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Understanding the Impact of a New Kitchen on Your Home’s Value

October 18, 2023October 18, 2023Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodelingkitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

Have you ever wondered why nearly every piece of home improvement advice suggests starting with the kitchen? Why does this one room seem to carry such weight in real estate? The simple fact is, the kitchen is often considered the heart of the home. Traditionally, it’s not just a place for cooking but also for engaging conversations, family gatherings, and nurturing relationships. Therefore, having an attractive, comfortable, and efficient kitchen can dramatically enhance your home’s appeal and overall value.

In this blog post, we delve deeper into understanding why the kitchen holds such an essential role, how a new or renovated kitchen can impact your home’s value, and what factors you need to consider when planning your kitchen makeover. Kitchen improvements are not just about visual appeal, but they should also focus on functionality, sustainability, and timeless design trends, which can be potent selling points when putting your property up for sale.

Why is the Kitchen so Important?

The kitchen’s importance goes beyond the basic need for prepping meals. In contemporary living, this space has evolved from a utilitarian room to the ultimate social hub where family and friends gather, where homework gets done and countless coffee cups get emptied. Your kitchen speaks volumes about your lifestyle and your taste, not just in food, but in design and décor as well. So investing in this space enhances not just your quality of life but the overall livability of your home.

Moreover, buyers nowadays aren’t just looking for a cookie-cutter home. They’re seeking properties that offer them personalized spaces, a sense of luxury, and most importantly, comfort. A beautifully curated, fully functional kitchen ticks all these boxes.

The Impact of Kitchen Upgrades on Home Value

Most real estate professionals concur that a well-designed and updated kitchen can substantially increase your home’s market value. According to a report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), minor kitchen renovations can yield a higher return on investment (ROI) compared to major upscale remodels.

Typically, a thoughtful kitchen remodel focused on improving functionality and aesthetic appeal can return up to 60-80% of the cost involved during the resale. Although kitchen renovations can indeed be heavy on the pocket, their effect on improving property values is significant enough to warrant their importance.

Key Factors to Consider During a Kitchen Upgrade

Not all kitchen renovations are created equal. The key to ensuring your kitchen renovation project is effective lies in maintaining a balance between contemporary design trends, timeless style, and functionality. Key elements to consider include practical floor plans, storage efficiency, modern appliances, high-quality materials, and striking aesthetic appeal.

Aside from the latest design trends, sustainability is another factor gaining popularity among homeowners today. Incorporating sustainable materials, energy-saving appliances, and efficient waste management solutions not only adds value to your property but also reduces your carbon footprint.

The Pros and Cons of Kitchen Renovations

Like any home renovation project, kitchen upgrades come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks. They can make your home attractive to potential buyers, increase your property’s value and utility, and dramatically enhance your living experience. On the other hand, kitchen renovations can be time-consuming, disruptive, and expensive. They require keen planning and budget management to ensure that they bring expected ROI. It’s important to evaluate the investment’s worth, focusing on long-lasting upgrades rather than current interior fads.

The Magic of a Well-Designed Kitchen

In the end, a kitchen is more than just a room with a stove and fridge. It’s a testament to your tastes and lifestyle, a statement of your values, and a projection of your hospitality. A well-designed kitchen will not only increase your home’s value but also make it a more comfortable and enjoyable place to live.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning minor upgrades or a full-scale kitchen renovation, understanding the value of your investment is crucial. Given the kitchen’s central role in a home, its impact on property value is undeniable.

While kitchen renovations require significant commitments, the pay-offs in terms of enhanced quality of life, elevated property values, and improved home marketability are worth considering. Remember, when it’s about your kitchen, it’s not just about design and architecture; it’s about crafting an inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home. And that, in the end, is a priceless aspect no home value can measure.

SLEEK AND NEAT! GUIDE TO A MINIMAL KITCHEN

June 19, 2022June 19, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodelingkitchen remodelingLeave a comment

The kitchen is clearly the gathering place for the entire family. It’s where the heart of the house is located. In some ways, the kitchen is the house’s major attraction. Check the kitchen space that you have in an apartment and find out ways through which you can utilize the available space.

Go for a minimalist design including the color, texture of walls and floors and the overall lighting of the kitchen space. The minimalist look is preferred by most people for practically everything, including clothing, homes, places, and even the kitchen. These days, a calm, lighter-toned kitchen with good furnishings and well-organized storage is in demand, and people are doing kitchen makeovers in a minimalist way.

