Kitchen remodels can be stressful and expensive. Luckily, synthetic materials, smart appliances, and DIY guides are more advanced than ever. The rules of interior design are constantly changing and the days of single, ubiquitous style are gone. Today, modern designers are creating contrast with various textures, colors, and finishes. With tips from the pros, you don’t need an interior designer to build the kitchen of your dreams. Use this guide to plan your kitchen remodel with the perfect combination of wood, metal, and natural stone.
Appliances
In the early 2000s, stainless steel was everywhere. Now designers opt for a matte black finish. Darker colors direct the eye to the appliances’ distinct edges, while the dullness of the color fits minimalist color palettes — currently popular in interior design. Accent metals are also in right now. Satin gold, bronze, or copper can add a warm touch to an otherwise stark color palette.
Countertops
In 2012, roughly 75 percent of new homes had granite countertops. That trend is slowly starting to phase out. Today, people shop for countertops of different materials and colors to spice things up in the kitchen. Instead of assuming granite is your best option, consider one of these natural stone alternatives:
Marble - For a truly luxurious look and feel, consider polished marble. This high-end material is durable and heat-resistant, but it does require annual sealing to prevent stains. Marble generally costs upwards of $120 per square foot.
Quartz - Manufactured quartz is a combination of crushed quartz, pigment, and a plastic binding agent. Together you end up with a nonporous countertop that resists stains, bacteria, acidity, and heat. heat, acidity, and bacteria. This process costs roughly $70 per square foot.
Soapstone - Commonly used in high school laboratories, soapstone is nonporous and durable. Sealed soapstone is ideal for kitchens, creating a darker, rich look without compromising the material. Expect to pay around $50 per square foot.
Woodwork
The woodwork in your kitchen can make or break a remodel. Picking the right wood and finish is crucial. I prefer a minimal look with simple color schemes and clean lines. Took create this effect, consider raised-panel cabinets and a natural wood finish. These classic wooden cabinets pair well with stone countertops and matte black appliances, as well as, strong accent colors.
Popular designer on HGTV Joanna Gaines uses floor to ceiling cabinets. This look still gives the sharp lines we’re looking for but provides additional storage which increases the value of your home.
Functionality
Once the building and designing are complete, it’s time to decide what furniture from your old kitchen will stay, and what needs to be replaced. Most people only remodel their kitchen once, so this can be a great opportunity to find all new furniture that is both minimal and functional. Consider the time you spend in the kitchen every day. What are you doing most? What could you add to simplify those processes? For some, smart furniture is the answer. More popular devices range from leak-detecting faucets to indoor gardening systems.
Whether you’re in for a partial or full kitchen remodel, sufficient planning and research can make or break the project. Hiring a team to get the job done is the most common way to go, but why not have a little fun and do it yourself? Having the kitchen of your dreams is even more rewarding when it’s self-made.
