Aside from functionality, the most crucial consideration when looking for kitchen remodeling ideas is that your investment will stand the test of time. Each age appears to have its own culinary dos and don’ts, the majority of which do not last more than a decade.
That is a massive budgetary waste, not to mention a letdown. So how can you invest in a kitchen that will continue to appear as lovely as the day it was built? Opt for timeless simplicity and disregard current trends, regardless of their popularity.
Here are some suggestions for designing a kitchen that will stand the test of time:
1#: Invest in white appliances
Stainless steel has been popular for some time and is a staple in professional kitchens. It might be said that stainless steel will never go out of style, and it’s certainly simple to maintain its attractive appearance. But stainless has not been the case throughout history.
By a wide margin, white is the color that has withstood the test of time the best. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Survey, white is the most favored kitchen color. Additionally, it has led the chart every other year.
This is actually excellent news for homeowners. Stainless steel appliances are significantly more expensive than white ones, so you can afford a better stove and refrigerator in this ultra-classic hue than you could in stainless steel.
2#: Consider long-term wear while selecting flooring
There are several wonderful vinyl alternatives, which have existed for centuries. However, vinyl has a finite lifespan that is not particularly long. Consider durability in addition to aesthetics, and you will be happier.
Wood will likely never go out of style, and it’s also more comfortable to walk on than the alternative, tile. Even under severe wear, it can be stained and polished and will continue to look magnificent decades afterward. If a tile is broken, it must be replaced.
MSN Lifestyle likewise praises wood for its even-new feeling of history. It can anchor the space as few other materials can.
3#: Do not use granite countertops
Similar to stainless steel, granite is experiencing its heyday. Consider the aesthetic attributes of granite, and you will realize how quickly this expensive, albeit attractive, material may become old. Marble may be the superior and more timeless option.
The majority of granite has distinct hues and patterns. But will you still want to live with them in fifteen years? Maybe, but maybe not. And it is a costly wager.
If you desire a traditional countertop, consider Carrara marble. This stone differs greatly from Calacatta marble, which features brilliant whites and striking gray veining. Carrara marble offers softer grays and whites, so avoiding the harsh fashion statement appearance. It is ageless and far less expensive than granite. It is susceptible to staining, but so is granite, and sealants can prevent this.
#4: Storage, storage, storage
Shaker-style cabinets are popular because their basic, clean lines complement a variety of interior design styles, from minimalist urban to warm rustic. They are a rather safe bet for practically any residence. However, storage is more crucial than design.
There are numerous innovative ways to furnish your kitchen, ranging from open shelves and freestanding cabinetry to traditional built-ins, that are featured in home design magazines and on the Internet. Built-ins with abundant and purposeful storage should prevail.
Look for intelligent storage, such as pull-out organizers that optimize every inch of space, in lieu of traditional boxy cabinets with nothing but hollows and shelves within. You do not need a lazy Susan in the corner if the cabinets can be reached without it.
5#: Pay attention to the smallest of things
Always select quality overlooks when making a purchase. The details are what will make any kitchen beautiful in the years to come.
Check the seams on your faucet and the cabinet’s wood joinery. Are they flawless, or can you identify flaws? Both are capable of achieving perfection, which you will appreciate as you utilize these fixtures regularly. Where there is a flaw, there is the possibility of separation.
It is tempting to buy an attractive but poorly constructed fixture. Unfortunately, these decisions rarely last. Therefore, spend a little more money on quality where it matters.
A kitchen redesign is one of the most expensive projects you can undertake, but according to This Old House, it is also one of the best in terms of return on investment. You may significantly increase the value of your home and your quality of life by focusing on timeless rather than the current design.