Most households have a room in their house which is busier than all the others and that room is likely to be the kitchen. Homework gets done there. Coffee is sipped while you’re having an adult conversation. Grocery bags are flung there after a hard day at work, and at least one child can be found yelling, “What’s for dinner?” most days. But renovating your kitchen isn’t just about how pretty it will look. It’s about designing a home environment that can keep up with the fast pace in which we collectively live our lives without feeling overwhelming to manage.
The kitchen is the hub of the home and as we’re currently renovating ours, I wanted to share some renovation inspiration in case you might be considering a glow up of your own at home!
Deep Drawers Instead Of Lower Cabinets
Lower cabinets might look slick at first, but when you need to find something in them, such as a pot lid or missing kid (!) they can become a hard to reach abyss of a thing! Deep drawers allow your items to be seen without the need to dig around so do consider them!
All of your large pots, pans, utensils, dishes and other crockery (we have more tea sets than I can count) will fit into deep drawers, plus they’re easier for children to reach in if you decide to dedicate some drawers to snacks for example.
Soft, Layered Lighting That Changes The Mood
Most home kitchens have a single overhead light installed in the ceiling which can feel rather cold compared to softer lighting options. By incorporating layered lighting into your kitchen you can create a warmer ambience from morning ’til night.
Soft, warm lighting above a kitchen island (pendant lights) can make the space more inviting when you’re cooking meals as a family, and soft under-cabinet lighting in a home kitchen makes it easier for parents to find ingredients and prepare meals.
Most importantly, a kitchen with thoughtful lighting feels less chaotic and more relaxing, even when life is busy.
A Walk-In Pantry Or Hidden Storage Zone
If there’s enough room in your home, adding a walk-in pantry will make a huge difference in how you and other family members function within your kitchen. You’ll be able to keep all bulk grocery items, school snacks, refillable water bottles, paper towels, and baking supplies amongst other items, off your countertops and hidden away but still within easy reach. Our is in out utilty room and was the best decision we made.
Most kitchen renovations also provide homeowners with hidden appliance areas where you can store items as coffee makers and toasters. You can never have too much storage, remember that! Additional pull-out storage spaces next to stoves for spices and oils for examples are also super useful. Do ensure you incorporate these plans in the development stages of renovating your kitchen as they can be easily forgotten.
Durable Countertops That Handle Real Life
Whilst appearing clean and chic is important when it comes to a kitchen, longevity is key. Parents should seek out durable surfaces to handle messy family meals, sticky fingerprints and endless action. Investing in quartz worktops is one of the smartest decisions you can make in my opinion for your kitchen (we have quartz in ours, and granite and marble in other rooms) because they will still look pristine despite the daily chaos of busy mornings and nonstop activity around the kitchen island.
Quartz remains popular because it combines style with practicality. It resists stains, does not require constant maintenance, and keeps its polished appearance without demanding any kind of special treatment.
An Island That Actually Functions
A kitchen island is often the focal point of the entire house. I would recommend yours has seating, hidden electrical outlets and additional storage where possible so it’s as practical as possible. Children can complete their homework on the island while you cook, guests can sit around it whilst you entertain and of course, placing grocery shopping on its tops are helpful after a shopping trip. The island really does work harder than any other surface in the home!
Flooring That Hides Everyday Mess
Flooring choices made from textured patterns and natural colours, along with finishes such as matte, can make a family kitchen appear cleaner and chicer than other floor designs.
Seating That Encourages People To Stay
The best kitchens are those you want to spend time in so think about how to make your kitchen comfortable as well as practical.
Counter stools with backrests usually have more longevity than sharp edged minimal stools and breakfast nooks with plump pillows are ideal for family gatherings.
Kitchens work better when they support connection naturally instead of feeling purely functional.
Renovations That Continue Working Years Later
Smart kitchens work long past their first year. The smartest kitchen renovations are rarely about impressing visitors for a single season. They’re designed to be functional spaces for families for many years to come.
Kitchens which minimise stress as opposed to creating additional upkeep are key for busy parents. Design elements such as ample storage, durable surfaces, warm lighting and a smart layout making the best use of the space, contribute to creating a space that makes every day easier.
Are you considering a renovation?
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