Renovating Your Dream Kitchen - 10 Things to Keep in Mind
When you purchase a home, you look at all the ways upgrades and improvements can be made. One room where you can make all your dreams come true is your kitchen. Memories are made in the kitchen. Families spend much of their quality time there.
For many,
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Optimize Your Storage Space
One of the most important renovations is the creation of storage space. It's difficult to work efficiently if your kitchen area is cluttered. Redesigning the pantry and upgrading your cabinets are two ways you can optimize your storage space and keep all your kitchen utensils and food items organized.
You want the things you use the most to be easy to access and close at hand. Extra shelves and space organizers will help you make the most out of every inch of storage space you have available. You may even consider adding a hanging rack.
Install Smart Appliances
Smart appliances are all the rage right now. You can monitor them from your cell phone so you no longer have to walk to the kitchen to check on them. High-tech appliances are energy-efficient and are designed for maximum efficiency.
Smart technology allows for appliances that have the capability to connect to the internet in your home. You can manage how they are used and monitor cycles by logging into an app on your phone or laptop. Systems like Nest and SimpliSafe combine your home security and home automation devices so they can use the same interface.
Look for Energy Savers
If you are spending the money to upgrade your home, look for energy-saving opportunities. Air fryers, smart appliances, low-flow faucets, and LED lights are efficient energy savers that will pay for themselves over time.
Just reducing the flow of water for a few months can save several dollars. The same is true for LED lights. Over time, the amount you save can be substantial. Sometimes, it's the little things that provide the most savings in the long run.
Maximize Natural Lighting
LED lights can be bright and sometimes harsh. Maximize your potential for natural lighting. Let the sunshine in! Natural light is comforting and can give your home a welcoming feel. A well-placed window will let the natural light in and brighten the room.
Replacing an old window with one that is more energy-efficient will also save money on your home energy bills. Choose a window that is easy to open and close so you can enjoy the fresh air while you are drinking your morning coffee.
Improve Air Quality
Install a make up air unit. Make up air units draw fresh air into your home as exhaust fans force air out. When you run the exhaust fan on your range hood, it forces the hot air and steam outside. At the same time, a make up air unit will pull fresh air in. This keeps your home smelling fresh and clean.
New make up air units can be set to heat or cool the air, depending on the season. Being able to control the flow of air into your home can save you money on your energy bills as well as reduce the number of contaminants in the air.
Install a Trash Compactor
Every kitchen needs a trash can, but it can be hard to find a place to put it where it won't be seen or can't be smelled. Larger families can produce an abundance of waste so trying to keep it under control is a must. A good trash compactor can be a lifesaver.
If you have a small kitchen, your best option may be to install a trash compactor. Trash compactors keep your waste hidden from view. The compactor then compresses the trash so that it takes up less space. The bags can be sealed for easy removal with no leaks.
Install an Energy Saving Water Filtration System
Water filtration systems do more than just filter impurities from your water. They also remove chemicals and other toxic substances that make their way into our natural water systems. Filtration systems are designed to remove as many impurities as possible.
New filtering systems also help to control the amount of water that is used without reducing the amount of water pressure that comes through the faucets in your home. Reducing the number of gallons used can actually increase water pressure if the right faucet is used.
Add Recycling Containers
Many communities offer recycling services in an attempt to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our landfills. Small recycling containers can be kept in your pantry, laundry room, or on your back porch. Include a container for compost if you don't have a garbage disposal.
Recycling and composting are great ways to protect the environment and save energy at the same time. Communities that have active recycling programs will sometimes provide bins for cans, cardboard, and glass to residents who live within the city limits.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
One of the easiest things you can upgrade is the lighting. Place lights under your cabinets and over areas where you do the work. Older lighting can be less energy-efficient and may not provide the light you need. Replacing them and putting the new ones in the right locations can make a huge difference.
Replace your old incandescent bulbs with new, energy-efficient LED bulbs. The light is much brighter, and the bulbs can last up to ten times longer than older types of bulbs. LED lights produce a “whiter” light than other bulbs. This type of lighting often results in a crisper, fresher look.
Incorporate Laminate Counters and Flooring
Laminate counters and flooring are easy to maintain and keep clean. Laminate comes in a variety of textures, colors, and patterns, making it an affordable way to customize your kitchen and turn it into your own little slice of culinary heaven.
With proper care, laminate surfaces can last for several years without fading, cracking, or peeling. Laminate is also more affordable than tile and marble options. They are also more durable than vinyl.
Kitchen improvements can make it more work-friendly and at the same time, turn into a beautiful showcase that allows you to entertain family and friends. Many upgrades can be made for a few hundred dollars and can provide a high rate of return if you ever choose to sell your home. Taking the time to redesign your kitchen is well worth the cost and effort you put into it. Create the kitchen of your dreams and enjoy!
