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2021 kitchen cabinetry trends to refresh your home
2021 kitchen cabinetry trends are showing a new interest in both contemporary design and a return to nature. In our blog on 2021 kitchen design trends, we looked at how so many preferences have emerged and grown as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, these trends can be a wonderful source of inspiration and help you create a space that meets your evolving needs. Before we look at some 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends, here’s a list of kitchen design choices we expect to see more of this year:
● Open layouts
To create a single shared space, barriers such as walls and doors are eliminated and distinct functional areas are integrated into a single shared space.
● Large islands
Islands can provide seating and storage, making them very appealing to homeowners looking for flexibility. Some clients are even opting for a second island.
● Smart appliances
Device charging, entertainment, and emergency power for essential appliances such as fridges are going to become more important in 2021.
● Organic, natural textures and tones
2021 kitchen design trends tell us that we can expect to see more stone, marble, natural wood, and earth tones. Incorporating more organic materials and textures into interiors helps people de-stress and connect with nature.
● Mixing cabinetry color and finish
Popular choices will be painted and wood grain, with a different color on the island. We saw this last year as well with the kitchen design trends for 2020.
● Clean kitchen styles
Research by NKBA shows that the top kitchen styles are likely to be contemporary, transitional, organic/natural, and minimalistic. This suggests that, on the whole, cleaner looks will be preferred to more ornate traditional styles.
● Modern-style countertops
In line with the kitchen styles that are becoming more popular, kitchen countertops will also take on a modern aesthetic. Solid surface countertops that are homogenous are an excellent choice for a clean look.
● Sinks with smart features
Smart faucets and innovative sinks are going to be important 2021 kitchen design trends as people upgrade to more professional functions.
● Flooring is hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, or tile
Some popular choices this year will be hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and tile (ceramic or porcelain).
● Under-cabinet lighting and flexible lighting controls
Flexible and passive lighting controls are anticipated to be more popular than traditional switches. Under-cabinet lighting is expected to be prominent as part of a sleek, contemporary look.
● Large windows and French doors
This helps bring in more natural light. When designed well, they create a smooth transition from indoors to outdoors as well as a sense of openness.
● Integrated entertainment or outdoor kitchens
Building on the desire for more open space, indoor-outdoor kitchens and living areas are growing in popularity. We can also expect people to spend on premium lighting, fireplaces, comfortable furniture, and outdoor cooking appliances.
To dive deeper into this and get more specific, it’s great to look at kitchen cabinetry trends, which both inform and respond to overall kitchen design trends.
As homeowners integrate kitchen, living room, and office spaces, cabinetry preferences are changing. There are many factors to consider, such as:
● Creating consistent design, aesthetic, and color schemes through kitchen and living spaces.
● Keeping the kitchen well-organized so it’s easy to tidy.
● Maximizing storage efficiency and space
● Making everything easy-to-use for all family members who may be spending more time at home now.
At Bath Plus Kitchen, we work with cabinet manufacturers at the top of their game, who are known for their style expertise and consistent quality. View our portfolio to learn about the work we’ve done with their gorgeous cabinetry.
These manufacturers are on top of (and, often, ahead of) the trends, so we believe that when it comes to 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends, they can offer incredible ideas and inspiration. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, keep reading to find what top trends these cabinetry design experts are catering to now!
2021 kitchen cabinetry trends – 10 trends to look out for now
- Slab doors
For Plain & Fancy, a top-rated cabinet manufacturer we work with, vintage cabinetry was the top-selling style. In 2020, those dropped to 5%. Instead, their customers are choosing slab doors, like the ones in the picture above. Here, you can see white acrylic cabinetry in full overlay, creating a very clean and bright look. On the base and wall cabinetry are slab doors that enhance this clean, contemporary aesthetic. For warmth and contrast, the designers chose flat panel doors in walnut with a natural finish for the island and accent wall. This is a great way to add character and uniqueness to your new kitchen while still maintaining sleekness.
- White and custom color finishes
White and off-white finishes have been popular for a while, and Plain & Fancy expects them to remain favorites. Of these, their Cascade White finish has been the biggest winner. One door style in a white finish that has been doing well is their Vogue door style.
Plain & Fancy also believes custom color will continue to be a popular option. They are committed to helping their customers “dream in color” and choose from their extensive gallery of colors or even create their own shade. We highly recommend testing out their Custom Color Picker to find shades you love (which you can then add to your ‘Saved Favorites’). Here’s a snapshot of what it looks like:
Custom Color Picker by Plain & Fancy.
We love it when our customers come to us with an exciting color option and an openness to explore interesting palettes. Our designers enjoy hearing about your personal preferences so they can dive deeper into customization and help you create something fabulous. That said, sometimes it helps to get a little inspiration from the color trends of the year. Plain & Fancy’s Shane Achey notes that what’s in style can differ depending on whom you ask. He shares what color experts at Sherwin-Williams, Valspar, and Farrow & Ball have chosen, summarized below.
‘Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Colors in 2021’ shared by top color authorities
● Sherwin-Williams: Urbane Bronze
A lot of us are drawn to more calming tones now, making grey neutrals a popular choice. The Sherwin-Williams color marketing director explains that color such as Urbane Bronze makes it easier to establish the home as a personal haven during times of uncertainty. It’s also safe to bet that this color won’t go out of style anytime soon.
Tip from Plain & Fancy: Layer with complementary tones, including not only beige paints but also, white oak or ash cabinets. Copper and wrought iron details can instantly add a hint of sophistication to any space decked out with this neutral hue.
● Valspar: 12 muted hues
These colors include shades of blue, grey, and cream, with something for everyone in this modern collection. Giving each color its own webpage, Valspar offers an in-depth exploration of every hue, including a quote from an expert, why it’s trending, how to style it, and a ‘how it feels’ video with a sound bath.
Farrow & Ball have also chosen multiple colors for 2021. These shades tend to be earthy, along with a few rich colors. They have divided these into four categories – Rich and Warm, Clean and Timeless Blues, Earth Colors, and Natural Greens. Here’s a look at their ‘Rich and Warm’ set:
We hope these trending colors serve as an inspiration and help you discover new design possibilities, especially for your kitchen cabinets.
- White oak
This year, we expect white oak to remain a hot seller. Plain & Fancy notes that from top-grade cuts to the rustics that were once considered low grade are all varieties of white oak will stay in demand. They predicted this popularity a few years ago, introducing 14 beautiful white oak finishes in 2018:
How do you know if it’s the right option for you? Plain & Fancy Purchasing Manager Rick Yohn says, “it is a great look for those customers that appreciate the natural beauty of wood. Six of our new finishes (Silver Shore, Driftscape, Weathered Shore, Narvik, Montane, and Lynx) are very transparent finishes and will not hide color variation. Again, great for those who love that wood look.”
They offer an exciting option for contemporary kitchen designers – reconstituted rift white oak – in the two-door styles shown below, Allegro (L) and Chicago (R).
- Frameless cabinetry
While designing their dream kitchens with us, many of our clients are drawn to Bellmont’s Euro-style, built-to-order frameless cabinets. They’re certainly not alone in choosing this contemporary style over traditional framed cabinetry.
Framed cabinetry – In this cabinetry style, the door hinges are attached directly to the frame, which strength and sturdiness. Rails and stiles are used to create a face frame, similar to a picture frame. One of the great things about frameless cabinetry is that they offer flexibility with adjustable shelves and the option to use many different doors. They work well with a more traditional style.
Frameless cabinetry – Instead of securing door hinges onto a frame as you would with framed cabinetry, they are secured directly to the inside of the box. That way, all you see after installation is the flat door and drawer fronts. This creates a sleek, simple aesthetic that works well with a more contemporary style. The two main reasons homeowners today are choosing frameless cabinetry are:
● A cleaner look
● Better accessibility and space.
As Bellmont explains it, “the full-overlay, flush-fitting doors, and drawers offer unobstructed interior access, giving you more storage space and organizing options than traditional face frame cabinets.”
Bath Plus Kitchen’s Eric Shipe demonstrates the differences between framed and frameless cabinetry below.
