How to Get the Most Out of a Kitchen Remodel

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Kitchen Remodel Tacoma can increase your home’s value and transform your space into the perfect cooking and entertaining area. However, these projects can be expensive and require a substantial investment of time.

Kitchen Remodel

Be realistic about your budget and include a contingency fund. Splurge strategically on the items that will have the most impact and cut costs where possible.

One of the biggest determining factors in a kitchen remodel is the budget. While some homeowners are tempted to spend more than they can afford in hopes of boosting their home value, this is rarely a wise financial decision. Generally speaking, kitchen upgrades that cost less than 10% of your home’s overall value offer the best return on investment.

Labor accounts for a huge chunk of kitchen remodeling costs, so it’s important to find a remodeler who is willing to work within your budget and help you cut expenses where possible. For example, painting your own cabinets, refacing existing ones or using particleboard instead of plywood where it won’t be seen can make a big difference in the final cost of a project.

Countertops are another major expense, and while granite is still the popular choice among many homeowners, there are more budget-friendly options like Corian, concrete or laminate. Flooring is also an important cost to consider. Vinyl, linoleum and laminate flooring is cheaper than hardwood or natural stone tile but still provides a modern look.

It’s also a good idea to leave at least 20% of your kitchen remodeling budget in reserve for unanticipated costs. You may encounter costly surprises such as plumbing or electrical issues that were not discovered prior to tearing out walls, or you might need to run water or electricity lines to an area of your kitchen that was previously not planned on.

Design

Once a budget is set and the scope of the remodel is determined (whether it’s a cosmetic makeover or a gut job), a design plan can be created. Designers offer many services, from simple sketches and computer-aided drafting to 3D animation and virtual reality. Some designers charge a flat fee, while others may include their designs in the cost of certain products, such as cabinets or appliances. Be sure to ask about these costs when interviewing professionals.

A mid-size kitchen remodel usually starts with demolition, or “demo,” which exposes the walls and subfloor, allowing for utility work like new drywall and changes to plumbing and electrical circuitry (if necessary). Next, framing changes are made, including adding windows, moving or removing walls and possibly extending ductwork.

When the wall structure is ready, the installation of cabinets and countertops begins. Depending on the size of the room, this can be a major undertaking that requires heavy equipment and professional help.

This is also the time to decide on the materials for the kitchen. Countertops are an expensive element, and choosing a material that is not only durable but that fits with the design can be a difficult choice. For example, a bold backsplash can be fun, but it may not work with a tile floor or with your paint color scheme. Keeping it in mind will ensure that your remodel looks cohesive and intentional.

Layout

The layout of your kitchen is a vital part of a successful remodel. You want to be sure it is functional and fits the needs of your family. A good designer or contractor will be able to assess your current space and advise you on whether it is working well or can be improved by changing the layout.

There are a number of different layouts to choose from, including galley kitchen designs, L-shaped kitchens and U-shaped designs with a peninsula. Each has its pros and cons. You also need to take into consideration natural light. For example, if you have windows in your kitchen you need to be sure that they are properly placed to maximize light and allow for the best workflow.

Another factor that influences the layout of your kitchen is how it will be used. Your designer can help you decide which layout will be most appropriate for your family’s unique lifestyle and work habits. This will involve examining how your family uses the kitchen, such as who cooks most often, does anyone entertain in the home and if there are any members of the family with special needs that may require adaptations.

A fresh kitchen layout can make a huge difference to the way your kitchen works. It can prevent tripping hazards and improve workflow. The goal is to create a practical, functional space that meets your family’s needs and fits seamlessly with the rest of your home design.

Materials

When it comes to kitchen remodels, the materials you choose will have a huge impact on your project’s success. It’s important to consider all your options and budget carefully when choosing cabinets, sinks, countertops and backsplashes, floors, lighting, and appliances.

Cabinetry is a big part of the total cost, and it’s critical to choose durable materials that will stand up to moisture and daily wear and tear. For example, plywood resists water effectively and is easy to repair if damage occurs. However, it may not be as attractive as solid wood.

Countertops are another major investment, and it’s worth focusing on quality to get the most value out of your dollar. Look for granite or quartz that will withstand stains, acidic liquids and everyday wear and tear. Other natural stone materials like slate, travertine and limestone are also gaining popularity. If you’re on a tighter budget, try a poured concrete countertop that can be customized to fit your space or a more affordable porcelain option.

Backsplashes are a great way to add a splash of color or texture to your kitchen, and they’re also an effective way to protect the walls from grease and grime. They can also be used to create a custom design element, such as a unique pattern or a backsplash that incorporates the same material as your countertop. Also, don’t forget to consider energy-efficient appliances that can help lower your utility costs.

