Kitchen is often synonymous with community. It’s the place where families come together through home-cooked meals, friends connect over fresh popcorn, and grandmothers pass down recipes. When your kitchen is the core of your home, it’s important to keep it updated. Chris Tolar, owner of Arvada’s Stonebridge Builders, has the latest renovation tips to keep your kitchen fresh for years to come.
Luckily, getting your kitchen in prime shape doesn’t have to break the bank. Freshening up the paint on cabinets and walls can update the look while also giving the opportunity to incorporate an interesting pop of color. To update cabinets in good condition, consider refacing or refinishing them. Chris explains, “Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the original cabinet boxes. Refinishing involves painting or staining the existing cabinets and doors or replacing the doors and drawer fronts.” Switching out cabinet knobs and drawer pulls adds freshness and character without much time or cost.
Changing up countertops, backsplashes, and lighting can make a big difference in the look of your kitchen. Tile and laminate countertops are a clean look without a high price tag. Bold backsplashes can be a great statement piece, whether they’re patterned, brightly colored, or something else entirely. Freshening up the lighting can completely change the environment. Chris explains, “Layered lighting – a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting – can dramatically change the feel of the space.”
Renovations can both brighten up your kitchen and increase the value of your home. Kitchen renovations are known for having a high return on investment (ROI). In fact, minor kitchen remodels can recoup approximately 78% of their cost in added home value. (Remodeling Magazine's 2020 Cost vs. Value Report.)
If you’re open to a higher budget, customization options broaden significantly. Extra appliances like wine coolers and double dishwashers can increase the functionality of your kitchen. Smart appliances, custom cabinetry, luxury materials, and customized islands are all options available with a bit more investment. Certain smart appliances have technology integrated that can respond to voice commands and let you know when you’re running out of milk. Islands can include prep sinks, cooktops, range hoods, or bar areas. Whether you mainly use your kitchen just to cook or for entertaining can change which customizations work best for you.
Keeping on top of current home style trends can help you pick features and finishes that fit with the times. Here are a few popular ideas:
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Open Shelving & Two-Tone Cabinets: show off your organizational skills with open shelving, which also helps build an open feel. Two-tone cabinets (having a different color on the upper and lower cabinets) give your cabinetry eye-catching contrast.
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Mixing Metals & Matte Finishes: try combining complementary metal fixtures and hardware for visual interest. Matte finishes are distinctly modern and can suit everything from cabinets to appliances.
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Sustainable Materials: eco-friendly choices, such as reclaimed or recycled wood, are increasingly popular, and they give you the opportunity to create an eco-conscious kitchen.
Speaking of trends, many are wondering if stainless steel is still in style? The answer is that stainless steel is a neutral, safe choice, but newer design trends are becoming increasingly popular. More people are straying from stainless steel and experimenting with integrated appliances and ones in colors like black and navy blue.
While trends can provide great inspiration, make sure to follow your own personal taste and sense of style. Chris notes, “Trends come and go, but your kitchen is a long-term investment that should bring you joy and functionality for many years to come.” Incorporating personal tastes are important, especially for those who enjoy cooking or using their kitchen as a community space. Remember to listen to your personal style instincts, and you will design a kitchen that will always be enjoyed.
Stonebridge Builders started out as a residential remodeling company and expanded its services over the years to include large-scale commercial work. They remain committed to residential renovations. From basement finishing to state-of-the-art chef’s kitchens or adding an extra bathroom, the company enjoys making their client’s dream spaces come to life. For commercial property owners in the market for renovations, Stonebridge Builders has the experience to take care of commercial upgrades and apartment remodels on time and within budget.
For more information and inspiration visit stonebridgebuilders.net or call Stonebridge Builders at 303-425-9999.
Your Return on Investment
A 2022 report from Today's Homeowner showed remodeling projects, in general, boost your average return on investment (ROI) to 67%. Both mid-range and upscale kitchen renovations yield an expected 53% ROI. Adding quartz or granite countertops is likely to bring you more than a 60% ROI, while new, modern laminate countertops still show a lot of worth with 50% ROI, making many kitchen renovations very worthwhile.
“Layered lighting...can dramatically change the feel of the space.” Chris Tolar, Owner