Stop Dreaming and Start Planning. Now is the Time For That Kitchen Remodel!

There are many features in their kitchens that homeowners don’t like. Some of the top reasons for remodeling are lack of usable space, old or outdated appliances, discolored or chipped countertops, and of course, ugly cabinetry! While living in — or being confined to — one’s home during the pandemic, it’s become increasingly easy to focus on the aspects of a kitchen that are just not working, especially for busy households with children. They need room not only to work on schoolwork, but also to participate in Zoom calls when working from home. And no one wants a messy, cluttered kitchen in the background!Homeowners looking for the latest in kitchen design need look no further than a highly rated kitchen remodeling firm in Utica. Companies with proven reputations for highly skilled workmanship, quality products and excellent design can be found by checking online reviews and asking friends and neighbors for recommendations. It’s advisable to research thoroughly and meet with at least three potential companies before making a decision.For additional kitchen design and remodeling ideas, homeowners can peruse the internet. From popular websites like Houzz, to Pinterest, and more, it is nearly overwhelming for anyone starting out.Consider a Butler’s PantryRemodeling is a great time to rethink the entire space and floorplan of the kitchen. For those who have room, one increasingly popular option is the inclusion of a butler’s pantry, sometimes called a catering kitchen. It provides an ideal place for all the prep work to be done out of sight of the main kitchen. With open floorplans becoming popular several years ago, the challenge of keeping a kitchen clean and tidy has become more important. For many, a butler’s pantry is the answer to this dilemma.Most butler’s pantries are designed to have an additional dishwasher, small refrigerator, and prep sink. More and more, the actual preparation of meals is taking place away from the primary kitchen area. “Having the butler’s pantry has changed my world!” exclaimed one happy homeowner. She was delighted to be able to store her small appliances easily out of sight, where they could still be used, such as a toaster or coffee maker. Another feature of this layout is that it doesn’t require the cook to travel great distances in a huge kitchen, but to have everything within reach of a few steps.Walk-in PantriesFor those without the square footage needed to build in a butler’s pantry, a walk-in storage pantry is the next best option. Many homes can accommodate these by utilizing space behind walls that currently exist. Storage is always a concern, whether the home is within a few blocks of a full grocery store or supermarket, or several miles away. Cooks are increasingly becoming accustomed to having each ingredient needed for a recipe at their fingertips. A walk-in pantry with custom shelving is ideal for their needs. Many cooks prefer a narrow shelving system around the perimeter that allows them to easily see what they have on hand, without having to dig through a large quantity of cans, boxes or bags. And like a butler’s pantry, a walk-in pantry is ideal for storing those blenders, food processors, toasters, and more. Kitchen designers recommend installing numerous electrical and USB outlets inside the pantry to provide an out-of-the-way charging spot for everyone’s devices. One highly organized mom announces to her children that all phones, tablets and laptops must be on chargers in the pantry before dinner is served!Comfort is KeyIncreasingly, designers are seeing a move toward more comfortable seating, including upholstered pieces, in the kitchen. Gone are the days of hard wooden or metal barstools and dining chairs. Plush seating allows for comfort of both guests and family members. This allows homeowners and designers to collaborate and be creative with their fabric and upholstery choices, including floral or geometric prints that are both beautiful and durable. With today’s modern fabrics, they no longer need to be covered in plastic wrap to keep clean!Many remodelers are now suggesting that their clients include dual work triangles. Having one zone in the kitchen for meal prep and cleanup, and another zone for serving. This type of layout not only makes it much easier for multiple family members to work in the kitchen at the same time, but helps keep it clean and organized.The way we cook and use our kitchens has changed dramatically over the years. For example, check out the plethora of meal kits available today. Not as many families cook from scratch to prepare their meals, so their needs have changed in terms of their workspace: from the days of frozen dinners (which were introduced to increase the use of aluminum foil after World War 2 when there was excess capacity!) to today’s newest technology – smart ovens that “know” what’s inside and cook it to perfection automatically.Certain features that have been invented for universal design are also becoming popular, such as adjustable-height wooden countertops for meal prep and sinks with extendable hoses that don’t require a long reach.Micro-KitchensSimilar to those found in tiny houses, “micro” kitchens are being designed that can fit in a six foot linear space and contain all the basics: sink, dishwasher, microwave, cooktop, oven, and even drawers for refrigeration and freezing. These are popular not only for those living in small spaces, but also for multi-generational families who desire to have an additional kitchen space for their relatives. And for many from the “heat and eat” generation, these micro kitchens may be all someone needs who doesn’t ever crack open a cookbook!Now's the Time for That New KitchenIt’s time to stop dreaming about that dream kitchen and make it a reality by partnering with a top remodeling firm. The kitchen remodeling ideas listed above should give homeowners some tremendous inspiration. Some of the best Utica kitchen remodeling firms offer design services that can help people translate their desires into a beautiful and functional kitchen. Kitchen remodeling professionals in Utica can deliver a superior result that will bring years of enjoyment, and can add to a home's resale value. Why wait to get started? Now's the time for that new kitchen!