Join our newsletter
Thank you for signing up to Realhomes. You will receive a verification email shortly.
There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.
A kitchen remodel is a project that's fun, exciting, and incredibly rewarding. If you're lucky enough to be stripping out your existing cabinets and rebuilding your space from scratch, you're blessed with the chance to create a cooking space that works perfectly for you.
With that in mind, you should consider how you need your kitchen to function. What do you use your kitchen for most? Are you a keen host that requires a huge oven? Or do you not really like cooking but you want your kitchen to be more of a social space?
It's these functions that should drive the design of your kitchen from the layout to the storage, and from the appliances to the seating. There are so many kitchen ideas out there that it's easy to be bamboozled by choice, so having a primary goal for your space in mind is a good way to keep you on track.
(Image credit: Katie Lee)
David Mason, interior designer at The Knobs company (opens in new tab) says that when you begin thinking about your remodel, you want to start with the defining elements of the space, like kitchen cabinet ideas, to add more style and function that will last. 'The cabinets are the bones of a kitchen. If they're outdated, it's hard to change the overall look of a room. If possible, replace them all it's usually less expensive than refacing or staining.'
'Along with updating your kitchen's appearance,new cabinetscan increase its value. There is no replacement for real wood or natural materials. Even in a rental, people like the warmth and richness that wood gives. It's beautiful and has such high value in resale.'
'I also suggest that people buy cabinets from a manufacturer who uses the same wood on its stock and custom lines. That way, there won't be a color or grain difference between new and old.'
(Image credit: Woodworks Brighton)
A kitchen without texture (even with the warmest of colors) can look a little cold and clinical. Simple, clean lines and sharp edges are all well and good for a calm and collected space, but there's a very fine line between simple and boring.
One of the easiest ways to add some texture, depth, and interest to your space is by using wood. Here, the addition of exposed wood, and built-in pantry with matching wine shelves warms up the modern green kitchen instantly and creates a more relaxed and friendly feel.
(Image credit: Olive & Barr )
When deciding on the colors of your kitchen cabinets, don't think that you only need to choose one. Two tone kitchens using two contrasting colors for your walls cabinets and island like this, is a great way to break up the space and prevent the mass of cupboards from overpowering the room.
It's a good idea to choose a darker color and a lighter color, rather than shades of a similar hue, so they can amplify, rather than fight against, one another.
(Image credit: The Life of Ply )
Lots of us have to deal with smaller kitchens, and so we must learn to adapt. It's important to buy everything from your appliances to your furniture to your lighting in a size that works perfectly for your space. If your kitchen is especially small, chances are you won't need a massive oven to feed the five thousand, so save on cabinet space by choosing a smaller version.
Although we are true color lovers here at Real Homes, there's no denying that white kitchen ideas are a great place to start when looking for design inspo for your smaller space.
(Image credit: Aura Kitchens )
You can be forgiven for thinking kitchen storage ideas are all about organizing and tidying away pots and pans, but consider how your storage can become a design feature in its own right too. These wall-hung units, tucked away from any direct natural light, could create a dark and dingy corner. But with glass inserts and internal lighting, the units act like an intriguing piece of art work, with an ambiante glow drawing attention to books, plants and ceramics.
(Image credit: Aura Kitchens )
Cooker hoods are an essential part of a kitchen remodel but, let's face it, they're not the prettiest. This clever shaker kitchen design has matched up the vibrant color of the walls with the color of the cooker hood so it blends in seamlessly with the space - so much so that you hardly notice it.
When remodeling your kitchen, it's always a good idea to invest in new appliances. 'Reduce the amount of energy you consume in the kitchen by upgrading your older appliances to more energy-efficient versions. Refrigerators and dishwashers with the Energy Star badge have met or surpassed the Environmental Protection Agency's energy efficiency standards and are recommended for use in homes,' says Austin Fain from Perfect Steel Solutions. (opens in new tab)
(Image credit: Adelina Iliev)
Galley kitchens are great for a) making the most of a long, narrow space and b) being a room divider in an open-plan space. The image above is a perfect example of the latter. The peninsula island divides the space between the kitchen and the living area, forming clear cooking and socialising zones.
(Image credit: Katie Lee)
If there's one failsafe route to a good kitchen design, it's with symmetry. The design above uses its kitchen sink as its central focal point from which everything else works around.
Even the kitchen island works in harmony with the symmetrical space with matching wine coolers on either side, a hob bang in the middle and two statement island hoods drawing the look together. Even the kitchen island seating is perfectly central too.
