Remodeling a kitchen is a significant undertaking requiring much planning and attention to detail. Unfortunately, with so much going on, some details may be overlooked. In this article, we will tell you about the most common details that are often overlooked, so you can avoid missing them while remodeling your kitchen.
Here are 29 often overlooked details during a kitchen remodel:
1 – Lighting: Proper lighting can significantly impact the functionality and ambiance of a kitchen.
- Task lighting: Task lighting provides focused illumination on areas where you will be working, such as over the stove, sink, or countertop. Choose task lighting fixtures that are bright enough to provide adequate lighting for your work surface.
- Ambient lighting: Ambient lighting provides general illumination for your kitchen. Choose ambient lighting fixtures that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Options include recessed lighting, pendant lighting, and chandeliers.
- Accent lighting: Accent lighting adds visual interest to your kitchen details and design. Consider adding under-cabinet lighting or lighting inside glass-front cabinets to highlight decorative items.
2 – Outlet placement: Planning for outlet placement can save you time and hassle during kitchen remodeling.
- Determine how many outlets you will need based on the number and type of appliances you plan to use in your kitchen.
- Place outlets strategically so that they are easily accessible from your work surfaces.
- Consider adding USB outlets for charging your devices.
- Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets near your sink and other water sources for added safety.
3 – Cabinet hardware: Cabinet hardware can significantly impact the look and feel of your kitchen.
- Choose a style that complements your cabinets and the overall design of your kitchen.
- Consider the size of the hardware in relation to the size of your cabinets. Oversized hardware on small cabinets can look out of proportion, while small hardware on large cabinets can be hard to grasp.
- Consider the finish of your hardware. Options include chrome, nickel, brass, or oil-rubbed bronze.
4 – Drawer inserts: Drawer inserts can help you stay organized and maximize your storage space.
- Choose inserts that are the right size and shape for your drawers. Options include cutlery trays, utensil dividers, and spice racks.
- Consider adding drawer organizers for your pots, pans, baking sheets, and cutting boards.
- Look for inserts made from durable plastic, wood, or metal materials.
5 – Cabinet lighting: Adding lighting to the inside of your cabinets can make it easier to find what you need and create a beautiful display.
- Choose lighting fixtures that are easy to install and do not require extensive wiring.
- Look for LED lighting options that are energy-efficient and long-lasting.
- Consider adding lighting to glass-front cabinets to showcase your decorative items.
- Consider adding under-cabinet lighting to your pantry or other storage areas.
6 – Seating: If you have a kitchen island or breakfast nook, consider the following:
- Bar stools: Bar stools can provide a casual and comfortable seating option for your kitchen island.
- Banquette: A banquette can provide a cozy and intimate seating option for your breakfast nook.
- Dining chairs: Dining chairs can provide a formal and elegant seating option for your kitchen island or dining area.
7 – Flooring: Choosing the right flooring for your kitchen is essential.
- Durability: Your kitchen floor will see a lot of traffic, spills, and stains. Choose a flooring material that is durable and easy to clean.
- Style: Your flooring should complement the overall design of your kitchen. Options include hardwood, tile, vinyl, and laminate.
- Maintenance: Consider the maintenance requirements of each flooring option before making a final decision.
8 – Appliance placement: Planning for appliance placement can make your kitchen more functional and efficient.
- Determine where your appliances will be located based on your workflow in the kitchen.
- Consider the size and dimensions of your appliances when planning your cabinet layout.
- Make sure your appliances are easily accessible and can be easily plugged in and serviced.
9 – Backsplash: A backsplash can add style and protect your kitchen walls from spills and stains.
- Choose a durable and easy-to-clean material, such as tile, glass, or metal.
- Consider the color and pattern of your backsplash in relation to your cabinets and countertops.
- Look for backsplash options that complement the overall design of your kitchen.
10 – Sink placement: Your sink’s placement can impact your kitchen’s functionality.
- Place your sink near a window for natural light and a pleasant view.
- Consider the size and depth of your sink in relation to your countertops.
- Choose a sink with a style and finish that complements your overall design.
11 – Countertop materials: Your countertop material can impact the look and feel of your kitchen.
- Granite: A durable and natural stone option with a unique appearance.
- Quartz: A low-maintenance option that comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
- Marble: A luxurious option with a timeless appeal.
- Butcher block: A warm and natural option that can add warmth to your kitchen.
12 – Faucet style: Your faucet style can add a unique touch to your kitchen details and design.
- Single-handle: A sleek and modern option that is easy to use.
- Double-handle: A classic option that provides separate controls for hot and cold water.
- Pull-down: A practical option that allows you to rinse dishes and fill pots easily.
- Wall-mount: A space-saving option that can add a unique touch to your design.
13 – Cabinet finish: Your cabinet finish can impact the overall look of your kitchen.
- Painted: A popular option that allows you to choose from various colors.
- Stained: A classic option that allows you to showcase the natural beauty of the wood.
- Glazed: A decorative option that adds depth and dimension to your cabinets.
- Distressed: A rustic option that creates a warm and inviting feel.
14 – Pantry storage: A pantry can provide additional storage space and keep your kitchen organized.
- Choose a pantry style that complements the overall design of your kitchen.
- Consider adding adjustable shelving to maximize your storage space.
- Look for pantry organizers such as door-mounted racks and pull-out baskets to keep your items easily accessible.
15 – Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential in a kitchen to remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors.
