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 renovation 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.
Replacing the cabinets is often one of the first ideas that come to mind. However, they may not really need to be replaced. If they are structurally sound, they can be transformed with little cost. Finishes can be stripped and another shade applied. Glass doors can replace solid fronts. Or, for a truly unique touch, cover the doors with a tapestry or floral fabric. Then add a frame, either scalloped or oval, around the cabinet edges.
If renovations are to be more extensive, one tip your back will thank you for is to elevate the dishwasher. Inserting a base of four to six inches means you no longer need to bend over when loading or unloading dishes.
If new countertops are in your future, look for those that are molded in one piece. Traditional strips can be a disappointment in little time. The glue can fail, especially if they are in contact with water. And grout and caulking can discolor or flake. Ideally, a countertop that curves up in the back to create its own backsplash and has a rounded lip on the front to keep liquids on the counter, not the floor, is best. In addition, they make cleaning easier, and the continuous flow is more pleasing to the eye.
Another idea for back-splashes is to use tile. Choose a few with floral pictures or a pattern of your liking, on a white or cream colored background. Add more undecorated tiles in the same color as the background and lay them out in a pleasing arrangement. You can do just the backsplash area or decorate an entire wall in the same manner. This will brighten up the room, and help create a kitchen that is uniquely yours.
If you are replacing your lighting, you might want to consider recessed fluorescent lights. These are long lasting, energy saving, and add just the right amount of soft light. And do not forget about light fixtures beyond those in the ceiling. Nice light over the sink or work island is very useful.
Drawers in cabinets, particularly on the bottom, make it easy to access items. Instead of bending and stooping, pull-out lets you quickly find what you are seeking. Pots and pans are organized and easy to find, and a rack can be added to keep matching lids at hand. A large drawer to hold files of warranty information and appliance instructions is also convenient for many people.
If you have the room, you might want to add a cabinet to hold the trash can, as well as your broom, mop, and dustpan. Add hooks to hang the tools, and store cleansers on a shelf at the top of the cabinet. Everything is easy to access, but out of reach of babies and pets.
When it comes to flooring, durability, and ease of cleaning should be of prime consideration. However, you might want to look at other factors also. Tile is cold in the winter, as are many types of vinyl flooring. So-called “warm” linoleum is a better choice for barefoot cooks or those with infants who like to crawl on the floor. If the carpet is chosen, look for patterns that will hide stains as well as add interest to the room.
kitchen arrangement ideas should be made to conform to your own preferences. Take the best ones and then adapt them to create the kitchen you really want. A unique kitchen that reflects your own personality will bring you far more pleasure than a design that does not.
