Well, your kitchen should account for 15% of your home’s value. That’s right, but with those avocado-green countertops and ancient appliances passed down from your grandpa, your kitchen has for years been screaming out for help.
But fear not. We’ve curated some of the top kitchen renovations that will have you whipping up soufflés and impressing the in-laws in no time. Grab your spatula and let us cook some incredible kitchen upgrades that will make your home the talk of the town!
Countertops
Countertops are your kitchen’s primary base, so they deserve to be top of your list of kitchen renovations.
And yes, don’t view your countertops as only a perfect surface for food preparation. Your choice of countertops can make or break the overall look of your kitchen!
With the right upgrade, your kitchen will not only be the envy of all your friends but will also be a powerful tool that showcases your style.
Hence, thoughtfully choose the material of your countertops and the color. Let’s quickly examine some of the available types.
Types Of Countertops To Consider
Some counter types to consider are granite, quartz, marble, butcher block, and laminate.
Let’s take an in-depth look at each of these materials:
Granite
Granite will give your kitchen an expensive look, and the material is heat and scratch-resistant, too!
Plus, there are various colors, so you’ll have lots of choice!
In fact, did you know that no two granite slabs are the same?
Well, that’s right!
That’s to say, for a countertop material that will make your kitchen genuinely one-of-a-kind, granite is the answer.
But, of course, like all good things in life, there’s a catch!
For one, granite has a hefty price tag. So, if you’re on a tight budget, this material may not be the one to go after.
Also, you’ll occasionally need to seal it to retain its glory and keep off moisture and germs. According to experts, the timeline will depend on the use and sealer.
Still, if you’re ready to take the plunge and give your kitchen an extra wow factor to boost your home’s value, you should consider granite!
Quartz
For a countertop material that’s durable and stylish, go for quartz. It’s easier to maintain than granite and is also resistant to scratches.
Like granite, this material comes in a variety of colors as well, so there’s something for everyone! Plus, quartz has no pores like granite, so it’s not as susceptible to bacteria, which means less cleaning!
However, quartz can be pretty pricey, too, so think long and hard before investing in this countertop material.
Marble
Ah, marble — the ultimate sign of luxury and sophistication. If you need a countertop that will make your kitchen pop and look eye-catching, this is the way to go.
The material has long been a favorite for kitchen countertops because of its timeless beauty.
It is heat resistant but can be prone to scratches and staining, so bear that in mind when making your decision. Plus, like all other high-end countertop materials, marble requires a hefty budget!
Butcher Block
For those on a tight budget who still want to give their countertops a makeover, butcher block might be the right choice. It’s affordable, holds up well against heat and scratches, and will even give your kitchen a classic and cozy vibe!
Additionally, its maintenance is relatively easy — all you have to do is oil it regularly! However, its durability may not match that of some high-end countertop materials. But again, as long as you give it proper maintenance, it’ll serve you for many years.
Laminate
Suppose you aren’t working with a big budget and want a countertop material that won’t bother you with heavy maintenance needs. In that case, you may need to prioritize laminate over any other material.
Sure, it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as some other countertop materials, but it’s the most affordable choice, and its installation is relatively easy. Even more, the material is heat-resistant and reasonably durable!
Benefits Of Upgrading Countertops
Benefits attached to upgrading to any of these countertop materials include:
- Aesthetically pleasing look: These countertop materials provide a visually appealing look that can add to your kitchen’s overall value.
- Improved durability and longevity: Upgrading your countertop materials will improve their durability and make them last longer.
- Increased resale value: Investing in one of these materials for your kitchen renovation will increase your home’s value, making it an excellent investment for the future.
Cost Considerations
Your budget is the main factor to consider when upgrading countertops. Here’s an estimation of what you can expect to pay for each of the materials:
- Granite – $50-$200/sq ft
- Quartz – $60-$150/sq ft
- Marble – $40-$100/sq ft
- Butcher Block – $30-$50/sq ft
- Laminate – $20-$50/sq ft
Keep in mind that the installation costs aren’t included in these prices, so you’ll need to factor that into your budget as well.
Cabinetry
After upgrading your countertops, turn to cabinetry. You don’t always have to feel like you’re living in the Stone Age every time you reach for a spatula! With a thoughtful upgrade on your cabinetry, you can drag your kitchen from the past and give it a modernized look.