- Wall-to-wall cabinetry and made-to-measure kitchen designBecause of the growing preference for open layouts and more integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, kitchens need to be easy to clean and reorganize.
Wall-to-wall cabinetry makes it easier to keep your kitchen looking neat. It gives you freedom from worrying about keeping open shelves tidy. On a busy day, you can still pack everything away into your spacious kitchen cabinets and have your kitchen looking clutter-free.
When the goal is to maximize storage space and functionality while keeping things looking organized, a made-to-measure kitchen design fits the bill. Nobilia offers a flexible height system and made-to-measure kitchen design that supports more creative freedom in planning. To them, this was the next logical step in their grid reorganization. They are combining a more consistent line layout with increased planning reliability, a surplus of storage space, and quality improvements in the details. This system offers a new level of personalization and flexibility while still achieving a holistic, perfected look through optimized symmetry. All of these updates align perfectly with the 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends we’re seeing.
With their made-to-measure kitchens, you get wonderful benefits such as:
● More side depth. What Nobilia says is true – you never have enough storage! That’s why they increased the storage space of all their wall cabinets and dresser units with a new side depth of 350 mm.
● Continuous fronts. These create an especially linear look.
● Flush fronts. To optimize the design lines, all Nobilia’s shelf units are now produced with front flush as the standard. These shelf units can also be supplied with adjustable shelves for a surcharge to provide even more flexibility.
Nobilia understands their clients’ aesthetic and functional priorities for their new kitchens. They believe flexibility, individuality, and storage space are what customers want, and they’re determined to provide this in new and innovative ways while still adhering to their high standards of quality and design every single time.
- Contrasting finishes
If you want your kitchen to reflect world-class contemporary design, look no further than Nobilia’s fronts and trends. These reflect the biggest 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends to look out for. Take a look at what’s new at Nobilia to see how they pair different finishes to create stunning kitchens:
● Warm Concrete Shade
Nobilia describes concrete as the epitome of modern industrial style. As customers lean increasingly towards a more natural, pared-down, organic feel, they offer this new, warm shade of Terra grey for their RIVA range as a “contemporary interpretation of cool coziness”. The dark wall unit offers contrast.
● Elegant Wood Appearance
Nobilia’s new walnut décor embodies pure elegance and caters to the current demand for a more natural feel. The matte black carcass pairs beautifully with it to create a sophisticated look.
● Cottage-style cosiness
Their NORDIC doors deliver the cottage-style coziness with a new framed door in a white, genuine lacquer design. The result: Fronts with a minimalist look, inspired by popular Scandinavian style. The wood aesthetic on the island and backsplash add a touch of traditional comfort.
● Glass appearance with wow effect
Nobilia’s new ARTIS line offers fronts and upright panels made of polymer glass. ARTIS thus offers a virtually unlimited range of products. The satin matte finish glass appearance achieves a stunning depth effect and sets the scene for exquisite designs in kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. In the kitchen below, the flawless glass finish contrasts beautifully with the wood aesthetic.
Nobilia demonstrates that the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a contemporary kitchen that expresses your individual preferences and taste. We also love how they’re changing perceptions of laminate cabinetry, showing how beautiful, high-quality, and versatile they can be.
- Clean lines and minimalist design
Clean, contemporary kitchen design is a clear winner when you look at 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends. Bellmont delivers this with their VERO series, inspired by Italian minimalist design. It boasts a true absence of handles that emphasizes clean lines and soothing symmetry for an elegant, harmonious look. What goes into achieving that? There are three key features:
● Linear rail technology – Bellmont’s sleek and simple integrated rail system provides a slender, unseen channel for easy access to drawers. This gives it a clean, crisp appearance. Without interference from handles and hardware, your kitchen becomes more efficient, making it inviting to do more there.
● Clean lines – Precision-cut frameless cabinets give you straight lines, minimal gaps, and pleasing geometric patterns. This makes visual transitions between materials and color palettes smoother.
● Uninterrupted access – Without handles and hardware, you can focus on the real stars – the door styles and complex finishes. It reinforces the lack of clutter while enhancing the convenience of the handle-free frameless design.
Nobilia offers excellent options in the realm of handle-less designs, achieving clean looks like the one pictured below.
Their Handle-less Line N kitchens are available in 11 ranges and 49 front designs. These kitchens are available in all carcass colors. The entire range of surrounds with all 47 worktop décors and 94 upright colors is available. Nobilia also offers recessed handles in 9 colors. The L profiles for horizontal recessed handles can be equipped with LED lighting for a surcharge.
- Sleek integrated finger-pulls
Another way to allow the beautiful cabinetry faces to shine unobstructed is integrated finger-pulls, offered by top manufacturers such as Dura Supreme. They offer two sleek and sophisticated Integrated Pulls, now available with both Crestwood and Bria Cabinetry. These built-in hardware options are perfect for contemporary and transitional designs and are available with a beautiful, brushed Aluminum finish.
- Recessed design lighting
Nobilia makes sure every aspect of your kitchen is perfect, including recess design. They create decorative and functional wall views with elegant panels. Their niche cladding selection is gorgeous, artistic, and unique, and would look stunning when highlighted by recessed lighting. This is something we expect to see more of in 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends.
An exciting feature they offer for this includes the ability to switch back and forth between cool white and warm white lighting, as Eric Shipe demonstrates in the video below.
Nobilia’s lighting systems are designed to illuminate workspaces as well as to create an atmosphere. They understand – and we agree – that lighting requires careful planning and consideration. After all, when you invest time and resources in your gorgeous new kitchen, you wouldn’t want unimaginative lighting to take away from the elegance and ambiance you’ve worked hard to establish!
Here are two valuable tips from Nobilia to make sure your lighting is doing your kitchen, including your new cabinetry, justice:
● Ensure that work area lighting is uniform and shadow-free as far as possible in order to optimize day-to-day tasks in the kitchen.
● In addition to general room lighting, creating additional small islands of light, mainly near the seating areas in the kitchen, makes for a homely and comfortable ambiance. Thanks to efficient LED technology and modern control options, this can be realized simply and cost-effectively.
- Walk-in pantry
Walk-in pantries are great especially if you love to cook and/or have a large family. For starters, they offer more storage space with floor-ceiling cubbies, shelves, and drawers. The generous space means things are easier to organize which in turn means they are easier to access and use. All of this can make cooking more appealing and can even minimize food wastage when ingredients get used instead of lying forgotten in the back of a cabinet or drawer. When planned well, your walk-in pantry can accommodate certain appliances that don’t have a permanent spot on your kitchen counters such as a juicer or slow cooker.
If this item on our list of 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends sounds good to you, you’ll love the NEW Pass-Through Tall Cabinet from Dura Supreme, designed for creating a seamless walk-in pantry.
Dura Supreme’s New Larder Cabinetry is another great option to consider, pictured below:
These cabinets are highly functional and are designed with a number of internal storage features that will help you keep most countertop clutter items and small appliances behind beautiful cabinet doors. They offer specialized internal options such as:
● Storage Center
● Beverage Center
● Baking Center
● Optional organizational features such as apothecary drawers and a flat Roll-Out Shelf
Looking at these 2021 kitchen cabinetry trends tells us that homeowners today want to create contemporary spaces that prioritize comfort and ease. Clean looks and even cleaner design will make your kitchen efficient, organized, and a joy to spend time in!
Ready to discuss your new kitchen cabinetry with our design experts? Get in touch with us here.
Kitchen cabinetry costs: Design choices that impact them
Kitchen cabinetry costs surprise many first-time remodelers. It can be very expensive and will take up a significant percentage of your kitchen remodel costs. The good news is, if you plan well, you can find the perfect cabinetry for your budget. Knowing your options will help you make better choices that fit your priorities. To help you find the most suitable aspects to focus your expenditure on, we’ve put together the different choices you will need to make while selecting your cabinetry.
1. Installing new cabinetry vs. refacing existing cabinetry
Cabinetry has one of the biggest parts to play in creating the look of your kitchen. Some homeowners opt to simply reface their cabinets. This entails steps such as covering cabinet boxes and sides, adding new cabinet fixtures, and installing new drawer fronts. Refacing costs less than getting brand-new cabinetry.
