Let’s face it, the kitchen is the heart of every home. When it comes time to sell, buyers are looking for Kansas City kitchens that look and feel like new. No one wants the stress of a remodel after moving. That’s why The Remodel Studio has come up with six must-try kitchen remodel ideas that will give homeowners an edge on their home's value when it comes to sale time---without breaking the bank.
Keep reading to find out how you can take your kitchen from drab to fab in no time!
You can do it...and you will love your new kitchen!
Small Details in Kitchen Design
If you want to update your kitchen without spending too much money, start small by focusing on adding small details. For example, switch out old drawer pulls and knobs for something more contemporary or install under cabinet lighting to add ambiance to the room. You can also replace tired countertops with something more modern like quartz or granite. Small changes can make a big impact on how your kitchen looks and feels—without costing an arm and a leg!
Cabinet Handles and Pulls
Far from being just kitchen hardware to open and close a cabinet door, cabinet hardware can be used as an extra addition in your home's decor. Cabinet handles and pulls come in a variety of metal finishes, so you can continuously switch out for something new depending on your taste in style. Whether it's classic brass or nickel, change up the look of your kitchen or bathroom.
PROTIPS:
- Standard Pulls are 3 to 3.5" on center.
- Pulls and knobs can be mixed—there is no right or wrong.
- Drawer pulls should measure about 1/3 the length of the drawer.
- Make sure hardware is large enough to be comfortable.
Go Green with Energy-Efficient Appliances
Another easy way to modernize your kitchen without breaking the bank is to replace old, energy-inefficient appliances with something more efficient. Not only will this help you save money on your utility bills, but it will also give buyers a sense that your home is up-to-date and environmentally friendly. Look for ENERGY STAR–rated products, which can have a significant impact on energy savings and come in all sizes and price points. And if you’re worried about having enough room for larger models, don't be—today’s energy-efficient appliances are usually smaller than their predecessors, so updating your kitchen won’t require much extra space.
PROTIPS:
- Choose energy-efficient appliances to save on utility bills.
- Look for ENERGY STAR–rated products.
- Modern appliances are often smaller and more space-efficient.
Make It Bright
Nothing makes a space feel bigger than lots of natural light. To maximize sunlight in your space, think about removing heavy drapes or swapping out smaller windows for larger ones—or even just replacing dirty windowpanes with clear glass. Adding skylights is another great option for flooding the room with natural light (and who doesn’t love that?). If natural light isn't an option in your kitchen, consider installing brighter LED bulbs or upgrading fixtures for better illumination. You could also add mirrors to reflect what light there is in the room—just make sure they're not hung directly across from each other so as not to create glare!
PROTIPS:
- Maximize natural light by removing heavy drapes and installing larger windows.
- Consider skylights for additional natural light.
- Use brighter LED bulbs and mirrors to enhance illumination.
Countertop Upgrade
When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, don't overlook the countertops. Replacing outdated countertops with something more modern can instantly transform the look and feel of your space. There are a variety of materials available in all different price points, so you're sure to find something that fits within your budget. Granite is always a popular choice for its luxurious look and durability, but quartz is quickly becoming the go-to material for those who want a low-maintenance option that still looks great. If you’re looking for something even more affordable, laminate or ceramic tile are both good options as well. With so many choices out there, updating your kitchen's countertops doesn't have to be expensive or difficult—it just takes some research and planning!
PROTIPS:
Consider your budget and choose a countertop material accordingly.
Granite offers a luxurious look and durability.
Quartz is low-maintenance and comes in various styles.
Laminate and ceramic tile are affordable options--but homeowners want an upgrade.
Don't forget to consider edge profiles for a polished look.
Coordinate the color and pattern of your countertops with other elements in the kitchen.
Prioritize durability and ease of maintenance when selecting a material.