Types Of Cabin To Consider
Cabinets account for a massive visual space in your kitchen. That’s why the decision you make here really matters!
Generally speaking, we’ve got three cabinetry types:
- Semi-custom
- American-style
- Euro-style
All these types are incredible, but one type will always work better for your kitchen than all others. So, know what the perfect type for your kitchen is. Once you have that knowledge, get it from your nearby vendor or shop online from a trusted seller.
Don’t know the difference between the various types? A closer look at each type may help.
Semi-Custom Cabinets
These cabinets are perfect for those who don’t want to break the bank but still want a custom look. They come in different sizes and styles, giving you plenty of options. Plus, you can customize them with various accessories and finishes!
American-Style Cabinets
American-style cabinets offer lots of storage space with their big drawers and shelves. They are usually made from natural wood, which adds a classic look to your kitchen.
Euro-Style Cabinets
These cabinets have a sleek and modern design with minimal details but lots of styles. Moreover, they offer plenty of storage space in their deep drawers!
Benefits Of Upgrading Cabinetry
Upgrading your cabinetry brings a range of benefits, such as:
- Improved function and convenience: With more storage space and better organization systems, you can keep everything in its place and easily access what you need when you need it.
- Increased value: Investing in quality cabinetry upgrades is a great way to increase your home’s value and make it more appealing to potential buyers.
- Stylish look: Upgrading your cabinetry will give your kitchen a stylish, modern look that will add beauty to your space.
Cost Considerations
The cost of cabinetry upgrades largely depends on the type you choose and the number of cabinets you need.
Semi-custom is generally more affordable. American style can be expensive owing to the all-wood construction. Euro-style cabinets are usually economical but can also be pricey due to high-end finishes and the minimalist design.
Lighting
If you’re still clinging to those ancient, dim, and dreary kitchen lights, it’s time to take your lighting to the next level. By improving the lighting in your kitchen, you can enjoy better visibility and add more style to your space.
Types Of Lighting To Consider
There are three types of lighting to consider: ambient, task, and accent.
Ambient Lighting
This type of lighting is the general lighting you’ll have in your kitchen. It will be in the form of recessed or track lights, providing excellent overall illumination of the space.
Task Lighting
Task lighting provides a more focused illumination over certain areas, like countertops or cabinets. They include pendant lights, recessed lights, and under-cabinet lights.
Accent Lighting
This type of lighting will give you an extra touch of style. You can add it over your sink, cabinets, or backsplash. The lighting comes in various styles, adding a decorative element to your kitchen.
Benefits Of Upgrading Lighting
Upgrading the lighting in your kitchen can bring you many perks like:
- Better visibility: With upgraded lighting, you can see more clearly and have a better view of what’s happening in your kitchen.
- Increased energy efficiency: Replacing your old lighting with LED lights will save more energy and reduce your electricity bills.
- More safety: Upgrading your lighting can also increase safety by making it easier to move around the kitchen without worrying about tripping over something.
- Enhanced style: With the many lighting options available, you can choose the one that adds more style to your kitchen and expresses your personality.
Cost Considerations
The cost of upgrading your kitchen lighting largely depends on the type and number of lights you choose. Generally, expect to spend between $50 and $500 per fixture.
Of course, that doesn’t include the installation cost, which usually depends on the job’s complexity.
For a basic installation, expect to pay $100 to $200, while more sophisticated projects may cost $500 or even more depending on the amount of electrical work needed!
Flooring
The flooring may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to kitchen renovations, but it’s an important decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. After all, flooring can significantly impact the overall look of your kitchen.
And when making flooring decisions, don’t just consider the type. We’ve got other aspects too, so the decision isn’t really as straightforward as you might think.
One of the biggest challenges in kitchen design is creating enough storage space for all your appliances, utensils, and food items. Luckily, with the help of floorplanonline.com, you can design a kitchen that maximizes storage space and keeps everything organized.
Types Of Flooring To Consider
Here are some of the most common types of flooring:
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood is a classic option that adds warmth and style to your kitchen flooring. It’s also highly durable and easy to clean. The only downside – it can be pretty pricey!