Still, most kitchen remodels involve a change of cabinetry because homeowners want to update the kitchen’s aesthetic and improve functionality with new features and storage ideas. This decision will mean costs for removal, new cabinetry, and installation. Unless you are quite skilled, get a professional to do this for you, or you could damage your walls. For safety reasons, cabinet installation is best left to qualified professionals as well. This can be around 40-50% of the kitchen cabinetry costs. Full-service remodel firms such as Bath+Kitchen will take care of the entire process for you, from design to installation.
2. Custom or semi-custom vs. stock cabinetry
Custom cabinetry tends to be the most desirable choice for many reasons, closely followed by semi-custom. Stock cabinets work well for smaller budgets, but you are likely to find a limited selection of materials and styles there. That’s why our clients prefer the custom and semi-custom options we offer via top-rated manufacturers that prioritize quality and variety, such as Bellmont, Dura Supreme, and Plain & Fancy.
3. Natural wood vs. engineered materials
You can expect engineered materials such as MDF and particleboard to cost less than solid wood. There are some excellent MDF doors out there for you to choose from that are high-quality and beautifully-designed, such as Bellmont’s shaker-style door:
These often look new for longer than some solid wood doors do.
If you love the classic look of solid wood, consider factors such as grain, color, and construction. Also, you’ll find that each wood species comes with its own price. Oak and Hickory can be more affordable than Maple or Cherry. Here are some popular choices:
- Red Oak
- White oak
- Hard maple
- Hickory
- Cherry
- Birch
- Ash
- Pine
4. Traditional vs. Contemporary door styles
There are different basic kitchen styles you can opt for such as traditional, transitional, contemporary, and modern. For traditional and transitional kitchens, raised panels express the desired aesthetic well. These kitchens favor detail so cleaner styles wouldn’t have the right impact. These more ornate or decorative door styles will cost more than slab doors, which are suited to contemporary and modern kitchens.
Other styles that can increase your kitchen cabinetry costs are mullion frame doors and open frame doors, which require glass inserts. Some clients opt to make these the predominant door style in their kitchen. A more budget-friendly option is to use a few of them as accents while using solid panels for the most part. Choices like these will shape your kitchen cabinetry costs.
5. Glaze vs. laminate
Cabinet finishes vary considerably in terms of cost. Glazed doors can offer a beautiful vintage look but can be much more expensive than a laminate. That said, there are a wide variety of laminates to choose from today, ranging in quality and price. Explore Bellmont’s door finish gallery to get a sense of how many options there are and what kitchen aesthetic they’re best-suited to.
Dura Supreme, another cabinet manufacturer we work with, breaks their door finishes into three main categories – contemporary, painted, and stained. We also work with Plain & Fancy, who let you customize your color (try out their Custom Color Picker and save your favorites!) in addition to offering an exquisite selection of door styles and finishes.
With these well-reputed manufacturers, you can rest assured that anything you select will be high-quality and look beautiful in your home.
6. Drawer base vs. standard base
Drawer base cabinets are more expensive than standard base cabinets. By designing strategically, you can create a combination of drawers and shelves that work for you, like in the kitchen below:
The red arrow points to a standard base cabinet with 1 drawer and 2 drawers. The blue arrow points to a 3-drawer base cabinet. You can also get 2 drawer and 4 drawer base cabinets. How you design this will impact your kitchen cabinetry costs.
Then, the drawers themselves come in a range of designs, all priced differently.
Soft-close, dovetail drawers are the starting point for all of our kitchen cabinetry. They have solid ⅝” thick sides with a ¼” plywood bottom and 75-pound load capacity. Drawer sides and bottom are protected with a clear UV cured-coating.
Upgrade options include:
- Walnut drawers with additional hand sanding. This gives you tight, flush joints and two coats of clear catalyzed conversion varnish for durability.
- Alder drawers with additional hand sanding. Similar to the walnut drawers described above, this gives you tight, flush joints & two coats of clear catalyzed conversion varnish for durability
- LEGRABOX drawers by Blum. Key features:
- Slim 1/2” thick drawer sides constructed with a powder-coated steel finish in a mid-tone grey.
- A higher load capacity – 88 pounds standard and 150 pounds for 42 to 48” wide drawers.
- The soft close guides feature progressive runners, providing fluid-like running of the full extension action.
- Unlike standard wood drawers, their drawer faces are attached directly to the LEGRABOX drawer sides with a concealed mechanized coupling bracket. This gives you an additional ⅝” of storage.
- The Ambia-line of accessories is designed specifically for LEGRABOX drawers.
7. Framed vs. Frameless
Framed cabinets work well with more traditional kitchens and can cost around $500-1000 less than frameless cabinetry. If you want a sleek aesthetic that’s similar to a lot of contemporary European styles, frameless is the way to go. Not sure what the difference is? Bath+Kitchen’s Eric Shipe explains it in this video:
8. Made in the USA vs. cheaper imports
Considering several crucial factors such as quality, design, aesthetic, safety, longevity, and ecological impact, we highly recommend choosing cabinetry manufactured here in the US. There are many cheap alternatives available today that can even be ordered online, but they come with their own price. Many of them are low quality and won’t last. In addition, there are potential health and safety risks. Their negative impact on the environment is an important consideration as well. At Bath+Kitchen, we work exclusively with top-rated US cabinet manufacturers to ensure you always get quality cabinetry that is safe for your home. We take the time to study quality carefully and are transparent with our clients about every detail of the cabinetry they choose.
Other factors – considering your space
In addition to your preferences, it’s essential to evaluate your specific space and note any unique features as well as constraints that need to be factored into the design. Some of the options below could work well for your kitchen, giving you the kind of look and experience you want. Again, what you choose will shape the total cost of your cabinetry.
- Taller wall cabinets
30” high wall cabinets with a soffit (a structure used to fill the space between your cabinets and the ceiling or hide wiring) above will be more affordable than a 36” or 42” high wall cabinets with fascia and crown molding. If an existing soffit needs to be removed, there will be additional labor costs.
- Stacked wall cabinets
If you have 9’+ ceilings, choosing stacked cabinetry can look impressive and elegant. However, they can add thousands to the cost of your project by increasing your kitchen cabinetry costs. Here’s are some stacked cabinets we’ve done for clients in
Here are some 9’ ceilings without stacked cabinets from some of our remodels (Washington, DC, Del Ray, and Vienna, VA).
- Wall cabinets with glass doors and/or mullions.
Here’s what they look like in a contemporary kitchen we remodeled in Arlington, VA:
Tip: When choosing wall lift up cabinets, consider ceiling height as the doors will require additional space to open up fully.
There are different types to choose from as well, illustrated below:
- Wall tilt up doors
- Wall Lift up door, about 33% more than tilt up doors, allows for an easier to reach handle
- Wall lift over the top about 41% more than tile up doors
- Wall bi-fold tile up doors
- Wall tilt up door bottom
About accessories
From basic accessories that keep your budget in check to elaborate pieces that enhance the look (and cost) of your cabinetry, there are so many options to choose from. You could find exactly what you’re looking for at Kessebohmer – premium German manufactured accessories, Rev-A-Shelf, or the Ambia-line of accessories designed specifically for LEGRABOX drawers. If your budget can accommodate it, these additional features can enhance your cabinetry experience:
- Tip-On push to open drawers, a mechanical drawer system that doesn’t require electrical.
- Servo-Drive drawers, which are motor-powered and require electrical. This will cost more than the Tip-On option.
- Servo-Drive Aventos Touch to open wall cabinets, also motor-powered and will require additional electrical work.
Accessory inspiration from the Bath+Kitchen store.
From reasonably-priced to expensive, there are many interesting options to explore. Here are a few:
- Hopewell Bar Pull 15 Inch (c-c) Ash Gray
2. Nouveau Bamboo Door Pull Back-to-Back 18 Inch (c-c) Brushed Satin Nickel
3. Cabinet Latch 2 Inch Antique Copper
4. Cobblestone Pull 3 3/4 Inch (c-c) Coal Black
5. Aspen Flat Sided Pull 4 Inch (c-c) Silicon Bronze Light
Getting ready to design and order new cabinetry? Here are 5 of HGTV’s cabinetry trends for 2021 to help you get started:
- Side-by-side color combo cabinets (as opposed to up and down).
