Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY can be a time-consuming, expensive project. The best way to prevent costly surprises is to thoroughly research layouts, designs, cabinet construction and building, flooring materials and appliances.

Consider storage options carefully – no one ever has too much storage space! Adding energy-efficient, eco-friendly building materials and appliances can cut costs and may qualify for rebates.

Cabinets are essential for kitchen remodeling and help determine a room’s layout. They provide storage, support countertops, and can house appliances like the sink and refrigerator. Cabinetry can range from a sleek and modern look to more ornate wood styles. The style you choose will greatly influence the overall design of your kitchen, so consider how you want to use your space when selecting cabinetry.

Cabinet doors can be replaced with new ones to give a space a fresh look, and new drawer fronts are a simple way to upgrade an old, worn-out, or damaged cabinet. A new finish on existing cabinets can also give them a refreshed and clean look.

A cabinet’s structure can be made from many materials. Still, the cabinet boxes are typically constructed from a wood derivative, like MDF, plywood, or particle board, with a veneer that can be finished with paint or stain. The door and drawer fronts are often constructed from solid wood, such as oak, maple, cherry, or birch.

The first step in installing a cabinet is to prepare the space. Create a temporary kitchen in your garage or another dry area where you can prepare meals during construction. If you’re making structural changes, like removing walls, have the contractor schedule these early in the project. Most utility rough-in work should be completed before the cabinet installation to ensure that the electrical, plumbing, and heating are properly placed.

If your cabinets are in good condition and don’t need to be replaced, consider painting them instead of purchasing new cabinets. This is a DIY project that can save you a lot of money and still give your kitchen a brand-new look. Lighter colors, like navy blue, are popular for upper cabinets and pair well with gold hardware.

Countertops

Countertops are a major kitchen feature that can reflect trends in design or add value to the home when redone. They also offer a large surface area for food prep, dining and entertaining. Adding a backsplash, sink and appliances helps to tie the room together.

Stainless steel countertops are a popular choice for modern kitchens. Heat-resistant and durable, these surfaces can develop an attractive patina with use. Their high-end appearance and cost can also add resale value to the home.

Granite and quartz are both very popular kitchen countertop materials. These natural stones are highly resistant to moisture, stains and heat, making them an ideal option for homeowners who love to cook at home. Their unique patterns and colors are also appealing to a wide range of home decorating styles.

Solid surface acrylic or polyester is another popular countertop material. Designed to mimic the look of stone, these countertops are available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. They can be customized with a variety of edge treatments such as beveled, bullnose or ogee to complement the kitchen’s decor. These countertops are easily cut with power tools, and seams can be joined using special joining kits that ensure a seamless appearance.

Another option is to refresh existing countertops with a fresh coat of paint or contact paper. Available in a variety of styles and colors, this easy kitchen remodel is inexpensive and can be reversed at a later date if you decide to change your countertop color. You can even create an entirely new look by applying a thin layer of epoxy resin in your favorite color. This material can be used to create a countertop that matches or contrasts with your cabinets, and it can add a glossy or matte finish.

Flooring

A kitchen remodeling project typically involves new flooring. Depending on the type of material, it might also require installation or replacement of the backsplash, sinks and faucets. Moreover, the project might involve adding or removing appliances or installing an island or extra cabinetry. During the planning stage, homeowners can choose materials and finishes that will reflect their personal style and enhance the overall look of the space.

For example, a homeowner might opt for light-colored wide plank wood floors, ideally with matching color undertones to create a cohesive look. They might also install a quartz countertops to complement the hardwoods and add an element of durability to the space. Considering that the kitchen is one of the most heavily trafficked areas of the home, it’s essential to prioritize water-resistant flooring options.

Backsplashes are another opportunity for a homeowner to showcase their personal style. From classic subway tile to daring marble, a backsplash serves an important purpose by protecting the wall from food and steam stains. Additionally, it’s a great place to incorporate an eco-friendly kitchen remodel idea by choosing green products like low-VOC paints and recycled or sustainable countertop materials.

Thoughtful upgrades are a surefire way to add value to your home. However, if you go overboard, the improvements may detract from the resale value of your property and make it less appealing to potential buyers. To ensure that you get the most bang for your buck, consider working with an experienced general contractor and an interior designer to design a functional layout with the best kitchen renovation ideas.

Appliances

The appliances in a kitchen are a crucial chapter in the story of its design, as they play a role in both functionality and aesthetics. They’re also an area where a homeowner can showcase their personal style.

A stylish range hood is one popular way to add both beauty and function to the cooktop in a kitchen remodel. The range hood can be an accent that plays a supportive role for the stove or it can serve as a centerpiece, drawing attention to the cooktop and enhancing its visual appeal.

Kitchen remodeling can involve replacing (not just repainting or refinishing) the cabinets, counters and flooring, installing new sinks and faucets, adding an island or reconfiguring the layout of the room. It can also include upgrading to energy-efficient or more space-saving appliances, and incorporating specialty features like a wine cellar or a walk-in pantry.

Appliances can be an expensive part of any kitchen remodel. The good news is that the market offers a range of options for every budget, from standard appliance packages that deliver all the basic necessities to luxury brands that turn your kitchen into a chef’s paradise.

It’s best to select the appliances before committing to any other elements of the kitchen remodel, as this will give you plenty of time to compare prices and features. If you’re planning to keep your existing appliances, make sure they’re safe and secure during the renovation process by either moving them into another room or placing them in a garage or other out-of-the-way place.

While it may be tempting to upgrade to high-end appliances during a kitchen remodel, over-customizing the room with these items can limit its future home-buying audience. Instead, opt for attractive, functional upgrades that will appeal to a wider variety of homeowners.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important components of a kitchen remodel. It can elevate every other element in the space, transforming it into a welcoming and functional space for daily tasks, family meals, and entertaining.

During the planning stage, it’s essential to determine what kind of electrical work will be necessary. This will help you avoid delays and expensive changes later on in the project. It will also help you determine what kind of fixtures will be required, and how many.

Ambient lighting is typically achieved by installing recessed can lights or flush-mount fixtures in the ceiling. It provides softer overhead light that illuminates the room and improves the sense of warmth and depth. It can be complemented with chandeliers, pendants, or any other fixture style.

Task lighting is used to illuminate countertops and other workspaces. It should be precise and focused to reduce eye strain and prevent accidents. LED light strips under the cabinets, recessed lights in the pantry and above the island, and hanging lights are great options for this type of kitchen lighting.

Accent lighting is a great way to highlight decorative elements and architectural features in your kitchen, such as a beautiful backsplash or your favorite artwork. It can be done with sconces, uplights, strips, and track lighting.

Undercabinet lighting is a must-have for any kitchen. It ensures that your countertops and backsplash are adequately lit for food prep and cleaning. It’s also an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option.