Incorporate Something Special in Your Kitchen Remodel

The Kitchen Master

As you plan your perfect custom kitchen renovation, don’t toss away the idea of including something that is strictly you, even if it’s a little bit quirky. Be aware of the overall cohesiveness of the space, but embrace the personal as well.

Individual touches don’t have to make a statement. Nor should they shout their presence. But those small, customized choices may set your kitchen apart and lift it from common to extraordinary.

Artistic, hand-blown glass pendants over the eating area, a hammered metal vegetable sink, or an etched glass pantry door are options to consider. All are readily available and not terribly expensive.

Tailor the Kitchen to Your Needs

Whether your kitchen is large or small, work with our kitchen designers to maximize efficiency. Consider the advantages of installing built-ins like coffee makers and can openers.

Have teenagers in the house? Consider under-counter refrigerator drawers to keep soft drinks and snacks. Entertain a lot? Double wall ovens, warming drawers and dual dishwashers help you accommodate guests, and these features may be suitable for dedicated foodies and families who enjoy cooking together. In addition, an indoor grill and adaptable fryer/steamer/wok station may be perfect for families with a penchant for cooking ethnic food.

Plan cabinets for the kind of storage you need. Don’t settle for standard upper and lower cabinets if you’d rather have pull-out drawers and tall armoires.

Function Determines Form and Material

If you’re known for your breads and cakes, include space in your custom kitchen for a baking center topped with traditional marble. You might also need designated tray storage, a mixing center and a cabinet for ingredients.

If children do homework or work on crafts in the kitchen, white-painted cabinets or butcher-block counters are probably not your best choice. If ease of maintenance is your primary concern, you won’t be happy with polished black granite or other fingerprint-prone surfaces.

Add Color and Texture

Stainless steel appliances are sleek, stylish and durable, making them a popular choice for kitchen remodels. On the other hand, retro looks are also trendy. In any case, you’ll want to incorporate color, pattern and texture in different ways. Utilize them in places where you can change your mind occasionally. Dress your windows in pattern; place cushions on stools and bring decorative art or sculpture into the kitchen. Use bright, textured placemats and cloth napkins to add a pop of color.

Stay away from colors with too much contrast, such as turquoise counter tops or red appliances because they might not age well. You may tire of them over time. Instead, opt for colored mixers, cookware, or other kitchen equipment. Install glass-front cabinet doors to showcase colorful serving pieces; hang colorful art — perhaps unframed oils of giant pears.