2. Glass door cabinets
3. Natural wood
4. Luxe pulls and mix-and-match hardware (eg: knobs and handle pulls)
5. Under-cabinetry lighting
When you plan your budget for your kitchen remodel, we suggest making high-quality cabinetry a top priority. Kitchen cabinetry costs may feel high, but it’s important to look at the big picture – your cabinets have the power to shape the look and feel of your kitchen while also improving resale value. It’s an investment and, several years of experience and many happy clients later, we can help you plan it to perfection!
Key references:
Tips for Keeping a White Kitchen Elegant and Clean
A white kitchen typically conjures up an image of a spotless kitchen. But it’s a lot more than that. Also, it is a location where you can get inspiration and feel confident in yourself. Many homeowners choose to have a white kitchen. It complements a range of styles and is classic and elegant.
Moreover, white walls, worktops, and cabinets give the impression that the room is large and bright, but they also need a lot of maintenance, just like white clothing or white furniture. White cabinets make dust and dirt more visible, requiring regular care. Here are some tips that will assist you to maintain your white kitchen successfully.
1. Use Multiple White Shades in Kitchen
Adding softer hues to your white kitchen area has many benefits. Ideally, an all-white kitchen represents cleanliness, purity, and freshness. But sometimes, it can backfire, and make it look sterile. Plus, your all-white kitchen could really use some color. Therefore, pick three or four distinct tones of white and apply them to various surfaces across the kitchen.
Avoid blending warm and cool whites when bringing in various colors of white. Cool tones appear bluer, whereas warm tones appear more yellow. The majority of paint merchants will display their cool and warm whites separately, making it easier for you to spot whites that belong to the same category.
2. Clean it Regularly
There’s no shortcut to cleaning it regularly for the best results. Cleaning your white kitchen thoroughly and frequently is the best method to keep it looking nice and new. Stock up on basic cleaning supplies and household detergents, and you should be ready to go. It only takes a soft washcloth and some warm water to get the job done.
3. For Stains, Use Vinegar
According to cleaning experts, removing stubborn stains from white surfaces is a breeze when using white vinegar mixed with warm water. Try mixing equal quantities of water and vinegar in a spray bottle to wipe up your backsplash or kitchen cabinets if they have been splattered with oil because vinegar is also excellent at cutting through the grease.
Tip: Don’t use vinegar on marble countertops; instead, use a cleaning solution designed specifically for genuine stone. Also, you can remove pesky blood stains by using hydrogen peroxide with water.
4. Install an Exhaust System
Airborne grease and food particles can quickly accumulate on surfaces. To keep cooking grease out of cabinets and other porous surfaces, install a powerful exhaust system or range hood. The exhaust fan protects more than just your lungs from the fumes created while cooking. When applied properly, it also helps your kitchens become less greasy and oily. As when you start cooking, delicious fragrances fill the air, and since they must land someplace, your counters are their preferred location! To avoid this from happening, turn on the chimney/exhaust fan.
5. Install Cabinet Liners
You can install a cabinet liner to keep your cabinets appearing white and also in good shape. A thin plastic sheet called a cabinet liner is placed between the cabinets and the door. It protects the cabinet from dampness and prevents the door surfaces from scratches. Your cabinets can be shielded from dust and spills with the aid of a cabinet liner.
6. Include Natural Textures
Natural components like hardwood shelves or wooden cabinet doors might help break up the white. You can give your countertop a brand-new look by vinyl-wrapping it if you don’t frequently cook or use hot objects and you’re up for some DIY. If remodeling is not an option, you may still incorporate these aspects by using wooden utensil racks, rattan decorative items, or cheese boards that are displayed artistically. But we advise keeping these far from the sink and stove.
7. Utilize natural light
A white kitchen benefits greatly from natural light from windows or skylights because it enhances the light and airy atmosphere, making your interior visibly more appealing. Additionally, window decorations in adjacent rooms can differ. Use shades that can be fully raised during the day for natural light to enter your indoor space.
8. Keep Out of the Direct Sun
Plan your kitchen to keep white cabinetry out of direct sunlight. To avoid having white cupboards and appliances appear dingy, look for ways to utilize natural light avoiding direct sunlight.
9. Choose your plants wisely
Other varieties of potted plants, in addition to the typical herbs like oregano and rosemary, can liven up a kitchen. If you want to avoid having your plants wilt, choose strong ones and keep them away from direct sunlight.
To prevent pest infestations near your area, inspect your plants closely and frequently. For a splash of greenery on the racks without the hassle, some prefer artificial plants in the kitchen. Avoid using dried flowers since they are prone to fire hazards.
To Conclude
A classic white kitchen is a timeless trend, and it never goes out of style. By taking care of your surfaces, you may prevent yellowing and stains and take pleasure in the peace of a spotless white kitchen. We hope these ideas will help you keep your white kitchen elegant and clean.
Top Seven Accessories to Improve your Kitchen Appearance
The kitchen has to be the favorite place for many people, especially for avid chefs that love cooking. Besides, the kitchen is a space where many spend a lot of time either fixing themselves something to eat or storing up vital consumables. Kitchen accessories alongside are the most vital parts of a kitchen set up and decide how effortlessly you can walk and work in your cooking space.
There are some key accessories when you are designing a new kitchen or renovating an existing one. While everyone would love to have a fully optimized and organized storage, the truth is, not everyone has the luxury of having a MasterChef style arranged in a hyper-organized setting to store their kitchen accessories.
So, if you’d love to upgrade your kitchen with a small budget and want to make sustainable choices, this is a must-read.
1. Update or Add Layered Lighting
A well-layered lighted kitchen improves its appearance – the emphasis here is on layers. While depressed ceiling fixtures ascertain general illumination, accessory lights function as an accent and cover the island. Upgrading it is a way to add style to your kitchen since it gives the first impression. You need not break a bank for a light fixture, but if you’re willing to splurge, you can explore a stylish chandelier.
2. Add a Focal Backlash
Backsplash, when harnessed appropriately, not only takes a lot of hits and heat but also doubles as the center of attraction, seeing it covers a good expanse of space. Adding a backsplash does wonder to amplify the feel of your kitchen. For something even more exciting, you should go for patterned ceramic tiles, particularly for a small space or a single wall that could make a big impact.
3. Create a Functional Island
Have your kitchen island play jack of all trades and multi-functional, including tailored elements to the basic unit. To get yourself an intensified storage and extra workspace, consider a shelving unit on one side and a table section at chair height on the other side at the end of the island, providing useful storage space for cutlery. You might also consider purchasing a new countertop with an overhang and adding legs extending your island without seating.
4. Pantry Unit
A definite must in every kitchen is the pantry unit. A pantry unit is regarded as a cupboard with a difference, storing all your non-perishable food products, groceries, bottles, jars, and other appliances. Although you can only customize the pantry unit based on the space available, it undoubtedly improves the style statement in your kitchen, particularly when you combine it with beautiful finishes, like sophisticated handles and lighting.
5. Explore Wall Art Painting
Alongside wall paints, finding the perfect backdrop to complement your lifeless kitchen wall does not have to be overwhelming. Start with a theme with exemplary designs of your choice and step it up with other frames. For instance, the coffee painting by ElephantStock is a game changer for wall art paintings. This painting makes the corner of your minimalist kitchen stand out while maintaining the room’s simplicity. You can also check out other paintings that would suit your kitchen to create focal points, improve texture, add colors, and integrate elegance.
6. Change your Cabinet Hardware
Using a minimum investment of time and money, you have no idea what big an impact you can make by upgrading your cabinet hardware – talk about a quick and easy update that commands a colossal difference in the style of your kitchen. The best part is that you can change your cabinet hardware in just a few hours without spending much and yet transform your space’s entire appearance and atmosphere.
7. Use Cutlery Organizers
If your kitchen is modular, then a cutlery organizer is one important kitchen accessory you should have. Try out cutlery trays or a pull-out cupboard to display different-sized items stored in them, especially for deep but not too wide space. They all look sleek and can blend into your existing kitchen without a hitch. That being said, different cutlery stands, with partitions to display cutleries, are available for traditional kitchens.
