As more homeowners perform kitchen remodeling projects, the kitchen itself has become a hub for family activity, displacing even the family room as the most popular room in the home. The old saying, "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen," no longer applies to today's amenity-rich, air-conditioned kitchens.
Unfortunately, this newfound popularity presents challenges for today's serious home cooks. Of course, most cooks prefer the company of an adoring family. And yet, when space is a premium, the serious home cook might find himself surrounded by unwanted "obstacles."
If you're a serious home cook, or live with a serious home cook, and you're considering your own kitchen upgrade, remember this simple formula: functionality first, beauty second. Below, we explore several important kitchen remodeling tips for the serious home cook.
Design for the Cook
Whether you're designing an entirely new kitchen layout or simply modifying an existing layout, a few simple cook-friendly elements can improve the kitchen experience for any home cook.
A cook-friendly kitchen makeover should include ample storage space and attractive and plentiful counter space with distinct areas for cooking and prep work. Of course, too, a serious cook should prioritize high-quality appliances, including the best range she/he can afford. If you frequently entertain guests, you might even consider adding an additional oven for warming, re-heating, or baking.
Be Prepared for the Kitchen Remodeling Project
Once you've designed your new kitchen, the home cook should prepare for the actual kitchen renovation by... cooking! This is one kitchen remodeling tip that no home cook should neglect. Some kitchen remodeling projects allow the homeowner the continued use of the refrigerator, toaster, or microwave - although you can't count on this, especially if you're buying all new appliances! Depending on the size and scope of your kitchen remodeling project, you might not have access to the most important elements of your kitchen for several weeks or more.
If you do have the use of your refrigerator, try to cook and freeze complete meals for your family. Also, keep your refrigerator well-stocked with easy-to-use essentials like bagged salad, cut fruit, and prepared meats or vegetables. If you also have the use of your microwave, try cooking baked potatoes or fresh cut vegetables. If you do not have use of your refrigerator, set aside extra money in your budget for take-out or restaurant meals.
If possible, schedule your kitchen remodeling project for the warmer months, so you can eat outside; more importantly, you can substitute your grill for your displaced oven.
Use Your New Kitchen Space Efficiently
You've certainly heard the term, "The best laid plans often go awry." After you've designed your dream kitchen makeover, and endured weeks without good home cooking, you will be rewarded with a brand new kitchen space to populate with your kitchen utensils and supplies.
A serious home cook should have a thoughtful plan for re-occupying the kitchen. The efficient use of your new available space is perhaps the most crucial aspect of your kitchen remodeling project. You've made a serious investment in transforming your home, so make sure you maximize each and every detail of your kitchen makeover.
Populate your new counter space with the tools of your trade: cutting boards and easily accessible knives, utensils, and pots and pans. As much as possible, limit useless decorative frills that serve no practical kitchen function. Instead, think about making your kitchen tools decorations. An attractive spice rack, hardwood cutting board, or knife block can cover both functionality and beauty.
Your oven range will likely be the centerpiece of your new kitchen. Placing a ramekin of bright pink sea salt from the Himalayan Mountains next to the range replicates the functionality of a pro-kitchen while simultaneously offering an attractive look into the cook's repertoire.
Finally, maximize your storage space by discarding old and unwanted Tupperware, knick-nacks, and random plates and utensils. Stash smaller appliances such as your food processor or blender in a cabinet close to the point-of-use. For safety and practicality, avoid storing heavy items, such as cast iron pans, on a high shelf.
With a thoughtful kitchen re-occupation, you'll be enjoying the fruits of your kitchen transformation in the time you can say, "Dinner's ready!"
Kitchen Remodeling
Master Kitchen & Bath Design has set the standard for kitchen remodeling in the Bucks County area for over thirty years. A rare find in the kitchen remodeling industry, MKBD excels in both in-house design and construction. We never use subcontractors, all of our team members, from our lead designer to lead carpenter, take ownership of each project.
Bathroom Remodeling
Master Kitchen and Bath Design designs beautiful bathrooms to complement both older and newly constructed homes. For over thirty years, MKBD has distinguished itself as the leading bathroom remodeling company in the Philadelphia area. When you work with MKBD, you partner with the most innovative and skilled talent in the bathroom remodeling industry.
Finished Basements
In many homes, the basement is a neglected space, a hideaway for moldering storage boxes, discarded furniture, and outdated supplies. A remodeling project can transform your basement into a functional living space. From recreational rooms to guest suites, Master Kitchen & Bath Design excels in the design and construction of finished basements.
