You’re decking the halls, you’re making a list & checking it twice, you’re figuring out who’s naughty or nice, you’re looking for a gift too big to fit under the tree…why not call renovateme!

Revisit a recent kitchen renovation to see why a “decked” out new kitchen by renovateme! is the perfect gift idea…

In this transformation, we created an entertainer’s kitchen complete with improved functionality, practical finish selections, increased counterspace and work surface options, additional storage alternatives and an overall better layout and flow. By incorporating the latest in design trends with classic finishes and value-added niceties, this once dark and tired kitchen is again the “heart of this home!”

Improved functionality

Determine whether your desired renovation is merely to address cosmetic upgrades, to change aesthetics, or to remedy fundamental concerns over layout.  Consider what needs are a priority for your family and what tasks and activities you wish to be able to enjoy in your kitchen.  Namely, do you desire an expansive island counter for baking, a single bowl handmade stainless steel undermount sink perfect for washing large platters and casserole dishes, display options to showcase ceramics, keepsakes and collectibles, or a designated zone for homework and hobbies?

In our illustration, our homeowners desired a more substantial island to host family buffet dinners complete with a built-in, temperature controlled wine cooler.

Practical finish selections

This kitchen makeover is filled with practical and durable finish choices. Crema marfil marble inspired quartz countertops were selected for their stain resistant and low maintenance properties. As a bonus, quartz counters are non-porous and scratch resistant, hygienic, easy to care for and maintain – they do not require constant sealing – and offer colour and pattern consistency. A porcelain herringbone backsplash was incorporated rather than a marble alternative for its low fuss and durability. After all, grease and food spills can be easily wiped away with little more than a warm soapy cloth. What’s better than a beautiful finishing material that is easy to maintain as well?

Increased counterspace and work surface options

While the original kitchen design was retained, the island was increased in size. The now generous 40” x 100” island gracing the kitchen at the centre features a variety of storage options in full extension drawers, wire basket drawers, an allotted area for counter stools, built-in wine cooler and microwave drawer. The perimeter walls between the countertop and upper cabinets were reframed to eliminate the existing stepped backsplash to allow for a more streamlined aesthetic and improved work surface quality.

Additional storage alternatives

Select materials that are long-wearing, durable and easy to maintain such as kitchen cabinets from a reputable supplier. Our cabinets carry a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and are equipped with original Blum soft-closing drawer and door hardware.  They are available in a choice of 20 design/finish/colour door and drawer front options and provide virtually unlimited customization of cabinetry and interiors. 

In this illustration, wherever possible, full extension drawers were chosen over conventional hinged door, shelved units for easy access and to maximize storage and functionality.

Two 24″ wide x 24″ deep full height pantry cabinets were installed flanking the refrigerator, one of which featured a combination of full extension drawers and adjustable shelves, a dedicated drawer with a 110V power source and USB ports to store and charge electronics, and also a drawer to house a coffee machine and toaster complete with 110V power receptacle – storage customization at its finest!

Better layout and flow

Carefully evaluate the organization of your kitchen by looking at your current work triangle (the area between your sink, stove and fridge) and work zones (i.e. wash, cook, prep.)  Determine if the efficiency and flow of your kitchen can be improved with a redesign and renovation.

In this illustration, although the original kitchen layout was retained, subtle changes were made to better serve the homeowners’ present and future needs. A two bowl sink was replaced with a single bowl option, double wall ovens and a cooktop were incorporated in place of the original range, the existing 30” refrigerator was upgraded to a 36” refrigerator/freezer with water & ice dispensers, while the impractical island was expanded to accommodate extra work surface options, storage and a wine cooler. In addition, although the original footprint was retained, it was modified to allow for more generous walkways around the extended island.  

Design trends with classic finishes

Off-white raised panel cabinets were incorporated to instantly transform and lighten the once dark space. Neutral cabinets in a muted palette help to maintain a classic, timeless appeal to this newly designed kitchen.

For a trendy punch of style, the cabinet hardware, sink faucet and pot filler were selected in a brushed brass finish to rival the 42 lamp Jonathan Adler ceiling mounted fixture that reigns over the now generous island.

Value-added niceties

Some niceties that were included in our kitchen remodel to consider for your next kitchen renovation:

• Undercabinet linear remote controlled LED lighting flushmounted along the full length of the upper cabinets
• Built-in dual temperature wine cooler to keep all of your whites & reds “merry”
• Cold water pot filler wall-mounted above the cooktop
• Customized electronics storage drawer with built-in power source & USB ports to keep phones and tablets charged
• Extended size, 15” deep upper cabinets for large size plates & platters in lieu of the typical 12” deep alternative
• Small appliance drawer to house a coffee station & toaster complete with dedicated 110V power source
• A Sharp 24″ microwave drawer installed in the island eliminating bending to access a conventional microwave