(Image credit: James French)
When looking at how to plan a kitchen, begin by looking at where your windows are and consider how you can plan your design to maximize this natural light source. If you're working with a kitchen diner, position your seating area near your window for a more comfortable dining space.
'I always advise putting the sink under a window if at all possible to make the most of the natural light and because looking out while washing the dishes is a great respite when you are doing a big load,' says Joe Flanagan, interior design enthusiast and founder of 90s Fashion World (opens in new tab).
(Image credit: Future Malcolm Menzies)
'If your kitchen has a stone or even a laminate countertop, it can be resurfaced instead. I also recommend that homeowners spend time considering the layout, size, and surface of their kitchen table. It's one thing to have a cool dining area with a fabulous chandelier. But what's the table's surface? A quality pedestal or trestle table can add a lot to a space,' comments Mason.
Architect Amanda Gunawan of LA-based architecture and design studio OWIU (opens in new tab) says, 'consider refinishing faces such as floors or cabinets as an alternative to replacing them. This option still provides the flexibility to achieve the look you are looking for, but for less.' Plus, it makes it easier to incorporate any kitchen trends that have caught your eye.
(Image credit: Future Chris Snook)
In George Woodrow's beamed kitchen transformation, they created a sociable space for him and his family with a kitchen addition. In this remodel he chose an L-shaped layout to replace the previous galley. This opened up the area, letting the family roam a little more freely around the space even with kids' toys on the floor.
'The wall with the boundary is slightly angled. We played into that by making storage along it either side of the bench seat, with varying depth and width,' mentions Woodrow.
(Image credit: Courtesy of OWIU)
'Instead of covering an entire wall with tile or similar materials, create visual interest by creating a feature wall instead. Using finishes like raw concrete or opting for Venetian plasters for backsplashes are both excellent options that can be much more budget-friendly than using tiles or other expensive materials,' says Gunawan.'
(Image credit: Katie Lee)
Though not a conventional kitchen remodel, Rosie Rockel made light of a house addition refusal by opting for a glass light-filled conservatory kitchen instead. The brighter the better in our eyes and choosing lighter cabinet fronts simply adds to the bright, light, and modern appeal of this space. You could even consider painting kitchen cabinets to refresh your existing units.
'Typically,replacing cabinet doorswill make a significant difference. Opting for high gloss white doors will give a modern and luxurious feel, especially when teamed with low-level lighting,' says architect and founder of Architecture Lab (opens in new tab), Anton Giuroiu.
(Image credit: Adelina Iliev)
The invisible kitchen trend is still going strong and so incorporating a clever pantry storage idea into your remodel is a surefire way to embrace the look. Make use of inside cupboard doors and choose durable materials that are easy to keep in good condition. See more of this gorgeous green kitchen and find out how they stayed on budget whilst creating this beautiful space.
From shelves within shelves to swiveling corner drawers and ingenious spice rack ideas, there are so many ways to maximize the space you've got.
(Image credit: VERONICA RODRIGUEZ)
Anna and Rob were able to incorporate shelves into their kitchen island idea to make for both a unique display and more storage think cookbooks, candles and other trinkets that add character. Anna is an interior designer and was wise enough to choose an island that had a slight overhang also, letting it double up as a breakfast bar where they keep just a couple of stools enough to complement the nearby dinner table.
Gunawan recommends introducing an island in the early stages of your kitchen remodel to help define next steps. 'An island makes a huge aesthetic difference, so in that way you can still use the stove, sink, appliances etc. It's also much easier to undo/ hide if you decide on the wrong wood color or decide you would rather go in a different direction or colorway,' she continues.
(Image credit: Fiona Walker Arnott)
It's no secret that drawing the eye up is a great way to add the illusion of space, particularly useful in small kitchens, or in any other room for that matter. Be inspired by Isobel and Jeremy Thomson-Cook's colorful kitchen where they made use of all the vertical space for both a little trompe-l'iland awesome storage combined.
Appliances and white goods, Smeg (opens in new tab). Wall paint, Dulux (opens in new tab); for a similar colour, try Pointing, Farrow & Ball (opens in new tab)
(Image credit: Future Kasia Fiszer)
By installing velux windows above the kitchen units in this kitchen remodel, Rachael Ball and her husband, Adam introduced plenty of light, transforming what was a dark and dingy kitchen space into an airy and inspiring place to cook and socialize in.
