Many women dream of updating their kitchens. However, the cost and the uncertainty of just what is important stop many projects before they begin. It is not necessary to make expensive, mass renovations to change the entire look of the room, however. Some of the best kitchen remodeling ideas involve making small alterations.
For example, if you cabinets are in good shape, you may not need to replace them. Dark finishes can be replaced with lighter ones, and solid cabinet fronts can be replaced with glass inserts. Another inexpensive cabinet update involves selecting a fabric or wallpaper pattern in an attractive tapestry or floral pattern and covering the doors with it. Add an oval or scalloped frame around the edges of the doors and you have instantly created a totally new and unique look.
If you are planning extensive renovations, consider elevating your dishwasher. Raising it just a few inches eliminates the bend and stooping required to load and unload dishes. This is especially beneficial for anyone with lower back problems, but can be appreciated by all.
If new counter tops 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 counter top that curves up in the back to create its own back-splash 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.
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.
Especially in older homes, updated lighting is often needed. Recessed fluorescent fixtures create a soft light, and the tubes are longer lasting and more energy efficient than bulbs. You might also consider adding lighting to work areas, such as the sink or a center 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.
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 carpet is chosen, look for patterns that will hide stains as well as add interest to the room.
All kitchen remodeling ideas can be adapted to your own personal preferences. A little imagination can go a long way toward creating the kitchen of your dreams. Make it uniquely yours, and do not feel you need to accept any plan except the one you want. - 33383
For example, if you cabinets are in good shape, you may not need to replace them. Dark finishes can be replaced with lighter ones, and solid cabinet fronts can be replaced with glass inserts. Another inexpensive cabinet update involves selecting a fabric or wallpaper pattern in an attractive tapestry or floral pattern and covering the doors with it. Add an oval or scalloped frame around the edges of the doors and you have instantly created a totally new and unique look.
If you are planning extensive renovations, consider elevating your dishwasher. Raising it just a few inches eliminates the bend and stooping required to load and unload dishes. This is especially beneficial for anyone with lower back problems, but can be appreciated by all.
If new counter tops 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 counter top that curves up in the back to create its own back-splash 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.
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.
Especially in older homes, updated lighting is often needed. Recessed fluorescent fixtures create a soft light, and the tubes are longer lasting and more energy efficient than bulbs. You might also consider adding lighting to work areas, such as the sink or a center 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.
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 carpet is chosen, look for patterns that will hide stains as well as add interest to the room.
All kitchen remodeling ideas can be adapted to your own personal preferences. A little imagination can go a long way toward creating the kitchen of your dreams. Make it uniquely yours, and do not feel you need to accept any plan except the one you want. - 33383
About the Author:
If you are looking to improve the value of your home then you may want to remodel your kitchen, if you need a place to begin on finding the best kitchen remodeling ideas then you should stop by Caroline's website.
