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.
GreenbrookWith more people spending extended time at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many have realized their living spaces could use an upgrade. While you might think you need to wait for a design center to reopen to begin your renovation, that’s no longer the case. Greenbrook Design now offers virtual design consultations, allowing you to start planning your beautiful and functional space without delay. From concept to execution, our team can guide you through the process remotely—ensuring your project stays on track and reflects your vision, all from the comfort and safety of your home.
Walker Woodworking Accessible and Universal Homes are sweeping the home design industry! People are catching on to the IMMENSE VALUE of a home designed to make life easier. With all the challenges that life brings, the way you live in your home doesn’t have to be one. The techniques of Accessible and Universal Design can create greater ease and comfort right into your daily life before potential challenges become an issue.
Why are mudrooms so popular? We all know the scenario: that once-beautiful foyer quickly becomes a catch-all for shoes, backpacks, coats, and more, creating clutter and chaos. Everyone wants to keep their home organized and visually appealing, but life can get messy. That’s where the mudroom comes in.
Windows are one of the most essential elements in any home—yet they’re often the most overlooked. Gone are the days when windows served a purely functional role. Today, they do so much more than provide natural light and fresh air—they enhance energy efficiency, connect us to the outdoors, and contribute significantly to a room’s overall design and mood.
Whether open or closed, windows allow us to enjoy nature from the comfort of home. But their impact doesn’t stop there. With the right window treatments, you can transform the feel of a space, improve insulation, increase privacy, and even boost the value of your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore what window treatments are, the various styles available, and how they can bring both beauty and benefits to your living space—for you, your family, and your home.
Walker WoodworkingWithout a doubt, the most significant statement piece in a bathroom is the vanity, as it is usually the first thing the eye sees. Floating vanities have become increasingly popular, particularly with minimalist, clean, and modern aesthetics. This blog will explore what they are, what designs complement floating vanities best, and the benefits this style can bring to your bathroom.
