PinKaryn Millet
1
Switch Up Your Lighting Plan
Mark Schubert of Phillip Harrison Interiors wants every homeowner and builder to remember that if you’re changing the layout of a kitchen during a remodel, then you need to create an entirely new lighting plan. This includes architectural recessed lighting, interior cabinet lighting, undercabinet lighting, accent lighting, and decorative lighting. He explains that it’s “key to not only the success of the design but to also create layers of light that work together that will create a highly functional space.”
In this kitchen by Intimate Living Interiors, pendants illuminate the island and sink zones, complemented by a sconce over the shelves.
Related Story: 45 Chic Kitchen Lighting Ideas That Aren’t Boring
PinAdam Kane Macchia
2
Make Space for the Dog
Designer Sarah Robertson’s clients had a unique requirement for their kitchen remodel idea: a built-in pet station. Robertson, the founder of Studio Dearborn, ingeniously converted an empty cabinet space. It features an inset bar sink that serves as a water bowl that never runs dry for the family dog and a pot filler to make refilling convenient and easy.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PinAdam Kane Macchia
3
Install Prep Cabinets
When most of your cooking prep happens on the kitchen island, you might as well add a storage area in it to make chopping and dicing easier. The team at Studio Dearborn put in these cabinets specifically to hold cutting boards and knives for that purpose.
Related Story: 25 Easy and Impactful Kitchen Island Decor Ideas
PinAMY BARTLAM
4
Design a Workstation
If you’re a home cook thinking about kitchen remodel ideas, consider a dedicated workstation. Harper Halprin of AAHA Studio often incorporates this feature by installing a wide sink and bar seating at the large kitchen island. “And if not seating, at least a standing area for a ‘chef’s island’ with nothing in it,” she adds.
Related Story: 7 Butcher Block Islands That Suit Every Type of Kitchen
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PinMike Van Tassell
5
Opt for Paneling
In the words of designer Allison Handler: panel, panel, panel. As you’re dreaming up kitchen remodel ideas, many experts feel that a paneled refrigerator is a must. “Nothing worse than seeing large chunks of stainless steel, in my opinion,” she says. “We always integrate the appliances, specifically the fridge/freezer.”
Related Story: 30 Best Wood Paneling Ideas for an Instant Character Boost
PinKatie Newburn
6
Choose Pieces That Will Patina
For a kitchen that’s truly timeless, you should choose features that will gain a patina over time to show how well-loved they are. In designer Shavonda Gardner’s kitchen, she went with unlacquered copper pots, a sink, and soapstone counters that look just as beautiful now as they will when they’re decades old.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PinRaquel Langworthy
7
Cater to Your Lifestyle
This tip may seem obvious, but it can be easy to fall into the trap of wanting something simply because it’s new, beautiful, or trendy. You must consider what matters most to you when it comes to function and form before deciding on the general direction of your kitchen remodel idea, Danielle Chiprut of Danielle Rose Design Co. says. “These personal considerations should be front and center as you embark on your design journey,” she adds. “They will serve as the foundation for every decision, ensuring that your new kitchen not only looks stunning but also enhances your lifestyle in meaningful ways.”
Related Story: 8 Things in Your Kitchen to Throw Out ASAP, According to Professional Organizers
PinRegan Wood/Regan Wood Photography
8
Invest in a Great Stone
“Nothing says ‘wow’ more than a great stone in a kitchen,” Amy Kalikow tells House Beautiful. “With the new membranes that can be applied to stone, worrying about staining is a thing of the past!” However, if you are going to invest in stone countertops, make sure you know how to take care of them and ensure you can spare the time to do so before picking something out.
Related Story: Quartz vs. Quartzite: What’s the Difference?
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PinKEVIN J. MIYAZAKI
9
Add a Pot Filler
A pot filler is a small detail that will completely change the way you cook, and it simply looks so professional and chic. In this Chicago kitchen, Erin Shakoor added a sleek reflective silver one above the cooktop and just under the bronze mirrored hood, so there will be no precarious trips to the sink for this homeowner.
PinCourtesy of R. Nickson Interiors
10
Have Separate Activity Zones
Whether it’s for cooking purposes, ease of storage, or both, having separate stations in your kitchen is a must-have for designer Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors. She explains, “Dividing the space into activity-based zones, such as a baking area with space for ingredients, mixing bowls, and a stand mixer, can be incredibly helpful for efficiency.” Not to mention, it will feel and look so professional.
Related Story: 5 Kitchen Upgrades to Skip if You’re Trying to Sell Your Home Fast
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PinCourtesy of Vani Sayeed Studios
11
Opt for Storage-Centric Cabinetry
After spending so much time and money on your kitchen remodel idea, you don’t want to then cover it up with small appliances, cookware, and other necessities. Make sure you have enough storage-centric cabinetry to hide everything stylishly away, as Vani Sayeed of Vani Sayeed Studios suggests. “Must-haves include storage-centric cabinetry like deep drawers for pots and pans, pull-out shelves, and built-in organizers to maximize space,” she says.
Related Story: The Best Kitchen Cabinet Brands to Elevate the Heart of Your Home
PinKEVIN J. MIYAZAKI
12
Set Up Optimal Wine Storage
Nothing says luxury like a wine cabinet. If you’re already installing custom cabinetry in your kitchen remodel idea, you might as well create spaces specifically for your interests. Designer Erin Shakoor made sure this storage spot looked absolutely seamless.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PinCourtesy of Emma Corner
13
Install a Backsplash Stone Slab
For a kitchen remodel idea that really stands out, choose a single stone slab for your backsplash rather than tiles. “A marble backsplash, often extending from counter to wall, can add character and create a cohesive, luxurious look,” Emma Corner of Emma Corner Interiors says.
Related Story: 57 Gorgeous Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for Every Home’s Style
PinJoseph Bradshaw
14
Splurge on a Dirty Kitchen
If your home has enough space, incorporating a dirty kitchen is a trend among high-end designers. A dirty kitchen, as exemplified here by designer Lindsey Black, serves as a practical cooking area separate from the main kitchen, where guests typically gather.