Kitchen Remodeling Tips – 5 Popular Kitchen Floor Plans and Other Design Advice…

The social epicenter of your home, this is where some of the most memorable events are made, from family breakfasts to eloquent dinner parties. Choosing a floor plan that provides not only a beautiful design, but a functional layout is infinitely preferable to other plans. Here are some floor plan ideas to help find the one that’s most suited for your lifestyle.

Which Layout Should I Choose?

The room design will be the determining factor behind the layout of your kitchen. In most kitchens, there are only five common layouts to choose from- the G, L, U, single wall, and galley style. Any of these will create the triangle kitchen workspace from the stove, refrigerator, and sink.

L-Shaped

While being a practical option for small and large kitchens, it provides the natural triangle with continuous counter space and workstations on the adjacent walls. Giving the chef some privacy for food preparation typically opens up where they can also interact with family or guests. This option is perfect for entertaining.

U-Shaped

A perfect choice for a larger kitchen, the U- shape is composed of cabinetry and fixtures. The adjacent walls provide prep space and an abundance of storage. If there is more than one chef in the kitchen, this would be a great option.

 

G-Shaped

Also referred to as the peninsula, it is similar to the U-shaped layout. This works best in medium to large spaces. The design surrounds the cook on 3 sides which gives it a more welcoming appeal, while also providing optimal storage.

 

Single Wall Or Straight Kitchen

This is a very basic style and is used mostly in smaller homes, apartments, and lofts. This design keeps all appliances and counter spaces lined up on one linear wall in order to conserve floor space and reduce costs.

 

Galley Or Corridor Kitchen

This style is perfect for the right space, if not designed properly it can be greatly inefficient. With cabinets facing each other, this forms a passage or galley between them. This style is common in many restaurants.

Designing Tips

Careful and thoughtful components are imperative to maximize the kitchen space. Also important are functionality and livability while exploring the kitchen design and choosing appliances.

Here are some things to consider when choosing the layout:

  • Traffic – Make sure you have enough room for at least 2 people to fully function in the kitchen without issues of bumping into one another. Make sure there won’t be anything obstructing the oven and refrigerator doors.
  • Comfortable Distance – While keeping the sink, fridge, and stove in close proximity, allowing at least 120cm will let you open all doors and drawers without difficulty. If you are planning on having wire baskets as an accessory, be sure to leave filler space between the last cabinet and wall.
  • Kitchen Island Distance – Your kitchen island will serve as a workspace to prepare meals. Make sure that the island isn’t so close that it obstructs things like your oven door or is too far away and non-functional as a prep station.
  • Counterspace – Include a prep sink, so the countertop surface isn’t broken up by cooktop appliances. This will maximize your counter space and prep areas.

Common Kitchen Floor Plan Mistakes To Avoid

  • Putting the sink in first
  • Placing the sink next to a wall; this will interrupt your flow
  • Install your dishwasher or oven in the corner of the kitchen; this may prevent you from opening adjacent doors

How You May Mess With Workflow If You Aren’t Careful

  • Mismeasure counter height or waste any valuable counter space
  • Underestimate electrical outlets, neglect plumbing, proper ventilation or heating
  • Forget to properly dispose of recycling or debris

Communication Pitfalls

  • Lack of communication with the builders, not asking for assistance from the experts
  • Disregard creating a clear plan in writing that lays out the pricing, schedule and commitments

Contact Us (513) 769-5044 for a Consultation!

About Business Concepts Remodeling

Building Concepts - Greater Cincinnati Remodeling

Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Every day, we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.
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10 Tips for a Successful Kitchen Remodel…

Are you planning a kitchen remodel? Renovating your kitchen can be an exciting but challenging project. It requires careful planning, decision-making, and coordination with contractors and designers. To ensure a successful kitchen remodel, we have compiled 10 essential tips that will guide you through the process. From choosing the right professionals to mapping out your expenses, these tips will help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

1. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Renovation

Before embarking on a kitchen remodel, it is crucial to plan ahead. While it would be ideal to stay elsewhere during the renovation, it is often not feasible. In such cases, consider setting up a temporary kitchen in your dining room or laundry room. Expect the construction to take longer than estimated, so factor in additional time when planning. To avoid frustration, count on the renovation taking a little longer than the contractor’s initial estimate. Planning ahead will help you navigate the logistics and minimize disruptions during the remodeling process.