Light flooring, wall color and cabinetry help bounce more light around while the style of the units and handles let the space retain its charming period character
(Image credit: David Woolley)
Introducing a bright kitchen color scheme is an amazing way to add interest and inject energy into a cooking zone. Nod to summery vibes, year-round, as Clara Felce and Liam did with a bold design from UK Wood Works Brighton (opens in new tab).
Bright blue cabinetry is sure to be a talking point for guests, creating a cool and cohesive view from the outside where contrasting pink patio furniture complements the space perfectly.
(Image credit: Future Mark Bolton)
Vivianne Wallace transformed her tiny kitchen, located under the stairs in her home into a colorful, open-plan space ripe for entertaining.
One admirable design feature is how she integrated the kitchen sink into the island, allowing her to max out her use of the space available. Plus, as she chose a particularly deep sink, meaning she is able to hide pots and pans ideal when guests are over.
(Image credit: Katie Lee)
'Instead of installing closed cabinetry which requires more material and more time to build, using open-shelving for upper cabinets can not only save on material and labor costs, but also offers a great opportunity to display beautiful dishes and glassware that are often hidden,' says Gunawan.
In this Scandi-esque kitchen addition, choosing bespoke a kitchen shelving idea idea removed the need for additional wall cupboards and helped keep the space light and airy. It's also created the perfect space for a small coffee bar making your morning brew a little easier.
(Image credit: Devol)
Salvaging what you can from an old kitchen is a great way to save money on your kitchen remodel and to keep some of the character from any of your old kitchen's look that you may not actually want to lose.
Gunawan recommends this approach also, 'Salvage anything you can such as plywood, flooring, cabinets, and more as these materials can be quite expensive, especially right now.'
This kitchen tile idea helps to create a rustic and homely feel in the space.
(Image credit: Katie Lee)
Ally and James created this dark and daring house but it wasn't without pops of reflective elements, like the bespoke backsplash and cabinet handles, or without a winning statement kitchen lighting idea. 'Lightingcan really transform a kitchen and can be used to highlight features or working areas. Opt for lights that can be positioned after installation to achieve the maximum effect,' says Giuroiu.
If you have high ceilings, long pendant lights can make a real statement and add heaps of function also. Hang your over an island for design interest and to pull the entire look together.
'Long-term energy savings can be achieved by switching from incandescent to LED lighting fixtures too,' says Fain.
(Image credit: Matt Clayton)
Lois and Guy chose marble countertops in their kitchen remodel which brightened up the design, in keeping with the indoor-outdoor feel of the space. Although marble is more expensive, investing in quality kitchen worktops and saving on other aspects of your remodel can keep your budget intact, without compensating for the longevity or beauty of the finished design.
'Like the cabinets, thecountertopsdefine a kitchen. Most people like natural materials because of their beauty, texture, and warmth. So agranite or marble countertopwill give you that luxurious look you're going for already.' Comments Mason.
Cleveland-based Interior Designer Colleen Primm (opens in new tab) adds 'Want the marble look but dont have the budget. Consider going with a marble laminate look. Its the same look but without the high cost.'
Read the original here:
34 kitchen remodel ideas to inspire your 2022 project
- Utah brothers bring 50 years of experience to kitchen remodels - KSL.com - March 23rd, 2024 [March 23rd, 2024]
- My Lottery Dream Home Proves Why Replacing Dark Countertops Isn't The Best Idea - House Digest - March 23rd, 2024 [March 23rd, 2024]
- 4 kitchen remodeling trends to watch in 2024 | KSL.com - KSL.com - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- 23 Small Kitchen Ideas To Make The Most Of Your Space - Southern Living - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- Kitchen paint colors going out of style in 2024 | - Homes & Gardens - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- All About Porcelain Countertops, the Latest Kitchen Trend - Real Simple - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- A "Beyond Busted" Studio Kitchen Gets a Cozy Two-Day Makeover (for $1400!) - Apartment Therapy - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- Is Engineered Quartz the New Granite? - Men's Journal - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- Salma Hayek's kitchen cabinets will dominate in 2025, say experts | - Homes & Gardens - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- Before & After: A Kitchen Remodel That has us Convinced Dark Wood Cabinets are Back For 2024 - LivingEtc - February 26th, 2024 [February 26th, 2024]
