Time for a mid-summer kitchen refresh?

 

 

The kids will be back in school soon, so now may be the ideal time to get a few summer home reorganizing and redecorating chores out of the way. Keeping your style current and making small improvements over the years is a great alternative to a complete redesign and keeps adding value to your UBC real estate property.  

 

Already have ideas about how to improve your kitchen?  Sometimes, by simply redecorating, you can do much more than create a more stylish kitchen — you can also create a more functional space.  Start by considering what doesn’t work for your needs before focusing on details unique to your taste. Here are some design and décor guidelines to ensure that your kitchen performs on both levels:

 

Don’t go too heavy on the metal

Unless the look you’re going for is industrial, you won’t want to overdo the stainless steel appliances as it can overpower the design of your room.  A great counter-point to the steel are warm, natural finishes. Consider adding wicker or more wood to your design options, even painted options still provide a cozy touch. You might want to add cabinets or built-ins to create more storage space, reduce clutter and make the space more livable.  

 

Do rein in your design

Sometimes a little bit goes a long way.  One orange accent wall can be far more impactful than a whole kitchen painted bright orange.  Try to keep a balance between neutrals and your “pop” colour. If you want to go modern, you can keep a few traditional elements to tame it down, you don’t have to throw away everything to get a new look.  Consider refurbishing old wood floors instead of replacing them, or perhaps adding new countertops for a fresh, updated feel.  

 

Don’t be boring

Be brave. Your kitchen space should inspire and invite you to be involved in the artful process of cooking. What inspires you? Red apples, the soft yellow of a ripe cheese, the deep and delicious purple of plums or the leafy greens of spinach? Try to find an inspiration point and go with it. If you draw a complete blank, consider working with a professional designer to help create a look for your kitchen that will embody your personality.

 

Do keep some empty spaces

Good design is a combination of positive and negative space.  You don’t have to fill every nook and cranny.  Good kitchen design allows for room to breathe.  This means that the layout should have a balance between functionality, style, storage and empty space. By achieving this, you’ll be able to create a light and airy kitchen.   

 

Don’t be cheap with your cabinets

Cheap kitchen cabinets are like a bad hair cut — they’re the first thing people notice and make a lasting, negative impression.  Choose the best your budget allows, and make sure they will stand up to moisture (after all, this is rainy BC) and years of wear on the wood, hinges and shelves.  There are so many finishes and options to choose from, so do your homework and ask a lot of questions before purchasing.  

 

Remodeling your kitchen can be an exciting time.  Whether your goal is to improve your home’s functionality, value, style or resale price, good design can accomplish all of the above. 

Of course, home improvement can only go so far. If you feel that you’ve simply outgrown your space and no amount of redecorating is ever going to fix the issues, then maybe you might want to have a peek at some of our listings.  Give us a call if you’re interested in looking at the homes we offer for sale. Who knows? Your perfect home could be listed today.