If you are considering a renovation project for your home, the Schwalb Home Guide is a great place to start. Our comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about renovating your home, from planning and budgeting to selecting materials and contractors.
Today we’ll focus on one particular type of home renovation: the kitchen remodel.
What You Need To Know About Kitchen Remodels
Before you get started, here are some questions to consider:
- What are your goals for the kitchen remodel?
- Do you want to update the look, add more storage space, or create a more functional layout?
- How much can you afford to spend on the project?
- What materials and appliances do you want to use?
- Who will be doing the work?
When planning your kitchen remodel, be sure to keep the following in mind:
- The layout of your kitchen and how much space you have to work with.
- Your budget and what you can afford to spend on your renovation.
- The type of materials you want to use in your kitchen.
- The appliances and features you want in your kitchen.
- The style of your kitchen.
Once you have answered these questions, you can begin formulating a plan for your kitchen remodel.
The Layout of Your Kitchen
One of the first things you need to consider when planning a kitchen remodel is the layout of your kitchen. There are many different layouts to choose from, and the one you choose will depend on the space you have available and your personal preferences.
If you are working with limited space, you may consider a galley kitchen layout. This layout features two parallel walls with cabinets and countertops between them. It is perfect for small kitchens as it maximizes the use of the available space.
Starting your design from scratch can be intimidating, especially if you are on a tight budget. If you plan to gut the kitchen completely, begin with our online kitchen remodeling tool.
If you aren’t comfortable making these decisions on your own, it may be beneficial to consult with one of our professional designers at your home or our kitchen and bath showroom in Denver.
Budgeting For Your Kitchen Remodel
One of the most important aspects of any renovation project is budgeting. You need to be realistic about what you can afford to spend and what you would like to achieve with your renovation.
Several factors will affect the cost of your kitchen remodel, including the size of your kitchen, the type of materials you choose, and the features you include.
Be sure to create a detailed budget and stick to it throughout your renovation.
If you are looking to save money, consider these tips for your kitchen renovation:
- Choose cabinets in a neutral color.
- Replace or refinish existing countertops.
- Select appliances that match your existing kitchen hardware and cabinetry.
- Don’t forget about lighting – it has a significant impact on the aesthetic of your space.
- Use reclaimed materials where possible.
- Shop around for the best deals on materials.
Selecting Materials For Your Kitchen Remodel
The type of materials you choose for your kitchen remodel will significantly impact your space’s overall look and feel. There are many different materials to choose from, and each has its benefits and drawbacks.
When selecting materials, be sure to keep the following in mind:
- The style of your kitchen – Traditional or Modern.
- The amount of wear and tear the material will endure.
- The amount of maintenance the material will require.
- The cost of the material.
Some of the most popular materials used for kitchen cabinets and countertops include:
Wood
Wood is one of the most natural materials and can look very sleek with a modern finish or warm and rustic with an aged appearance.
Stone
Granite is a highly versatile option that will last you a lifetime, but it may not fit your budget, and it requires more maintenance than other materials.
Glass
Glass is perfect for modern, sleek designs that allow lots of light while still giving you privacy. There are many options for glass countertops, including tempered glass and laminated glass with a veneer surface.
Plastic laminate (vinyl)
This economical choice comes in hundreds of colors and patterns and has the added benefit of being water-resistant.
Solid-surface material
Durable and easy to clean, solid surface materials can be mixed with other colors for a custom look.
Metal
Stainless steel is highly durable but may show fingerprints. You can also choose from copper, cast iron, aluminum, fiberglass, or galvanized metal to add a unique industrial look to your kitchen.
Tile
There are so many options for tile for countertops and backsplashes, and you will be sure to find one that fits your style. You can choose from natural stone tiles or ceramic tiles in any size, shape, or color imaginable!
Kitchen Renovation Ideas
The kitchen is the heart of your home, and it can be challenging to decide where to start. Here are some ideas that will help inspire you:
Paint color
Choosing a paint color for your cabinets or walls can make a massive impact on the feel of your space. If you want to give your kitchen a more modern vibe, go with a light color like white or gray. If you’re looking for a more traditional look, consider dark brown or black cabinets.
Countertops
There are many different materials to choose from for countertops, and each one has its benefits and drawbacks. You need to think about the style of your kitchen, the amount of wear and tear the countertop will endure, and how easy it is to maintain.
Cabinets
The style of your cabinets can set the tone for your kitchen renovation. If you want to keep things simple, go with a standard cabinet style in a neutral color. If you’re looking to add some personality to your kitchen, consider customizing your cabinets or using reclaimed materials.
