What’s New in Kitchen Island Design Plus 4 Ways to Transform Yours
All it takes is one glance at your neighbor’s newly remodeled kitchen to start daydreaming about your own possible kitchen transformation. Shining marble waterfall countertops, hidden outlets, a large farmhouse sink, super convenient paper towel storage. The number of ways to customize your space so you feel like Chef Giada on your own personal Food Network show are endless.
Photo from Jenny Allen Listing, 10 Ricki Beth Lane Old Greenwich
But before you go and grab the dusty hammer and measuring tape from your garage, it’s important to have a game plan in mind. Packing the biggest visual punch without being out of commission from the space your entire family cooks is the total end goal.
Let’s chat kitchen remodel average cost….
And there’s also the factor of cost. A kitchen remodel average cost can easily be upwards of $75,000. This number varies greatly depending on materials and labor costs. This is why it makes sense to have a budget planned out – specifically on what materials you would like to splurge on and where to keep it simple. Kitchens remain one of the most popular spaces to upgrade in a home because they pack a powerful visual punch when executed correctly.
Kitchen projects also provide a great return on investment – at the very top of any home improvement project. Expect to recoup between 57% and 78% of the project cost by increasing the value of your home. Music to every homeowner’s ears.
It’s true, kitchen improvement projects add to the value of your home but what is your end goal? Preparing your home to hit the market, for example, will have you choosing materials, colors and design styles that appeal to potential buyers. Not sure how to decide? A top-notch realtor can guide you through the process, helping you secure the most bang for your buck while analyzing surrounding comparable homes.
If you plan on living in your home for years to come, choosing materials that appeal to your style is the way to go. Just imagine the happiness you’ll feel walking into a space that has been customized to you. Because if there’s anything I’ve learned during the pandemic, if there are items in your home that don’t bring you joy, it’s best to part with them a la Marie Kondo. The same concept goes for your home design.
Here’s the thing: not all kitchen projects have to be the let’s rip everything up and cook on a portable grill kind. You can make a big impact by focusing on a singular element. My personal choice? Upgrade your kitchen island! A kitchen island is a great way to display your sense of flair while adding to the functionality of the space.
Photo from Jenny Allen Listing, 22 Pilot Rock Lane Riverside
Wainscoting in Your Kitchen…. Why Not?!
What is wainscoting, exactly? If you’re unfamiliar with the term, it refers to a type of wood paneling that can be both decorative and functional. It originated in the 18th-century as a protective measure against damp and cold stone walls. Today, it’s both functional and visually appealing. For example, wainscoting can protect from chair damage and footwear scuff marks on a kitchen island. It also adds a richness and elegance that is hard to achieve otherwise.
Plus the different styles of wainscoting leave you with lots of options to choose from. Whether it’s a tongue and groove beadboard, picture frame-style, raised panel or a customized design, wainscoting will help you achieve a personalized kitchen island look. Choosing a super unique pattern is sure to get plenty of compliments during your next home gathering!
A Kitchen with LED Lights Creates the Ultimate Ambiance
LED light strips offer an ultra-easy way to transform your kitchen atmosphere completely. And this is one project you can even tackle on your own! Most LED light strips are self-adhesive so all it takes is a little measuring, trimming and you’re ready to attach! Plug them underneath a kitchen island counter to really make the whole section pop. Want the full effect? Add them above and underneath cabinets to give your whole kitchen a glow.
And there’s definitely room for customization here! LED lights are available in different shades: from warm daylight brightness all the way to star bright – perfect for a super modern look. And most offer a dimming option to set the mood as you see fit. LED lights are also energy-efficient, long-lasting and emit very little heat – absolutely ideal since kitchens are very often high-traffic areas.
Pro tip: Opt for the waterproof option for your kitchen to save you a possible headache down the road.
Add Open Shelving to Your Kitchen Island
Introducing the perfect place for all your recipe and cookbooks: built-in kitchen island shelves. Open shelving in the kitchen is all the rage…why shouldn’t it extend to the kitchen island? One of my favorite ways to achieve this look is simply adding a bookshelf extension to an existing kitchen island and top with a butcher block. If your space doesn’t currently allow for an expansion of the kitchen island, you can always modify the existing one. Changing from concealed cabinets to open shelving can often be accomplished without breaking the bank.
Make a Big Impact with a Bold Color and a Kitchen Hardware Update
Who says your kitchen island has to be a neutral color? A rich navy blue color contrasted with gold kitchen hardware is just one of the million ways to get playful with your options. This is also a doable DIY project – one that can be done on a weekend! From luxurious dark greys to green smoke to soft creamy blue greys, painting the kitchen island a different color from your kitchen cabinets is a great way to inject your personality & creativity. Looking for inspiration? Here’s a list of kitchen island colors I’m sure you’ll love.
Because why have a standard kitchen when you can dress it up? Kitchen hardware is another element you can have all kinds of fun with. Available in an endless variety of colors, shapes, and designs, if you’re anything like me you can go down the rabbit hole with this one. My advice? Keep to the overall design feel of your space. And choose what speaks to you.
Creating a kitchen island transformation doesn’t have to be a messy affair. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to display your flair in no time. Not much of a DIY-er? I don’t blame you! Reach out today and I can put you in touch with some of the best contractors in the Greenwich, CT area so you can enjoy your updated space without the pain of schlepping to the home improvement store. Whichever way you choose, I’m here to support you!