Designing the Kitchen

Published by: Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

The kitchen is the heart of the home -- a high-traffic place that’s dynamic and functional. For this reason, kitchen remodeling in Connecticut is different than remodeling other rooms of the house. The goal is an aesthetically pleasing space, as well as a practical cooking and dining area that’s a warm, welcoming, and important room in your home.

Decide on a kitchen design look and stick with it. Do you want country, or contemporary? Are you thinking retro diner, or Old World European? Kitchen remodeling will be much easier if you stick with a plan. It doesn’t have to be an explicit theme, but going for one look will narrow down the options and make for smoother decision-making—particularly when it comes to art and decorating. A small, homey kitchen might do well with homemade artwork, like framed sketches by your children. Or you could frame your family’s favorite recipes. A country kitchen would be appropriate for stenciled cabinets, perhaps with foliage, or the names of comforting spices. Pick up some vinyl stools and Americana tokens, like kitschy salt-n-pepper shakers or a fun Elvis clock for retro diner chic.

Wall space tends to be limited in kitchens, which is a great reason to go a little bold with the paint. On smaller wall areas, a warm red or bold orange won’t overwhelm, and it will certainly add splash. It’s wise to go with a neutral paint job in a contemporary kitchen, which will keep the look minimalist. Adding a backsplash along the counter is a great way to get creative because you can use colorful ceramic tile or modern metal. Or hang small plates as a backsplash substitute beneath the cabinets.

Lighting in the kitchen should be strategic. The brightest lights should be above the work areas, with warming glows in the rest of the room. Perhaps you want to install a dimmer for the main fixture over the table—the place that may be the site of anything from homework to entertaining guests. The lighting will illuminate your new accessories, which should coincide with your overall taste or the kitchen’s theme. Make the functional items look a little more charming by purchasing cute canisters for coffee, sugar, and flour. Dishwashing soap and sponges can be hidden in stylish containers. Don’t forget about seasonal touches for holidays. Candles are available to cozy up any kitchen, for all tastes and styles.

If you are redesigning extensively, granite countertops are a worthwhile investment that will last forever and instantly raise the price of your home. Stainless steel appliances are durable and contemporary, and they are very popular with today’s homeowner. These options can be pricy. A more wallet-friendly way to a new look in your kitchen is refacing the cabinets. Glass front cabinets are popular and can really open up a smaller space. Staining or repainting old cabinets and adding new hardware can single-handedly create the appearance of a new kitchen.

Find a Connecticut kitchen remodeling contractor near you by contacting us or browsing through our directory.

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