You want to update your kitchen but you don’t have the time, budget or need for a full-scale remodel. I can help! To start with, take stock of what’s not working for you:
Problem #1: Not enough storage space
Start by moving items you don’t use regularly out of your work zones – i.e., those spaces next to your cooking, food storage and clean-up areas. Then see how much space you have available. If you’re still short on capacity, storage accessories can come to your rescue. There are numerous options on the market for drawers, base and pantry cabinets, wall cabinets and even backsplashes. (I love putting those untapped square feet to good use!)
A swing-out accessory increases the usable capacity of blind corner cabinets
(Photo Courtesy: New Kitchen Ideas That Work, Taunton Press, 2012)
Problem #2: Not enough work surface
Consider what’s sitting on your countertops currently and decide if these items really need to be there. Don’t use your mixer regularly? Move it into an out-of-the-way cabinet. Have a crock full of utensils? Consider another accessible storage spot for them – like a new backsplash organizer. Do you have room for a kitchen cart or island? Either one could give you more work surface – and storage, too.
Free up work space by moving items onto a backsplash organizer
(Photo Courtesy: New Kitchen Ideas That Work, Taunton Press, 2012)
Problem #3: Not enough light
Consider adding lights below your wall cabinets to brighten your work areas. You can also consider upgrading your current ceiling lighting. This can also add energy efficiency. You’ll want to hire a licensed electrician for this work. The good news is that better lighting will make your kitchen look larger, as well as brighter.
Under-cabinet LEDs brighten work space with tremendous energy efficiency
(Photo Courtesy: New Kitchen Ideas That Work, Taunton Press, 2012)
Problem #4: Not enough style
A new faucet can add style and functionality to your kitchen. Functionality comes from pull-outs and multiple spray settings. You can also opt for a sensor-style faucet, which can save you money on your water bill and reduce germs, but will be more complex to install.
Changing your floors can make a huge difference. I did this in my own kitchen, going from 12-inch basic builder tile to piano gloss oak laminate. It looks gorgeous, is easy to maintain – I sure don’t miss the grout! – and extends throughout the living areas of my town home, making the space look larger, too. There are some important details to consider before changing out your floors, so that you don’t end up with problems down the line. I cover these, as well, in my consultations.
One of the easiest changes you can make is a new paint color. Choose a scrubbable finish that will coordinate with your other kitchen surfaces – e..g, cabinets, floors and countertops – and any rooms to which the kitchen opens.
Cabinets can be refinished or refaced, rather than replaced. Both should be done professionally, unless you’re extremely skilled. And both are less expensive, inconvenient and messy than remodeling.
If your cabinets are generally OK-looking, consider replacing or adding new knobs or pulls. These are like jewelry for your kitchen, and can make a huge difference in style. You can also add decorative toe kick details and crown molding, both of which can increase the style of your kitchen significantly. This is also skilled work, which should be done by someone with top-notch carpentry and finishing skills and tools. There are some tricks of the trade to consider before undertaking a project like this; I share these in my homeowner consultations.
New hardware can add updated style to existing cabinets
(Photo Courtesy: New Kitchen Ideas That Work, Taunton Press, 2012)
Need professional help?
I offer update consultations, both locally (in person in San Diego County) and by phone. Contact me today to inquire about rates and availability. A copy of my book, New Kitchen Ideas That Work, (Taunton Press, 2012; $21.95 value) is included in both local and distance consultations.
at 3:46 am
Great tips, Jamie! Just doing those four things would make a huge difference. Of course, undercabinet lighting is the single most fabulous part of our remodel.