THE KITCHEN
People who think kitchens typically think, BIG bucks. Not always so. Kitchens can be easily redesigned spending little money and still creating BIG impact. That's what it's all about right? Is the space in your kitchen suitable for your needs? If so, you are already way ahead. There are changes you can make without breaking the bank. Let's have a look...
The backsplash
My absolute favorite and easiest way to update your kitchen immediately! Don't have one? Get one! Don't like the one you have? Change it! I'll show you two examples of backsplashes we recently selected and installed for clients.
Example number one...the client had no idea just what kind of impact her backsplash would make on the room. We selected a simple, subway tile in the same color as her cabinets and WOW! Who'd have thought that staying in the same palette would be so striking?! We did :-)
Suivant...next...This kitchen desperately needed a make-over. While I KNOW that some people just loved the rooster (to each their own), we absolutely did NOT. We wanted a modern, current feel to the space and that's exactly what we got. This was a big space to cover and we love the difference. Vivre la difference!
Catching on? Small cost for big impact.
Countertops
Another great way to add ooph to your kitchen. Now everyone wants granite but no one wants to pay for it, right? Let me tell you that if you do your homework (or have us do it for you), you CAN have the granite countertops you're looking for. We recently met with a client for a complete kitchen makeover. She isn't sure of a lot of things yet (do we paint the cabinets or re-stain them?) but she is certain she wants granite. And a new backsplash. And....well... there's a big list. She knows that within five years, she will be selling her home. And she knows that granite will indeed UP her value. Notwithstanding, she's on a budget. So we presented the following;
Each of these samples came in at $ 80.00/linear foot INSTALLED. Yes, again. Labour and materials included. So yes, you can have those countertops if you do your homework. Important note: Do NOT attempt to install granite yourselves please. It's heavy, it's fussy, it requires a professional. They will measure your cutouts, they will ensure your seams are flawless (if any), they will carry it in and reinforce it accordingly. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a big slab of expensive and useless granite. Leave this one to the professionals :-) F.Y.I. we selected this one for her:
And back to a very important point - resale value. The real estate market is jam packed with people wanting a "cle en main" home, aka "ready to move in". Literally. No work or renos required. I just want to move in and start living. Tall order. Granite has become a must-have. Particularly in homes over $ 400K. We were recently contacted by two agents who asked us to stress to their customers how important countertops were. If you are selling at a high price, granite will be expected. Have it done before you list. It is NOT to say that your home won't sell without it but those with it, will be considered first. True story.
Now if you don't live in a higher end home or have the budget for granite, there are now some GREAT alternatives. Get the look without the price. Surprise! It's laminate.
Looks remarkably like granite but at a fraction of the cost.
Here's a recent bathroom makeover on a home for sale.The new countertops kicked it up a notch (or two!)
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| BEFORE |
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| AFTER |
Ah, the possibilities! Ceramic, cork, hardwood, laminate, slate, vinyl...which way to go? There are so many economical options out there today - don't feel you have to be boxed in. I am a HUGE fan of hardwood in the kitchen. So much warmer than ceramic and much easier on the feet. I for one have huge issues when standing on ceramic for long periods of time but know that doesn't apply to everyone. Think outside the box when it comes to kitchen flooring. You'll love the results. While most people gravitate towards ceramic because it's easy to clean, the other options listed above are just as easy. At least consider it ;-)
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| Hardwood |
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| Laminate |
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| Slate - we install this ALOT |
Cabinetry
Dated? Yellowing? Why not paint or re-stain? Note: Another task BEST left to the professionals, please. This type of project can prove disastrous if taken on by a not-so-handy homeowner. A HUGE savings if you were considering replacing the cabinets.
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| Source: Maison Decor - Before |
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| Source: Maison Decor - After |
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| Source: PineconesandAcorns - Before |
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| Source: PineconesandAcorns - After |
Other tips for high results:
- Change the hardware on your cabinetry - you'd be surprised at the results
- Can't imagine undertaking a big kitchen reno or painted cabinets? If your cabinet bases are in good shape, consider only changing the doors. This can give your kitchen a brand new look.
- Not happy with your light fixtures? Change them!
- Change the color on the walls, dare to be different!
- Change out the color of your countertop accessories for a bold, new look.
- Can't imagine having all the cabinetry repainted? How about just the island or base cabinets? They don't all have to be the same colour.
And now...if you were to carry out just ONE of these low cost changes in your kitchen, imagine the difference! You don't need to do it all. Just one of these great ideas can get the wheels in motion to that brand new kitchen you've always wanted. You'll see the difference!
Still unsure? Give us a call at 450.458.7001 to consult with us. It's easier than you think.
phancydesign@live.ca
www.phancydesign.ca
