The WoW Style

It’s time for a kitchen remodel in Rhode Island! If you’ve been putting off a needed kitchen renovation, why not make it part of this year’s plans? An updated kitchen can mean convenient storage, room for entertaining, and a custom design you’ll love. A new kitchen might also include space for chef-inspired appliances, perfect for family meals!

Additionally, a kitchen remodel often adds value to a home, more so than any other renovation project. If you’re still hesitating about a kitchen update, check out 5 ways you can ensure a renovation project adds value. You can then discuss this information with a renovation contractor to start with your kitchen remodel Rhode Island.

1. Add a More Functional Sink With Your Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen sinks often take quite a beating over the years, yet homeowners tend to “skimp” on its quality. In many cases, updating to a more functional sink can make a kitchen space easier to use overall. In turn, this might add to the value of your renovation and property overall.

Consider some tips for choosing a more functional sink during your kitchen remodel:

• If you’re choosing stainless steel, opt for a thicker, more durable 16-gauge steel rather than standard 18-gauge or 22-gauge. There isn’t much of a price difference between these materials but 16-gauge resists dents, dings, and other damage more readily.
• Also, consider deep, farm-style sinks. These add more visual interest to the kitchen and allow for easier dish washing.
• Choose a sink design that fits your kitchen style and décor. For instance, flush-mount sinks offer a sleek, uncluttered look. These coordinate well with modern homes. Undermount sinks sit under the counter, also offering a clean look that’s perfect for small spaces.

2. Include Radiant Heat with Your Kitchen Remodel in Rhode Island

One downside to the beauty of Rhode Island is the state’s long, cold winters! Kitchen floors especially often become chilly during those months. Standard heat from wall registers might not be enough to keep you comfortable while cooking.

Radiant heat or heated floors are an excellent choice for your kitchen remodel in Rhode Island. They’re especially excellent for families with young children who might spend time crawling on those floors! Gutting your kitchen offers an excellent opportunity for adding radiant heating. Your contractor can also advise if you might retrofit your kitchen with heated floors, for maximum comfort.

3. Update Your Outlets and Switches

Outlets and switches aren’t necessarily the most glamorous part of a home’s kitchen. However, you don’t want to overlook these when planning a kitchen renovation! In addition to adding more outlets so you can use appliances comfortably, consider “smart” outlets with Wi-Fi. These let you control them from your phone, so you can switch something on and off remotely.

Modern outlets might also have a lip along a bottom edge, for holding phones and tablets while charging. This simple touch keeps your electronics off the kitchen counter and on display even when charging!

4. Add Smart Appliances During Your Kitchen Remodel

Smart appliances are an excellent choice for adding value during a kitchen remodel. What are some choices you might consider for your planned update?

One, choose ovens you can control remotely, to start and stop cooking even when not at home. Two, opt for dishwashers with light load capabilities, to save on water and power. Three, select a refrigerator with zone cooling, for greater control over its function.

5. Invest in Durable Materials and Surfaces

Homeowners can save money on a kitchen renovation by opting for lower-quality materials. Low-cost options include laminate countertops and vinyl flooring. While these might offer some durability, investing in high-quality materials offers more value.

Instead of laminate and vinyl, choose solid stone countertops and ceramic tile floors. Also, opt for solid wood cabinetry rather than pressboard. These might mean a bigger investment, but they also offer more return on that investment as well!

Does a Kitchen Island Add Value?

A kitchen island can add value to a home if you choose the right size and style for the space! Islands offer added prep space and storage, and room for casual dining. Additionally, an island creates separation between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. They can also help hide dirty dishes and pots while you’re eating!

However, it’s vital you choose an island size that fits the space comfortably. Avoid an overly large island, perhaps thinking that prep space is more important than room for foot traffic. Also, if the kitchen itself seems a bit bland and generic, avoid a dull and drab island. Choose a rolling cart, two tone cabinetry, or other upscale features instead.

What Home Improvements Add the Most Value in 2022?

Kitchen and bathroom renovations are still the number one choice when it comes to adding value with a home renovation. However, potential homebuyers are shifting their interests when it comes to what they look for in a new home, no doubt due to prolonged lockdowns during the COVID-19 crisis. Check out a few home improvement options for adding value to a property in 2022:

• Connect with nature and ensure a comfortable interior with larger windows! With so many homeowners spending more time at home during the day, large windows are a must-have. Even in small spaces, consider custom windows or sliders, for added sunlight and an improved view.
• Comfortable, functional home offices are also a must-have for homeowners today! Since many people are still working from home, at least part-time, gone are the days of using the dining room table as a makeshift office or stuffing the laptop and paperwork into a cramped corner. Even if you need to cut into a guest bedroom or family room, a spacious and functional home office can add lots of value to your property.
• With health concerns heightened during the pandemic, homeowners are also investing in air purifiers, antimicrobial surfaces, and other such features more than ever!
• Outdoor projects are also increasing in popularity this year. No doubt this is also due to homeowners staying in more often and needing to entertain at home. Consider a new deck, patio, or other space during a remodel, to add maximum value.

Remember, too, that your contractor or a local real estate agent can advise on how a kitchen remodel in Rhode Island and other projects might add value to a home.