Life, Styled
You are considering doing a kitchen renovation, but are a little nervous because of what your friend told you when they renovated their kitchen. The project was completed, and they settled into their new space and enjoyed many of the latest amenities. Then something happened. As they adjusted to the area, they thought about something that could have been done differently or that they wished they had added.
Don’t worry, this happens more than you think. It is impossible to anticipate everything we may need or want since our lives are constantly changing and require adjustments. With that being said, we thought it would be interesting to hear from those who have completed a kitchen remodel and find out what they wish they had done differently, added, or loved adding to the plan. Here are some of their answers, broken down into categories. Maybe it will help as you prepare to start your own renovation journey.
Appliances
- Paneled doors allow you to have a large fridge, but it still blends in with the look of the cabinets. *Appliances must be purchased panel-ready
- Double ovens and warming drawers allow you to finish and warm the whole meal easily.
- The microwave, built into the kitchen island, keeps it off the countertop and within easy reach of everyone, including the kids.
- Two dishwashers are especially helpful if you have a large family.
- If your dishwasher is open, can you still get to the cabinets around it?
Sinks
- Undivided non-stainless steel bowl sink- fewer scratches and water drops.
- There should be two sinks, as this allows you to do more at one time. Dirty dishes can be placed in one, while the other can be used to prep and clean food items.
- A deep sink that allows you more room to wash dishes, even the larger items.
- A sink with a low divide allows you to have an area to let dishes dry or soak while you wash the others.
- The Galley Workstation is a brand we carry exclusively and can easily incorporate it into your design for ease of prep, cooking, cleaning, and entertaining. Follow this link for more information.
Islands
- Seating areas on two sides versus one allow you to fit more people and facilitate easier conversations.
- A regular or prep sink on the island can be an added bonus. It is in the middle of the kitchen, making it easy to reach from almost anywhere.
- Outlets on both sides.
- Additional storage can be planned for the island.
Drawers
- Having a pull-out drawer instead of a lazy susan is more convenient and easier to work with.
- Having more drawers in the bottom cabinets allows you to store plates and silverware easily since the dishwasher is usually located nearby. Another advantage is placing a large drawer where your trash pull-out can be placed; this keeps it handy but hidden.
- Avoid putting a drawer above a trash pull-out; this can give you a larger trash can size.
- Deep drawers that can store pots and pans
- The charging station in the drawer is convenient and efficient since we usually have our phones nearby.
- Pull-out drawers in the pantry make finding and organizing your items easy.
Odds and Ends
- Under-cabinet lighting provides that little extra light that is so often needed.
- Paper towel holder. By creating a little recessed area in one of your cabinets, you can clutter your countertop with one less item.
- Pot filler by the stove, no more carrying heavy pots from the sink to the stove.
- A beverage center is perfect for storing extra drinks like juice boxes and soda cans.
- Spice pull-outs can also be used to store oil bottles and keep them conveniently closed when cooking.
Walker WoodworkingHome is a special word because it represents comfort, refuge, and family. Our home is meant to be the culmination of everything we cherish, which is why designers work tirelessly to create the perfect environment. Recently, however, there has been a movement to rethink how we design in order to minimize our carbon footprint. Interest in sustainability has increased in recent years as homeowners and designers seek ways to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. One way is selecting sustainable materials for use in our home products. From furnishings to accent pieces, there are certain items that are more eco-friendly and come with benefits for you and your family. Let’s talk about the sustainable design approach and the top five sustainable materials you can incorporate into your home.
Walker Woodworking Window treatments are a great accent to any area of the home, including home offices, laundry rooms, and dining areas. Each has various needs that should be considered, as well as the style that best suits the particular area. Home offices are where you will spend a large portion of your daylight hours, so be sure to consider the location of your computer in relation to the window and any potential issues with glare that may arise.
Walker Woodworking Many elements make up a beautiful kitchen, but without a doubt, the countertops and backsplash are the focal points. These materials have become more than just practical tools in the kitchen. They are now works of art and an opportunity for homeowners to add a touch of themselves to the design. Of course, there must be a balance between the two, where they work together to create a cohesive design. Multiple ways exist to create both beautiful and functional looks in the kitchen. Here we answer some common questions surrounding the topic.
Greenbrook DesignFresh air, open outdoor spaces, and cooking on the grill are just a few of the benefits associated with having an outdoor space, which is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Our homes are our refuge, but an outdoor space is the perfect solution to curing cabin fever without having to pack up and drive somewhere. With spring just around the corner, we thought it would be a good time to highlight the reasons why an outdoor space matters, what elements should be included, and how to bring it all together to create the perfect outdoor space for everyone to enjoy.
Everyone enjoys returning to a well-organized, spacious kitchen after a long day. It’s even better if your kitchen includes a nicely organized pantry!