Appliances

A new kitchen can transform the heart of your home and make it a place you want to spend time in. Often a remodel includes new appliances, but it can also include changes to the layout and organizational changes. The appliances you select can significantly impact your remodeling costs. Some of the factors you will be weighing when choosing appliances include energy efficiency, quality, price and warranty. If you’re planning on purchasing a new refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop or oven, it is best to start shopping early in the remodeling process.

Kitchen remodeling can be a great opportunity to upgrade your appliances to more eco-friendly models. While these devices may be pricier upfront, they offer long-term savings in energy bills. Another option is to consider using sustainable materials for your flooring, cabinets or countertops. These options will add value to your home and attract homebuyers if you decide to sell it in the future.

Choosing the right appliances for your remodeled kitchen can be challenging. You will need to decide on a design, color and style that fits your aesthetic. You can find a variety of different styles, colors and sizes of kitchen appliances online or at a local store. It is recommended to consult a Kowalske designer, who can show you the most popular products and colors. In addition, you will need to consider the size of your kitchen, the amount of storage space and the electrical requirements of your appliances.

Financing

A kitchen remodel can require significant financial investment. Depending on the scope of your project, it can range from what Ariana Lovato calls a “basic cosmetic refresh” to a complete overhaul that involves tearing down walls and reconfiguring the layout (which may necessitate permits).

To determine the best financing options for your kitchen renovation, consider the total cost of the project, how long you intend to finance the loan, and the repayment schedule. It’s important to keep in mind that credit cards limit you to a maximum lending amount, and carrying a balance may incur costly interest or annual fees. In addition, credit card debt can affect your credit score, so you’ll want to make sure that you select an affordable borrowing option that will allow you to repay the loan over time.

Personal loans and home equity loans/lines of credit are more flexible options. They typically have lower interest rates than credit cards, and they can be used for any type of improvement project. However, they are secured by your home, so you’ll need to have sufficient equity to qualify and you may be required to have cash on hand for closing expenses.

Finally, several government programs offer loans or grants for homeowners who are remodeling their homes. These typically come with strict eligibility requirements, and they can be more time consuming to apply for. Once you’ve decided how to finance your kitchen renovation, prepare any necessary documentation and submit your application.

Choosing Colors for Your Bathroom Remodel

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Bathroom Remodel Near Me is a major undertaking. Depending on how extensive the changes are, hiring a renovation specialist can ease some of the stress and costs.

Bathroom Remodel

Ensure a safe and accessible bathing space by installing grab bars, non-slip flooring and walk-in tubs during your remodel. Also consider adding stylish accents like mirrors and decor for a finished look.

Contemporary bathroom design is defined by sleek lines and natural materials that evoke an air of luxury. While the style may showcase some of today’s most up-to-date trends, it typically focuses on timeless, sophisticated features that will remain relevant for years to come. This balancing act is perfect for homeowners who wish to stay current with the latest trends while still embracing a clean, classic aesthetic.

White’s inherent purity lends itself well to modern bathroom design, establishing a fresh and open atmosphere that feels clean and spacious. This color also pairs beautifully with a wide range of materials and finishes, from gilded fixtures to natural stone countertops. The neutral palette is especially striking when combined with a variety of tile styles that create dynamic visuals, such as herringbone patterns or hexagonal motifs.

When choosing bathroom vanities, mirrors, lights, and other fixtures, look for sleek, elegant pieces without ornate detailing. Keeping sightlines open will help your modern bathroom feel more open and spacious, while ensuring that the space isn’t hindered by bulky hardware or other accessories.

Using different types of marble tiles to create unique designs is an easy way to keep your bathroom feeling contemporary. Here, a patterned accent wall and floor-to-ceiling marble shower tiles give this bathroom a unique, custom look that elevates the overall design without overwhelming it with unnecessary detail.

White

White bathrooms are clean, crisp, and fresh. The neutral palette lends itself to a variety of design styles, and it’s easy to add warmth with a few well-placed accent colors. Black is a popular option because it’s timeless and classic, but other colors like warm grays and soft blues can also work to create an invigorating bathroom space.

In addition to color, white bathrooms can benefit from texture. Mixing tile shapes and sizes, incorporating a wood vanity, or adding woven storage baskets can help break up an otherwise flat and monotonous space. Incorporating a window shelf is another great way to add a natural element without breaking the white palette. This is a perfect place to display greenery, houseplants, flowers, or other decorative items that can refresh your bathroom when you need a change.

A bathroom remodel is an excellent opportunity to make your home more comfortable and to enhance its value. Contact a remodeling company that provides a one-day remodel and ask how they can help you achieve the perfect bathroom. Blue Ridge Cabinet Connection offers customizable cabinet furniture to fit any size bathroom and can offer suggestions for storage solutions that will help you make the most of your space. They can also provide a free quote for the services you need. They are a local, family-owned and operated business in western North Carolina. For more information visit their website.