Lighting
The lighting in your kitchen can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the space. Consider adding recessed lights, pendants, or under-cabinet lights to brighten up the room.
Appliances
When selecting appliances for your kitchen remodel, be sure to think about how they blend in with your cabinets and countertops. Stainless steel appliances will give you a sleek, modern look, while darker colors may fit better with more traditional designs.
Flooring
Your flooring options are virtually endless for the kitchen, but laminate floors and tile can be very durable and easy to clean. If you want something a little more unique, consider using hardwood or bamboo flooring.
Storage
One of the main goals of any kitchen renovation should be to maximize storage space. Consider adding cabinets or shelves above the countertops, installing a pantry, or using open shelving to keep items visible and easily accessible.
The Ultimate Team for a Perfect Result
When undertaking a kitchen renovation, it’s essential to have a team of experts to help you out. Here are some of the professionals you’ll need:
- A general contractor to oversee the entire project and manage the subcontractors.
- A tile contractor to install your tile countertops and backsplashes.
- A cabinet installer to customize and install your new cabinets.
- A plumber to install your new sink and faucet.
- An electrician to install your new lighting fixtures.
- A flooring installer to lay your new flooring material.
- A painting contractor to paint the walls and cabinets.
With this team of experts on your side, you can rest assured knowing you will have a kitchen renovation that turns out great!
The Perfect Pairing of Cabinets to Hardware to Backsplash
Combining the suitable cabinets, hardware, and backsplash can be tricky, but it’s doable! By choosing a complementary style and material for each, you can create a cohesive look that works.
Kitchen Cabinets
When choosing cabinets and hardware, consider the style and finish of your overall design. Choose cabinets in a similar color and pattern to tie everything together. Try out different styles like Shaker or mid-century modern if you’re feeling adventurous.
Hardware
When it comes to hardware, there are a ton of options to choose from. Try to find hardware that matches the style and finish of your cabinets, and be sure to get enough to cover all the doors and drawers.
Backsplash
The backsplash is a great way to add personality to your kitchen renovation. When choosing a backsplash, go for something that complements the style of the cabinets and hardware. For example, check out our White Quartz Slab Collection if you go with white cabinets.
With this trio in place, your kitchen is sure to shine!
The 2022 Hot List in Home Renovations
Every year, there are a few home renovation trends that take off. Here are some of the hottest trends for 2022:
Heated Bathroom Floors
This is a fun and unique update you can do to your bathroom. Instead of traditional tile, consider using heat-sensitive tiles so the floor will stay warm all day long. This type of flooring works best in bathrooms with an on-demand heating system.
Matching Backsplashes and Countertops
This trend is perfect for those who want a sleek and modern look in their kitchen. By matching the backsplash to the countertop, you’ll create a seamless look that’s sure to impress. Be sure to choose materials that are durable and easy to clean.
Motorized Window Shades
This is a great way to save energy and block out unwanted sunlight. Consider swapping out your current window coverings with motorized shades that open and close at the press of a button. These are perfect for any rooms in which you need lighting control, including kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, home theaters, and more!
Kitchen Island with Waterfall Edges
This is a great way to make your kitchen island stand out. In recent years, the waterfall edge has become very popular and shows no signs of slowing down. This style complements any countertop material, so it’s easy to incorporate into your existing space.
Reclaimed Wood Flooring
If you’re looking for a floor that’s unique and full of character, consider using reclaimed wood flooring in your next project. This type of flooring is eco-friendly, easy to install, and can be customized to fit your exact measurements.
The Frame TV
Samsung has recently released a TV line that looks like picture frames when not used. This is a great way to add art to your living room or home theater. The TV blends seamlessly into the surrounding wall and becomes almost invisible when not used.
Kitchen and Bath Fixtures in Matte Black
Matte black is quickly becoming one of the most popular finishes in home renovations. It’s perfect for those who want a sleek and modern look, and it goes with any décor. Be sure to choose fixtures that are made from durable materials so they’ll last for years to come.
Walk-in Pantry
This is a great way to maximize storage space in your kitchen. A walk-in pantry can be customized to fit your specific needs, and it’s perfect for those who love to cook. It’s also a great way to hide clutter and keep your kitchen looking neat and organized.
Light Fixtures in Copper
Copper is one of the hottest trends in home décor right now, and it’s no surprise that it’s making its way into light fixtures. This warm and inviting metal is perfect for those who want a touch of luxury in their home. Be sure to choose light fixtures that are made from high-quality materials so they’ll last for years to come.
