When it comes time to update your kitchen, it is sometimes hard to decide on just the features you want. It is even more difficult to find kitchen remodeling ideas that fit within your budget. However, some of the best ideas do not involve extensive renovation, but relatively inexpensive touches that can transform the whole room.
When first considering a kitchen remodeling project, most people quickly think of replacing cabinets. However, that is usually not necessary. Cabinet doors are easily replaced, and a plain, smooth front can be changed to a glass front with only a screwdriver. Finishes can be redone as well, although it is more trouble. But one easy idea can transform cabinets dramatically with minimal cost. First, choose a fabric or wallpaper that has a pattern you like, such as flowers or tapestry. Cover the doors with it, then frame them by adding an oval or scalloped outline. The new look is unique to you, and the difference is amazing.
One change that you can make that has less to do with looks and more to do with your personal comfort is to elevate your dishwasher. By raising it even four or five inches, you will not need to do so much bending to add and remove dishes. While those with lower back pain may appreciate this the most, everyone can benefit from it.
If you are going to replace your counter tops, look for those that offer all in one construction. Strips can quickly become loose, and grout and caulk can discolor in a short period of time. All in one counter tops rise up in the back to make a back-splash and normally have a rounded lip along the front edges that help keep spills off the floor. Cleaning them is also easier, and the unbroken flow gives a finished touch to the kitchen.
Back-splashes, or even walls, can be created by using tiles. Simply take a pattern you like, such as one with birds, animals, or flowers, on a white or ecru background. Add some plain tiles with a background the same color or a coordinated shade and arrange them as you find pleasing. Once installed, the entire room will seem both more colorful and brighter.
If new lighting is in your plans, think fluorescent. Recessed lighting eliminates harsh glare and shadows, and fluorescent tubes save energy and outlast bulbs while providing gentle light. New fixtures might also be in order above the sink or over a work island.
Adding pull-outs to lower cabinets can not only save back strain, but also frustration. Things such as cookware are kept safe and organized, especially if you add a rack to hold lids neatly in place. A larger drawer the size of a file folder can be used to hold warranty information and to keep appliance guides easily accessible.
If possible, consider adding a tall cabinet with only an overhead shelf to keep the trash can and brooms and mops out of sight. Insert hooks or clips to hold dust pans and cleaning tools, and use the shelf for cleaning products. This will keep everything safe from infants and pets, as well.
Flooring is often one of the most costly items in a remodeling project. In a kitchen, you will want to consider how long it will last and how easy it will be to clean. But there are other factors to consider as well. Ceramic tiles and most standard vinyls can be cold. If you seldom wear shoes in the kitchen, or have babies just learning to crawl, you might want to select a “warm” linoleum. And when choosing carpet, try to find one that is not only pleasing to the eye but will not highlight stains and spills.
But perhaps the most important of all kitchen remodeling ideas is simply to take all the tips and adapt them for what pleases you. Do not feel the need to have a kitchen that conforms to the ideas of others. Let your imagination run free, and create the kitchen in which you want to spend your time.
|
|