Guide on How to Get a Minimalist Kitchen-

Here are some suggestions for minimalist kitchen makeovers:

1) Kitchen Organization-

A kitchen’s organization is what defines it. How you organize your kitchen will determine what goes where and where you keep your kitchen items. The key purpose of designing a minimalist kitchen is to carefully consider all the many options for your kitchen makeovers, whether you hire a designer or do it yourself. The organization in a minimalist kitchen should be tidy and pleasing to the eye. You can go for an all-white look to give your kitchen a minimalist look.

2) Kitchen Islands-

A kitchen island is a countertop or work surface in the kitchen where chores are accomplished. This section, when done or made correctly, gives elegance to the kitchen. To make your kitchen makeovers of the island look more modest and appealing, add a few entertaining objects. Wine chillers and entertainment cabinets, for example, will add to the aesthetic appeal of the island. Adding beautiful materials to the island area, such as colored stones, clean white Carrara, and striking patterns for worktops and coverings will enhance the overall look of the kitchen.

3) Cabinetry-

The cabinets incorporated into the kitchen provide a modern kitchen with easy access and well-organized storage. This form of cabinetry, which includes drawers and roll-out cabinets, gives your kitchen a minimalist appeal. Install as many cupboards and drawers as possible if you’re planning a minimalist kitchen makeover at home. Making the kitchen in the Scandinavian kitchen design is one option. This design is simple, minimalist, and has crowded areas, resulting in an aesthetically beautiful but functional kitchen.

4) Aesthetics-

The kitchen’s aesthetics are what give it its simple appearance. You can get this appearance by incorporating color and texture into your kitchen, as well as adding some greenery in the form of vases. Always try to go for sustainable and eco-friendly products that are long lasting and that give the best value for money to your interiors. You can create a large countertop and place some vases on it, or you can create hidden storage for your utensils. Laminate sheets with a neutral and natural appearance can be used to finish your furniture.

5) Built-In Equipment-

Different sorts of electronic equipment and illumination are used in every modern kitchen. Add or construct built-in devices while giving your home a minimalist kitchen makeover. This helps the kitchen appear less cluttered, makes it easier to utilize the electronics, and so enhances the appearance.

Conclusion-

These are some tips you can use to give your kitchen a minimalist look. You can also add some of your own ideas and thoughts to do the look as if it is your kitchen, and it defines your personality. Find out some innovative designs from the home design books and magazines, go through some sample works of the designers and finally hire them.

The Complete Kitchen Remodel Checklist

May 14, 2022May 14, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodelingkitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

Year after year, survey after survey, we learn the same thing: kitchens are the most popular room to remodel. However, that doesn’t mean that you’re guaranteed to be happy with the outcome.

Going into a kitchen remodel without a plan is going to result in disaster. You may end up with a kitchen design that has no flow. You may go way over budget and have to make a lot of unfortunate sacrifices.

To keep you from making grave kitchen remodel mistakes, we’ve put together a kitchen remodel checklist.

Read on and follow the steps to ensure that your modern kitchen remodel isn’t a flop.

Start With Ideas and a Budget

First, get inspired. Start looking at kitchen remodel ideas to get a sense of both classic and trendy choices other people have made. Pay close attention not only to aesthetics but also practical components–like how many appliances or fixtures to fit into a kitchen of your size.

Then, set a budget. Keep in mind that remodels tend to come with unexpected costs caused by things like material shortages, labor delays, and design errors. Keep your must-haves separate from your want-to-haves, because you may have to cut some things from the design.

Do Some Research

Start researching early. Look for things like:

local contractors in your area
the latest appliances, how well they’re rated, how they work, and what they cost
where to source materials like countertops and kitchen cabinets (learn more here)

The best way to make smart choices and stay within your budget is to do your research ahead of time. Don’t wait until the pressure is on to decide how you’re going to spend your money.

Establish a Layout

It’s time to get out the measuring tape. How big is your kitchen? What kind of flow does it already have? Are you going to be knocking things down and starting fresh or working within the current layout?

There’s no point in redoing your kitchen if it isn’t going to feel functional after the fact. Think about what some designers call the triangle of activity: the fridge, the stove, and the sink. When designing the layout, the goal is to have a smooth flow from one point of the triangle to the other, without overcrowding them.