2. Study Your Current Kitchen

Take the time to thoroughly study your existing kitchen before making any design decisions. Identify what you love about it and what you wish to change. Understanding your existing kitchen’s layout and square footage is essential when envisioning the new design. If you have specific desires, like a large island, but the space does not allow for it, consider alternative solutions that will work better within your kitchen’s constraints. Dig deeper and ask yourself why you want certain features or changes. Exploring the “why” can lead to innovative solutions that optimize your kitchen space.

3. Assess What Needs to Be Changed

Not everything in your kitchen needs to be replaced or renovated. If elements like windows or plumbing locations work well with your new plan, keep them. By retaining functional components, you can save money and time. Reusing existing features also adds a touch of familiarity and continuity to your kitchen remodel. Evaluate each aspect of your kitchen and prioritize what truly needs an upgrade. This strategic approach will help you stay within your budget and streamline the renovation process.

4. Consult the Experts

Enlisting the help of professionals is crucial for a successful kitchen remodel. Consider working with a designer, architect, and contractor to ensure that every aspect of the project is handled expertly. Hiring professionals can alleviate stress and help you make informed decisions. If your budget is limited, look for designers who offer consultation services by the hour. Having your entire team in place from the beginning will lead to better results and a smoother remodeling experience.

5. Prioritize Functionality

Functionality should be a top priority when designing your new kitchen. Consider your cooking habits, storage needs, and lifestyle. Analyze the items you currently have, such as pots, pans, and spices, and evaluate how you use them. Take inventory of your kitchen essentials to determine the necessary storage space. When selecting finishes and materials, consider their maintenance requirements and durability. A functional kitchen that suits your needs will enhance your daily cooking experience.

6. Choose Appliances Early

Selecting appliances early in the remodeling process is crucial as they play a significant role in determining the overall layout and design of your kitchen. Research and decide on the appliances that align with your cooking style and preferences. Consider factors such as size, energy efficiency, and features. Appliances can vary greatly in cost, so carefully evaluate your budget and make informed choices. Planning appliance placement in advance will prevent costly changes later on and ensure a seamless integration into your kitchen design.

7. Let the Space Inform Design Decisions

Before making design choices, consider how your kitchen fits into the overall layout of your home. If your kitchen opens into another room, take into account the elements that exist in that space. Aim for a cohesive design that allows all the elements in your home to harmonize. While an open concept kitchen is popular, it may not be suitable for every home. Consider your family’s lifestyle and preferences when determining the layout and design of your kitchen. Let the space dictate your design decisions to create a unified flow throughout your home.

8. Create a Comfortable and Beautiful Space

While functionality is essential, your kitchen should also be a comfortable and beautiful space. Treat your kitchen like any other room in your home by incorporating finishes and textiles that soften the space. Add personal touches such as artwork and decor to make it feel inviting. Strive for a balance between functionality and aesthetics to create a kitchen that you and your family will enjoy spending time in. Strike a chord between practicality and beauty to achieve a kitchen that truly reflects your style.

9. Aim for Timeless Design

When it comes to kitchen remodels, it’s wise to prioritize timeless design over trendy choices. Trends come and go, and incorporating them extensively in your kitchen can quickly make it look dated. Opt for classic design elements that stand the test of time. However, if you are drawn to a particular trend, incorporate it in easily replaceable elements like barstools, lighting fixtures, or drawer pulls. This way, you can update your kitchen’s style without undergoing a major renovation.

10. Reflect on Your Goals

Before starting your kitchen remodel, take a moment to reflect on your goals. Identify the pain points of your current kitchen and pinpoint the improvements you want to achieve. Whether it’s creating more storage space, improving functionality, or updating outdated features, align your remodel with your desired outcomes. By keeping your goals in mind throughout the process, you can ensure that every decision you make brings you closer to creating the kitchen of your dreams.

A successful kitchen remodel requires careful planning, expert advice, and thoughtful decision-making. By following these 10 tips, you can navigate the remodeling process smoothly and achieve a kitchen that meets your functional and aesthetic needs. Remember to plan ahead, consult professionals, prioritize functionality, and create a timeless design. With proper preparation and execution, your kitchen remodel will be a rewarding experience that enhances your home and daily life.

Contact Us (513) 769-5044 for a Consultation!

