Kitchen Remodels

with Ceramic Designs

I love getting to see freshly remodeled kitchens! The transformations can be so huge! It’s amazing what new or freshly painted cabinets and new counter surfaces can do. This round of homes with Ceramic Designs were all kitchens, so I thought it would be helpful to include some helpful kitchen remodeling tips from Better Homes & Garden’s. You can see more tips from their blog post ”20 Kitchen Remodeling Tips” HERE.

• Design Wide Walkways - Paths throughout a kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide. Paths within the cooking zone should be 42 inches wide for a one-cook kitchen and 48 inches wide for a two-cook configuration. When planning, adjust kitchen islands and peninsulas accordingly.

• Find the Right Height for the Microwave - The best height and location for a microwave oven depends on the chef and the degree of kid-friendliness desired in the kitchen. For adults, 15 inches above countertop level is a good microwave height. For kids, a below-countertop setup might be safer and more suitable.

• Determine the Island’s Function - When it comes to kitchen islands, form follows function. If you want to cook and eat on kitchen islands, plan enough space so the cooktop is safely separated from the dining area.

• Consider the Countertops - Those who cook frequently require more counter space -- ideally between the range and sink -- than those who cook infrequently or who prepare simple meals. Incorporating two countertop heights makes baking easy and helps kids who are involved in meal preparation.

• Cut Cleaning Time - Careful design decisions make cleaning easy. Glass refrigerator shelves catch spills that wire shelves let through. Flush-set or undermount sinks don't have a crumb-catching rim to worry about. Matte finishes don't show dirt as much as glossy ones do.

• Use Light Colors in a Small Kitchen - Dark color schemes shrink an already small space and make it less inviting. Use soft shades on kitchen cabinets and natural light to visually expand a small room.

• Find a Focal Point - Splashy tile, fancy floors, sizable range hoods, bright kitchen cabinets, and busy countertop patterns give the eye too much to look at. Pick one focal point in your kitchen design and complement that area with a few other quieter, eye-pleasing details.

Happy Remodeling!!! If you need help with your countertops and flooring, give Ceramic Designs a call!