Conclusion
Whether vintage, modular, contemporary, old French, or English, all kitchens have a lot in common. While most of these stylish and sophisticated items are expensive, you probably still have most of them on your to-do list for a kitchen revamp to suit your style. Instead of focusing on what you possibly can’t get, do what you have and still get the kitchen of your style on a budget. Good luck!
2021 kitchen design trends to inspire your next remodel
Many 2021 kitchen design trends have emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has altered how and where we spend our time. Many of us are likely to continue working from home and spending less time in public at least until late 2021, which is when experts predict an epidemiological end to the pandemic for the US. This is influencing how we design our homes, including our kitchens.
Homeowners are now showing a greater desire to invest in their homes, making them more comfortable to spend long periods of time in. What we use our homes for has changed, so the way we design these spaces is changing as well. Organizations such as the National Kitchen & Bath Association have observed these changing design inclinations in their predictions for 2021 kitchen design trends. Here are a few key trends.
1. Open layouts
An open-plan kitchen and living room is a popular design choice for modern homes, as 2021 kitchen design trends indicate. Here, barriers such as walls and doors are eliminated and distinct functional areas are integrated into a single shared space. It can happen either by reconfiguring an existing space and merging two rooms, or by designing a single space from scratch. Here’s how we executed this during a kitchen remodel in Washington, DC:
The goal is to create, after evaluating the pros and cons, a multi-functional space that meets your family’s needs. It’s going to be a room where people will relax, eat, and work – perhaps all at once. These ideas can help you make the space work better:
- Try multi-functional or multi-purpose furniture, such as a bookshelf with a convertible desk or end tables that also serve as movable laptop stands.
- Try to make the room feel dynamic and flexible with movable elements such as doors or walls that can transform the space as needed.
- When it comes to creating these separate spaces, think beyond partitions – false ceilings, furniture, and carpet can be used to differentiate spaces as well so you can have a kitchen, dining room, relaxation area, and office nook all in the same room in a way that stays organized.
- If you have a central column in the middle of your space, extend it into a small partition that can make the flow of the space more interesting while also serving as a storage space.
- Use color or texture to create different zones within the space, which will suggest a change of purpose as you move through the room. This year, NKBA predicts the popular color choices to be restorative, earthy, and deep with a touch of brightness:
a) Blues and greens
b) Neutral tones
c) Dark tones that suggest resiliency
d) Dependable greys / concrete looking cabinets & counters
As you select your color palette, consider the mood you would like to create for you and your loved ones
2. Large islands
We expect to see more requests for large islands in 2021. Since people are trying to maximize the functionality of common areas of their homes, anything multipurpose that offers flexibility is going to be considered seriously. Islands can provide seating and storage as well as the option to incorporate some great features that serve cooks and diners alike, including:
- Appliances such as microwaves or warming drawers
- A sink for food prep
- A cooktop and oven
- A booth with a dining table
- A display of beautiful crockery, perhaps a set you like to use for guests
You can also add a second island if you have the room. Just make sure the islands aren’t too close together, so it’s comfortable to move around and use the space. Too much space can also feel awkward and uncomfortable.
Tip: When building a kitchen island, think ahead to future appliances and features you might want to add, so that you can plan the plumbing and electrical work accordingly.
3. Appliances – emerging technology and aesthetics
Device charging, entertainment, and emergency power for essential appliances such as fridges are going to become more important in 2021. Many homeowners will prioritize building a smart kitchen with products that are more efficient, more precise, and safer. These are typically connected via IoT technology, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. Sometimes, they can be controlled by voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home assistant. For ideas, take a look at some picks by PCMag.com. This year, we are likely to see more people relying on technology in the kitchen in different ways, such as:
- Grocery ordering and inventory assistance
- Monitors and alarms
- Voice-activated digital assistants
- Smart cooking devices
Aesthetically, stylish appliances such as French-door refrigerators will be popular.
4. Organic or natural materials
As people try to de-stress and find new ways to connect with nature, they are incorporating more organic materials and textures into their interiors. 2021 kitchen design trends tell us that we can expect to see more stone, marble, natural wood, and earth tones. Indoor plants and sustainable materials – including reused materials and bioplastics – are great choices, too. This helps bring nature and the outdoors into the home, which gives us a break from a world that runs on mass production and industrial growth that destroys nature.
5. Cabinetry and other storage
Popular choices will be painted and wood grain, with a different color on the island. We saw this last year as well with the 2020 kitchen design trends. Also, more innovation can be expected here. All-white cabinetry is versatile and classic, but we might see a dip in its popularity this year. Designers can explore new ways to add contrast to an all-white kitchen, such as bright colored or even dark kitchen islands. Mixing finishes and adding pops of color can work well. For those looking to change their cabinetry altogether, a few options could be:
– neutral and natural tones that are soothing.
– greens and blues that can be uplifting.
– deep, dark jewel tones such as black, navy, emerald green, and plum for a dramatic feel and luxurious atmosphere. Modern homes in 2021 are likely to incorporate a lot of black and dark tones.
6. Clean kitchen styles
Research by NKBA shows that the top kitchen styles are likely to be contemporary, transitional, organic/natural, and minimalistic. This suggests that, on the whole, cleaner looks will be preferred to more ornate traditional styles.
Something to keep in mind is that “clean” doesn’t mean dull; it can be made creative and interesting when designed well. As Plain & Fancy – a top-rated cabinetry manufacturer we work with – puts it, “modern kitchens don’t have to be sterile and without detail.” In the kitchen featured below, they use smooth natural wood grains, waterfall granite, and other unique details to create a kitchen they describe as “worthy of being called American Contemporary”.
Here, base and wall cabinetry use Plain & Fancy’s Milano door style with a North Cove finish, in full overlay. The islands use the same Milano door style in a different finish, Rockway Beach, in full overlay.
7. Modern-style countertops
- In line with the kitchen styles that will be popular, kitchen countertops will also take on a modern aesthetic. Solid surface countertops that are homogenous are an excellent choice for a clean look. Functionally, too, they make sense because they are non-porous. They also have certain other qualities that them a great option:
- Antimicrobial – as we work harder to keep our kitchens cleaner and safer, these surfaces can help.
- Much harder than multilayer countertop substances – sturdier countertops are essential for a kitchen that is going to be used often.
- Resistant to dents, scratches, and other physical abrasions – this will help preserve their finish and clean look even after heavy usage.
- Resistant to heat – this will keep your countertops looking new for longer.
- Simple to maintain – with more family members venturing into the kitchen to expand their culinary skills, easy maintenance helps.
Quartz will remain a popular choice as well. If you’re not sure which way to go, this comparison by The Spruce may help:
8. Sinks
Smart faucets and innovative sinks are going to be important 2021 kitchen design trends, as people upgrade to more professional functions. Designers believe that both stainless steel and white single bowl will be popular, and apron or workstation sinks will dominate.
9. Flooring
Some popular choices this year will be hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and tile (ceramic or porcelain).
10. Lighting
Flexible and passive lighting controls are anticipated to be more popular than traditional switches. Under-cabinet lighting is expected to be prominent, as part of a sleek, contemporary look
11. Windows
An important aspect of bringing the outdoors in is adding more natural light. Large windows and French doors help accomplish this. When designed well, they create a smooth transition from indoors to outdoors and a sense of openness.
12. Integrated entertainment or outdoor kitchens
Building on the desire for more open space, indoor-outdoor kitchens and living areas are growing in popularity. With the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, industry pros report that the demand for building and enhancing these spaces is growing faster, together with new planning strategies and impressive new amenities. These spaces have helped many people reconnect with family, hobbies, and nature.
Privacy and ambiance are two important aspects of setting up an outdoor living space. Privacy screens and shade structures will be smart investments. We can also expect people to spend on premium lighting, fireplaces, comfortable furniture, and outdoor cooking appliances. Grills are growing more sophisticated, as are accompanying appliances such as warming drawers. Balancing comfort, convenience, and luxury will shape the 2021 kitchen design trends.
Some practical features to consider adding:
- Durable outdoor sink
- Outdoor bar or a counter that can double up as a temporary bar
- Task lighting
- Ice maker
- Bins for trash, recycling, and compost, so you don’t have to sort it out later.
