Three Types of Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchen Remodeling Tacoma WA is a big job that involves upgrading the major surfaces and appliances. It can range from a cosmetic makeover to a deep renovation where the kitchen is gutted down to the studs and started over.

Kitchen Remodeling

Modern, well-designed kitchens add value and appeal to your home while making it a more comfortable place to live. Remodeling can also increase storage and improve functionality.

If you have an older kitchen with dated finishes or a floor plan that doesn’t flow well, it’s time for a remodel. A remodel gives you the opportunity to create a cutting-edge look that matches your modern tastes while providing the functionality your family needs in this busy room.

The best way to get a handle on what’s possible with your space is to talk with a general contractor who has experience managing remodeling projects. They can offer suggestions for the types of materials that would work with your existing structure and give you rough cost estimates. Getting this help before you commit to a full renovation can save you from costly mistakes down the line.

A full remodel usually entails structural changes to the layout of your space, so it is the most expensive and longest option for a kitchen update. It may require that you move out during construction and make alternate cooking arrangements, which can be very disruptive. On the upside, it will be worth the hassle when you see your jaw-dropping results!

Choosing the right colors and textures to pair with your new cabinetry can add instant appeal to any space. If your cabinets are a neutral color, adding accent furniture and decor in bolder hues can give the room personality. Similarly, if your cabinets have wood grain, pairing them with other textural elements can add depth and interest to your design.

Another easy way to upgrade the appearance of your kitchen is by replacing outdated fixtures. A simple swap for LED lighting can make a big difference in the brightness of your working areas and can save you on utility bills.

Even if you are not doing a full remodel, updating the ceiling and lighting can dramatically improve your kitchen’s look. For example, if you have old coffered ceilings, changing them to a more contemporary design can make a huge impact on your space. Adding pendant lights or recessed lighting in the corners can help brighten darker areas and give your kitchen a more open feel.

Working Ease

Kitchen remodeling may seem like a major undertaking, but the work can be done in stages and at a more manageable pace. This way, you can stay on budget and still enjoy your home. However, it is important to choose a kitchen contractor that will provide you with high-quality results.

It is also a good idea to plan ahead and make sure that all the essentials are available to you during the kitchen remodel. You can save time and energy by arranging all of the things you use most often in close proximity to each other. For example, keep mugs, coffee grounds, and the coffee maker near the stove or oven. This will save you the trouble of having to walk all the way down the hall to get your morning cup of joe. Also, consider putting the refrigerator and sink in an easily accessible spot to make it easier to wash dishes and clean up after meals.

Another useful tool is kitchen design software, which allows you to design your new space using 2D or 3D models. These programs can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your remodel will look exactly as you want it to. Some kitchen design software programs are free to use, while others require a subscription or have a higher price tag.

Some of the most popular kitchen design programs include Homestyler, Planner 5D, and Sketchup. The former is a free, web-based program that works with multiple file types. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to revisit 2D or 3D designs and access a large library of both user-generated and manufacturer-made furniture, cabinets, and accessories.

Other programs, such as SmartDraw, allow you to draft flowcharts and create 2D kitchen floor plans. This software is available on most platforms, including iOS and Android devices. Its drag-and-drop functionality and large included library of materials and appliances make it easy to experiment with different options for your new kitchen.

Some GCs offer planning and design assistance as part of their bid proposals. But they can be expensive, so it is a good idea to research these services carefully before hiring one. Alternatively, you can save money by taking on the responsibility of completing the planning and design yourself.

Energy Efficiency

A kitchen remodel that incorporates energy efficiency improvements can help you save money on your electricity bills while being eco-friendly. It is possible to make many energy-efficient upgrades during kitchen remodeling, including using low-flow faucets and reducing your energy usage through lighting and insulation.

The kitchen is one of the main contributors to your household’s electricity bill, so it’s important to reduce your consumption. The most common way to cut down on your energy costs is by installing new LED bulbs, which use up to 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent ones and last ten times longer. You can also install motion sensors and dimmer switches to optimize your lighting. Another way to cut down on energy usage is by letting in more natural light through new windows or removing things that obstruct sunlight.

You can also reduce your water usage by switching to low-flow fixtures and dishwashers. You can even install a rainwater collector or a rooftop solar system to help you save more energy by reducing your dependence on the grid.

It is worth noting that you should always go for high-quality, eco-friendly materials when choosing your cabinetry, countertops, and other features during a kitchen remodeling project. Look for materials that are FSC-certified plantation timber, recycled wood, or reclaimed wood instead of virgin rainforest timber. This will help you support sustainable businesses and reduce your environmental footprint.

Considering that the kitchen is the heart of every home and where the family gathers, it’s important to make yours as energy efficient as possible. It will not only lower your electricity bill but also increase the value of your property.

The best thing to do is to hire a professional kitchen remodeler who will help you decide which features are most beneficial for your family and will provide an accurate estimate of how long the work will take. This will allow you to plan and budget your work accordingly. This will also ensure that the job gets completed on time since you will not be waiting for items to arrive or wasting valuable time and resources.

Eco-Friendly

A “green kitchen” is one that incorporates environmentally conscious materials and appliances. This can include everything from recycled countertops and flooring to FSC-certified cabinets. The choices available are nearly endless, making it easy to find sustainable options that suit your style and budget. A green kitchen isn’t just good for the environment; it’s also a smart investment for your home.

Incorporating green options into your kitchen remodel can lower your energy costs and improve your home’s sustainability. In addition, it can save you money and increase the resale value of your home. For example, installing energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your utility bills and make it more comfortable to cook in the kitchen. You can even add solar panels to your roof to generate free electricity and save even more on your utility costs.

During a kitchen remodel, you can also choose to replace older electric devices with new ones that are more efficient. Older devices are prone to overheating and require a lot of energy to operate, while the latest models are made with efficiency in mind and use less power. Additionally, upgrading your kitchen to newer electric devices can be safer, as older devices may be a fire hazard or cause dangerous electric shocks.

One of the most important aspects of a sustainable kitchen is having a designated spot for recyclables and compostables. This can be as simple as a small bin or drawer. Having a dedicated space for these items will help prevent waste from being sent to landfills. It’s also a good idea to have a trash can that can handle large amounts of waste and recycle paper and glass.

Another great way to go green is to invest in durable materials that can last for a long time. For example, choosing a splashback with eco-friendly aluminum can reduce your carbon footprint and add a stylish design to your kitchen. These types of products are also easy to clean and durable, making them a practical choice for any homeowner.

Going green is an excellent way to update your kitchen without spending a lot of money. You can also save on maintenance and repair costs by investing in energy-efficient appliances and green building materials. The best part is that these changes will pay off for you in the long run by lowering your energy costs and increasing your home’s value.

Virginia Schipper