often I run into people who think interior design is all about pillows and furniture. The truth is, the design of any space is so much more than that! This is particularly true when it comes to the kitchen, because this room is the heart of the home. Kitchens are among the most frequented rooms in any house, and they serve a multitude of purposes. If you want to update your home, a kitchen renovation is an excellent place to begin.
Kitchen Appliances Matter
When you’re upgrading your kitchen, never neglect the appliances. Think about how often you use your range or your refrigerator. Why shouldn’t you invest in these pieces? I love that many companies are listening to their savvy customers and realizing that appliances can marry form and function for a stylish touch. I’ve always believed that luxury home design doesn’t depend on a price tag, it rests in the details. Want to create a kitchen that feels chic and polished? Think outside of the box! I chose a panel-ready fridge that made my design feel seamless. I loved the neutral feel of my white cabinetry, and I didn’t want to call attention to a giant stainless steel box as soon as you walked in. The panel almost makes the fridge disappear, and my custom brass hardware only elevates the look!
When I started designing my new dream beach home, I knew I wanted every inch of it to feel exquisite! Kitchens have always been some of my favorite spaces to design, so I was extremely selective when it came to the appliances. I am so excited for my JennAir column fridge! JennAir has broken the mold when it comes to kitchen appliances, and once you take a look at these completely customizable refrigerators with sleek obsidian interiors, you’ll see what I mean! I will also be installing a stunning range from the Smoke & Brass line. The range is one of 50 that will ever be made! It even features gorgeous brass detailing and distressing all done by hand. These pieces are, in a word, magnificent. If you want to add sophistication to your kitchen renovation, try incorporating appliances that are designed to be both elegant and efficient.
Make the Most of Your Materials
Perhaps one of the most important things to consider when beginning a kitchen renovation is what to do with the largest surfaces in the space. Countertops get a ton of action, thus making the material you choose an essential part of their functionality. We all know I love stone. Natural stone is so beautiful in all varieties. I love the many colors and veining patterns. But, natural stone can be quite delicate! Nobody wants to worry about staining and etching in an environment prone to spills. A solution to this is opting for man-made stone that can withstand all the inevitable kitchen happenings.
I also recommend considering a backsplash that won’t be difficult to clean. I know most people gravitate towards tile, but have you ever tried to get food and sauce splashes out of grout? It isn’t my idea of a good time! Running a stone slab all the way up the back is a stylish alternative that solves the grout problem! I’ve done this in many kitchens I’ve designed, and clients are always glad they made that choice!
Kitchen Cabinetry Options
I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve heard a client tell me how much they hate their kitchen, only to discover they actually only hated the look of it. What I mean is, often your kitchen just needs a bit of a facelift in order to be appreciated. Stand in your kitchen and pay attention to where your eyes are drawn. Cabinets are a significant feature that can be modified in a kitchen renovation. Some clients decide to get new cabinets installed, while others simply paint their existing ones. Another thing to consider is swapping out your hardware for new styles and colors. It’s like adding new shiny jewelry as a finishing touch after you’ve decided on an outfit!
If you’re really looking to transform the look of your kitchen, you can even elect to forego traditional upper cabinetry altogether! I’m planning to do that in my new house to achieve an open and airy feel to the space. Some clients choose to do open shelving! It’s not for the weak, (or the disorganized!) as everything is visible to all who enter your kitchen. However, it lends a fresh aesthetic to the space that many love!
Work With Breegan Jane
No matter what you choose to do in your renovation, just make sure it’s a reflection of you. Kitchens are places to eat, entertain, do homework, and connect with friends. They should be full of heart and beauty. Schedule an hour virtual consultation with me to get started on creating your ideal space!
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