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Remodeling Your Kitchen to Improve Functionality

Remodeling Your Kitchen to Improve Functionality

In a house, one of the busiest areas is the kitchen. Whether you are a working individual or a stay-at-home, the kitchen undergoes significant traffic all day long. Due to the different nature of tasks, the more functional the kitchen is, the more comfortable your daily routine will be.

If you think your kitchen design has become outdated and less functional, it is time to consider remodeling it. The cost and time it takes mostly depend on the extent of the repair. Some people will feel it is adequate to revamp several sections of the kitchen. While, others will remodel the complete kitchen, which is going to be a long-running and more costly project.

Nevertheless, kitchen remodeling will not just improve functionality, but it will significantly add to the value of your property. So, whatever money and time you invest in it, we are sure it will not get wasted.

Remodeling Considerations for Making your Kitchen More Practical

  • Safety
  • Flooring
  • Appliances
  • Countertops
  • Flow of traffic
  • Storage
  • Electrical outlets
  • Ventilation

1) Safety

In the pursuit of other kitchen aims, safety often takes the backseat. But, safety can make the kitchen quite functional. For instance, rounded corners of countertops can limit injuries. So, keep electrical outlets away from the ground and areas where water might reach easily. Necessary fire-fighting measures should be installed too. If you have kids, then remodel the kitchen to be as secure for them as possible.

2) Flooring

There are lots of flooring options for the kitchen. Given our local conditions, specific options such as hardwood floors are very impractical. Though, the kitchen floor should be slip-free, easy to maintain and clean, and resistant to stains and spills. Different floor materials have their pros and cons, so do not be quick to settle for a single option. What you prefer can also depend on how you operate the kitchen. Also, bear in mind that a kitchen welcomes plenty of foot traffic, so lighter colors and materials might not be durable for long.

3) Appliances

Since you have chosen to remodel the kitchen, the next step should be upgrading the appliances too. Old appliances often do not fit well with contemporary aesthetics. These can also be expensive in terms of energy usage. Opt for new-age and smart devices that are feasible for saving on utility bills, are safer to use, and give more practical operations. You might also want to get appliances repaired. It paves the way for easy moving and working, and also leaves significant space for storage if utilized smartly.

4) Countertops

Deciding on the countertops is as essential as the flooring. There is a wide variety to pick from. Your decision can vary depending on the efficiency of cleaning, scratches, maintenance, durability, resistance to spills, stains, etc. Cost is also an essential factor.

Soapstone, granite, marble, and tile are quite common. Some also go for laminates, wood, and solid surface materials. Some people are opting for including a different article on one of the countertops to meet specific needs such as cooking, cutting, and meal preparation. For instance, this would be having a little marble countertop surface for baking, while the rest of the countertops are granite.

5) Flow of Traffic

The kitchen, being an active part of the home, should be able to support a smooth flow of traffic. It becomes quite more critical when you have little children running around. Depending upon the dimensions and shape of your kitchen, choose smartly how you are going to add shelves, counters, and cabinets. Nothing should get in the way. For instance, some people might prefer a peninsula instead of an island to make more space. Others will choose neither and work with counters along the walls only. For a better flow of traffic, assure easy access to appliances too.

6) Storage

One of the most frequent complaints in households is the lack of enough storage. In the kitchen, storage does not only have to be plenty but smart too. Along with the cabinets, do not ignore the value of open shelving. These are often easier to organize and make daily items more convenient. Consider divided drawers and different sizes of cabinets too.

7) Electrical Outlets

Using more kitchen devices means that you need as many electrical outlets. When remodeling, assure that more electrical outlets are available for connecting different primary devices and extra ones to accommodate additional ones too.

Furthermore, install light switches that can be accessed when leaving and entering. Even quite better, get switches that respond to motion or occupancy, and can be controlled for the intensity of light. To conserve energy, you can consider a larger window that provides natural light during the daytime.

8) Ventilation

Design a kitchen in a way that the ventilation system is installed correctly to prevent the accumulation of different odors and smoke in the kitchen. A chimney and exhaust system should be efficiently installed. An exterior door can also be helpful, which will also be convenient for other practical access to the kitchen.