If you want to change your kitchen’s entire layout to make it more functional and aligned with modern living standards, then this is the service for you. This typically involves major design alterations and construction work with subcontractors managed by a general contractor.
Kitchen remodels often involve tearing out walls and installing utility lines. This can be a costly project. Contact Tacoma Kitchen Remodel now!
Your kitchen’s layout determines how functional and attractive your space is. A well-considered kitchen design can improve your workflow, create a sense of spaciousness, and enhance your home’s architecture. However, it’s important to consider the size of your kitchen and how many people will be using it before choosing a layout that works for you.
If you’re considering a full remodel, your first step is to decide how much of an impact you want on your kitchen’s footprint and whether or not it will be feasible for your budget. Then you can start to think about what your goals and objectives are for the project.
A complete kitchen remodel involves tearing out your old cabinets, fixtures, and appliances, as well as the walls that are in place, so that your new layout can be rebuilt. For this type of remodel, you will also likely need to have utility lines moved or installed – plumbing and electrical – which can add a significant cost to the overall project.
Once the demo and rough-in are done, you can begin to rebuild your kitchen’s walls, incorporating new openings for cabinets, pass-through windows, structured drywall, and more. Once your walls are ready, you can install your flooring. During this stage, you’ll be able to choose between carpeting, tile, laminate boards, and modern wood floors.
An L-shaped kitchen layout, featuring a run of cabinets along two joining walls, is one of the most popular options. It maximizes cabinetry storage and provides a clean working circle. You can also add an island to this layout, which is particularly ideal if your kitchen is open to another living area.
Another common kitchen layout is the U shape. It features three walls of cabinets/appliances and a peninsula for counterspace. This layout is great for large kitchens and is especially suited for open floor plans.
An often overlooked option for increasing kitchen storage is to incorporate convenient wall storage solutions like open shelving, baskets, or hooks. This is a great way to organize your cookware, baking supplies, or extra china in one easily accessible location.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of kitchen remodeling. It helps transform the room into a functional space suited for cooking, eating and entertaining. It can also serve as a focal point that ties together a design theme or adds the final touches to a pre-existing plan. With so many options available, deciding which fixtures to use can be overwhelming, but the right choices can help you create a beautiful, well-lit kitchen.
To ensure the best results, we recommend including your lighting plans as part of the initial layout phase of your remodel. This will help determine where electrical wiring is necessary and help avoid costly changes to the plan later on in the project. It will also help your remodel stay on schedule and budget.
When selecting your light fixtures, it is best to incorporate a mix of different types to add interest and dimension to the space. Ambient lighting brightens the overall space and sets the mood, task lights focus on work areas like countertops and stovetops, and accent lights highlight architectural features or decorative elements to create depth and a welcoming ambiance.
Pendant lights are popular for bringing design flair to a kitchen. They can be found in a wide range of styles and finishes to suit any design aesthetic, and they come in adjustable versions to direct light where it is needed. For kitchen spaces with islands or dining spots, a pendant fixture in a larger size is ideal to provide more focused illumination.
Under cabinet lighting is another way to add function to your kitchen. It can help you see what is stored in dark cabinets and save you the hassle of opening and closing doors to find items. For an extra boost of style, opt for motion sensor lights that turn on when you open a cabinet door.
If you’re incorporating art into your kitchen, Whitehead suggests using recessed, adjustable fixtures to highlight these pieces of wall decor. As the kitchen continues to evolve into a more living/gathering space, homeowners are displaying more artwork and framed photographs in the area. To make these displays pop, these recessed fixtures can highlight the art with a soft glow that doesn’t overpower the space.
Appliances
While they may seem like small details, the right appliances can tie a kitchen remodel together and create an aesthetic that’s both functional and beautiful. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, modern look with stainless steel or a cozy, traditional feel with custom cabinetry, the right appliances can help pull your design together and make it come to life.
The appliance selection process is important because it will set the tone for your new kitchen. For example, if you want your kitchen to have a modern, contemporary vibe, you’ll likely opt for white appliances. On the other hand, if you’re going for a rustic, farmhouse style, dark brown appliances might be a better fit.
During this phase, it’s also essential to consider the size and layout of your kitchen. This will dictate what kinds and sizes of appliances you can install. For instance, if you have limited space for your refrigerator, it might be necessary to switch from a side-by-side to a French door or bottom-freezer model. Likewise, it’s critical to ensure that your oven and dishwasher can fit comfortably in their new locations.
It’s also important to factor in your budget when selecting appliances. There are a variety of price points, from mainstream brands that offer reliability and performance at an affordable price to high-end models that provide superior quality and advanced features. Choosing appliances that are a good fit for your budget will help you avoid overspending on your kitchen remodel and ensure that it stays within your desired spending range.
The timing of buying appliances is another consideration. Ideally, you’ll finalize your appliance choices during the planning phase of your renovation and then purchase them closer to the installation date so that they can be delivered and installed as needed. This will help minimize damage or storage challenges during construction.
When you work with a professional, they can handle many of the logistics involved in the kitchen remodel for you. They’ll have long-term working relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors that can often result in a more affordable cost. Additionally, a professional can make sure that all of the different elements of your kitchen remodel are working together to produce a seamless and functional kitchen.
Cabinetry
Cabinets make up the bulk of your kitchen wall space and are a major part of your kitchen remodel, from color to design details. A fresh coat of paint, new hardware, and the right accents can elevate cabinets to the next level without a full overhaul.
The type of construction and material for your cabinets is another big decision. Builder-grade cabinets, also known as contractor-grade or stock cabinets, are designed to meet standard construction code requirements using simple materials with minimal detailing and a basic finish. Stock cabinets are typically more affordable and available in many styles, colors, and finishes.
Custom cabinets offer limitless options to personalize your kitchen remodel, including unique configurations and specialty storage solutions, as well as premium materials and finishes. However, they can come with a higher price tag and longer lead times.
Before choosing a cabinet style, consider your storage needs and how you use the kitchen. Specialty drawers for pots and pans, oversized drawers for baking sheets, or spaces set aside just for trash and recycling can help your kitchen be more functional. Cabinetry with specialized features may add to your budget, but can improve the functionality of your kitchen and increase your home’s resale value.
Once you’ve nailed down your layout, floorplan, and functional goals, it’s time to choose the finishes and details that will bring your kitchen remodel together. From eye-catching backsplashes with playful patterns to coordinating sink faucets and cabinet hardware, there are endless ways to add personality to your kitchen.
Changing the color of your cabinetry is an easy and effective way to update your kitchen. Repainting the existing cabinets a new color or adding a contrasting island can transform the room’s look and create a more intentional, stylish kitchen. Reynal also recommends incorporating texture to your kitchen through layered lighting, like pendants and under-cabinet lights, or through other elements that can add contrast, such as a dark tile floor with light cabinetry. Other design tricks, such as glass-fronted cabinets that display beautiful dinnerware or faux brick walls that add a cozy feel, are sure to impress your guests while making the kitchen more usable.