Tuesday, September 08, 2009

Article on Kitchen Renovations

No other renovation in the home has more benefits in such a multi-dimensional manner as a kitchen remodel. Not only is a kitchen renovation the end-result of someone's dream, it is a fully-functional work space that increases the productivity, storage and enjoyment of food preparation. In addition, nation-wide statistics have shown that every dollar spent on kitchen remodeling gets back two dollars on the resale of the home. In other words there is an investment angle to fixing up this space.

Kitchen renovations are also about providing space for a variety of functions. Being the nerve center of the home many kitchens have a small area dedicated to bookkeeping, scheduling and recipe books. In addition, storage has taken a giant step back to the early part of the 20th Century with the reintroduction of large pantries. These areas are usually built in a corner to fill in a mostly-unused space but have the ability for multiple shelves and even walk in capability. They can be well-lit with a door activated light system.


Cabinets are available in more eloquent styling reminiscent of European furniture. In addition, the island, or islands, can be in a different style than the main bank of cabinets. New innovations in cabinet assembly have brought the price down for premium styles with wood still leading the way as the preferred cupboard doors.

Countertops have seen the greatest increase in styles and materials for the kitchen. The old formica is still popular but stone has become the standard of excellence from the very-popular granite to the exotic marble. Wood is also making a comeback as exotic species enter the kitchen for either full coverage of the cabinets or in spots such as the tops of islands. Another throwback is the apron sink which can be made from porcelain-clad steel or sealed hardwood. Unlike the newer models these sinks are not countersunk into the surface but form their own section of the kitchen as they are a four-foot unit complete with a drain board.

Kitchen appliances have also made great strides in design. No longer wanting to take center stage fridges and freezers are being hidden in drawers or covered with panels of the same materials as the cabinet doors. The capacity of these appliances is enormous so the homeowner does not have to rely on a satellite freezer or extra refrigerator out in the garage or basement. Gas ranges are bigger and more commercial-looking. Many have six burners and come with two ovens although many people still prefer the double wall-mounted ovens for ease of use.

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