- Dishwasher, if you have the space for it and plan to cook outdoors often.
Permanent or portable? Fully-functional or simple? Consider your cooking style. Do you love grilled fish or a hamburger cooked over a charcoal barbecue? What about pizza cooked in an outdoor brick oven? Perhaps a tandoor or a smoker?
In short, think of how you will handle food prep, cooking/serving food, and accommodating guests.
On the whole, we believe kitchen remodels will focus on creating comfortable spaces based on people’s experience over the last year spending more time at home and realizing what matters to them. At Bath + Kitchen, our designers love helping our clients zero in on what they really want and like, so we can work together towards a clear vision. Learn about our consultation and design process and begin your journey to your perfect kitchen today!
Key references:
7 Exciting Ways To Spruce Up Your Kitchen
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/G7sE2S4Lab4
When something is old and boring, we want to make a change. We modify, remold, renovate and revamp the existing things in our surroundings. This is what all interior designers do to transform not just your home decor but also your life. There are many interesting ways to spruce up your kitchen, so you don’t need to stick to the same design.
I’ll show you seven simple ways to update your kitchen.
New cabinets
People spend a lot of time making sure their kitchens are both useful and nice to look at. This makes sense since the kitchen is the heart of the home. Even though cabinets might seem like an expensive way to improve your home, there are many ways to make your kitchen look better without spending much money.
Giving your kitchen a new look is deciding what kind of cabinets you want. Most kitchens have at least one cabinet, usually made of wood or metal (or even plastic). Many homeowners keep their cabinets as they are until they decide what direction to take with the remodel.
Paint your walls white
White is a great choice for kitchens because it’s versatile and can be used on walls, cabinets, and flooring. It can also easily be mixed with other colors to create various looks. White produces an airy, calming environment that refreshes you when you enter your kitchen. Some people prefer to paint their entire kitchen white, while others use this color as an accent wall or backsplash.
If you have plans to redo your kitchen soon, consider using white as one of your main colors because it will help make your kitchen look bright and modern!
Wallpaper backsplash
Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/z3QZ6gjGRt4
A backsplash is an easy way to give your kitchen a splash of color, pattern, or texture. Choosing the right wallpaper for the kitchen can tie the rest of your decor together and make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
You can use many different kinds of wallpaper as a backsplash in your kitchen. Not only do they look great, but they also help keep heat out in the summer and cold air out in the winter. What’s the best? They are so easy to put in place!
There’s sure to be something that fits your needs perfectly, whether you live alone or with a whole family.
Update your light fixtures
Updating your light fixtures is a great place to start if you’re looking for a quick way to change the vibe of your kitchen. Here are some ideas:
- Replace old pendant lights with new ones that are more modern or have more character.
- Install sconces on either side of your sink or stovetop—it’ll look like a restaurant kitchen!
- Add a chandelier above the dining table—you can even hang it from the ceiling if you want to get crazy (but make sure there’s no risk of water dripping down onto it!). You could also install track lighting above the counters so that everything glows like magic when you cook at night. Or add recessed lighting for under cabinet lights so everything looks prettier!
Change out the hardware on your cabinets
Changing out the hardware on your cabinets is an easy way to give them a new look. You can do it yourself, and there are many options for styles and finishes. You can also quickly change the type of cabinet doors by switching out their hinges.
Add a mirror to open up a small space
Image Source: https://www.freepik.com/premium-photo/
Mirrors are easy and inexpensive to make your kitchen look bigger, brighter, and more inviting. A mirror reflects light and makes a room look larger than it is. When placed appropriately, it can create the illusion of more space and make your kitchen feel brighter by reflecting natural light through its surface instead of absorbing it into the walls or flooring. Mirrors also reflect the view from windows, so you can enjoy nature from the inside without stepping outside!
Updating your faucets and sink is easy to freshen up your kitchen
One of the quickest ways to update your kitchen is by simply replacing the faucets and sink. While this might seem expensive or overwhelming, it can be easy to break it down into steps. First, find new faucets and sinks that fit your style and budget. Then install them yourself using simple tools readily available at any hardware store or home improvement retailer.
Conclusion
Updating your kitchen from time to time to make it more functional and beautiful if you have the budget may attract your visitors. But if you’re on a budget or still need to get ready, there are plenty of little things you can do to spruce up your kitchen without spending much money. The key is knowing what will work best in your space and sticking with it until the look feels right.
Care and maintenance tips for your new kitchen or bathroom
After a remodel, we like to share some important care and maintenance tips with our clients to help them look after their space well. Designing and building a new kitchen or bathroom that caters to your unique preferences and requirements takes a tremendous amount of planning, decision-making, and patience. When the project is complete and the space all cleaned up, you finally get to see what you and your remodel team were working towards. It’s hard to imagine your kitchen or bathroom looking better than it does at that point, with its gleaming countertops, spotless cabinet doors, shiny fittings, and sparkling clean appliances. After all, life – with its spills and messes – is bound to happen.
However, the pristine finish of your freshly-remodeled kitchen or bathroom can last a very long time with the proper care and maintenance. As a full-service design-remodel firm, we work closely with our clients to create spaces they will love for years. Through our comprehensive design process, we help select all the components of their dream kitchen or bathroom, so we know how important each one is to them. That’s why we ensure our clients have the best care and maintenance tips for every aspect of their new space.
CABINETS
Cabinets vary tremendously in quality. In addition to the doors and drawer fronts, the quality of your cabinetry is determined by construction, including frames, drawer glides, and hinges. How well-made these components are will determine how long your cabinets will stay in perfect condition. Because we believe that cabinetry sets the tone for the entire kitchen, we offer our clients high-quality options from top-rated manufacturers in the US. These are designed to last and can look brand new for years with the right care, which means knowing how to maintain and treat them. Cleaning and making adjustments are two key parts of that:
1. Cleaning your cabinets
One of the best care and maintenance tips we can give you for your cabinets is this: question the product you’re considering using. Many products marketed specifically for cleaning cabinets can actually do more harm than good, as Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry explains in the video below. Watch it to see a demonstration of how to clean your cabinets the right way, without harmful products or water damage.
2. Adjusting your cabinet doors and drawers with ease
If you notice that any of your cabinet doors and drawers aren’t operating smoothly, you can adjust them quite easily with the correct method. Be sure to find out what works for the specific type of door and adjustment you are making before you start.
Dura Supreme, one of the manufacturers we work with, offers this series of hinge adjustment tips for different cabinet doors. Watch to learn how to access the adjustment screws and shift your cabinet doors and drawers as required:
Inset cabinet door with concealed hinges
Full overlay cabinet door
Frameless cabinet door
Lift door
Stay lift door
Drawer adjustment
Remove and re-install drawer or roll out
NATURAL STONE
Natural stone countertops
Sealing your natural stone countertops every 6 months is recommended. However, you may need to do this sooner. A care and maintenance tip that will serve you well is this: a good way to tell if it’s time to seal your countertops is if you notice that any water on the surfaces has started taking longer to dry. Eventually, over time, the stone will absorb the sealer and you won’t have to seal anymore, but that takes years.
Products such as this natural stone cleaner and sealer can help you keep your countertops in great shape. They are designed to work on natural stones such as granite, marble, travertine, and limestone, and will protect them against commonly spilled substances including oil, coffee, wine, and other food items. Take a look at this sealer guide by Black Diamond Stoneworks to learn how different products can work on your countertop.
