The counters are scratched, the cabinets rickety, the sink leaks, and the once shiny floors are now shabby at best. This, simply put, is the kitchen’s worst nightmare, and the harsh reality of far too many people! If your kitchen is in need of a remodel, you know how time consuming, inconvenient, and expensive this project can be. However, by making smart choices that stand the test of time, you’ll ensure your space stays pristine for decades to come. To help you design a room that will stand the test of time, let’s take a look at the five hallmarks of all quality kitchens.
1. An undated design
When it comes to your kitchen design, it’s easy to fall into the trap of prioritizing elegance over functionality. But while the triangular island and elegant pull-out dining table may be stylish, how happy will you be when the corners of your island get in your way and the surface area is too small? Or when you spend an extra 15 minutes preparing your table before each group meal? Sooner or later, your frustration will outweigh your satisfaction, and you’ll wish you’d gone with a more practical design in the first place. So don’t underestimate the value of a simple, open layout, with wide aisles and spacious, easily accessible surfaces. Works wonders in all quality kitchens!
2. Fantastic floors
There’s something to be said for glossy hardwood floors, but fast forward a few years: how will it feel when the shine wears off, they’re covered in watermarks, and the boards creak underfoot? To save yourself a great deal of time, work, and money in the future, it’s wise to go for a lower-maintenance option like tile or engineered wood. These surfaces are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also have the added benefit of being slip-resistant and waterproof. Two birds, one shot.
3. Carefully Considered Cabinets
Your inclination may be to opt for traditional cabinets, outfitted with door fronts. However, while this design has dominated the scene for years, many quality modern kitchens are trying something new: more drawers. These fully extending storage wonders not only look beautiful, but are also highly practical, allowing you to take stock of your contents at a glance and maximize space. What could not be loved?
4. Sound sinks
You may not have given your sink much thought, but contrary to popular belief, it’s an essential kitchen feature that’s easy to get wrong. For example, while materials like porcelain may look elegant, they stain and chip easily, resulting in additional cleaning time and maintenance work on your part. As a general rule of thumb, your sink should not only look stunning, it should also be streamlined. Stainless steel strikes an ideal balance between these two criteria, as do matte finishes, cast iron, and undermount sinks.
5. Convenient countertops
For passionate cooks, this decision is a deciding factor and must be carefully considered. Again, you might be tempted to go with a classically beautiful surface material like wood, but by now you’ve probably realized that just thinking about what it’s going to look like is a big no-no. From water spots to mold and scratches, you’re setting yourself up for a maintenance nightmare, so consider practical alternatives. Some of the top candidates for quality kitchens are quartz and countertops, known for their versatility and durability. But neolith, a sintered stone from Spain, is certainly the cream of the crop, thanks to its water, heat and scratch resistant properties. Oh, and it looks pretty fabulous too!
A remodel can be daunting and expensive, but considering the big picture and
making practical decisions is sure to save you a lot of time, frustration, and money in the long run. By opting for a timeless design, chances are your space will look like new ten years from now – the defining characteristic of all quality kitchens!