You’re getting a new kitchen! How exciting. With that big decision is out of the way, here comes the hard part: making all the little decisions about exactly what your kitchen remodel will look and feel like.
While this process is fun, it can at times feel overwhelming. To help, Hudson has put together an overview of the decisions you’ll need to make as you’re planning out your exciting new space.
In a kitchen, there are many elements to consider. The general areas where you’ll be making decisions are cabinetry, sink, faucet, appliances, tiling, countertops and lighting.
Cabinetry:
- Are there specific features you’d like included? Consider: pantry cabinets, wine racks, bookshelves, open shelving, oversized drawers, pan dividers, spice racks and pull-out pan storage.
- Would you like the cabinets to go all the way to the ceiling? Would you like crown molding at the tops of the cabinets?
- What finish would you like? Painted cabinets are common, but stained-wood cabinets also are popular.
- How about cabinet door styles? Consider: shaker, traditional, raised panel, arched, slab, recessed panel and beadboard. Glass can be incorporated, too, including looks that incorporate frosting, beading, mullions or muntins.
Sink and faucet:
Common sink styles are top-mount, undermount and apron-front, in such materials as stainless steel, fireclay, porcelain and granite composite.
You’ll also need to consider how many sink basins you want — one, two or even three. And for the faucet, would you like one with a single handle, or would you like separate cold and hot handles?
Other elements you might consider adding to your kitchen:
- Pot filler
- Reverse-osmosis filter
- Garbage disposal
Appliances:
- Most (but not all) kitchens include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher and microwave. There are, however, many variables regarding how those elements fit into a kitchen. Perhaps you want a counter-depth fridge, a set of wall ovens or an extra-wide professional cooktop. For the most part, atypical appliance choices will require pre-planning to ensure the necessary space and clearances, so it’s good to think about those early on.
Countertops and backsplashes:
- Common countertop options include quartz, granite, marble, butcher block, soapstone, porcelain, solid surface (Corian), laminate, concrete and tile. You might consider using two materials, such as granite for the main counters and butcher block for the island.
- For the backsplash, you’ll want to choose something that coordinates. It could be the same material – continuing the countertop up the wall, as in this kitchen – or something completely different. If you choose tile for the backsplash (a common option), consider the type of tile (square, hex, penny, etc.) and the layout pattern (herringbone, brick, vertical, etc.). This kitchen used elongated tile in a subway pattern with herringbone tiles behind the cooktop.
General layout:
- Would you prefer a galley kitchen? Do you want an island or peninsula? This kitchen features a curved island that incorporates both seating and a cooktop.
- Where should the microwave be located? Common options are above the stove, in a corner of the countertop, or in a drawer or cubby.
- Do you want an eat-in kitchen?
Lighting:
- Is there anywhere that you’d like pendant lights, such as over an island or peninsula?
- Would you like multiple switches to control the same lights?
- Do you want under-cabinet lighting that helps illuminate the countertops?
- Consider what types of light fixtures you’d like, including both overhead flush-mount lights, wall sconces and chandeliers.
As you’re making these decisions, let the internet be your friend. Look at photos of other Hudson Remodeling kitchens or scour the ’net for inspiration. And if you need help during the process, feel free to give Hudson a call. We’d be happy to help.