After the Christmas decorations have fallen and the last guest has left your house, you can breathe a sigh of relief; the holiday season can be overwhelming and exhausting for many. But after you’ve relaxed, it’s time to give your kitchen a long-awaited update. Changing some components of your kitchen can be easily completed, especially with the many post-holiday sales. Follow these suggestions to transform your kitchen into a contemporary culinary paradise.
go monochrome
The latest trends in kitchen design recommend keeping color schemes simple, if not monochromatic. One or two neutral shades in a warm peach or cream or a soft shade of green or blue create a clean, crisp and sophisticated feel. If you already have a number of stainless steel components in your kitchen, try matching your kitchen cabinet hardware accordingly; too many different colors can make any kitchen look like a hodgepodge of mismatched elements.
cape with light
What many homeowners overlook is the use of light within their kitchen. By amplifying available natural light, you’ll instantly brighten your kitchen and make it feel inviting, and not to mention lower your electric bills! The overall feel of your kitchen should be a gradient from dark to light, starting at the baseboards and continuing to the ceiling.
Skylights and tall windows to the ceiling are a perfect way to let the sun’s rays into your kitchen. Next, switch up your traditional cabinets and cabinet handles by installing glass or frosted panels with matching stainless steel cabinet hardware. These accessories not only mask cluttered cabinets, but also continue to allow some sunlight to penetrate. Finally, waist-high cabinets should be the darkest finish in your modern kitchen.
maximize space
Most chefs, including their kitchen helpers (kids), agree that kitchen space can be a hassle, especially when you’re trying to multitask. A well-planned kitchen will eliminate the chance of bumping your elbows and help your kitchen look clean (even if it isn’t). Typical suggestions for creating space when little seems to be available is to install a floor-to-ceiling unit. These space-friendly structures are ideal for the family on the go. Another contemporary essential to save space is the island; this unique piece can serve as a partial cooking station, storage space, or an additional area for entertaining or dining, depending on your needs. Islands can come in a stainless steel, granite, or wood finish, so be sure to choose a top that matches the rest of your kitchen design.
Avoid letting structure take over the feel of your room by pairing simple kitchen cabinet knobs that aren’t decorative or ornate; Dark cabinet pulls with oil-polished or brass finishes will compete with the frame and is a no-no for any designer.
be in the spotlight
Any well-designed kitchen has a focal point and it’s about time you decided on one! Pick an area you would like attention to be focused on. Modern designs focus on the work island, hanging planters, or a stainless steel backsplash. Typical lighting used to set the spotlight is with direct overhead lighting tracks or hanging pendant lights that literally put the fixture in the spotlight. While the focal point should grab your attention, it should also appear natural and consistent with the rest of your kitchen. Not sure if your kitchen approach works? Take a step back and try to see your kitchen as an outsider; your eyes should immediately focus on the designated object but also continue around the room in a smooth pattern.
Make it a tradition
Now, with your kitchen refreshed and revitalized, it’s time to put it to use. Whether you’re a family of one or a household of many, make spending time in the kitchen an enjoyable tradition. To add ambience, set up your mp3 or music player nearby and instantly do tasks like sweeping the floor or even chopping celery.