For more countertop care and maintenance tips, take a look at this video by Marble.Com:
Natural stone tile and grout
Natural stone tiles, being very porous, can stain easily. That’s why it’s essential to ensure they are properly sealed. It’s also why they require extra caution when it comes to grouting. Ceramic tiles, for example, don’t require too much caution while grouting because the grout can be easily wiped off. Natural stone tiles, on the other hand, won’t be as easy to clean. This step-by-step instructional video on grout cleaning and sealing has some essential care and maintenance tips, and will show you the right way to go about it:
We also recommend getting a grout care package, such as this one by Black Diamond that includes a cleaner, sealer, and brush: http://amzn.to/2dMMWOt
GLASS
Glass stovetop
Worrying about cleaning your stovetop should never hold you and your family back from comforting home-cooked meals and fun culinary experiments. Your new kitchen should be a place where you want to spend more time with the people at home, creating old favorites and testing out new recipes. Even the most stubborn, burnt-on spills can be cleaned gently and effectively using this easy method:
Shower glass
One of the first things to make a bathroom look uncared for is a water-stained shower glass. A solution of 5 parts vinegar and 1 part water works well to keep it spotless. For more on keeping your bathroom looking its best, take a look at this video by Clean My Space:
MISCELLANEOUS
Metal fittings and hardware
Take care to clean drawer pulls, door handles, faucets, and other frequently-used fittings and hardware with the right material. Frustrating hard water stains might make you want to reach for something tough like a brillo pad, but try a microfiber cloth instead – it will do the job perfectly without scratching the finish.
Backsplash
The material you have selected for your backsplash will determine the appropriate care and maintenance required. Natural stone, as mentioned above, will need to be treated with more care than, say, a steel or glass backsplash. But, regardless of material, try to clean your backsplash regularly to keep your kitchen safe from mold and mildew. Remember to use a sealer as needed.
Appliances
It’s easy to forget about appliances that run all the time, such as refrigerators and freezers. That’s probably why they are not featured amongst frequently shared care and maintenance tips for kitchens. Without proper maintenance, these appliances could fail faster than they should. Clean the compressor coils to prevent them from running too hot for too long. For stoves and microwaves, the enemy is food build-up. Keep them clean so they work smoothly. Similarly, dishwashers need to be kept clean and debris-free. In addition, you must ensure they are sealed properly. Check the door gaskets to make sure everything is set up to work well.
Common mistakes to avoid making with your new kitchen or bathroom
- Not waiting for protective treatments to take effect. If you are doing the required maintenance on your countertops or bathroom tiles, be sure to follow the instructions completely and wait until the surface is safe for use again.
- Not fixing or replacing your appliances if you notice an issue with them. A faulty appliance could damage your home’s electrical system, so it’s important to address any issues there without delay.
- Ignoring loose tiles. Cracked tiles open up the floor to rot. If any tiles get damaged, attend to the grouting at the earliest possible.
- Using unsuitable and damaging cleaning methods. In this blog, we have looked at a few ways to clean different components of your space. This is because, quite often, people are not aware that certain cleaners (even when they are marketed for a certain use) can do lasting damage. Always look for the right method for each material or surface before you clean, and do a spot test first.
- Not calling a qualified professional to take care of a maintenance issue when needed. Sometimes, leaving it to the experts is the best idea, especially when it comes to certain repairs, modifications, and protective treatments. If there’s something about your kitchen you’d like to fix or modify, it’s best to consult an expert before you go the DIY route.
A note on proper sanitization practices for your new space: In recent months, many of us have incorporated a sanitization practice for our kitchen, bathrooms, and other common areas of the home. While this is advisable for health and safety, using the wrong products can damage surfaces. To help you avoid this, we compiled some tips for sanitizing different surfaces and other practices to ensure home safety for your long-term wellbeing.
Every kitchen and bathroom we work on at Bath Plus Kitchen has a customized design that incorporates a range of materials. We know it’s tough to think of everything while caring for them. We hope the care and maintenance tips in this quick guide help you find the best way to look after for each component of your beautiful new space, so you can enjoy the feeling of a just-remodeled kitchen or bathroom for longer!
Key references:
https://www.durasupreme.com/
https://cleanmyspace.com/
https://www.doityourself.com/
https://www.hgtv.com/
https://www.youtube.com/
Setting remodeling goals for your perfect kitchen or bathroom
Clear remodeling goals for your kitchen or bathroom can save you a tremendous amount of time, stress, and sometimes even money. It allows a project to move forward in a systematic way, where the agreed-upon budget and timeline can be followed. In our experience, when clients and contractors aren’t clear on what the priorities are, there is likely to be some backtracking and rework. This is sure to have an impact on the cost and duration of the project and put a damper on what should be a project you’re excited about.
When you meet our team, either in person or through a virtual consultation, you’ll see that we like to dive deep into the details of what you have in mind for the project and what executing it will entail. This is because we believe a clear vision and clear remodeling goals are essential for the success of a project, especially when they’re as quality-focused as Bath Plus Kitchen’s projects are. To help our clients articulate and detail out their vision for their new kitchen or bathroom, we use a well-structured consultative approach that is now available as a virtual design process. It offers:
- A set of brochures to help you explore your options and envision your dream kitchen or bathroom more clearly.
- An online questionnaire to help you share that vision with us in detail
- A phone consult or Google Meet to give us a chance to interact and get on the same page before we proceed
- Physical samples that will bring the showroom experience to you at home, enabling you to interact with the materials in a way videos and images won’t allow you to.
This process highlights the crucial details to be considered and decisions to be made until you arrive at a design that reflects your remodeling goals and vision for the space. Once the design is complete through this virtual process, we will select a date to begin the remodel and take it from there.
With this kind of clarity before your project begins, you can avoid some common errors that could prevent you from getting the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams. To inspire you, here are some remodeling goals our clients work towards:
1. Increasing resale value
For people starting a remodel project, a strong motivator is the promise of increased resale value. Upgrading key spaces and equipping them with new fixtures, fittings, and appliances could help you command a better price for your home. Also, if your current kitchen, for example, has any major issues or unattractive features, a remodel that fixes those could eliminate dealbreakers for a potential buyer. A remodel can also have a significant impact when refinancing a home.
Traditional bath design by BPK, Washington, DC.
2. Meeting maintenance requirements
A remodel is a chance to update your space and make any changes that are required to get everything up to code. If the inner workings of your home do not meet current requirements, upgrading them could be a top priority for your remodel. In addition to meeting legal requirements, making these changes can save you a lot of time, effort, and money in the future. For example, if there’s an issue with your wiring, there’s a higher risk of fires. Flooding can occur when plumbing isn’t properly installed. Keeping these potential issues in mind when you plan your remodel is important. Depending on how much you need to fix, this could become one of your key remodeling goals for the project.
3. Accommodating the needs of certain family members
For anyone considering a remodel, there are certain key questions to ask before moving forward, as we explain in our blog. One of them is this:
Have there been any major lifestyle or family changes that my space needs to accommodate?
This could refer to the changing needs of current family members or new members joining your household. Safety concerns and universal design are also important factors that could take priority during your remodel.
BPK Kitchen remodel in Virginia
4. Adding desired features or functionality
Is there something that bothers you about your current space that you absolutely have to fix during your remodel? When discussing their existing kitchens or bathrooms with us, many of our clients bring up functionality first. While your space may have appeared comfortable or suited to your needs at one point, it may have some significant issues that are difficult to fix without a remodel. Think beyond the basics, such as what your kitchen should look like, and focus on how you plan to use the space. If you would like to transform this, the goal of your remodel could be to make the space more functional.
5. Improving energy efficiency
Over the years, energy efficiency has become more of a priority for homeowners. In addition to the environmental benefits and lower power bills, working towards greener spaces can also make you eligible for lower interest rates on certain loans such as green mortgages and other energy-efficient mortgage programs. Your home remodel could focus on this by upgrading appliances, for example your dishwasher. “A new Energy Star-rated dishwasher not only uses less energy (a dishwasher typically accounts for 2% of your gas or electric bill) but can also save as much as 1,200 gallons of water a year”, says Mortgageloan.com. There is plenty to be gained by making energy efficiency a priority during your remodel.
While the above remodeling goals all focus on improving your space, the specifics vary. That’s why it’s important to let your design and construction team know what to prioritize. They will be able to make better suggestions and decisions if they know exactly what you are hoping to achieve by the end of your kitchen or bathroom remodel
When working out your remodeling goals, you can also consider using a SMART goal template like this one from Ultima Building Group:
Once you have your goals in place, how do you keep your project on track so you achieve them? Here are some tips to try:
- Create a vision board or remodel binder – this is a fun first step you can take before you finalize the design. It’s a powerful way to put together what you care most about when it comes to your remodel and your new space, creating a look and feel that the rest of the process should endeavor to achieve. Three Bird Renovations offers a step-by-step guide to creating your home remodel design vision board, sharing this sample:
- Involve the family – To ensure the people who will be most impacted by the remodel, i.e., members of your household, are happy with the process and outcome, have an open discussion with them about what you want to achieve. Keep everyone updated on the progress. This is likely to make everyone more enthusiastic and cooperative throughout the process.
