“I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but the world is a little unsettling right now,” Deanna said. “Like lots of people, I’ve dealt with the stress by focusing on home renovation projects. Right now we’re planning our 2022 kitchen remodel. What’s really important to me is that our house is a sanctuary – a place where I, and my partner, who is also in healthcare, and our kids can feel safe and secure. What does that look like in the kitchen?”
As Hopkinton kitchen remodelers, we can say that if you’re like Deanna, you’re not alone. Better Homes and Gardens recently identified warm color schemes – think lots of natural wood, warm beiges, and the occasional orange or turquoise highlight – as a kitchen design trend with staying power. The reason why? People are drawn to this color palette as being particularly comforting. Stress levels go down, and relaxation becomes possible.
Other comforting elements? Smart storage that allows for an absence of clutter without imposing stressful levels of minimalism. While totally bare countertops and pristine high-gloss surfaces may look great on Pinterest, busy families often have too much going on to maintain that look. Matching one’s aesthetic goals with one’s actual lifestyle helps eliminate things like worrying about fingerprints on the fridge.
Finally, consider functionality. “For me, there’s nothing more comforting than us being together,” Deanna said. The Hopkinton family opted for a dine-in kitchen as well as a formal dining room. “While it’s nice to gather at the table – I am not about to give up on Sunday dinners whenever they’re possible! – in real life, memories get made during the quick everyday meals too.”
The building supply shortages that hit the remodeling community hard during the pandemic are starting to resolve. That being said, it’s a good idea to start talking to your Hopkinton remodeling contractor as early in the process as possible so you can make your choices with product availability in mind.
