Before starting this kitchen renovation, this dated kitchen in Kingston Rd., Waltham was closed off from the living area, provided minimal counter space, and severely limited storage options. With the existing stove, refrigerator, and sink on three different walls, the homeowner had no problems getting their recommended 8,000 steps daily.
The first step in transforming this space into the homeowner’s dream kitchen was removing the dividing wall between the dining room and kitchen.
This allowed us to create a more open floorplan that’s friendly, inviting, and spacious with a modern feel. Other changes to this kitchen project include:
- Replacing the old wooden cabinetry with full-height, shaker-style, satin white maple cabinets for improved storage and organization.
- New stainless-steel appliances, including the microwave, oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator, also contribute to the modern feel.
- Recessed lighting in the ceiling and under-cabinet task lighting provides light where it’s needed for prepping, cooking, and cleaning.
- New hardwood flooring throughout the kitchen further enhances the open-concept design.
- The backsplash features neutral-toned ceramic tiles that perfectly complement the new cabinetry and quartz countertops.
- The new design and finishes include a stylish center island with power and a butcher block countertop, which add functionality and warmth.
As the plans below show, the remodeled kitchen layout optimizes storage and workspace while making the kitchen more efficient, comfortable, and stylish.
Why Professional Craftsmanship Is Essential for Kitchen Remodels
The kitchen is the only room in the house that requires every utility service to function correctly.
- Water supply (cold and hot)
- Power
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
- Water and sewer drains
- Natural gas/propane supply
With so many systems involved, working with an experienced local contractor who has been repeatedly awarded for their customer service and attention to detail makes dollars and sense for homeowners like you.
If you’re considering a mild update or a complete kitchen remodel for your family home, here are some key points and FAQs to help you through the design process.
Tips for Creating an Open-Concept Kitchen with Optimized Storage
The first step is determining how much additional space (if any) is needed. Most interior walls can be relocated, added, or removed to accommodate a new layout. However, moving or eliminating load-bearing walls can extend construction timelines and costs.
Next, determine your storage needs. This homeowner, for example, added a stand mixer lift, a pantry next to the refrigerator, and roll-out shelving for pots and pans storage.
Addressing building limitations and homeowner needs through the entire design and construction process allows our talented design team to turn your dream kitchen vision into a reality. An efficient layout is essential for family member’s and visitors’ everyday use.
Why Stainless-Steel Appliances Are a Smart Choice for Your Kitchen Remodel
Most potential homebuyers prefer stainless steel appliances even if you don’t plan to move anytime soon. Stainless provides a monolithic and easy-to-clean surface that works with most design styles from colonial to Victorian and mid-century to farmhouse. Additionally, stainless accentuates different color pallets from light pastel colors to dark, dramatic hues.
How a Center Island Enhances Kitchen Functionality
Most older kitchens struggle to provide the functionality required by today’s homeowners. While the original counter space was sufficient for prepping and cooking meals, with the numerous small appliances available (coffee makers, air fryers, vacuum sealers, can openers, etc.) today, counter space is in high demand.
A custom center island can address some of the most common homeowner requests for
- More storage
- Additional counter space
- Secondary seating area
We opted for a butcher block counter for this center island to add contrast and texture. Extending the countertop beyond the cabinets on one side creates a new secondary seating area. The island includes a stand mixer lift with power for convenience, a two-tier cutlery drawer, and two roll-out trays for storing small appliances. Depending on the homeowner’s needs, a center island is also ideal for relocating the sink, a stove/second oven, the microwave, or even a wine fridge.
Using a Ceramic Tile Backsplash to Complement Your Kitchen Design
When it comes to choosing a backsplash, there are dozens of material and color choices available. We decided on a muted gray ceramic tile with white grout for this Waltham kitchen remodel to complement the stainless-steel appliances and satin white shaker-style cabinets. The homeowner opted for a staggered brickwork pattern for its clean lines, simplicity, and timeless design. Other patterns for the backsplash include herringbone, vertically stacked, horizontal grid, and offset, to name a few. Ceramic tiles are generally more budget-friendly than quartz, granite, or porcelain materials.
Tips for Choosing the Right Kitchen Remodeling Contractor in Massachusetts
The first step is to verify that the contractor is appropriately licensed and insured to provide the needed work for your successful kitchen remodel.
The next step is to check the company’s experience performing kitchen remodels in Massachusetts and ask the following questions.
- Do they use only top-quality materials?
- Can they provide professional kitchen design services?
- Do they have a dedicated customer service team in place?
- Can they provide affordable project financing options?
- Do they have any special promotions that could save you money?
Consider working with a design-build contractor like Bay State Remodeling to reduce project timelines and construction costs. Our in-house design team can quickly prepare your original project drawings and handle any unforeseen changes that might arise.
Share your dream kitchen must-haves, and work with the design-build contractor to finalize the plans and finishes for your classic, mid-century, or contemporary kitchen design.
You should also review their customer testimonials to see how the company has worked with other local homeowners like you.
With over 15 years of successful remodeling projects, our attention to detail has won us numerous awards and accolades from industry leaders like Houzz, Angi, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
If you’re still looking for ideas for your kitchen remodel, please visit our gallery of kitchen remodel projects for inspiration. Whether you’re ready to remodel your kitchen today or just starting to imagine how a new kitchen could improve family life, the Bay State Remodeling team is ready to help. Call us at (617) 340-6418 or send us an email to start the conversation.
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