If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and you’re feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of colors, finishes and materials available, you’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle with developing a cohesive design that reflects their personality, style and budget. Interior design is an art as well as a science, and while there are no proven formulas for planning a pulled-together kitchen, there are a few starting points that can help you design a room that is both charming and consistent.
Countertops
The countertops in your kitchen will anchor the room and choosing them deserves careful contemplation. Especially for large islands that will serve as a focal point in the kitchen, the counters can become the centerpiece of your palette. Counters serve a practical as well as an aesthetic purpose, so use a good-looking material that is also durable and easy to clean. Granite and engineered stone are classics that work well in almost any setting. Stainless steel delivers sleekly modern looks, wood has unique warmth and marble captures the essence of elegance. Use reflective rather than matte surfaces to add light. Stick with a single finish on foundation counters and use a complementary material on an island or bar top for extra punch.
Cabinets
The cabinets may well be the most important design element in your kitchen. Clever kitchen cabinetry can either fade discreetly into the background or dramatically dominate the room, but either way, since wall cabinets hang at exactly eye level, they’ll never be overlooked. Simple, pared-down door styles suit contemporary kitchens, while more elaborately embellished doors work best in classic settings. White painted cabinets increase the illusion of space and fill the room with light. Dark hardwood cabinets, especially when paired with granite or other deluxe materials, effortlessly create an atmosphere of luxury. Combine dark and light for cutting-edge looks, and use glass-fronted cabinets, crown moldings and other extras to add to the effect.
Finishing Touches
Cabinets and countertops may be the stars of kitchen design, but small touches can complete the look and pull the room together. Bold or busy counters work best with simple, monochrome backsplashes in contrasting colors. Brighten quiet counters with vivid mosaic or decorative tile effects. If you choose flooring to complement adjoining rooms, remember to pick a material or finish that also works with the elements in the kitchen. Light fixtures, cabinet hardware and other decorative essentials can add unexpected hints of color or texture. Use bright colors, reflective metals and intense textures sparingly to finish the room without overwhelming it.
As a Design+Build General Contractor, I offer my clients a one-stop shopping approach to all of their home remodeling projects. I work with my clients from initial conception of a project through its completion. Every aspect of the job is managed by me and my professional crew. You will be included in every step of the design process until the final drawings are completed. No detail is left to chance. General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Remodeling Throughout the Los Angeles area.
Written By:
Offer Steuer
President
OTM Designs & Remodeling, Inc.
For more information you may contact us via email at service@otm1designs.com or you may call us at 888-981-1415. Our website is www.otm1designs.com.