Thinking of a kitchen update? Whether you’re updating an appliance or two and adding a new ceiling light or doing a full-blown kitchen remodel, there’s plenty to consider.
A well-designed kitchen not only looks great, it often serves as the heart of the home where family and friends eat, cook and socialize.
Picking the Perfect Appliances
When selecting appliances for your kitchen remodel, it’s important to choose ones that not only look great but also meet your functional needs. Since your appliances will serve you for many years, it’s important they are the right ones. Here are some things to consider:
- Style: The style of your appliances should complement the overall design of your kitchen. If you’re going for a traditional look, you might choose appliances with a more classic look, such as a range with a gas cooktop and a large oven. For a more modern look, you might choose sleek, stainless steel appliances with clean lines.
- Size: The size of your appliances should be determined by the size of your kitchen and the number of people who will be using it. If you have a large family or entertain often, you’ll likely need larger appliances, such as a double oven or a larger refrigerator.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient appliances can help you save money on your energy bills while also reducing your carbon footprint. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR® label, which means they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- Function: The function of your appliances is perhaps the most important consideration when selecting them for your kitchen remodel. Think about how you will be using your appliances and choose ones that meet those needs. For example, if you’re an avid cook, you might choose a range with a high BTU output, or if you have a large family, you might choose a refrigerator with ample storage space.
- Lifestyle: Do you love to cook, creating culinary experiences with every meal? Or is the focus in your kitchen more utilitarian with simple requests like keep food cold, cook, and clean? Does your family congregate in the kitchen or is it more of a pass-through space? Designing your kitchen and tailoring what’s in it (appliances, lighting and other furnishings) depends on how you will use the space. Choose accordingly. If quick meals are your go-to, consider a speed oven or air-fry features. If you go gourmet, opt for a large range with a grill or flattop section. Can’t function without stellar coffee? Maybe a built-in coffee station is right for you. The choices are endless, and there are as many basics as there are upgrades in the appliance world. Get what fits your lifestyle.
Light Up Your New Kitchen
Lighting is an important aspect of any kitchen remodel, as it can help set the mood and enhance the functionality of your space. Prepping food and cleaning up is a challenge when your workspace is too dark! Here are some things to consider when selecting appropriate lighting for your kitchen remodel:
- Accent Lighting: Accent lighting is used to highlight specific areas of your kitchen, such as a beautiful backsplash or a piece of artwork. Accent lighting can be provided by track lighting or adjustable wall sconces. Metal sconces on articulating arms are particularly in demand lately and work well with a variety of design styles.
- Ambient Lighting: Ambient lighting provides overall illumination for your space and is typically provided by ceiling-mounted fixtures or recessed lighting. Consider the size and shape of your kitchen when selecting ambient lighting, as well as the height of your ceilings.
- Task Lighting: Your kitchen is home to many tasks, from creating family meals to homework to gathering with friends and family. Task lighting provides focused illumination for specific tasks, such as cooking or food preparation. Under-cabinet lighting is a popular choice for task lighting, as it provides bright, focused light right where you need it. Pendant lights or linear chandeliers that focus light downward are terrific over the kitchen island and can also add visual interest to your space while lighting up your work surfaces.
- Aesthetics: The style of your lighting fixtures should complement the overall design of your kitchen. If you have a traditional kitchen, you might choose lighting fixtures with a more classic look, like a chandelier or pendant lights with a more ornate design. For a modern kitchen, you might choose (the very on-trend) mid-century modern fixtures with clean lines and a sleek, minimalist look.
- Dimmer Switches: Variety is the spice of life, they say. It’s good advice when spicing up the meals you make in your new kitchen and holds true when changing the vibe and mood in any space with lighting. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the brightness of your lighting fixtures, which can help create a more relaxed atmosphere when you’re entertaining or enjoying a meal with your family.
Selecting the right appliances and lighting for your kitchen remodel is crucial to creating a space that is both beautiful and functional. By considering your unique style, functional needs, and energy efficiency, you can make the best choices to make your space suit your needs and wishes.
The appliance and lighting experts at Mahlander’s (with well over a century of combined experience) can offer you a wealth of seasoned advice and help you choose the just-right pieces for your new kitchen. Come, see what’s inside!
