A kitchen upgrade is something many homeowners are always considering because they spend so much time in them. There is always for improvement, especially if your last upgrade happened when dial-up Internet was still around. A kitchen upgrade is an excellent opportunity to fix real problems in the kitchen, such as old cabinets that are on their last legs, or update it to the style of the current decade.
A kitchen upgrade is certainly a good idea if you plan to sell your home soon, or stay for a long time. Here are 7 ways to upgrade your kitchen for lasting effect in either case.
1. Replace hardware
An easy way to upgrade your kitchen that you can do right now is to replace your hardware. This includes cabinet and drawer pulls and knobs, faucets, and even light fixtures. Many kitchens still sport outdated materials that used to be popular, but no longer, because they need a lot more work to keep in good condition, such as brass. Replace these with more modern metals that are virtually maintenance free (and quite trendy) such as stainless steel or matte aluminum.
2. Replace cabinets
If your kitchen hardware is outdated, it is most likely the cabinets to which they are attached are just as outdated. You can certainly choose to just reface the cabinets if they are still in good condition, although professional refacing is not cheap and takes longer to do than simply replacing them. Getting new cabinets mean you can customize them to your particular needs. You can choose the material and style to suit your taste, and make the most of the available space to boot. Cabinetmakers have reams of different types of cabinets and drawers using innovative materials and finishes, so the world is your oyster.
3. Nix the upper cabinets
Speaking of new cabinets, note that upper cabinets tend to use up more eye space than you might want. When upgrading your kitchen with new cabinets, choose open shelving for the upper storage instead of a traditional closed cabinet box. If you don?t like the idea of exposing your dishes and cookware for all to see, opt for customized cabinets with frosted glass that can be less boxy and create the illusion of more space.
4. Redo flooring
The kitchen floor takes a lot of abuse, especially if you have laminate floors that enjoyed a good run a couple of decades ago. A good way to update the look of your kitchen is to replace the flooring materials that will stand the test of time, both in style and durability.
You might want to consider stone, ceramic, or wood materials. Natural or engineered stone tiles last a very long time, and they need less maintenance than you might image. Hardwood floors are also timeless, and look great with reasonable care. Ceramic tiles are less expensive and quite attractive, although they may not last as long. Some manufacturers came out with ceramic tiles that look like hardwood and natural stone, so you might want to consider that option if you have budget constraints.
5. Upgrade kitchen countertops
Countertops are the workhorses of the kitchens, and back in the day, the popular surface material was ceramic tiles. Stained grout and cracked tiles are quite possibly the bane of your existence. Instead of simply rerouting and replacing cracked tiles, consider stone slabs instead. Granite or engineered quartz stone slabs have just one or two seams, so they are easier to keep clean and food safe. They are extremely durable, so they will last for a very long time. They come in a wide range of beautiful colors and designs, which is part of the reason why they are popular for many homeowners and buyers.
6. Upgrade kitchen seating
The kitchen is the most popular room in the home, a place where people tend to get together for work and play. A good way to upgrade your kitchen is to make it possible for more people to sit comfortably. Put in a kitchen island that also serves as a breakfast table, and put chairs around it. You can also put a small table with benches near a window.
7. Go green
Updating your kitchen should definitely include making it more efficient. Aside from making sure layout makes it easier in which to work, kitchen should save on energy and water. Low-flow faucets and LED lighting are some ways to go. But you might also want to consider replacing your grandma?s oven for a more fuel-efficient one to save on utility bills and contribute your mite to environment protection. If you feel sentimental about some of your stuff and they are in good condition, you might be able to repurpose it as a conversation piece in another room. Your grandma?s oven, for instance, might make a quaint fireplace if you fit it with a direct vent gas kit. If you?re looking for quality products and services for your kitchen upgrade, then you need a reliable contractor and fabricator. At Mimosa Kitchen and Bath, we sell high-quality products manufactured by leading brands in the industry and expert remodeling services.
When you purchase your products from us, you are guaranteed a speedy delivery compared to ordering from big box stores. Our contractors will fabricate the product and install it into your kitchen quickly and with excellent artisanship. We also sell a host of other products, which include bathroom and kitchen cabinets, flooring, faucets and sinks, and vanities. Some of the brands we carry include Zodiaq, Fabuwood, Forevermark Cabinetry, Caesarstone, MSI, Kitchenmaid, Wolf Cabinets, Cambria and Hardware Resources.
You can visit our showroom in Elliicott City, Maryland to see the many products and stone slabs we have available. This includes marble, granite and engineered quartz.
All of our products come backed with brand warranties.
The contractors at Mimosa Kitchen and Bath can service your home or business located in DC metro area, Columbia, Rockville, Bethesda, Jessup, Chevy Chase and surrounding areas.
Contact us today to get a free quote for your next kitchen upgrade project!