Forest Green

Green is a relaxing color that brings you back to nature and feels fresh. It’s also a great hue for bathrooms because of its soothing qualities. It can add a sense of calmness to your space and make it feel like a sanctuary at the end of a long day.

A dark forest green bathroom exudes a sense of tranquility and sophistication. The shade creates a warm, cozy atmosphere and is a perfect backdrop for gold fixtures and natural wood elements. It’s a great choice for master baths and powder rooms alike.

For a more subtle look, opt for light green walls. They’re a breath of fresh air and pair well with a wide range of colors. Light green bathroom walls are especially effective in smaller bathrooms because they prevent the walls from feeling too flat. If you choose a mint or sea-inspired hue, team them with shapely trad-style sanitary ware for a bold contrast.

If you’re in the mood for a more vibrant hue, try yellow-green wallpaper or paint your entire room a bright grassy shade. You can also add green accents, such as a soap dispenser or floor mat, to enhance your bathroom’s color scheme. These simple touches will help tie your bathroom design together and make it feel complete and cohesive. Alternatively, you can use a darker shade of green for an accent wall or a patterned tile.

Rock-Filled Floors

River rock and pebble decors are an elegant addition to bathrooms, adding a natural touch that can make the space feel calm. These styles are highly durable and aesthetically appealing, promising long-lasting beauty. They’re also water-resistant and don’t easily get damaged by humidity. However, these styles are not the easiest to maintain, requiring regular cleaning to remove dirt and grit. Additionally, they aren’t the cheapest option for bathroom flooring, with material and installation costing more than traditional tiles.

When used for bathroom floors, river rocks create a textured surface that is comfortable to walk on. However, they’re not ideal for all locations since the rocks might obstruct drainage and cause pooling if located outdoors. If you’re considering this option for your bathroom, consider incorporating a weed barrier underlayment to prevent invasive plants from sprouting between the rocks.

While it might sound tempting to go all-out with a rocky look, it’s important to keep in mind the challenges of using natural rock as bathroom flooring. While ceramic tiles designed for bathrooms are made with porosity in mind and undergo rigorous testing to achieve a texture that isn’t slippery when wet, it’s much harder to guarantee the same result from natural stone that’s not as refined. For this reason, it’s best to limit the use of river rock or pebbles in your bathroom to smaller accent pieces like a pebble backsplash or bathmat.

Mirrored

The mirror is a key part of many bathroom designs because it helps to make rooms appear larger, brighter and more spacious. It’s also a great place to add some flair and personality to your bathroom, especially with frame options that add decorative accents to the space without taking away from its functionality.

Decorative frames can work well with many decor styles, and they’re especially suited for bathroom vanity design ideas. For example, this brushed nickel mirror from MullerDesignsCA features a transitional design that fits with modern and traditional style decor. Its beveled glass construction enhances its luxurious allure, and its curved shape complements the lines of this elegant vanity.

If you prefer to keep your bathroom decor minimalist, a frameless mirror is the way to go. This style emphasizes your walls’ neutral color palette and provides a clean and modern look. It’s also easy to customize the look by using different mounting methods, like the simple bracket shown here.

Another option is to incorporate a tiled ‘frame’ around your mirror, which can also provide extra storage space for toiletries. It’s a fun and creative way to add some personal style to your bathroom, while also keeping items out of the reach of children.

Customizable storage solutions can also help you create a harmonious and efficient shared bathroom experience for multiple people. Consider installing medicine cabinets with adjustable shelves, personalized design elements or even multi-functional mirrors with storage built in.

Purple

Most bathrooms are surprisingly plain when it comes to decor, but that doesn’t mean they have to be. Adding a pop of color can dramatically improve the aesthetic and make your bathroom stand out from the rest. Whether you want to create an entire purple theme or just add an accent wall, there are plenty of unique and eye-catching ways to incorporate this vibrant shade.

One of the easiest ways to try out purple is through linens like towels, bath mats and shower curtains. This is a non-committal way to introduce the color into your bathroom, and it can be easily changed out when you want to switch up the look.

You can also create a modern and sleek bathroom by pairing a flat purple shade, such as Farrow & Ball’s Brassica, with black tiling and contemporarily designed plumbing fixtures. Green is also a natural complementary color to some shades of purple, particularly emerald, so try mixing in touches of this hue for an extra pop of color.

Finally, if you’re looking to make a bold statement, try a dark purple color, such as Eggplant by Benjamin Moore, in your bathroom. This rich, deep shade is perfect for vintage-inspired bathrooms and looks great against a black tile backsplash or floors. Incorporate gold finishes into your design for a luxurious and glamorous finish to your purple bathroom remodel.