About Business Concepts Remodeling

Building Concepts - Greater Cincinnati Remodeling

Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Everyday we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.
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Remodeling Tips – The 4 Rs Of Home Improvement… Renovate, Restore, Remodel, and Refurbish…

Restoration, refurbishment, remodeling, and renovation are common terms in home construction projects. They all mean the reconstruction of an existing building in some aspect. They can be used interchangeably, but the definitions of these terms are different.

Renovation

Renovation focuses on removing parts and replacing them with new ones. Renovation can include updating the exterior, altering the aesthetics, and/or changing the floor plan.

Restoration

Unlike renovation, restoration attempts to preserve the historical nature of the building as much as possible. It uses special care to maintain the original integrity of the structure itself. Restoration brings back the original beauty of the building. As long as a home has a solid foundation and requires only minimal repairs, restoration is often the most cost-effective choice.

Remodeling

Remodeling is improving the home by updating what is already there. In other words, remodeling is upgrading the look of your home. When you are updating your older style home with a more modern style, this is remodeling.

Refurbish

Refurbishment allows updating a house using more creative freedoms. This refers to improving a house without changing the purpose of the space. The aim is to improve a structure by replacing or upgrading components but not making significant changes to the structure or layout of the building.

The Bottom Line

Whether you are planning to renovate your home or want to modernize your home through renovation, Building Concepts is the company to call for your project. Once we know your budget, we can help you determine the best choice in how to proceed.

 

Contact Us (513) 769-5044 for a Consultation!

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About Business Concepts Remodeling

Building Concepts - Greater Cincinnati Remodeling

Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Everyday we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.
> Learn More

Kitchen Remodeling Tips – The 4 Top Reasons to Remodel Your Kitchen…

Kitchen remodel is a big deal because it can both be costly and time-consuming. You and your family spend a lot of time in your kitchen it is a big part of your home. A whopping 49 percent of homeowners underwent a kitchen renovation to encourage more family time. The following are the top reasons to remodel your kitchen…

Redesign the Kitchen Layout

A clever layout will make all the difference in helping you to get the most out of the space. Especially in a kitchen, there is a lot more to layout than just placing furniture and cabinetry: ergonomics has a huge role to play as well. Getting the heights right, ensuring enough space for comfortable movement, placement of appliances, and ease of use are all going to factor in your enjoyment of the room. It is far more difficult to enjoy time spent in the kitchen if it is a chore to navigate.

Update Old appliances, Countertops, Flooring, and More

Maybe the materials are degrading. This can be the perfect sign that it is time to remodel. Over time all things wear out and begin to look dated. You need to breathe new life into this central space.

Create a Whole New Design Style

One of the most popular kitchen trends in smart appliances is touchless faucets. 78% of professionals say there is an increased interest in easy-to-clean surfaces. The most popular paint for kitchen wall are white, off-white, and gray paint colors. White and gray paint colors have been having a moment for a while, and this trend will continue. So if the kitchen is looking drab and the appliance and fixtures are outdated, it could be time for a remodel.

Elevate The Resale Value of Your Home

So far, the industry’s standard ROI for mid-range kitchen makeover falls between 50% to 60% of your overall budget for remodeling. For instance, if you spent $69,000 redoing your kitchen, then you can expect to recoup around $34,500 to $41,400. Even if you don’t totally recoup your costs, you will be able to compete with other homes who do have updated kitchens.

Contact Us (513) 769-5044 for a Consultation!

—

About Business Concepts Remodeling

Building Concepts - Greater Cincinnati Remodeling

Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Everyday we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.
> Learn More

4 Reasons Remodeling is Good For You, Your Home, and Your Longterm Financial Success…

You love the area where your home is located. You have added upgrades through the years. But there are things still on your wish list for turning this into your dream home. Remodeling is far from simple, as many factors need to be taken into consideration such as: timing, funding, market cost, and technological advances. Here are a few reasons why now could be the perfect time to create your dream home…

You Will Enjoy the Upgrades While You Live There

Doing so will afford you the opportunity and, more importantly, the capital to finally make those improvements you’ve dreamt about for so long. Now may be the perfect time to update your kitchen with new appliances, tile, countertops, cabinets, or flooring. Maybe you’ve finally had enough of your outdated bathroom fixtures. Or maybe this is finally the opportune time to finish that full basement with all its glorious potential. No matter the updates you dream of, this real estate market is prime for your home improvements.