Hire Your Contractors

Although this is the last step on our checklist, it doesn’t need to be the last thing you do. If you intend to work with contractors to come up with a design, start looking to hire someone early. If you have a timeline in mind and not a whole lot of wiggle room, make sure that you’re hiring contractors a few months before you want to break ground.

Use the Kitchen Remodel Checklist to Avoid Disaster

Kitchen remodels are a homeowner favorite but there is a ton of room for error. Use our kitchen remodel checklist to ensure smooth sailing as you come up with and execute your new kitchen design.

Looking for more tips to improve everything from your kitchen to your backyard? Take a look around for tips and trends.

How Much Will It Really Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?

February 6, 2022February 5, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodelinghome improvement, kitchen remodelingLeave a comment

When you’re remodeling your home, budget is often one of the biggest considerations and constraints people face. For the vast majority of people renovating their homes, they won’t have access to a bottomless budget to make all of their wildest dreams come true. This would be nice, of course, but sadly, it’s not often the case.

What this means is that there need to be careful calculations and tough compromises. You’ll need to create a budget for your build, but to do that, you’ll need an idea of how much it usually costs.

The cost to remodel a kitchen can vary greatly for many reasons. This guide will discuss what some of these are, and what you should be expecting to pay.

The Average Kitchen Remodel Cost

In order to get some ballpark figures in the mix, it can be helpful to look at what the average American spends on renovating a kitchen. Don’t let these figures scare you too much, though, because depending on your design choices and where you live, it could be significantly less.

So, as it turns out, in America, the average cost of remodeling a kitchen ranges between $25,000 and $40,000. This is in reference to a kitchen of average size.

Variables in Kitchen Cost

While this is a good guideline to look at, you need to look at your own specific kitchen to get a better idea of what it will cost. For example, what size is it? The bigger it is, the more it will cost you.

Also, what’s the price of labor and materials where you live? These can significantly raise or lower your overall cost.

Finally, what kind of design do you have in mind? If you want a custom kitchen design, this will likely cost you a little more. If you’re tearing down any walls or up any floors, this will also raise your costs higher.

What kind of finishes do you want? If it’s worth it to you to have a marble countertop (like these ones https://www.agmarble.com/3-beautiful-countertops-long-island/ for example) it may cost more than synthetic material, but it will also last you much longer, which is something to consider.

Did you know the time of year you remodel can also have an effect? Since contractors are traditionally a little less busy in the winter, they’ll often charge a lower rate during this time. If you’re willing to wait to have your kitchen done, you could bag yourself a bargain.

Budgeting Your Build

When you’re budgeting your build, there are some kitchen remodeling tips you can follow. Here’s how much to allow for each component of your kitchen.

Cabinets will be around 30%, while appliances will be closer to 20%. Labor will be around 13%, your countertops 11%, and your lighting around 10%. The plumbing, flooring, and electrical fixtures will each be around 5%.

How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?

Asking how much does it cost to remodel a kitchen is a bit like asking “how long is a piece of string?”. The answer will vary depending on lots of different factors.

You can, however, use the information contained in this guide as a jumping-off point. If you’re looking for more design tips and tricks, check out the rest of our content now.

Reasons Why Your Kitchen Needs a Makeover

January 25, 2022October 18, 2023Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, kitchen renovationskitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

Kitchens are the heart of the home. They’re where we cook our family dinners, share stories around the table, and create lasting memories. So it’s no wonder that most homeowners take great care in designing and decorating their kitchens.

Designing a kitchen can be fun, but it can also be challenging. There are several things to consider: the layout, the cabinets, the countertops, the appliances. How do you know where to start? And how do you know when to start?

There is no right time for a makeover, but if you’re thinking about doing it sooner rather than later, assess your needs, and think about what you’d like to have. Are you working on increasing the functionality of your kitchen, or do you want to theme your remodeling around aesthetics and decor?

Perhaps, you’re doing this makeover simply because your kitchen is screaming for help. Keep reading as we show you why, when, and how to give your kitchen a makeover.

It’s About Time:

What’s the first thing your eyes set on when you walk into your kitchen? A splash of color, a picture on the wall, or maybe an outdated cabinet. Kitchens are often the most overlooked rooms in our home. They shouldn’t just be functional spaces where we cook and eat; they should also have a style that complements your living room or dining area. If you live in Contra Costa, Google the term ‘kitchen remodeling Contra Costa CA’ and find service providers to help you create the kitchen of your dreams.

