Chicago Kitchen Remodeling

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PLANNING TO REMODEL YOUR KITCHEN?

 Ah, Spring! Flowers blooming, birds singing and the house looking a bit tired? Maybe this is the year to remodel the kitchen and make eating in an experience you’ll enjoy.

Does the kitchen seem cramped and dark, linoleum or tile cracked and worn? Can’t ever find anything in the cabinets? Have to get out a stepladder to get down the holiday platters? A kitchen remodel can turn cooking from a chore into a new hobby.  Modern cabinets offer slide-out features for platters, spices, pots and pans (and their lids) and trash receptacles. An island can maximize counter space; built-ins keep the clutter off counters. If space is limited, your counter top or island can be raised or lowered for a breakfast bar or sit-down area. Lowering one area behind a island to accommodate chairs may prove ideal if space is limited. From wine racks to hanging pot racks, the styles are endless. Add open shelves to display that collection of pottery. Let your imagination be your guide and design your dream kitchen.

Make an idea book by going online and downloading pictures of kitchen remodels that inspire you. The internet, magazines, ezines and even libraries provide source material and pictures you can photocopy or scan into your computer for reference.


 TILE: Add a colorful new tile back splash as a maintenance-free decorating accent. Tile and counter top choices are almost limitless. Choose standard subway staggered white for a "Downton Abbey" look, or go with glass tile adding a modern sparkle to accent your work space. Custom tile designs can evoke an art deco feel or provide Tuscan ambience. Maybe you’re a traditionalist and just want something clean, bright and modern. Your contractor will work with your style, providing you with ideas for patterns, designs, finishes and even grout colors.



 FLOORING: Consider what’s easiest for maintenance, durable and yet stylish. Tile is a standard, but marble, slate and even hardwood are considerations. Anything you choose can be softened with an area rug at work stations or in the dining area. APPLIANCES: Think value, design, energy-saving and quiet. Value : Whether you choose stainless steel, brushed finishes, or perhaps conceal appliances behind doors that mimic your cabinet choice, go with what suits your budget. Design : This should reflect your lifestyle: single, a two-some, or lots of traffic with children and group gatherings. If you entertain frequently, ample refrigerator storage is a must. Perhaps a pantry would fit your needs more than cabinets; your contractor will help with options. Energy-saving : Some contractors have a "greenwashing" market technique, pushing appliances and windows as eco-friendly when they are, in fact, far from it. Short term inexpensive choices won’t save you in the long run. Even if your home is older, you can save energy costs and go green in a few simple steps. Choose appliances with an Energy Star rating to lower your utility bills. Double pane windows with UV coatings or argon-gas between panes will dramatically promote winter warmth and summer cooling without breaking the bank. Newer window models are not only energy-efficient but beautiful, with many configurations to fit your design. A full-house energy audit can cost up to $500, though a very few local utility companies provide one free or at a nominal cost, but your contractor is your best friend when helping you decide on eco-friendly choices. While you’re talking, ask your contractor about attic insulation, your best bet to lower energy costs. Quiet : Don’t want to wake the kids with a noisy washer or dishwasher? Have a family member who works odd hours? Many manufacturers now offer models that are "whisper quiet" so kitchen clean-up or last minute laundry won’t disturb anyone’s sleep.

 LIGHTING: LED lighting under cabinets can transform your work area. Bright, energy-efficient and in compliance with future government restrictions, LED lighting is an excellent option. Wall outlets now offer built-in power and USB convenience. Energy-efficient in-wall solutions are available for powering and charging USB devices. Some enable you to charge up to four devices simultaneously and come with designer color choices. Whatever you choose, consider some basics before jumping in headfirst. 1. What's your vision? 2. What's your budget? Before you start getting estimates, sit down and write out your expectations. Google kitchen or bathroom remodeling and look at designs and pictures. Every company has a website and most have ample information. Print them out or cut them out of magazines to show your contractor. 　 Next, check out contractors. Read customer reviews, see what others had to say about their experience with the company. Make sure the contractor you choose is licensed, bonded and insured. When you're ready, call for a free estimate. You want your dream remodel and your contractor wants you to be pleased with the outcome, so have a good idea of your expectations. Remember, once you've done your homework and hired a contractor you feel comfortable with, in no time you'll be enjoying your beautiful kitchen for many years. One last thing: In addition to beauty, a quality remodel increases your home's market value...providing you can bear to leave!

                                                                                         Check Out Our Kitchen Remodeling Ideas Blog

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 D. Juuti-Kilyan, blogger, author, artist.