Interior Designers Share Their Best Kitchen Renovation Ideas

A new kitchen

Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

Whether a kitchen is being built from scratch, torn down and remodeled, or given a weekend facelift – kitchen renovations are a major commitment at all levels. They’re also a bigger financial investment than other rooms in the house. Hence, it is important to choose the right finishes and equipment not only for the current homeowner but also for resale value.

Just as important is execution throughout the project from measurement to installation. After all, just one mistake can add thousands of dollars and weeks to a renovation.

What’s the best way to renovate a kitchen in 2020? Are white kitchens still in fashion? What type of flooring is ideal? I’ve spoken to several interior designers and industry professionals to find out what their best kitchen renovation tips are.

Start Smart

Nancy Charbonneau of Charbonneau Interiors recommends starting the project on the right foot, regardless of the scope of the renovation project. “The biggest thing about kitchen renovations is not to rush. If you’re in a hurry, the project will be double the burden. Enjoy the process when you get on a renovation project, ”she says.

Remember that it is also a team effort. Charbonneau recommends focusing on finding the right people to bring a vision to life. “It is really important to interview professionals and find a designer and general contractor who can help you run your project on your budget, schedule and vision. Every renovation project is an investment and the professionals who guide you along the way should be included in that investment too! ”

See everything in person

While there are plenty of bargains to be found online, Charbonneau emphasizes not to be hasty and see everything in person before making an important decision. “You can really see the quality and the functions better when you can personally touch, feel and see how everything works. Again, take the time to find exactly what you want! “

But that doesn’t mean you can’t shop online. Take a look at devices in person, then find the best deal online. Spend a few extra dollars and minutes ordering samples of paint, tile, flooring, etc. to make sure they meet your expectations.

Invest in quality furniture

Amanda M. Amato of AMA Designs & Interiors notes that furniture is the most important investment in a kitchen. “Cabinets are a product that you use every day and are difficult to replace later (unless you want to completely renovate your kitchen). I recommend buying the best quality cabinet that will suit your budget. “

When it comes to brands, Nobilia is one of Amato’s favorites that takes style, quality and function to a new level. “Aside from the functions mentioned above, Nobilia offers storage cupboards in which the shelves slide forward when the door opens to make it easier to see. The base cabinets have adjustable feet so you never have to use a box of wooden washers to level your cabinets. When planning your renovation, keep in mind that Nobilia’s lead time is anywhere from six to eight weeks, but it’s definitely worth the wait, ”she says.

Choose Smart Appliances

Depending on your budget, smart devices are certainly worth considering. Many of them have really groundbreaking features. For example, Amato likes a feature on some new Thermador devices with touch technology that opens the door with a tap of a finger. This is especially helpful for chefs who always have their hands full.

Another tip from Amato are GE devices with an intelligent extractor hood. “It has a guided cooking app that helps you cook, streams music and videos, and even records a video of your hob as you cook,” she says.

Prioritize flooring

Karen B. Wolf, Karen B. Wolf Interiors notes that flooring is often an afterthought when renovating, but that doesn’t mean it should be. “While wood is the number one choice for kitchens these days, tiles shouldn’t be overlooked,” she says.

Tile has some advantages over wood for kitchen floors, explains Wolf. “When your dishwasher overflows or the garbage disposal has a residue, the water is processed by tiles. As radiant heat is becoming more and more economical, tiles are now a cozy choice. Tiles can also solve matching wood problems. Since natural wood and driftwood are trendy in today’s kitchens, the floor must harmonize or match the selection of wooden furniture. Tiling your floor is a great way to have multiple shades and materials work together. “

However, if reselling is an issue, Sue MacKay, vice president of marketing at Empire Communities, suggests installing hardwood instead of tile. “Hardwood floors provide a clean and seamless experience for your downstairs living space.”

Wooden floors kitchen

Wooden floors offer a seamless transition

Photo by Christa Grover on Unsplash

If flooring is a major concern, then wood tile is certainly worth considering as it has the look of hardwood with the durability and benefits of ceramic tile. Just make sure the grout lines are very thin or the aesthetic changes completely and certainly not for the better.

Don’t forget the lights

There are many ways to light up a kitchen, and while this feels like a small detail, MacKay thinks it is anything but. “Lighting is also something that I always find a worthwhile investment, such as B. additional pot lights, counter lighting and pendant lights over the island.

Kitchen lighting

Kitchen lighting can change everything.

Photo by Josh Hemsley on Unsplash

These special work lights bring the room to life. If you can put the pendants on a dimmer it will make all the difference. “

White kitchens still prevail

“I find that style trends tend to come in cycles, and the bold colors you might love for a year get stale as your family evolves,” says MacKay.

white subway tile kitchen

You can’t go wrong with a white kitchen with subway tiles.

Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash

She suggests keeping the surfaces mostly neutral and classic. “I love white subway tiles, shakers or simple white gloss cabinets and white marble or Corian as counters. Basically, any variation of white keeps the feel classic, clean, and modern. “

But that doesn’t mean you can’t have color in your kitchen. Choose light colored stools, window treatments, art, and other decor.

Build an island

Kitchen islands are still very stylish and anything but a fad. If space permits, a renovated kitchen absolutely needs an island. MacKay recommends equipping the island with electricity and water as this makes the space more usable. It’s better for reselling too.

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