- Do your research on costs and timelines – While a good designer and contractor will be transparent about costs and timelines, it’s also advisable to do your own research. Take a look at some kitchen remodel costs for both minor and major changes:
Averages for DC Metro Area
$ 24k to 134k
Based on a 200 sq ft kitchen
Minor Upgrade $23,899
Midrange $67,583
Upscale $134,190
It’s also a good idea to learn what a kitchen remodel timeline typically looks like, so you can prepare accordingly.
- Create a list of must-haves – To make things clearer for your designer, list all the must-haves, everything you don’t want to compromise on. While you do this, we also suggest outlining where you can be more flexible and what you are open to compromising on. This exercise will help your design and remodel team understand which features they need to incorporate and which components they can suggest alternatives for.
- Use Pinterest, Houzz, or other remodel apps – A smart way to improve communication is to share references with all involved through apps such as Pinterest and Houzz. You can create different boards or share pins on Pinterest, for example, effectively conveying ideas using visuals.
Setting remodeling goals is important for both your own clarity as well as your remodel team’s. Since we’ll all be spending more time at home for the foreseeable future, it’s become especially important for us to create comfortable and functional spaces at home for our long-term well-being. As a full-service design-remodel firm, we can help you with this from start to perfect finish, with our quality craftsmanship and timeless designs together with our focus on project management and attention to detail. To discuss your remodel plans with the Bath Plus Kitchen experts, get in touch here.
10 questions that will tell you if you need a new kitchen design
Is a new kitchen design something you need to start thinking about? Like many people, you may have felt your kitchen was great when you first bought your home. You probably checked every detail you could think of to make sure it would be comfortable and work well for you and your family. But cut to a few years later, and you find yourself wondering why you thought the cabinetry was well-planned and the countertops easy to maintain. Or, perhaps you’ve simply outgrown the style and space that once felt perfect. It’s something we’ve seen many of our clients in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC go through.
We can find ourselves dreaming of a new kitchen design for different reasons. But if you’re not sure whether you’re actually ready for a remodel, we have a list of questions that you can ask yourself.
1. Does the flow of the space work for me?
When you clean your kitchen, if you find that things go back to being messy and disorganized really quickly, it’s a good idea to reevaluate the flow of your kitchen. That flow depends on how items are placed within the space, including everything from the kitchen island to your spices. You can reevaluate this and make some adjustments. However, there is a limit to how much you can change within an existing design. From our years of experience as a full-service design-remodel firm, we know that sometimes a new kitchen design is the only way to create a flow that actually suits your needs and makes cooking and cleaning up a lot easier.
2. Is the style still a good fit for me?
A style that may have been interesting and chic a few years ago could look dated now. Especially if you opted for something very bold and trendy that has since fallen out of style. To find out how much you really need to change, consider key aspects such:
- Flooring
- Cabinetry
- Countertops
- Seating
- Metals used in fixtures, handles, and cabinetry hardware.
3. Am I able to store things comfortably and stay organized?
Both spacious and small kitchens can have storage problems, and they all come down to planning with your specific storage needs in mind. If you haven’t assigned spaces to different items in your kitchen, you may find them piling up on the countertop, causing clutter and confusion about where to find what you need. Think of the last time you cooked a big meal. Were you able to find all the ingredients you needed, and were they kept fresh through proper storage? Was putting everything back a challenge? How easy it is to get everything together – including utensils, tools, and cookware – can determine how usable your kitchen actually is. If your kitchen design is getting in your way, you may need to rethink it.
4. Do my appliances work efficiently?
Upgrading your appliances is a good idea when they aren’t functioning smoothly, have outdated features, don’t fit the bill aesthetically, or consume a lot of energy. Another thing to remember is that technology is making its way into our appliances in new and interesting ways. You can now control your fridge temperature as well as make sure your steak is done to perfection with innovative cooktops over Wi-Fi. How do your current appliances stack up against today’s future-ready appliances with their impressive capabilities? Think about how you want to use your kitchen and ask yourself if you have the required tools and gadgets to achieve that. For some inspiration, take a look at Millo’s smart worktop to see how technology could soon transform the way you cook:
5. Do I have enough counter space?
A mistake some people make is only considering the active tasks around cooking – such as chopping and prep work – when evaluating their counter space needs. What can get forgotten is landing area requirements, i.e., where you will place items from the fridge, sink, or stove temporarily. Taking these steps into consideration, you may realize you need more room. Other factors that can influence this include how many people generally cook a meal; whether it’s just one or if other family members like to join in.
6. Is the lighting planned well for both function and aesthetics?
There isn’t one clear answer about what kind of lighting works best for a kitchen; there are several. For a better look and experience, incorporate ambient lighting, task lighting, pendant lights, as well as decorative lighting. Take a look at your current space and see how many of these you have and what you can add to tailor the lighting to suit your needs. Plan these together to make sure you have the right lighting for your requirements wherever you are in the kitchen. Watch this video to see how you can do this:
7. Have there been any major lifestyle or family changes that my space needs to accommodate?
Has your family grown since you moved in? If there are more people living with you now, it’s a good idea to reevaluate and see if the kitchen accommodates them well. This could be in terms of workspace (if your family cooks together) or kitchen seating. If you need to make your kitchen safer for kids, take the right precautions and see if you need to fix any sharp edges or add locks to lower cabinets. When you’re assessing this, think about each member of your household and what they might struggle with now or in a few years.
8. Should I consider universal design requirements?
As mentioned above, it’s important to think about how you and your loved ones plan to use the space in the long run. Universal design helps you make the space more accessible and comfortable to others who live or may live with you at some point, or even for yourself as you get older. Take a look at your kitchen as well as at other rooms in your house and see if there are any aspects you can fix to create safer, more usable spaces for everyone at home.
9. Does the space help me host guests more comfortably, or does it make it more stressful?
If you are facing storage issues or are finding it difficult to keep thing organized on a regular day, guests certainly won’t help. The flow of your space and how well it is planned can determine how comfortable you feel inviting other people into your home and kitchen. When you have guests over for a meal, for example, it can be stressful, but your kitchen design shouldn’t add to that stress. Instead, it should help you find and do everything with ease.
10. Is there an upcoming event for which I would like to complete my kitchen remodel?
If you foresee yourself becoming busy with work or something else in the near future, plan your remodel so that it is completed before you need to shift focus. Or, you may want your new kitchen design brought to life before the next big family visit or event. It’s good to be clear with your remodel team about this beforehand, so the project stays on track. Read about how we helped one family complete their kitchen remodel in just 8 weeks.
NW Washington, DC kitchen remodel by BPK in 8 short weeks.
While answering these questions, if you felt strongly about making some of these changes or wanting an upgrade before a specific event, it’s time to consider a remodel. The wow factor is priceless, but there’s so much more a remodel can do for your home, including:
- Boost your home’s resale value
- Help you sell faster in case you decide to at some point
- Improve safety
- Improve energy efficiency and sustainability
- Reduce certain repair and maintenance costs in the long run
Ready to dive in? Start working on your new kitchen design with Bath Plus Kitchen through our new virtual design process. It offers:
- A set of resources to help you explore your options and envision your dream kitchen or bathroom more clearly.
- An online questionnaire to help you share that vision with us in detail
- A Google Meet to give us a chance to interact and get on the same page before we proceed
- Physical samples that will bring the showroom experience to you at home, enabling you to interact with the materials in a way videos and images won’t allow you to.
This way, you can make progress on your remodel plans from the comfort and safety of your own home. Once the design is complete through this virtual process, we will select a date to begin the remodel and take it from there.
As you work out your reasons to remodel, also consider the challenges that come with it and how you can prepare for them. Make the process easier by choosing your project team carefully, doing your research on extra costs, and keeping your family’s comfort and convenience in mind as throughout the process