The counters are scratched, the cabinets are rickety, the sink is leaking, and the once-shiny floors are now shabby at best. This, simply put, is the worst nightmare in the kitchen – and the harsh reality of too many people! If your kitchen is in need of a remodel, you know how time consuming, inconvenient, and expensive this project can be. However, by making smart decisions that will stand the test of time, you will ensure that your space remains pristine for decades to come. To help you design an aging-resistant room, let’s take a look at the five hallmarks of all quality kitchens.
1. An undated design
When it comes to your kitchen design, it’s easy to fall into the trap of prioritizing stylish over functional. But while the triangular island and sleek pull-out dining table may be stylish, how happy will you be when the corners of your island get in your way and the surface is too small? Or when you spend 15 more minutes setting the table before each group meal? Sooner or later, your frustration will outweigh your satisfaction and you’ll wish you opted for a more practical design in the first place. So don’t underestimate the value of a simple, open-plan design, with wide hallways and spacious, easily accessible surfaces. It works wonders in all quality kitchens!
2. Fantastic apartments
There’s something to be said for glossy hardwood floors, but fast forward a few years: how will it feel when the shine wears off, they’re covered in watermarks, and the boards creak under your feet? To save a lot of time, labor and money in the future, it is advisable to opt for a lower maintenance option, such as tile or synthetic wood. These surfaces are not only aesthetically pleasing, but have the added benefit of being water and slip resistant. Two birds with one stone.
3. Carefully Considered Cabinets
Your inclination may be to opt for traditional cabinets, equipped with door fronts. However, while this design has dominated the scene for years, many quality modern kitchens are trying something new: more drawers. These full-length storage wonders not only look beautiful, but are also very useful, allowing you to take stock of your content at a glance and maximize space. What could not be loved?
4. Sound sinks
You may not have given much thought to your sink, but contrary to popular belief, it is an essential kitchen feature that can easily go wrong. For example, while materials like porcelain may look fancy, they stain and chip easily, which translates into more cleaning time and maintenance work on your part. As a general rule of thumb, your sink should not only look stunning, it should also be streamlined. Stainless steel strikes an ideal balance between these two criteria, as do matte finishes, cast iron, and built-in sinks.
5. Convenient countertops
For passionate cooks, this decision is a deciding factor and must be considered carefully. Again, you might be tempted to go for a classically beautiful surface material like wood, but by now you’ve probably realized that just thinking about how it will look is a big no-no. From water stains to mold and scratches, you’re setting yourself up for a maintenance nightmare, so consider practical alternatives. Some of the top candidates for quality kitchens are quartz and countertops, which are known for their versatility and durability. But neolith, a sintered stone from Spain, is undoubtedly the cream of the crop, thanks to its water, heat and scratch resistant properties. Oh, and it looks fabulous too!
A remodel can be daunting and expensive, but considering the big picture and
making practical decisions is sure to save you a lot of time, frustration, and money in the long run. By opting for a timeless design, your space is likely to look like new ten years later – the defining characteristic of all quality kitchens!