Don’t Skimp, Don’t Overspend

Whether you hire a contractor or take on the work yourself, begin with an accurate estimate of what the project will cost. If you do not have the cash to complete your project, lenders will insist on a specific figure before they work with you. If you’re hiring a contractor, start with a firm bid, broken down into labor and materials. Then add on 10 percent for surprises. On work you’ll do yourself, compile a detailed materials list with quantities, costs, and an accurate total. Include permit fees and equipment rental. Then add a cushion of 20 to 30 percent to be safe.

The Right Upgrades Will Increase the Value of Your Home

Remodeling a single-family house is an excellent way for homeowners to add increased functionality and beauty to a property at someone else’s expense. By choosing the right project to enhance your living space, a significant portion of the expense can be passed on to future owners in the form of increased property values. When you are looking to sell your home, upgrading key areas like the bathrooms and kitchen will increase the value. You will be surprised at what an easy and inexpensive update can do for your home’s value.

Take Advantage Of Recent Technological Advances

Smart home technology is everywhere today. It has made its way into our vehicles, our workplaces, and our pockets. With smart tech’s skill at automation, it’s no surprise that it has found a perfect place in the home. Nearly 70% of homes already own some type of smart home tech. And that number is only growing. Some forms of smart home technology should be incorporated during a home remodel. The Internet of Things (IoT) is here to stay but choosing a few or even just one device or smart home technology system can offer a convenient way to stay on top of the inner mechanics of your home.

So, how do you know when it’s time to update your home? If you’d like to move from your current home and earn top dollar on your sale, then it may be time to make some home improvements to make your home marketable.

Contact Us (513) 769-5044 for a Consultation!

About Business Concepts Remodeling

Building Concepts - Greater Cincinnati Remodeling

Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Every day, we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.

> Learn More

6 Tips For Renovating Your Rental Property Kitchen…

A kitchen is one of the first rooms a prospective tenant will want to see. If it’s not up to their standards, they may not want to rent your property. The kitchen is not only for preparing meals, but it’s also the center for family or social gatherings in the home.

Invest In Energy Efficient Appliances

One of the most important things to invest in is kitchen appliances. A cheaper appliance will likely not withstand tenant after tenant. It is best to choose mid-grade as not to over-invest either. Energy-efficient appliances would also appeal to tenants to help reduce energy bills. Built-in appliances are also a great option as they are much easier to clean than free-standing. Consider converting any gas appliances to electric to reduce the risk of fire.

Update The Kitchen Cabinets

Your cabinetry is going to be an area that you will need to be strategic. For instance, you will want to use plywood under sinks due to exposure to water as it doesn’t swell or disintegrate like other wood.

Sufficient storage is a must in the kitchen, most rental properties don’t provide enough. Tall cabinetry that reaches the ceiling is another benefit with less surface area for dust.

Choose material that is resistant to heat, stains, and moisture. Also, consider neutral colors which will also appeal to tenants as to coordinate with any accessories.

Fixtures And Backsplash

Replacing your plumbing fixtures can revamp the kitchen and provide a more modern look. Install low-flow faucets to be more energy efficient and to prevent replacing often, invest in higher quality fixtures. Adding a backsplash can brighten the kitchen and will most of the time, be inexpensive.

Paint The Walls

While painting the walls will certainly beautify the kitchen, the color choice will need to be neutral. Tenants will want to bring in their own accessories that will coordinate with the paint.

Replace Doors And Countertops

Replace the doors with higher-quality material. Melamine is inexpensive but very durable. High-end doors will increase the value of your investment.

Stone countertops are a great option versus laminate. Quartz requires no maintenance; Granite is another great option but will need seal applied regularly.

Laminate is another choice since it is affordable, functional, and stain-resistant, but it’s not as durable.

Counter Space

Most tenants are looking for functionality, apartment size refrigerators and cooking ranges are all they need. Upgrading to double sinks, a large fridge, or a cooking range isn’t necessary.

Choosing single sinks and moderate-size appliances will maximize counter space.

In essence, are you wanting to renovate and give a modern touch? Or are you wanting to provide an energy-efficient kitchen? Whichever you choose, the retention rate of your tenant will improve with a renovation.

Contact Us (513) 769-5044 for a Consultation!

About Business Concepts Remodeling

Building Concepts - Greater Cincinnati Remodeling

Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Every day, we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.
> Learn More