The keys to a dreamy kitchen renovation are careful planning, style alignment, quality materials and professional work. From kitchen lighting fixtures to flooring, it is important to ensure that the style and features you choose blend well. These are seven elements of a dreamy kitchen renovation.
The style is completely up to you and should reflect whatever you want. Perhaps you prefer an elegant look with mahogany cabinets, white marble countertops and ornate chandeliers. Many people like to blend a rustic look and an elegant look, and coastal themes are still going strong. Those are just a few of many examples. Spend some time researching different styles to see what fits your tastes. Since there are so many choices for materials, lighting and color schemes today, you can find what you need to go with any style. Once you find the style that suits you, the next step is planning how to apply it to your space.
Whether you are expanding your kitchen or simply giving your existing space a makeover, it is important to carefully plan how you will use it. The answer may be different for every person, and much of the planning depends on how much functional space you need for cooking, baking or entertaining. For example, if you have a wide-open kitchen and want more functional space for food prep, a sizable island may be an excellent addition. If you want to alter your kitchen in any major way, a professional can help you create 3D drawings, perform measurements and take other necessary steps to plan a safe and satisfactory renovation outcome.
If you are hesitant to completely replace your cabinets, you can also have them refaced. This helps cut down on environmental waste by using the cabinets that you already have in your home if they are still in good condition. Refacing them involves applying a veneer on each drawer and cabinet. With refacing, you have a wide range of colors and wood styles to choose from. You may also opt to have handles or knobs replaced to match your new kitchen style. However, if you have old cabinets that need to be replaced, the process can involve extra steps. For example, new cabinets may have different dimensions, and those dimensional differences may mean that you need to move outlets or make other changes. If you opt for new cabinets, be aware of their space and installation requirements.
As you consider refacing materials or cabinet styles, think about your desired countertop color and material at the same time. It helps to pick cabinet colors and countertops that coordinate well to align with the overall style you want to create. If your main focus is to create a space with visual appeal, marble is a great countertop choice. However, granite or soapstone may be more suitable options for practicality and visual appeal. Maybe you prefer the clean look of stainless steel, the unique beauty of mosaic tile or something else. Be sure to choose a material that fits your needs and your style preference.
Once you pick the cabinets and countertops you want, choosing the flooring is easier. Some factors to consider as you look at flooring are overall traffic, pets, moisture and maintenance. Different types of flooring are better for certain needs. For example, many renovation experts recommend tile or vinyl plank flooring for people with pets since they are more resistant to scratching than natural wood. For a low-maintenance option that is also resistant to moisture, vinyl is a good material. However, when exquisite beauty is a top priority, natural stone or natural wood are both good choices.
Lighting choices can make a world of difference in any kitchen renovation. If the light is too bright and harsh, it can make the room feel unwelcoming. However, if it is too dim, it can make some themes look drearier or less appealing. Finding the right balance of lights with different fixtures is the key. Also, by adding multiple forms of lighting, you have more versatility to enjoy different levels or styles of lighting in your space.
Overhead kitchen lighting fixtures are important for illuminating the entire kitchen when you need it brighter. Dimmable recessed lights and track lights are popular today. Both options blend well with a wide variety of kitchen themes and styles. They can also enhance the beauty of natural stone countertops. Pendant lights are popular kitchen lighting fixtures, and there are styles to fit a variety of themes. You can find modern, rustic, simple and other options. Also, there are modern, classic, elegant and simple chandeliers. If you have difficulty deciding, look to some sources of inspiration for similar design themes to see what appeals to your taste.
While many people opt to have lights inside glass-front cabinets, others prefer them under the cabinets to create a warmer ambiance. You may prefer both if you have beautiful dishes, vases or other accessories you want illuminated. Under-cabinet lights are also useful if you want more light on small appliances that you keep under the cabinets.
Two other popular types of kitchen lighting fixtures are lamps and wall-mounted lights. Lamps are great for adding a decorative touch and a little extra light in areas where overhead lights do not reach. Wall-mounted lights in kitchens can add softness, warmth or elegance.
Because it is much easier to change paint colors, this is one of the later tasks in renovation planning. When you choose your paint color first, it can be harder to get your material choices to coordinate. Once you have all your other design elements chosen, compare paint colors to find what fits your chosen style and taste. Warm colors give off energetic vibes, and cooler colors create calmer auras.
Choose your decorations last. It is easier to visualize what may work in your space once all the features and fixtures are in place. You can pick your decorations based on cabinet placement, colors, materials and your chosen style. You may decide to add plants, vases, themed decor, a wine rack or anything else that gives your space its own unique look.
Since there are some scam websites that look legitimate today, be sure you are working with a reliable contractor with references or an established company. The contractor should show proof of insurance and a license. All contractors who work on projects valued over $500 must be licensed by the California Contractors State License Board. Also, the contractor should print and sign a contract with the scope of the work outlined. You should receive a detailed quote with an itemized list of supplies. Working with an experienced contractor is especially important if you have any construction projects planned. For example, a building permit may be required if the wall needs to be opened to install new cabinets, and some changes require building code compliance.
When it comes to kitchen lighting fixtures, we can help you find the perfect choices for a dreamy kitchen. The Home Lighter, Inc. offers a wide range of interior and exterior home lighting solutions to fit any style preference. We welcome you to view our showroom online or make an appointment to experience the beauty of our luxurious residential lighting solutions in Santa Cruz CA. Also, we serve clients in the Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel areas.
