How we spend our time in the kitchen and how we work has changed a lot in the last couple of decades. These changes were influenced by modernizing the appliances and different socio-economic circumstances. So, should kitchens remain the same as they were before then? Of course not. Every now and then you need to dress up your kitchen in a new robe and make sure it is up-to-date. This can be done through major projects or minor touch-ups. Here are some suggestions that could take your kitchen to the next level.
Make every step count
Regardless of the size of your kitchen, you don’t want to have any wasted steps. Imagine having to walk from one end of the kitchen to another to store the dishes when you are done washing them. It may not sound as much, but when you have to do it several times a day, it can be annoying. Stick to the kitchen triangle principle (unobstructed access to sink, stove, and the refrigerator). Use every available inch for storage (corner shelves are a great idea). Provide enough counter space. Opt for a multifunctional kitchen island.
Go low-maintenance
Between work and household chores, no one has the time and the will to spend hours cleaning up the kitchen. When considering a remodel, always plan for low-maintenance. Here are some things to think about:
- Use a matte finish or patterned design for the counter, flooring, and the backsplash to minimize the appearance of smudges and dirt.
- For tiles, go with larger squares and less grout.
- Keep the design of the cabinets simple (avoid crown moldings).
- Stay clear of glass doors.
- Opt for timber, terrazzo, laminate, or polished concrete for flooring.
- Natural stone and man-made solid surface materials are great for countertops.
- Go for flush cabinet ends for easier cleaning.
- Stain instead of paint.
- Minimize open shelving.
“Green” up
A modern kitchen needs to comply with the present trend of eco-friendliness and energy-efficiency. Not only because you want to save the planet, but also because you want to save money on bills. Energy Star-rated products are always a good investment. As for eco-friendliness, try to use sustainable materials which do not release toxins into the air.
Opt for high-end appliances
Most of today’s high-end appliances are also energy-efficient, but you should still keep an eye on their performance. Search for units that combine the green features with ultimate performance, such as the premium Thor kitchen ranges, which are very flexible when it comes to designing a customized cooktop configuration.
Get proper lighting
Cooking requires your full attention, and that is not possible if you can’t see properly. For that, you will need all three essential layers of lighting: ambiance (ceiling fixture as the main source of light), task (under-cabinet lights that help you see the work area), and accent (pendant lamps above the island or wall lamps accentuating shelves). It goes without saying that all of these should be LED lights or CFLs, to save energy.
Make a statement with flooring and backsplash
Kitchen floors and backsplash are not there just for the mere functionality. They are there to make a statement about your style, and you should use them to draw attention to your kitchen. Depending on the interior design approach you’ll decide on, you can go with the show-stopping hardwood floor or modern concrete option. The tile should happily marry a low-maintenance and high-end look (for example, black matte tile). If you are going for a minor kitchen update, a small detail such as dark grout, can make a big difference.
A sleek color scheme
When choosing the kitchen color scheme, you should take all of the previous details into account, and only then think about your wishes. Some of the trendiest kitchen color schemes to consider are monochromatic grey palette (several different hues of grey); white and gold; red, white, and blue; honey, cherry red, and honed slate; red-orange and goldenrod; ebony and poppy orange; light neutrals and fuchsia; coral and steel; teal, white, and wood; and blue and tan.
Remember, a modern kitchen doesn’t have to exclude timeless design. You still have to keep in mind that kitchen renovation is not something that is frequently done and that you will have to live with what you change for years.
About the author:
Tracey Clayton is a full time mom of three girls. She’s passionate about fashion, home décor and healthy living. Her motto is: “Live the life you love, love the life you live.”