It happens in nearly every American home. Gathering spaces are available throughout the house, yet everyone wants to hang out in the kitchen! It’s called the “heart of the home” for a reason. Comfort and connection can always be found there.
Does your kitchen need some love in return?
Even the slightest cosmetic change can uplift the space drastically and build significant equity in your home. Here are a few inspiring suggestions to spark your imagination…
Paint: This is by far the best bang for your buck. One of our design teachers once said that a gallon of paint is worth $500 in the value it brings to a space. Not only can it dramatically alter the look and feel of a room, but if you do it yourself, it will cost virtually nothing.
Another small change that packs a punch is to paint your existing cabinetry. This process is quite involved. What’s required for lasting quality is beyond most homeowners’ skill set. Unfortunately, many of our clients replace their cabinets because of a poor paint job done by the previous homeowner. So, if you’re called to do this, hire a professional.
WHAT COLOR TO CHOOSE: Lighter tones make a space feel fresh and new. Darker colors work best for accent walls or in powder baths to add drama.
Hardware: This is jewelry for your cabinets, so have fun with it. You will be surprised at how different your cabinetry looks with updated hardware.
QUICK TIP: If you have pulls on your cabinets, make sure that you measure the existing hardware so your new hardware will fit into the existing holes. Better yet, just take one off a drawer and take it with you!
Countertops: This can be as simple as installing new laminate over top of an existing countertop (yes, you can do that). Most people tend to want a higher-end countertop like granite or solid quartz in the kitchen and primary bath.
HOW TO DECIDE: Let the value of your home and the room you are working on guide you on this decision.
Lighting: Swapping out new fixtures in the existing locations is the most affordable way to go. Think about putting a small chandelier in your powder bath or adding colorful pendants above an island or sink in your kitchen. These can often be done with minimal drywall repair.
ANOTHER IDEA: Add recessed lights to a kitchen to improve the general lighting. You will be amazed at how much the look and feel of a space improves with good lighting.
Plumbing Fixtures: There are so many wonderful fixtures out there for under $200. Depending on how handy you are, this fairly simple DIY project can add both style and function. In a bathroom, just changing out a tired vanity faucet or toilet can change the whole feel of the room without the need for a complete remodel.
WHAT’S POPULAR NOW: Think about installing a pull-out faucet in your kitchen if you don’t have one. There are tons of style options that are super functional.