Reasons why you should consider a Makeover

When Functionality Becomes a Concern!

Can you picture yourself holding a steaming hot lasagna pan in your hand with an insufficient countertop area to set it on? And after clearing some room (by knocking things off of it!), you run into the wall and bust your toe! (I hope you didn’t have a stroke or anything.) So that was a visual of a clogged kitchen that needs remodeling right now!

Insufficient Storage Space!

Your family is getting bigger, and so is your passion for different and more expensive kitchen gadgets. So one bright day, you stroll in with a bag of snacks and a fresh batch of serving plates to enjoy your weekend, only to discover there’s no place to put them in the cabinets! Busted? Don’t you think it’s the appropriate time and occasion to contact a specialist for some renovation?

The Electricity Bills are Breaking Your Back!

You adore your current kitchen, which has beautiful chandeliers and fine bar lamps; you enjoy a cup of coffee with friends over a discussion in that area. But, have you ever considered how much it’s costing you? Look around and see if there’s a hefty electricity bill on the countertop. If you find one, it’s time to think about including a window in your kitchen!

Doesn’t Match Your Taste Anymore:

You might have loved your kitchen when you first moved in but tastes change. You may now want a sleek and modern design to reflect your contemporary lifestyle. Or maybe that country-style kitchen is just too “rustic” for you these days. It’s time for a change!

If you’re facing trouble with any of the above, you’ve got a good case for a makeover. Where do you begin? What should your following actions be?

Assess the Needs:

Before beginning with the makeover, it’s crucial to understand what you and your kitchen need. What do you not like about your current kitchen? What’s missing can make everyday life a bit more pleasant and convenient for you?

Wish List:

The first step is to create a wish list describing the features and aspects of your dream kitchen. Include items such as cabinets, appliances, countertops, pantry, etc. Also include non-physical features like

Lighting fixtures,
Flooring materials,
Color scheme,
Cabinet door designs.

DIY Makeover VS Professional Help:

When it comes to kitchen makeovers, there is two routes you can go: DIY or professional help.

Both have advantages and disadvantages to consider before starting the renovation process.

DIY Makeover – The Gist:

If you’re handy with a hammer and screwdriver, have some construction experience, and feel comfortable taking on a project of this scale. Doing a kitchen remodel yourself is an option worth considering.

You’ll save money in the long run by not having to pay someone else for labor.
You’ll get to put your stamp on the finished product.
You’ll gain some experience, and its fun.

However, doing a kitchen remodel yourself is no small undertaking. It’s a significant project that will take weeks (or even months) of time and a lot of hard work. It’s also one that can easily cost you thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars in replacement materials alone.

Professional Help – An Outline:

Hiring a professional can help you in ways you might not realize. While the payback may seem initially expensive, in most cases, it will end up saving you money down the road on a project that could otherwise go wrong.

A professional designer:

Can look at your space and what you want out of a remodel and come back with plans for accomplishing those goals within specific budget parameters.
They know about building codes, permits, scheduling details, and other aspects that must be considered before any work begins.
They have a better understanding of cost.

Whether you want to hire a professional or not is your choice. What matters most is a completed project that was worth investing in.

Parts of Your Kitchen You Might Want to Work On:

Kitchen Flooring: If your flooring is old and worn, it might be time for an upgrade. Kitchen flooring should be easy to clean and resistant to spills and stains.

Kitchen Cabinets: You can change cabinets by adding new hardware, painting them, or giving them an overhaul with a fresh coat of stain or paint.

Kitchen Faucet: If your kitchen faucets are outdated, you can replace them without breaking the bank. New ones come in various styles and prices – no matter what budget you have in mind, there is something to suit it!

Counter-Tops: Granite, marble, quartz, or something else entirely? The countertop you choose will enhance your kitchen’s overall look and feel.

Back-Splash & Lighting: The back-splashes in kitchens can improve by adding tile, stone, or new paint color.

Appliances: Stainless steel or black finish? French door refrigerator or side by side? Built-in microwave oven or countertop model? If your appliances are outdated, it might be time for an upgrade.

