Must-Haves for Your Next Kitchen Renovation

  • 6 minute read

Eventually, most people come across the decision to renovate their kitchen. Some people want to change the aesthetic, increase efficiency, or simply give it an update. Whatever your goal is, there are several features you should seriously consider including on your renovation list.

Upgrade Your Appliances

It can be expensive to upgrade your appliances, but it is also extremely worth it. New appliances can help out with convenience. When you upgrade, you can pick out appliances that have features unique to your needs. Getting new appliances also allows you to find more energy-efficient models. These will have a positive impact on the environment and they can also help you save money on your energy bills. There are three main appliances you should update: fridge, oven/stove, and dishwasher. Make sure you are aware of the measurements you can fit in your kitchen before you move forward with a purchase. You wouldn’t want to buy a fridge and then find out it doesn’t fit.

Create an Island

If you have the space and the budget, you should add a kitchen island. Having an island is a great way to increase your overall usable space. You can add increased storage and have more counter space available. Your kitchen island is also the perfect place to add other amenities to your kitchen such as an additional cooktop or even a refrigeration drawer. Your kitchen island is also a place where you can add additional seating. This can be available if you’re having a party, or it can even be used as a homework spot for kids. You can be extremely creative when making a kitchen island and it’s even possible to have a mobile island so you can reconfigure your kitchen if you need more floor space.

Granite Countertops

Having granite countertops is a very popular option. One of the main draws of granite is it is very stunning and makes your kitchen look more expensive. However, granite is surprisingly affordable, so you can have a high-end look without breaking the bank. Granite countertops are also all unique and can add some character to your kitchen. Additionally, granite is extremely durable. You don’t need to worry about scratches or chipping. With the proper sealant, your counters will also be resistant to moisture and even stains. To top it all off, granite countertops will also add value to your home.

Replace Your Cabinets

While you can refinish your cabinets, it may be a better option to replace your cabinets altogether. Over time, they simply get worn out. They become scratched, dented, and possibly even warped. Replacing your cabinets allows you to start fresh and you can even get creative. You can design custom cabinets to fit your needs. Custom cabinets add more value than standard ones bought at a hardware store. They become a unique feature that will help your new kitchen stand out.

New Flooring

Your kitchen is a high-traffic area that is heavily used. When it comes to picking out flooring, you want to find something that can withstand all of the activity going on in the kitchen. Durability should be one of your main priorities. Additionally, you want to find a flooring option that will be easy to clean and is resistant to stain. In many kitchens, people will opt for tile because it meets both of these criteria. Just keep in mind that tile floors will also come along with more maintenance like re-sealing or even re-grouting. If tile isn’t for you, there are some vinyl options available and these can even be made to look like wood flooring.

Update Lighting

When it comes to updating the lighting in your kitchen, there are many areas to consider. First, you should replace your overhead lights with those that match the rest of your kitchen. Make sure you pick fixtures that will give you plenty of light. This seems like a given, but in the kitchen when you’re doing food prep and handling knives, you want to be able to see well. To help improve your lighting, consider some unconventional options. Under-cabinet lighting can be very helpful. It helps you see what you’re working on without disrupting the lighting scheme in the rest of the kitchen. While you’re at it, you can even install small lights inside cabinets and cupboards to increase visibility.

Update Your Fixtures/Hardware

One thing that will make a big difference in your kitchen is the hardware and fixtures. This includes cupboard handles, drawer handles, light switch plates, outlet covers, and even your faucet. A lot of these can be easily changed out and they are fairly inexpensive. However, they have the power to completely update the look of your kitchen. Make sure you are consistent with your choices and find options that will tie your whole kitchen together.

Add a New Coat of Paint

A fresh coat of paint can have a major impact on your kitchen. It can brighten the space and even add some character. However, you should be very thoughtful when picking out a paint color. Think about the feelings you want to invoke in your kitchen. Your kitchen colors should give you a positive impression of food and maintain an appetizing environment. In many cases, it may be best to stick with neutrals. Of course, there are many kitchen color schemes you can experiment with. When you’re painting, make sure you thoroughly clean and prep the area, so you see the best results. You should also be thoughtful of including a backsplash or some kind of sealant to protect the walls while cooking.

Remodeling your kitchen allows you to explore new options and make your kitchen unique to you. Not to mention, an upgraded kitchen will also increase your home’s value which will come in handy if you eventually choose to sell. Just make sure you include these essential elements to create the best kitchen.

If you need your kitchen remodeled, contact us to get a free quote!

About IA Drywall Inc.

IA Drywall Inc. has proudly served Cedar Rapids and Iowa City for over a decade, offering top-quality drywall, painting, and insulation services. Our licensed and skilled team is dedicated to providing reliable craftsmanship for residential and commercial projects

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