Modern Farmhouse Style
This versatile style works well in any kitchen or bathroom renovation. It’s a mix between modern and rustic, and it typically uses light wood tones, natural lighting, and vintage elements. If you’re looking for a warm and inviting style, this is the perfect choice for you.
Granite Sink Countertops
Granite sink countertops are one of the hottest trends in kitchen renovations. This luxurious material is durable, easy to clean, and looks great with any décor. It’s also very affordable and can be installed by most professionals.
Floor Carpeting is Out!
Thanks to the popularity of hardwood floors, carpeting is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Nowadays, homeowners are going for décor that offers a sleek and modern look, which means spending less time worrying about pesky carpet stains. It also makes it easier to clean foot traffic dirt.
Pendant Lighting
Pendant lighting is a great way to add some personality to your home. It’s perfect for those who want a unique and stylish look, and it can be used in almost any room in the house. Be sure to choose fixtures that are made from high-quality materials so they’ll last for years to come.
Sleek and Simple
Today’s homeowners are looking for décor that is sleek and simple – which means spending less time worrying about cleaning. This is an excellent style for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time caring for their floors and walls but still want a touch of luxury in their home.
Vintage or Industrial Style
This style is perfect for those who want a unique and edgy look in their home. It’s ideal for those who love to experiment with their décor, and it can be used in any room in the house. Be sure to choose pieces that are made from high-quality materials so they’ll last for years to come.
Large Scale Wallpaper
Wallpaper is making a comeback, and this time it’s bigger and better than ever. Nowadays, homeowners are choosing large-scale wallpaper designs that make a bold statement. This is perfect for those who want to add some personality to their home, and it’s a great way to hide any flaws in your walls.
Using More Natural Materials
Homeowners are increasingly choosing natural materials for their home renovations. This is a great way to add some personality and character to your home, and it’s also a great way to promote sustainability. Stone, wood, and other natural elements are prevalent in home improvements because they’re durable, environmentally friendly, and long-lasting.
Larger Windows For More Natural Lighting
Renovating with more oversized windows is a great way to add more natural lighting to your home. Natural light has been proven to impact your mood positively, so this is a fantastic choice for those who suffer from depression or anxiety. Large windows also give the illusion that a room is more significant than it can help you save money on your energy bills.
Stainless Steel Backsplash
Stainless steel is making its way onto the backsplashes of many homes. This sleek and modern material offers a unique touch to your kitchen, and it’s also very durable. It’s easy to clean, too, making this an excellent choice for homeowners and renters alike.
Bright Pops Of Color
A little bit of color can go a long way in home renovations. Bright pops of color add personality and life to any space, and they can be used in almost any room in the house. Be sure to choose colors that you love, as you’ll be living with them for years to come.
Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans are increasing in popularity and for a good reason. This is a beautiful opportunity to create a space that feels open and inviting for both you and your guests. It’s also a great way to save money on lighting costs because it won’t feel as dark or ghostly when the sun goes down.
Expert Advice From Schwalb Builders
Renovations can be a stressful and challenging process, especially if you’re new to the Denver metro area or attempting to do some of the work yourself.
If you’re looking for an experienced team dedicated to providing high-quality renovations and new constructions, then look no further than Schwalb builders. We’re dedicated to creating quality designs that reflect the unique personality of each and every one of our clients.
We also understand that renovations can be a costly process, which is why we offer a wide range of financing options to make the process easier for you.
So whether you’re looking for a team to help you design your dream home or you need some additional advice on how to get started, Schwalb Builders are here to help.
Visit Our Denver Kitchen and Bath Showroom
If you live in the Denver metro area, be sure to visit our showroom. In addition to a wide range of stunning designs that will add character and beauty to your home, we offer many luxurious amenities for you to enjoy.
Our kitchen and bath showroom is the perfect place to start your renovation journey, and we’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
We hope you enjoy this article on popular home renovations. Be sure to check back often for more informative articles from the Schwalb Builders team!
Coming Soon – The First Mobile Showroom in Denver, CO!
In addition to our kitchen showroom in Denver, Schwalb Builders is excited to announce the launch of our first mobile showroom.
This will be the perfect opportunity for homeowners in the Denver metro area to get a closer look at our products and designs, and it’ll also be a great way to learn more about the renovation process.
We’ll be touring the area as of January 2022, so be sure to check our website or social media pages for more information.
We hope you enjoy this article on popular home renovations. Be sure to check back often for more informative articles from the Schwalb Builders team!