Conclusion:

When it comes to kitchen renovation, there are a lot of factors to consider. The process will be easier and less stressful if you have everything organized. An up-to-date kitchen not only distinguishes your home from the competition but also adds value when resold. Of course, renovating your kitchen necessitates an investment, but upgrading just once is better than doing so multiple times if you think about it.

5 Prettiest Materials That Make Durable Countertops

March 17, 2020March 17, 2020Bruzzese Home Improvementskitchen renovationshome improvement, kitchen remodelingLeave a comment

Countertops take up a lot of kitchen real estate. Choosing a surface that is pleasing to the eye, durable, and convenient to clean is an important part of redoing a kitchen or designing one from scratch. Use the tips about the following materials to make a successful choice.

Granite

Among the most elegant countertops are those made of granite. The gorgeous surfaces do require some care, however. Homeowners who want the classic elegance of distinction in their kitchens need to be committed to granite’s maintenance. Improper sealing can lead to the porous stone staining and it can harbor bacteria. It is limited to about twenty colors and is prone to chipping or breakage at the corners or if heavy objects fall on them. Still, granite is classic for a reason, and to the right homeowner, it is worth the price and effort involved.

Quartz

Quartz countertops elevate a kitchen to a higher level of elegance. This material is tough enough to provide decades of durability and pretty enough to want to keep it around that long. Home remodelers can enhance it using colorant to offer nearly any hue while keeping the feel and look of natural stone. It differs from marble and granite in that those are solid stone while quartz is engineered of about 9/10s quarts and the remainder of color and binder. Quartz is easy to clean but not as heat-resistant as crushed glass, concrete, or granite.

Laminate

Laminate countertops are made up of cores of hard particleboard bonded with layers of plastic laminate. This option is affordable and available in the widest range possible of shades and patterns. This provides great value and versatility as a kitchen countertop option. They are also less durable when it comes to heat and can be easily scratched. Easily cleaned, laminate countertops are a good choice for those with limited budgets and small children.

Recycled Glass

Generally, recycled glass countertops are up to 90% glass that is post-consumer. They have been in production since the mid-1990s, with glass sourced from both domestic and commercial uses. These popular, eco-friendly surfaces are highly individual and unique, capable of appearing contemporary or traditional. Not prone to cracking or chipping, they are easy to clean as they are non-porous.

Concrete

Among the newest offerings when it comes to countertop surfaces, concrete counters are made lighter and thinner with additives while maintaining durability. A custom material, it is frequently framed and poured right there in the kitchen. With stamps and stains, personalized touches are possible for homeowners. Concrete countertops are expensive to balance out their great strength and capacity for customization, rivaling granite or quartz.

Deciding on a pretty countertop can be a difficult choice. The prices and appearances vary widely, as do the durability and ease of cleaning. With this information about five of the prettiest options, the decision should be made a little simpler.

Guest Post By:

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys Tennis and spending time with her family.

Polished Concrete: Is it a Good Idea to Use it in the Kitchen?

February 9, 2020October 19, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementskitchen renovations, Kitchen Remodelinghome improvement, kitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

Exposed concrete has gained widespread popularity over the years and it’s something that most homeowners gravitate towards. It combines beauty and functionality to provide an upscale look that looks modern and appealing. Some people even wonder if polished concrete is suitable for use inside the kitchen. To help you make an informed decision, we’ll be answering several questions pertaining to polished concrete and how you can utilize it for your kitchen applications.

Is polished concrete suitable for kitchen floors and countertops?

Yes. Depending on the style and aesthetics you’re looking for, polished concrete can work wonderfully on kitchen floors and countertops. Don’t let the look of polished concrete fool you. Even though it looks shiny and slippery, it actually provides the same level of grip concrete does (provided that you keep it clean). In fact, polished concrete offers more foot traction than linoleum or tile. Because polished concrete is a porous material, it retains its slip-resistant properties even when wet, so you shouldn’t have to worry about safety concerns in regards to polished concrete.

For countertops, polished concrete adds a bit of elegance and durability. As long as it’s sealed properly, you won’t have much trouble dealing with stains coming from coffee or sauces. Just make sure to clean the stains immediately.

Is polished concrete prone to cracking?

All concrete floors have the potential to crack, whether it be polished, untreated, or coated. Keep in mind that in a kitchen, there are temperature fluctuations which can cause the concrete to expand and contract. While this may sound concerning, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about as long as you contact a reputable installer like Fluid Concrete to install polished concrete. They’ll usually reinforce areas such as the hob or sink to reduce the likelihood of cracks.

