Kitchen remodeling is one of the most common remodeling projects homeowners undertake. After all, we spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s often regarded as the heart of the home and often where we entertain. Having a space you can be proud to invite others into and one that meets your needs is key. And when it comes time to sell your home, a midrange remodel returns about 74% of your investment, according to the 2020 Hanley Woods Cost vs. Value Report.
We always ask homeowners why they want to make the investment of time and money in a kitchen remodel, and here are the three answers that are most common.
1. Unappealing Appearance
A dated kitchen is by far the most common motivation homeowners share with us. However, along with appearance is style. Kitchen remodeling styles are numerous and not everyone has the same taste. As you work with a design/build company on a new look for your kitchen, it’s okay to look at the current trends. However, we don’t recommend incorporating all of them into your kitchen.
For example, colored cabinets and colored appliances are a hot trend right now, but you don’t want both as the space will be overwhelming. Another trend is using the same countertop material as your backsplash. This can work well on a feature wall but if your countertop pattern is very busy, it may be too much throughout the kitchen.
2. Lack of Functionality
Whether your drawers don’t open properly or the space doesn’t work for you, you might tell your design/build company that your kitchen remodeling project is all about functionality. Sometimes the space issue can be solved by creating a better kitchen triangle, which is the path between the stove, refrigerator and sink. Other times, you need more space, which can mean an addition or tearing down walls and borrowing some space from an adjoining room.
If your complaint about the space is the low-quality products used, you’re not alone. Many homebuilders in the late 1990s and early 2000s often used stock cabinets made mostly of pressboard. By choosing semi-custom or custom cabinets, you’ll have better quality. The cabinets will look better and last longer. Plus, an added bonus is the options that come with these cabinets allow for more functional storage.
3. Poor Energy Efficiency
Almost every kitchen remodeling project includes replacing some appliances. Sometimes it’s because the appliances are old and sometimes because they don’t fit in with the new layout and style. You may be surprised that many homeowners are wanting a more energy-efficient kitchen. The most common way of accomplishing this is by choosing ENERGY STAR® appliances.
Lighting can be a big way to improve your kitchen’s energy efficiency. First, look at the natural light in the space. Is there a way to improve it? Natural light can reduce the need for artificial light, which is obviously more energy-efficient. Converting your existing fixtures into ones that accept LED bulbs and that are dimmable is another great method of improving your kitchen’s energy efficiency.
How Can We Help?
G.M. Roth Design Remodeling is a locally based design/build company serving southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts with all types of remodeling. We offer free initial consultations, either in your home, in our showroom or via video chat. Call us today at (603) 880-3761 or fill out our contact form to get started on your kitchen remodel today!
