The Kitchen: To Remodel or Not

Kitchen Remodeling May 18

Homeowners in Utica experience a very high degree of satisfaction when they choose to reimagine the space where they gather the most—the kitchen. A kitchen remodel turns everyday life into a more comfortable daily living experience and an overall more pleasing lifestyle. Cooking is simpler with added convenience features, the gathering spot is cozier and more beautiful with updated décor, and the degree of functionality is greatly improved. In addition, when it comes time to sell the home, a kitchen remodel in Utica helps the return on investment exponentially, because the kitchen is a big deciding factor for the would-be buyer. 

Where to Start

Hire a remodeling expert for the project. Kitchen remodeling experts in Utica are available to help with design ideas and recommendations to turn the existing space into a more functional and usable living space by optimizing the available footprint in the kitchen. With the vast array of materials from which to choose, whether it be tile, countertops, cabinets, appliances, lighting, or convenience features, the choices can be daunting. Hiring an expert in Utica who has years of experience in kitchen remodeling will help simplify the process and zero in on what the customer really wants. Expert kitchen remodelers not only help with the design, but they also carry out the build and install process, so partnering with a company that handles both is very advantageous. This keeps the entire project in sync and running from start to finish in an efficient manner. 

Prior to Consulting with the Professional Remodeler

It is wise for the homeowner to make a list of their needs and wants in their desired kitchen design. If anything in the current layout or arrangement of the kitchen is bothersome, now is the time to make notes. Starting a file on visual kitchen ideas that inspire the homeowner is a good starting point. Pinterest boards or simple clippings from magazines gathered together to form a design storyboard for ideation serve to help funnel thoughts and ideas of design looks or themes that the homeowner finds pleasing to them. 

Lighting Choices are Important

Making note of the natural light that comes into the kitchen before designing the remodel is important. Adding enhanced lighting to brighten up the room is something a professional kitchen remodeler can help with. Elements such as under-cabinet lighting that highlights the countertop workspaces are details that the expert kitchen remodeler can suggest. Recessed lighting is another consideration in making sure the kitchen design turns out with optimum functionality. When preparing meals, adequate lighting is essential, so taking a good hard look at where light is needed when embarking on a remodel is advisable. 

Upgrading to a Smart Home System is Advantageous

Technology advances have made it possible to control lighting and appliances remotely. Changing the temperature on the oven while sitting on the patio is now possible, and the added convenience adds to the improved use and enjoyment of the remodeled kitchen. 

Light Switch Locations Can Be Changed

Sometimes the existing electrical plan has light switches located in an inconvenient or illogical location. Having an expert consult with the homeowner to assess switch locations and make recommendations for improvements before embarking on a kitchen remodel can prove to be a wise move. The expert will ensure the work is done within important safety standards, and the homeowner will gain a more convenient and user-friendly experience in their kitchen. 

Backsplash Options

The backsplash isn’t usually the first thing homeowners consider when they embark on a kitchen remodel, but the importance of this spot that’s visible between kitchen cabinets and countertop should not be swept under the rug. The backsplash can seamlessly unify the cabinets and the countertop, or it can serve as a focal point over the cooktop or sink with a more elaborate design. The choices available in kitchen design materials, patterns, and grout are endless, and a kitchen designer/remodeler can help make the decision easier by pulling from their years of experience and knowledge of what’s available. 

Walk-In Pantry – A Popular Option When Remodeling the Kitchen

Having enough space to organize and store products for ease of use in running a family’s daily life is key. The walk-in pantry will provide a convenient spot not only for food but also for seldom-used appliances, a wine fridge, or serving platters. Giving kitchen necessities an easily accessible home in the walk-in pantry is very helpful in everyday meal preparation. 

Consider a Prep Sink in the Remodel

A prep sink with a garbage disposal is a real game-changer in kitchen remodels. Not only does it allow two people to prepare food simultaneously, but it can also serve as a source of running water when the main sink is in use. Additionally, for entertaining, having the sink available for guests is very helpful because the crowd always seems to congregate in the kitchen. Using the prep sink as a source of water for making drinks and rinsing glasses makes entertaining easier and doesn’t tie up the main sink while the host is trying to prepare dinner. 

Built-In Refrigerators Are a Nice Enhancement

Freestanding refrigerators stick out and diminish floor space. Built-in refrigerators, on the other hand, sit flush with cabinetry and save valuable space. The custom options available add to the unified look and sleekness of the kitchen design, which results in a clean, high-end look. 

Downtime during the Remodel

Losing the use of the kitchen during the remodeling phase is a challenging aspect; the family might have to eat out more or prepare meals in a different part of the home. However, the end result is life-changing. Ease of use is improved dramatically, and the return on investment, should the house go on the market, is immeasurable because the kitchen is one of the first things buyers notice. Boosting the enjoyment of one’s home is a definite plus, and boosting the home’s value is another. Remodelers are available in Utica to help homeowners envision the possibilities. Don’t delay.