Polished concrete is incredibly durable and can withstand the daily abuse of most kitchen tasks. Along with proper installation and sealing, expect your kitchen floors and countertops to last for years without suffering major cracks and damages.

What is the maintenance like with polished concrete?

The beauty of polished concrete goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. Its low-maintenance properties make it a perfect choice for an area that’s as busy as the kitchen. You only need to establish a routine cleaning maintenance to ensure its shine and luster. Things such as wiping the countertop and mopping the floors on a daily basis are all you need to maintain polished concrete.

Keep in mind that when dealing with stains, it’s best to use a concrete-specific cleaner. That way, you don’t damage the sealer and preserve the condition of your kitchen floors and countertops.

Does polished concrete need to be resealed?

Yes. Polished concrete requires resealing every few years to maintain its natural beauty. Think of a sealer as a barrier that protects polished concrete from dust, dirt, stains, and other contaminants that may affect its finish. Experts recommend applying a sealer every 2-5 years to keep kitchen floors and countertops in good shape. Of course this will depend on a variety of factors and only you will know when it’s time to actually reseal.

Some telltale signs that point to resealing polished concrete are hard-wearing stains, cracks, and floors that have lost its luster or shine. The concrete sealer needs to be applied evenly for maximum protection. That said, it’s best to have a professional reseal polished concrete to achieve consistent results.

Any kitchen appliances or substances that you should worry about?

When it comes to using polished concrete for kitchen applications, there’s not a lot to be concerned about. Just make sure to stay away from industrial cleaning agents as these can harm the surface of polished concrete and break down the sealant coating. Also, avoid spilling acidic substances like vinegar and juices on citric fruits since these can eat away into the surface of polished concrete.

We highly suggest using a dedicated concrete cleaner when cleaning polished concrete. This helps prevent damage from your kitchen floors and countertops while maintaining its shiny, polished finish. You can also use mild, soapy cleaning agents like dishwashing liquid to remove stains. Baking soda works great in getting rid of oily residue and grease buildup on countertops.

So, is polished concrete a good idea to use in the kitchen?

Absolutely. It’s no surprise that many people are enamored with polished concrete and for good reason. Not only is it as durable as regular concrete, but it’s also more beautiful, lending to its timeless appeal. If you’re looking to use polished concrete for your kitchen floors and countertops, you will definitely appreciate its slip-resistant and long-lasting qualities. Make sure to contact a reputable installer to avoid unwanted cracks and achieve an even finish come sealing time.

4 Storage Features You Need for Your Newly Remodeled Kitchen

January 7, 2020January 3, 2020Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodelingkitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

Before you finalize the upgrade list for your new kitchen, there are a few things you might want to consider adding. Creating more storage space will ensure you always have room for the extras you never seem to know where to put. Plus, additional storage means you can buy more things or move around the kitchen until you get everything just right. Here are a few sneaky ways to add more storage to your newly remodeled kitchen.

Corner space

A lazy Susan on one or more shelves in the corner of your kitchen will help you define wasted space and reach items that would otherwise get lost in the back of these cabinets. Using a turntable helps you see what spices, canned goods, or lids you have available. You can easily turn the shelf to get to tall items.

Under island storage

Instead of leaving all the room under the island open, a kitchen remodeling company can custom make shelves that will give you additional storage space. You can keep things like dish towels, plastic silverware, serving utensils, and sports bottles in a spot away from the rest of the dishes and pantry items to keep them neat and organized.

Install a hanging rack for pots and pans

One excellent storage idea is to keep your cooking items handy without getting in the way. Putting up a pot rack will keep them within reach when you need them and out of the way when you do not. Plus, if you have nice copper or stainless pans, then you will probably want to show them off to all who stop by to visit.

Tray storage above the refrigerator

Platters and large serving trays can get in the way of cooking and having everyday meals. To give these items a special home, you can carve out the space above your appliances. The refrigerator top is often wasted space unless you use it for decor or cereal storage. This area gets warm, so storing food on top of the fridge may mean it gets stale sooner. So, adding a tray organizer is one way to use up this space and make it work for you.

