Whether you’re tired of an outdated floor plan, need more space to cook and entertain, or want a fresh new look for this much-used room, a kitchen remodel is the answer.

You’ll need to decide on the scope of your remodel, including changes to walls and utilities. An experienced professional handyman can assist you. Visit https://www.kitchenremodelsandiegocal.com/oceanside-kitchen-remodel to learn more.

The layout of a kitchen, a harmonious arrangement of countertops, appliances and storage spaces, is the decisive factor in determining whether a kitchen works well. Choosing an efficient floorplan for your new kitchen, one that meets your needs and reflects your style, is essential to the success of your remodel.

To start, decide what your goals are for the renovation and how your new kitchen will serve your lifestyle. The answers to these questions will determine the scope of your remodel, the trades needed and the costs involved.

If you only want to refresh the look of your kitchen, then a simple repainting and re-painting of cabinets, doors and floors may be all you need. If, however, you are planning on changing the entire footprint of your kitchen, then you’ll need to consider demolition, laying down new utilities and possibly moving walls. Once you have decided how extensive the project will be you can move on to a budget and timeline.

Before a contractor can begin work on your kitchen remodel, you’ll need to make a list of all the things that need to be done. You’ll also need to determine whether you will need professional design and architectural services or a general contractor to oversee the project.

A kitchen remodel can be expensive, but it can also increase the resale value of your home and improve the overall functionality of the space. You can reduce the cost of your kitchen remodel by deciding what you’re willing to compromise on and by doing your research online ahead of time. There are many kitchen remodeling ideas available online, including cost calculators for each element of the remodel.

When selecting your new kitchen layout, think about the best way to use the space and how you entertain. For example, if you often host large gatherings, you might want a larger dining area or extra room for people to sit at the island. Or, if you love to cook and bake, then you might want more counter space for food prep. Also, consider how you use your microwave, refrigerator and stove. It’s a good idea to create an uninterrupted workspace by positioning these appliances along three walls, which is known as the “Kitchen Triangle”. This layout will ensure that you have enough counter space for cooking and allow multiple users to navigate the space at once.

Appliances

The appliances you choose for your kitchen will have a significant impact on the look and function of your finished space. Because of this, it’s a good idea to begin shopping early in the remodeling process. This will allow you to get an idea of your options and help you select the features that are most important to you. Appliances are also one of the largest line items in the kitchen remodel budget, so it’s important to think through your choices carefully.

Large appliances (refrigerators, dishwashers, range hoods, ovens) typically last between 15 and 20 years. This is a great time to consider upgrading to new models that offer improved energy efficiency and features like smart functionality.

Small appliances (microwaves, coffee makers, crock pots) typically last around 10 to 12 years. Upgrading to new models during your kitchen remodel can improve their appearance and make them more efficient and easier to use.

Upgrading your appliances during a kitchen remodel can also be a great opportunity to replace old, outdated or dangerous electrical outlets with safer ones. Older electrical devices can be fire hazards or can cause electric shocks. Newer devices are more likely to meet current safety standards and are typically designed with your safety in mind.

You can also add additional safety features during your remodel, including slip-resistant flooring, access to a fire extinguisher and a well-placed smoke detector. This will help you create a safe and comfortable cooking and eating space for your family.

A well-planned kitchen remodel is a great way to increase your home’s value and to enjoy the comfort and convenience of an updated cooking and dining area. A kitchen is the hub of a home, and it’s important to create a space that you love spending time in. Upgrading your appliances, adding new lighting and making other smart improvements can improve your quality of life in the kitchen. You’ll be able to cook better meals, engage with your family and friends in a more functional space and save money on energy costs. With a little planning, you can create the kitchen of your dreams!

Countertops

Countertops are one of the most important elements in a kitchen. Whether you are replacing your whole counters or just adding a new section, the material you choose has a huge impact on your overall look and feel. You’ll want to consider your budget, maintenance level and style when making a selection.

Natural stone is a popular choice for its durability and beauty. It’s typically more expensive than other countertop materials, however.

Stainless steel counters are another popular choice. They are heat-resistant and can develop a lovely patina over time. They are also easy to maintain and don’t require sealing. However, they are noisy and can be more susceptible to scratching than other materials.

Laminate is a great budget option for countertops. It’s durable and available in a wide variety of colors and patterns to match your kitchen’s aesthetic. It’s also hygienic and stain-resistant.

Ceramic tile is another affordable countertop material. It’s a durable surface and is resistant to heat, but it can be brittle and difficult to clean. It can also be expensive if you decide to use a high-end ceramic or stone tile.

Solid surface countertops are a good option for those that like the look of natural stones and wood but can’t afford them. Manufactured with acrylic or polyester resins, these countertops can be molded to seamlessly fit your space and are very versatile in terms of appearance, with the ability to mimic the look of many different types of natural stone. They’re also stain-resistant but are vulnerable to damage from hot pans.

Porcelain is a great choice for countertops because it’s non-porous and therefore resists bacteria and germs. It’s also highly scratch-resistant and comes in a variety of colors and textures to complement any design.

You can also opt for a textured finish on your countertops to add depth and interest to the kitchen. For example, a marble countertop with a honed finish is more prone to staining than a polished surface but can add a unique touch to the kitchen and you may be willing to put up with this extra care for the added visual appeal.

Lighting

A kitchen remodel is a big investment and it’s important to think carefully about the aesthetics of your new kitchen design. Whether you’re looking to create an open-concept layout, a smaller setup for a breakfast nook or an edgy industrial vibe, the right lighting will have a huge impact on the look of your kitchen.

Ambient kitchen lighting is a necessary element of any kitchen remodel and can transform dark caves into warm, inviting spaces. Fortunately, there’s a wide range of ceiling fixtures available to meet any budget and style preference. Depending on your kitchen space and ceiling height, ambient lighting can be achieved with flush or semi-flush ceiling lights, pendants or recessed can lighting.

Flush mount fixtures are the most economical, while recessed can lights (also known as LED downlights) offer versatility and flexibility. For those with a higher ceiling, larger fixtures like chandeliers and large pendants make statement pieces that are sure to draw the eye.

Sconces also make a great addition to any kitchen. They’re easy to place and allow you to focus light on a specific task like cooking, reading or browsing the internet. Keeping your sconces at a reasonable height is key to avoiding glare and to maintaining good visibility. For example, Bullon suggests sconces be about 60 to 68 inches from the floor so they’re out of reach of taller family members.

Under-cabinet lighting is another great way to illuminate a work space and keep your countertops clean. It’s especially helpful for areas where food is prepped and can help reduce shadows on your counters. This type of lighting is available in several styles including all-in-one linear, modular linear (with power connected from one fixture to the next in a process called daisy chaining) and surface mount puck.

A kitchen facelift can include a variety of projects from painting cabinets to installing a backsplash or replacing hardware. If you’re not ready for a complete renovation, start with a few low-cost, high-impact upgrades to give your kitchen a visual ROI.

Susan Mitchell