DO’S AND DON’TS OF KITCHEN DESIGN

If you are contemplating a kitchen remodel or new construction, congratulations! You’re going to love the better function and look of new cabinets and counters. Most people have never remodeled a kitchen, and because we help people with these projects every day, we’d like to offer some advice in the form of a few “do’s and don’ts”:

DO:

1. Work with a professional kitchen designer.

The experience and perspective of someone that sees hundreds of kitchens a year is invaluable. Even if you think you know what you want, an experienced kitchen designer can help – maybe just to confirm that you’re on the right track. Professional designers can help you think through different layout possibilities, and they are also knowledgeable about the latest storage solutions and cabinetry offerings that can make your space uniquely suited to your needs.

2. Find an experienced, qualified contractor you can trust.

Neutral finishes (colors) for cabinetry historically reign supreme, but this year there’s a twist – actually more than one. The all-white kitchen in all its purity and impossible-to-keep-clean glory, is fading FAST. Taking center stage in 2018 are very light and soft grays, semi-opaque cream finishes on wood and a surprising micro emerging trend – light khaki tones. Grays and warm grays in the medium to dark shades are even more widely seen in stylish kitchens than in previous years, often mixed with a soft white, an update to classic black and white. A micro trend of gold finishes on cabinet doors is new for 2018.

3. Solve any problem areas or areas of concern in your kitchen.

If there are any things about your existing space that are problematic, this is the time to fix them. If the space doesn’t function well, for whatever reason – the flow is cramped, or there are cabinets that are difficult to use, talk with your designer about how to improve things.

DON’T:

1. Expect TV magic.

If there are any things about your existing space that are problematic, this is the time to fix them. If the space doesn’t function well, for whatever reason – the flow is cramped, or there are cabinets that are difficult to use, talk with your designer about how to improve things.

2. Forget your budget.

Feeling comfortable about the budget for your kitchen project is important. Knowing early on what the financial parameters are, will help your kitchen designer and your contractor maximize the space, with the appropriate level of materials and scope.

3. Get left in the dark.

Good lighting is an important element in a kitchen for different reasons. Day lighting can give you lovely views and visually connect you to the outdoors, and your designer can help you think about the optimal size and placement of windows. Interior lighting can not only show off your beautiful new space, but can also make it easier and safer to use your new kitchen – especially under cabinet lights. Switches with dimmers provide options to have different levels of light in different areas of the room, which can enhance the atmosphere and the function of your kitchen. Choices for lighting have changed dramatically in recent years, and it’s worth exploring the possibilities.

We’d love to talk with you more about any of these topics. Feel free to reach out to Dean Cabinetry, Your Kitchen Cabinet Partners from Start to Finish!