Getting creative with the small areas in your kitchen can help you customize your room to better suit your family’s needs. You can use benches with storage under the seat to give you space for appliances that you do not use every day. Making your kitchen work for you only takes a few fun ideas. Your contractor can give you an estimate on prices and tell you if the additions will make the remodel take longer or not.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks
Freelance writer and web enthusiast

4 Ways to Brighten up Your Kitchen

September 24, 2019September 11, 2019Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodeling, home improvementkitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

If you’re tired of seeing the same old kitchen, it’s likely you’ve been considering ways to change it. There may be many options running through your mind when it comes to updating. Here are a few options so that you can start with a budget in mind and consider some of the upgrades listed below.

Put in Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting has been increasing in popularity over the last decade. It provides a unique solution to lighting issues when it comes to low ceilings or the need for directed light. If you want to physically brighten up your kitchen, you should consider installing some recessed lights. There are many different options to choose from. With the advancements in the recessed lighting industry, you can actually install these lights right in the drywall without having to attach them to a rafter for support.

Backlight Your Countertops

Instead of installing lights overhead, try backlighting your countertops. Slablite is one of the more popular options that are available for a variety of translucent countertop materials, including quartz, glass, and onyx. This lighting is custom installed to fit around fixtures in your countertops, such as sinks. The best part is these systems run on very little power and last for up to 20 years.

Under Cabinet Lighting

One of the areas that you may notice you have a problem seeing is underneath your cabinets. When working with food, having as much light as possible is very helpful. Installing under cabinet lighting is a great option to allow more brightness into your kitchen. Because these lights are installed up underneath your cabinets, you don’t have to worry about them blinding you when you’re trying to prep your meals.

Install a Lighter Backsplash

Apart from installing additional lighting in your kitchen, you should think about the reflective qualities of what’s in your kitchen. Your backsplash is where you’re going to be standing for most of the food prep that you’re doing in the kitchen. Take a look at how you can improve your backsplash light reflection. Opt for a lighter color backsplash that will reflect the lighting that is present in your kitchen. This will make a world of difference in the lighting for your food prep.

Brightening up your kitchen doesn’t have to be overly difficult to do. Start by assessing what you have existing in your kitchen. Then, utilize some of the tactics explained above to add additional light to your kitchen.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks.
Freelance writer and web enthusiast

4 Kitchen Design Details that Will Make the Biggest Difference to an Old Home

September 10, 2019September 2, 2019Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodeling, kitchen renovationshome improvement, home remodeling, home trends, kitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

The kitchen is often the ideal room to focus on during a home renovation. The need for both a functional space and a social environment means that there are no shortage of ways to upgrade a kitchen. By focusing on the right details, kitchen renovations, both large and small, are far more likely to provide property owners with a more comfortable and stylish decor.

Updated Appliances

Older-model appliances can make cooking a much less enjoyable experience. A new stove, microwave or refrigerator can be an important part of any upgrade or renovation effort. Even smaller appliances can be a welcome addition to the environment which can help to ensure that a small budget is less likely to become a limiting factor.

New Cabinets

Cabinets are often the dominant feature of a kitchen’s decor. New cabinetry may seem like a sizable expense, but such an upgrade can go a long way towards breathing new life into a space that has begun to feel stale or take on a more dated look. Homeowners who lack the funds needed to replace their cabinets may still have options. Replacing cabinet pulls and hardware can be a more frugal option, but one that can still make quite a difference.

Replacing Old Countertops

Older counters that clash with an updated decor or design scheme can be a real eyesore. Installations that have been in place for years or even decades most likely show signs of wear. More dramatic countertop surfaces or replacing existing installations that have been damaged or that may be showing signs of discoloration can help to improve the overall atmosphere of the kitchen.

Installing New Floors

New floors are another option worth considering. Replacing existing tile or linoleum flooring can go a long way towards providing an older kitchen with an updated and more modern look. While a complete replacement can be expensive, such efforts can also be scaled back in order to fit a smaller budget. Tile places that stock a large inventory of flooring materials can make it easy to replace individual tiles or small areas of an existing floor that have been damaged over the years.

Planning a Successful Renovation

There are plenty of tips that can help to ensure a successful kitchen upgrade or home renovation project. Paying attention to the details when planning an upcoming project is one bit of advice that homeowners would do well to take seriously. Even seemingly minor issues and inconsequential details could end up playing an important role in ensuring a more successful renovation.