“The decision to renovate the kitchen wasn’t an easy one,” Janet said. “My husband and I had to take a long look at the budget and say “Is this what we want to do with this money?” To be frank, it meant postponing a Disney trip until the kids are a little older.” The Needham family has three children, aged 8, 6, and 3. “But that vacation will be for a few days, whereas we use the kitchen every single day. So we decided to say yes – and I am so glad we did.”
3 Ways Renovating the Kitchen Made Our Family Happier
#1 There’s more space & light in the kitchen now – so the family doesn’t feel crowded!
“Our home is on the older side, which means small rooms. The kitchen in particular was very small and dark. Even with the lights on it felt gloomy in there,” Janet explained. The typical Needham kitchen remodel does increase the size of the kitchen, proving more room for families to enjoy cooking together. “We also had three large windows put in, which gives me a fantastic view of the back yard. It makes life so much easier to be able to watch the kids out there playing while getting dinner on the table.”
#2 We’re saving a small fortune on our electric and water bill now.
“This was a benefit we never expected, but our Needham kitchen remodeling contractor made a point of asking us about energy efficiency. “Things like choosing the right appliances results in less power being used on a day-to-day basis. The walls on the bump-out addition part of the new kitchen are very well insulated, and the new replacement windows also keep the heat in,” Janet said. “Seeing the bills actually go down was a nice surprise – and a real benefit to the family budget!”
In addition to energy-efficient choices, selecting high-quality materials is crucial for a kitchen renovation that stands the test of time. Opting for quartz countertops not only enhances the kitchen’s elegance but also provides unmatched durability and unique aesthetics that surpass cheaper alternatives like laminate.
Furthermore, investing in custom cabinets tailored to your specifications ensures a perfect fit and style that complements the overall design. High-end cabinet materials can endure years, even decades, of use without needing replacement, providing both beauty and functionality.
By combining energy efficiency with premium materials, a kitchen remodel becomes a smart investment that elevates both the home’s value and the quality of everyday living.
#3 My parents & in-laws are actually impressed.
“Our family loves each other, but there’s a tendency for everyone to be critical,” Janet said. “If we bought a Lexus, it should have been a Mercedes. Things like that,” she explained. “But our kitchen remodel was so well done, they couldn’t find anything to nitpick! It’s well worth the time to find a building contractor who really does quality work.”
How to Ensure Your Kitchen Remodeling Project is Both Functional and Visually Appealing
Transforming your kitchen into a space that is both practical and beautiful requires careful planning and selection of materials. To achieve this balance, consider these essential elements:
1. Focus on Quality Materials
Invest in high-end materials that exude beauty and offer durability. Brands like Caesarstone for countertops or Kohler for fixtures provide products designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while enhancing the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal.
2. Choose Custom Cabinetry
Custom cabinets offer superior functionality and style. Tailor these to fit your exact needs and personal taste, ensuring ample storage for all your kitchen essentials—from dishes to specialty appliances. Companies like IKEA and Wayfair can provide semi-custom options that balance personalization with budget-friendliness.
3. Incorporate Effective Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in both the function and look of your kitchen. Consider layered lighting solutions, such as pendant lights for ambiance and under-cabinet lighting for task-oriented spaces. Philips Hue offers smart lighting options that allow for customizable settings, adapting to different needs throughout the day.
4. Plan a Thoughtful Layout
An intuitive kitchen layout maximizes efficiency. Engage in thorough planning or consult with professionals to create a space that flows easily, placing major elements—like the sink, stove, and refrigerator—in strategic locations to optimize your culinary experience. Utilize tools like RoomSketcher for a 3D model to visualize the layout before committing.
5. Add Personal Style Elements
Incorporate design elements that reflect your personal style to make the kitchen your own. Whether it’s a pop of color from a tile backsplash or unique drawer pulls, these touches add visual appeal. Turn to retailers like Anthropologie for unique, character-filled pieces.
By focusing on these critical aspects—quality materials, custom cabinetry, effective lighting, a smart layout, and personal touches—you can create a kitchen that is an ideal blend of form and function, ensuring it remains a cherished part of your home for years to come.