- I'm a Dollar Tree Shopper and I Renovated My Kitchen for $30: "So Much Brighter" - Best Life - February 16th, 2024 [February 16th, 2024]
- HGTV's Erin Napier Warns Against This Countertop Type In Old Homes - House Digest - February 16th, 2024 [February 16th, 2024]
- Kitchen Upgrades That Are Definitely Worth The Price, According To HGTV Stars - House Digest - February 16th, 2024 [February 16th, 2024]
- 5 Kitchen Upgrades That Are Actually Worth the Money, According to Pros - Yahoo Movies UK - February 16th, 2024 [February 16th, 2024]
- How to paint kitchen cabinets? Easy tips, techniques, and other details explored - Sportskeeda - February 16th, 2024 [February 16th, 2024]
- She Called the Austin House Classic Central Texas Early 2000sa Kitchen Remodel Transformed It - Mansion Global - February 7th, 2024 [February 7th, 2024]
- Experts: Here Are 8 Home Renovations Buyers Want the Most in 2024 - Yahoo Finance - February 7th, 2024 [February 7th, 2024]
- 13 Kitchen Remodel Ideas Worth the Cost, According to Realtors and Designers - Real Simple - February 7th, 2024 [February 7th, 2024]
- AT HOME WITH MARNI JAMESON: What's cooking in kitchens? Open floorplans, bigger islands, study finds - The Times of Northwest Indiana - February 7th, 2024 [February 7th, 2024]
- This Once-Popular Kitchen Trend Is Making a Big Comeback - Sunset - February 7th, 2024 [February 7th, 2024]
- Glass Mosaic Backsplashes Are Stunning, But They Come With Some Big Disadvantages - House Digest - February 7th, 2024 [February 7th, 2024]
- How to Finance a Kitchen Remodel - The Motley Fool - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- 5 Ways to Refresh Your Kitchen Cabinets If You Hate How They Look - Real Simple - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- 10 signs you need a new kitchen in 2024 and the knowhow you need to update it | - Homes & Gardens - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- City to continue Brooktree renovations with kitchen remodel - Southernminn.com - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- 10 Beautiful Blue Kitchens To Inspire Your Next Remodel - The Gloss Magazine - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- Sleek Design Meets Function with Scandi-Inspired Kitchens - Better Homes & Gardens - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- The Showstopping Countertop Material That Will Give Your Home The Most Luxurious Feel - House Digest - January 13th, 2024 [January 13th, 2024]
- Cost of Kitchen CabinetsEverything You Need to Know - Real Simple - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- Kitchen Trends 2024: Revamp Your Kitchen In Style - Bored Panda - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- Reinvigorate the Heart of Your Home With the Hottest Kitchen Decor Trends for 2024 - Realtor.com News - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- Martha Stewart regrets buying this kitchen appliance | - Homes & Gardens - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- TikTok Shows You How To Save Big Bucks When Renovating Your Kitchen Cabinets - House Digest - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- Alicia Silverstone's kitchen is proof that this color scheme is far from dated or overdone, say experts - Homes & Gardens - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- The Joanna Gaines-Approved Backsplash Material That'll Brighten Up Your Kitchen - House Digest - January 5th, 2024 [January 5th, 2024]
- 15 Kitchen Makeover Ideas You'll Want to Steal Immediately - The Kitchn - December 11th, 2023 [December 11th, 2023]
- Various Types Of Built In Microwaves NJ Kitchen Remodeling Contractors - Automotive News by Napleton - December 11th, 2023 [December 11th, 2023]
- Dave Ramsey Reveals the 10 Most Popular Home Renovations and Their Typical Cost - AOL - December 11th, 2023 [December 11th, 2023]
- The Hidden Downside That May Make You Rethink Marble Countertops - House Digest - December 11th, 2023 [December 11th, 2023]
- Remodeling a kitchen: 28 best kitchen remodel ideas for any space - March 24th, 2023 [March 24th, 2023]
- Home - Cane Island Kitchen Remodeling Solutions - March 24th, 2023 [March 24th, 2023]
- Nielson Hardwoods Inc. and Willow and Wilson give expert tips for kitchen remodels - The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel - March 24th, 2023 [March 24th, 2023]
- Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: 12 Amazing Design Trends in 2022 - February 19th, 2023 [February 19th, 2023]