Tile Flooring
Tile is an excellent choice for its versatility and durability. You can find tiles in various finishes, sizes, shapes, and colors to create the perfect look for your kitchen. The only challenge is that you may need some effort to maintain the grout lines.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl is a cost-effective and low-maintenance choice. It’s also highly resistant to scratches, dents, and water damage. However, it’s not as visually appealing as other options.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is an inexpensive option that looks like hardwood but is much easier to install. It’s highly resistant to spills and stains, and that’s good news for busy kitchens. But it’s less durable than other types of flooring.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring is a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing alternative to solid hardwood flooring. It is constructed from multiple layers of pressed wood, with the top layer made from thinly sliced hardwood veneer for durability and beauty. Engineered wood floors are available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes that allow you to customize the look of your home.
Benefits Of Upgrading Flooring
Upgrading your kitchen flooring has several benefits:
- Improving the look of your kitchen: A new floor can instantly give your kitchen a more modern vibe.
- Increased durability and resistance to wear and tear: Newer flooring provides better protection against scratches, dents, and water damage than its older counterparts.
- Lower maintenance costs: Newer flooring is easier to clean and maintain. This means less time spent on upkeep and more money saved in the long run.
Cost Considerations
You’ll need to factor in both the cost of materials and installation. The amount you spend will depend mainly on the type of flooring you choose and the size of your kitchen.
Here’s an estimated cost for each type of flooring:
- Hardwood – $3-12/sq ft
- Tile – $3-$20/sq ft
- Vinyl -$2-$7/sq ft
- Laminate – $1.50-$11 sq ft
Installation costs for all types of flooring range from about $2 to $6 per square foot.
Appliances
Unless you ditch that trusty old microwave from 1992, your kitchen will remain to look like a museum exhibit for outdated technology. That stove that looks like it’s from your grandma’s kitchen is seriously hurting your bottom line.
Boost your home’s value by investing in newer appliances, and you’ll be glad you did!
Types Of Appliances To Consider
When deciding on which appliances to invest in, consider each item’s size and features.
Some of the most common types of appliances include:
Refrigerators
If your current refrigerator is 10+ years old, consider investing in a newer model. Look for one with an Energy Star rating and high-tech features like adjustable shelves and temperature control.
Ovens
Look for models with an Energy Star rating, convection heating capabilities, built-in timers, and self-cleaning options.
Dishwashers
Modern dishwashers have various features that make cleaning easier and faster. Consider models with adjustable racks, adjustable water pressure settings, and noise-reducing technology.
Ranges
Go for options with convection heating capabilities, multiple burners, built-in timers, and other features that make cooking easier.
Small Appliances
They include:
- Mixers
- Blenders
- Food processors
- Toasters
- Coffee makers
Consider models with adjustable settings, touch screens, smarter home integrations, and dishwasher-safe parts.
Benefits Of Upgrading Appliances
Upgrading your kitchen appliances has benefits like:
- Improved functionality: Newer appliances feature updated features that make them easier and more efficient. This can save you time and money in the long run.
- Better features: Recent appliances boast better features, such as adjustable shelves, temperature control, convection heating capabilities, and dishwasher-safe parts.
- Greater energy efficiency: Newer appliances are designed to be more energy efficient, saving you money on your utility bills each month.
Cost Considerations
Appliance cost varies from appliance to appliance. Here’s a quick price estimation for each:
- Refrigerator: Expect to pay $400 to $1,200 for standard versions and about $6,000 (and up) for high-end models.
- Ovens: Basic models cost $400 to $1,500, while high-end models may go for $4,000.
- Dishwashers: Basic models retail at $300 to $600 and up to $1,500 for top-of-the-line models.
- Range Hoods: You’ll need $50 to $500 for standard options and about $1,500 for high-end models.
- Toasters: Standard versions cost $40 to $350, but it can get to $500 for models on the higher side of the spectrum.
- Blenders: Typically cost $30 to $150, but expect to spend $750 for high-end models.
Conclusion
Upgrading your kitchen is a great way to improve its functionality, aesthetics, and efficiency. Even more, it can help boost your home’s value by making it look more modern and attractive. So go on, and give that kitchen a revamp! And remember to share this article with friends considering renovating their kitchens – they’ll be glad you did!
