Category Archives: Kitchen improvement

Bring Touches of Country to the Kitchen

If your kitchen is undergoing a renovation, or just needs a quick update, consider redecorating it with a country motif. This doesn’t have to mean a galvanized wash basin and antlers on the wall, however. Rather than saturating your kitchen with one theme, try adding in elements of it. Small changes can bring hints of the country inside but without going overboard.

Photo credit: clocksaroundtheworld.com

Details Matter

If the idea of doing too much at once is overwhelming, starting with small changes first can help. Some of the smallest details are what really drive the country idea home. Replace the dusty old wall clock with a rooster kitchen clock. Opt for a wide apron-front sink to add a more rustic feel versus a more modern model. Put a woven rug on the floor. It doesn’t have to be a drastic change to make a huge difference when decorating. 

Color Scheme

Pick color swatches in shades typically associated with the country vibe. Greens and yellows might be an example, or perhaps reds and browns. Whatever the color scheme, give it small “pops” throughout the kitchen before rushing to paint the walls anything bold. Using the chosen colors as a guide, buy coordinating small appliances and dish towels. These can be small, nondescript ways to add color to the kitchen without overdoing it.

Rustic Decor Without Spending Much

Reuse what’s already available and repurpose it to fit the new motif. Turn an unused water jug into a flower vase, or hang pots and pans on the wall instead of hiding them in a cupboard. Be creative with items already within the household and find a way to repurpose them. 

It’s important to be happy with a new kitchen, and going for a particular theme is a bold move. Bring the country motif into the kitchen in subtle ways rather than diving in feet-first. Sometimes in a remodel, less actually is more.

Easy Kitchen Updates

Summer tends to be the time when people start projects around the house.  If you have an older home, you may be considering updating your kitchen.  What exactly is kitchen updating?  It is just making it more modern, without the drawbacks of a full remodel.  This means no construction or changing major items, just updating small items that can make a big difference.

Here are some easy kitchen updates that you can do during the weekends this summer.  They are relatively quick, and can make your kitchen look much more updated.  If you need other ideas, you may want to check out Kitchens by Wren.

Updating Your Cabinets

The first thing you can do to make your kitchen look more updated is to update your cabinets.  There is no reason to get new cabinets if yours are still in good condition.  Instead, focus on what you can do to make them look new again.

First, you may want to consider changing out the hardware.  Cabinet hardware makes a big difference on how they look, and hardware is relatively cheap.  Check out your local store for inspiration, and see if there is newer hardware that could make your cabinets look sharp.

A second, bigger, project is to update your cabinet color or stain.  You could sand down the face of your cabinets if they are wood and either re-stain them, or paint them a new color.  Depending on the style of your home, fresh white cabinets could make your kitchen look new and modern again.

Upgrading Your Appliances

Another easy upgrade is to get new appliances.  This is probably one of the more expensive upgrades you can do, but getting new stainless steel appliance can really make your kitchen look sharp, and can add functionality.  This is especially true if you haven’t upgraded your appliances in years.

The important thing to consider when upgrading your appliances is to make sure that they will fit into the existing space, and that you have the right type of hook-ups.  For example, don’t get a gas range top if you have electric currently and don’t have a gas line.  The range top wouldn’t work, and adding a gas line adds expense, and may not even be possible.

Also, if you’re getting a new refrigerator, make sure that you have the appropriate water hook ups.  Many old refrigerators didn’t have water in the door, and most new ones do, so plan appropriately.

Things to consider when remodeling your kitchen

Image courtesy of toonsteb at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of toonsteb at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Remodeling your kitchen can be one of the best investments you can make in your home. It can turn an ordinary space into a custom designed, functional work area, and when the time comes to sell, the updated kitchen will help you sell quicker and for more money. There are just a few key factors to consider before you begin this worthwhile project.

The Colors

The color scheme you choose should make you feel comfortable and blend well with the rest of the house. Begin by taking a good look at the colors throughout your home. If you tend to use neutral colors, stick with these hues in the kitchen too. The same applies for bright, bold colors. Make sure the appliances blend in nicely. White refrigerators, stoves, and sinks work well in country settings while stainless steel ads an elegant, upscale feel to contemporary kitchens.

The Work

If your remodel is simple, you may be able to make this a do-it-yourself project. Painting, adding new furniture, or switching out the appliances is all easy tasks that you probably won’t have any trouble doing on your own. If you are replacing the cabinets, adding windows, or putting in new floors, you may want to hire someone to do the work. Contractors for home remodeling can accomplish these jobs much more easily than you can. Ask your friends for recommendations or search on sites such as renovationexperts.com for qualified professionals in your area.

The Seating

The kitchen is the heart of the home where friends and family gather together. If space allows, you will want to add seating so that everyone is comfortable. Think about how this room is used. Not only do families eat their breakfast, lunch, and dinner in this area, but you may need a space for the kids to do homework. A small scale table and chairs can create the perfect eat in kitchen, while islands can be designed to include bar stools along one side so that you can easily visit with others while cooking.

If you keep these three factors in mind as you design your new kitchen, you will end up with a comfortable and functional space that you will enjoy for years to come. It is an investment you will immediately see a return on as you gather together in this room with your loved ones.