- Does The Location Of Your Dishwasher In Your Kitchen Actually Matter? - House Digest - October 8th, 2022 [October 8th, 2022]
- HKO-WHL-Standings - The Advocate - October 8th, 2022 [October 8th, 2022]
- University of Bridgeport's first enrollment increase in five years driven by international students - Greenwich Time - October 8th, 2022 [October 8th, 2022]
- Harvard 35, Cornell 28 - The Advocate - October 8th, 2022 [October 8th, 2022]
- Third suspect at-large in deadly Hartford carjacking, report shows - The Advocate - October 8th, 2022 [October 8th, 2022]
- What is the Cost of Countertops? (2022) - Bob Vila - October 8th, 2022 [October 8th, 2022]
- Renovate or relocate? Priced out of perfect homes, homeowners are choosing to create them instead - Yahoo Finance - August 20th, 2022 [August 20th, 2022]
- New partnership aims to revive iconic downtown dining experiences - The Press-Times - August 20th, 2022 [August 20th, 2022]
- Tuesday tips for a dream kitchen - The process of remodeling your kitchen - WKBW-TV - November 16th, 2021 [November 16th, 2021]
- Looking to sell? Or stick around? Home renovation recommendations for any situation - WHO TV 13 Des Moines News & Weather - November 16th, 2021 [November 16th, 2021]
- Renovating? These home projects have the highest return on investment for Lancaster County - LNP | LancasterOnline - November 16th, 2021 [November 16th, 2021]
- Riverboat Foundation Gives Out Over $600000 In Competitive Grants - KIWARadio.com - November 16th, 2021 [November 16th, 2021]
- Tips for Creating a Warm and Inviting Home for the Holidays - Signals AZ - November 16th, 2021 [November 16th, 2021]
- From pastels to botanicals, these 4 Italian tile designs are worth copying in your kitchen - Courier Journal - November 4th, 2021 [November 4th, 2021]
- Who Pays For Home Renovations on Your Favorite HGTV and Other Shows -- and What Do They Cost? - GOBankingRates - November 4th, 2021 [November 4th, 2021]
- Tips for Remodeling Your Kitchen: The Heart of the Home - Dan's Papers - July 14th, 2021 [July 14th, 2021]
- Best Kitchen Remodel in San Jose based Home Remodeling and Construction Company - Digital Journal - July 14th, 2021 [July 14th, 2021]
- Northeast Philadelphia Residents Salvaging What They Can After Heavy Rain Causes Flooding - CBS Philly - July 14th, 2021 [July 14th, 2021]
- Dad's Home Services Offers Harrisburg Residents with 30 Years of Experience when Offering Remodeling and Renovation Services - Digital Journal - July 14th, 2021 [July 14th, 2021]
- Construction Company Goals and Software to Get You There - Software Advice - July 14th, 2021 [July 14th, 2021]
- $2.6 Million Homes in California - The New York Times - July 14th, 2021 [July 14th, 2021]
- Shot Stop moving locations across the street | Business | themercury.com - Manhattan Mercury - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- The Only Reason You Should Make an Improvement to Your Home - KOKI FOX 23 - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- Fantastic and Functional: A Look at the Worlds Most Expensive Kitchen Renovations - Yahoo News - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- Underestimating the Power of an Overhaul? 6 Home Renovations That Add Major Value - Newswire - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- It's all about the views at this Mazama remodel - wenatcheeworld.com - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- 5 Things You Need to Know Today in Worcester - June 30 - This Week In Worcester - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- Shot Stop moving locations across the street - Yahoo News - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- Skip these 5 renovations to avoid harming your home's value - telegraphherald.com - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- The MDF Decorative Overlays Market projected to surpass $489.5 million by 2027, Says Global Market Insights - GlobeNewswire - July 2nd, 2021 [July 2nd, 2021]
- Places This Week: Dunkin, Panda Kitchen and Bath, Harbor at Town Center - St Pete Catalyst - February 14th, 2021 [February 14th, 2021]
- Paso Robles Contractor Reports 'The Top Green Construction Trends for 2021' - PR Web - February 14th, 2021 [February 14th, 2021]
- $3.9M mansion has lavish theater, custom design and stunning backyard - Detroit Free Press - February 14th, 2021 [February 14th, 2021]
- Granite Transformations of North Phoenix can help with fast and easy kitchen remodeling - Yahoo News - January 15th, 2021 [January 15th, 2021]
- What to look for in kitchen cabinets - Daily Monitor - January 15th, 2021 [January 15th, 2021]
- Rosie on the House: A glance back at 2020 and cautions for 2021 - Arizona Daily Star - January 3rd, 2021 [January 3rd, 2021]
- Kitchen and Bath Remodeling The Monitor - The Monitor - January 3rd, 2021 [January 3rd, 2021]