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 Woodworking Two rooms in any home have the most potential to affect the property’s appeal and value when it is put on sale: the kitchens and bathrooms. Kitchens are valued because they function as a hub where people socialize and meals are prepared. Bathrooms are important because they are where people go to relax and unwind with a hot shower. The condition of a home’s kitchen and bathroom influences its market value.
Greenbrook DesignOur top priority is helping our clients achieve a space that is suited to their needs and unique lifestyles. Here are three ways we strive to do this and help you create a safe and well-thought-out space for you and your family.
Walker Woodworking Whether you’ve recently purchased a new construction house or you happen to live in a historic home, there are several things you can do to make your home more technologically advanced. From unique features on kitchen appliances to the latest security accessories, where do you begin when upgrading to a smart home? Read on for some tips, tricks, and easy hacks that will help you discover how to make your housework harder and smarter for you.
Smart home technology. From voice-activated faucets to thermostats, technology has finally caught up to the home. Alexa’s name is spoken hundreds of times daily while performing multiple tasks, allowing homeowners to manage various tasks even when not at home.
GreenbrookIncluding nature’s elements in the home design remains a popular choice. Placing extra windows into the room to allow more light in or choosing eco-friendly options, such as granite countertops, are favored ways to accomplish this. Wood, however, remains the number one choice with most clients as it adds warmth and texture to the room. It also blends with multiple styles, including modern industrial and farmhouse. Even though there are numerous design benefits to incorporating wood into the design, not everyone has access to reclaimed wood or can afford to install it. Stikwood is the perfect solution.