- Range hood: A range hood can remove smoke and steam from your stove and provide additional lighting.
- Downdraft ventilation: A downdraft ventilation system is a space-saving option that draws smoke and steam down and away from your stove.
- Ceiling-mounted exhaust fan: A ceiling-mounted exhaust fan can remove cooking odors from your kitchen.
16 – Water filtration: A water filtration system can provide your family with clean and safe drinking water.
- Whole-house water filtration system: A whole-house water filtration system can remove contaminants from your entire water supply.
- Under-sink water filtration system: An under-sink water filtration system can remove contaminants from your drinking water.
- Faucet-mounted water filtration system: A faucet-mounted system is an affordable and easy-to-install option.
17 – Safety: Your kitchen details should provide a safe space that is free from hazards.
- Non-slip flooring: Non-slip flooring can help prevent slips and falls in your kitchen.
- Fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher can help prevent fires in your kitchen and should be easily accessible.
- Child safety features: If you have children, consider child safety features such as locking cabinets, drawers, and stove guards.
18 – Trash and recycling storage: Proper trash and recycling storage can keep your kitchen organized and reduce odors.
- Pull-out trash can: A pull-out trash can be easily hidden behind a cabinet door.
- Trash compactor: A trash compactor can reduce trash volume and make it easier to dispose of.
- Recycling center: A recycling center can keep your recyclables organized and separate from your trash.
19 – Appliance finish: The finish of your appliances can impact the overall look of your kitchen.
- Stainless steel: A popular option that is durable and easy to clean.
- Black: A sleek and modern option that can add a unique touch to your design.
- White: A classic option that can provide a clean and simple look.
20 – Cabinet storage solutions: Proper cabinet storage solutions can maximize your storage space and keep your items easily accessible.
- Pull-out shelves: Pull-out shelves can make retrieving items in the back of your cabinets more accessible.
- Lazy Susan: A lazy Susan can provide easy access to items in corner cabinets.
- Roll-out trays: Roll-out trays can provide easy access to pots, pans, and other items stored in deep cabinets.
21 – Appliance garage: An appliance garage can keep your countertop appliances hidden and your counters clutter-free.
- Lift-up door: A lift-up door can provide easy access to your appliances while keeping them hidden.
- Pocket door: A pocket door can slide into the wall to create more space when your appliance is in use.
22 – Drawer organizers: Drawer organizers can keep your kitchen utensils and gadgets organized and easily accessible.
- Cutlery tray: A cutlery tray can keep your silverware organized and separate from other utensils.
- Utensil holder: An utensil holder can keep your cooking utensils organized and within reach.
- Dividers: Dividers can help organize your drawers for specific items such as baking sheets or pots and pans.
23 – Cabinet hardware: Cabinet hardware can add a decorative touch to your kitchen cabinets.
- Knobs: A classic option that comes in a wide range of styles and finishes.
- Pulls: A popular option that can provide a sleek and modern look.
- Handles: A sturdy option that can provide a more industrial or rustic look.
24 – Sink style and material: Your sink’s style and material can impact your kitchen’s overall look and functionality.
- Undermount sink: An under-mount sink can provide a sleek and seamless look to your countertop.
- Farmhouse sink: A farmhouse sink can provide a rustic and charming look to your kitchen.
- Stainless steel sink: A popular option that is durable and easy to clean.
25 – Countertop material: The material of your countertop can impact your kitchen’s overall look and functionality.
- Granite is a popular, durable option that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.
- Quartz: A low-maintenance option that is easy to clean and comes in various colors and patterns.
- Marble: A luxurious option that adds a classic and elegant touch to your kitchen.
26 – Color scheme: Your kitchen color scheme can impact the overall look and feel of your home.
- Neutral colors: Neutral colors such as white, beige, and gray can provide a timeless and classic look to your kitchen.
- Bold colors: Bold colors such as red, blue, and green can provide a vibrant and modern look to your kitchen.
- Accent colors: Accent colors such as gold, silver, or copper can give your kitchen a touch of elegance and sophistication.
27 – Flooring material: The material of your flooring can impact the overall look and functionality of your kitchen.
- Hardwood: A classic option that can provide warmth and character to your kitchen.
- Tile: A durable and easy-to-clean option that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.
- Vinyl: A cost-effective option that is easy to clean and comes in various styles and colors.
28 – Decorative accents: Decorative accents can add a personal touch to your kitchen design.
- Window treatments: Window treatments can provide privacy and add a decorative touch to your kitchen.
- Artwork: Artwork can add a pop of color and personality to your kitchen walls.
- Plants: Plants can add a natural and refreshing touch to your kitchen.
29 – Power sources: Make sure that you have enough power sources in your kitchen to accommodate all of your appliances and devices.
- Install GFCI outlets near your sink and other water sources to prevent electrical shock.
- Consider adding USB outlets for charging your devices.
- Work with a licensed electrician to ensure your electrical system is up to code.
A kitchen remodel can be a major undertaking, but paying attention to the details can ensure that you create a functional, stylish, personalized space that meets your needs and reflects your style. From layout and storage to finishes and accessories, there are many details to consider, and it’s important to carefully plan and budget for each one. Doing so allows you to create a kitchen you’ll love for years.
Mountain States Kitchen and Bath Has an Eye for Details!
When remodeling a kitchen, Mountain States Kitchen and Bath will be sure that no detail is left behind throughout the remodeling process. Contact us, and let us help you remodel your dream kitchen today!
