Author Archive for Phoebe Chongchua

How To Make A Kitchen Remodel Go From Small To Perfect

A San Diego couple has to make a big decision to remodel their kitchen or sell their home. One major structural problem stands in the way of their remodel. But Marrokal Design & Remodeling comes up with a unique solution. See how they transformed a tiny kitchen into a delightful living space. Phoebe Chongchua has the story for Live Fit Magazine.

Kitchen Remodeling Tips

When remodeling the kitchen, there are two primary considerations: functionality and improving resale value. Kitchens are high on the list for buyers. Even those who don’t cook, still want to make sure the kitchen has an updated look, is spacious, and has great functionality.

Kitchen walls started coming down a few decades ago. The lack of separation in the rooms in the home leads to great rooms and an easier ability to connect with family members in common spaces.

Typically the most visible area of a kitchen is the cabinets. If they are worn or dated, the kitchen will be less appealing. Choosing to replace, customize, or simply refinish the doors can make a big difference. However, growing trends in kitchen architecture include softer lighting, larger windows, and–here’s a surprise–fewer cabinets. That doesn’t mean that you can get away with very little storage space, instead it means you have to be creative. Some homeowners are choosing to have built in storage spaces.

Create a gathering space. If you have a large kitchen, consider installing or placing a portable island in it. These are very popular for a number of reasons. They’re handy, useful for extra storage space, and they often become a central gathering spot at parties, especially when there’s food on them. Add a few bar stools and you’ve got a comfy and welcoming place for guests to relax while dinner is being prepared.

Turn down the lights. Not literally, rather use lighting that’s less harsh. Overhead lighting is excellent but, to create a mood, you can place accent lights in tucked-away areas that will still allow the light to shine in the kitchen. Maybe an adjoining hallway, for instance, could have a small lamp on a table or sconces on the walls.

Make room. Even though some architects are taking away the cabinets, buyers still are attracted to plenty of storage space. That means sellers who don’t have it, must creatively devise it. By staging your home with stand-alone cabinet furniture and displaying some kitchen items in them, you give buyers an idea of how to use the space. You can also have your remodeler create clever hideaways that look decorative and double as storage space. The options are nearly limitless. Explore and get creative. Always be sure to seek out an expert remodeling company for advice.

Remember, function and beauty will help ensure greater resale value when it comes time to sell your home.