Kitchen renovations are a great way to add value to your home, boost curb appeal and improve your kitchen's comfort and convenience. From big remodels to small upgrades, updating your kitchen is a home improvement project that can be done on a budget.
Update Your Backsplash
Your kitchen backsplash has probably taken many hits over the years, from splattered oil to spilled food. Simply changing this small part of your kitchen can make a big difference, especially in its aesthetic. You can decide to redo the existing design or create a new one; with so many different styles to choose from, there's certainly an option out there that will fit your unique taste. For those who are budget conscious, you can make this a DIY project. Try updating the backsplash with a new coat of paint, add a stencil design or get creative with an idea of your own. You will also have to decide which color or finish to use. You can call attention to your backsplash with multiple colors or use tiles with different textures like matte, satin or a high gloss.
Renovate the Cabinets
Cabinets are another area of your kitchen that deal with the wear and tear of everyday use. Cabinets are a prominent feature that will emphasize the aesthetic of your kitchen. Renovating your cabinets can go from a small DIY project to a complete tear-down and professional installation. You will have to consider your budget and the condition that your cabinets are in when figuring out the best course of action. One of the more simple tasks to start with is to tighten and replace any loose or broken hinges and screws. You can also work on the cabinets by repainting them based on the look you want. If you want to replace your cabinets, assembling them on your own can help you avoid labor costs and stay on budget. Should you choose to go the professional route, they can walk you through the many different cabinet materials, like plywood and hardwood, and install them for you with the finish you picked out.
Replace Your Windows
Windows provide great natural light to brighten up your kitchen and illuminate all the hard work you put into it. At Pella, we have several windows with different materials and styles. Lighting and ventilation are critical to the comfort of your kitchen. Replacing your windows to add these things will vastly improve both its aesthetic and functionality. For example, you could use a casement window that easily glides open and has lots of glass space to let in light and provide airflow into your kitchen. We also have a variety of colors and finishes to match your kitchen, including stained wood and popular paint colors like black and white.
Switch Up the Shelving
While cabinets can hold a lot of your kitchen supplies and groceries, they can also serve as a decorative accent. Whether you want more space to store things or are looking to create a unique look, shelving can help you stay organized. Try open shelving around your kitchen to make the space feel cozier and to have more cabinet spaces for other things. Use closed shelving if you prefer a minimal look or have items you want to keep dust-free.
Swap the Flooring
Flooring is a big part of your kitchen. It needs to be consistent with your kitchen style and be durable enough to handle all the traffic in your kitchen. You also have to consider how your kitchen floors deal with moisture and their maintenance requirements. Thinking about these things can help you when selecting your flooring material. Hardwood floors are still the most commonly used floors in kitchens due to their durability and many style options. Some common choices for hardwood floors in the kitchen are oak and walnut. As for colors, popular choices include hickory, ash or maple.
Add an Island
If you don’t already have one, a kitchen island can be pleasing to the eyes and is a great way to add more storage and counter space. A kitchen island can be used as a focal point in your kitchen, drawing people in as a place to gather. It can also serve as a place for kitchen decorations or you can use it to store appliances to create a convenient cooking area. Just be sure that when you add an island, you leave enough space to move around without too much trouble. As with cabinets and countertops, islands are available in different colors and materials. Many people tend to match the colors and style of their existing countertops.
Redo the Countertops
Countertops are an area in the kitchen that many people tend to splurge on. Countertops are used daily and adding a design can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen. Luxury marble or granite are great countertop materials, and choosing contrasting colors is a popular trend. For example, having white countertops and black cabinets can add a dramatic effect to your kitchen.
Change Your Patio Doors
Usually, there is a patio door that is in or close to your kitchen that acts as a pathway from inside to outside. Having a patio door in or by the kitchen makes it easy to carry food and entertain people outside. At Pella, we offer a variety of styles to suit your needs. We have hinged patio doors that are great for a decorative touch and an elegant entrance. We also have sliding patio doors for ease of use and convenience. Our sliding doors, along with our large bifold and multi-slide doors, are made with a lot of glass space to allow maximum natural light into your kitchen.
Upgrade Your Appliances
Appliances are a kitchen necessity, and you want well-performing appliances that also match your kitchen’s style. For example, stainless steel appliances balance durability with a style that fits most aesthetics. Determine which appliances you need most, such as a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, etc., and ensure that your kitchen has enough space for all of them. While appliances can be expensive, you can view them as an investment in turning your space into a workable, efficient kitchen.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen? Schedule your free in-home consultation today!