Key Elements for a Functional Kitchen
When starting a kitchen remodeling project, you may choose different features to make it work better for you. Experienced contractors help you choose materials and designs that align with your lifestyle and needs. Here are some elements for a functional kitchen:
Custom Range Hood
Adding a custom range hood eliminates smoke, steam, and cooking odors before they spread throughout the house. They also maintain airflow within the kitchen, helping prevent hot air from accumulating when cooking. This keeps kitchens comfortable, especially during the summer months.
When selecting materials, you can choose from stainless steel, wood, or metal options that are durable and easy to clean. Some range hoods come with built-in filters that capture airborne grease particles, preventing buildup on surrounding surfaces. During kitchen remodeling, interior designers can install a range hood that is the right size to fit high-output burners and other large appliances.
Open Shelving
Open shelving allows you to store dishes, glassware, and plates while maintaining easy access when cooking or hosting. They allow you to quickly assess the availability of dishware or ingredients, so you can restock supplies before they run out. For some, open storage supports organization, since visual clutter becomes more obvious. Professionals install shelves made from wood or metal to support heavy loads without warping or bending. If you are storing bulky pots and many dishes, deeper shelves help distribute weight evenly to keep surfaces stable.
Island Extensions
Extending your existing kitchen island provides additional surface or storage space for kitchen tasks. Experts review your available space to recommend adequate island dimensions that support tasks without overcrowding the room. Some ways islands improve functionality include:
- Providing more space for chopping, mixing, plating, or measuring ingredients, especially if you frequently cook large meals or bake
- Serving as a breakfast bar or casual dining spot for friends and family
- Equipping kitchens with cabinets, shelves, and drawers to provide extra storage
- Creating a partition between the cooking and dining areas while maximizing workspace
- Establishing new work zones for tasks such as budgeting, homework, or crafting
Built-In Coffee Bar
A built-in coffee bar provides a dedicated spot for making tea, coffee, and other beverages, while freeing up space for other kitchen tasks. Adding this feature to your kitchen keeps key tools, such as grinders and coffee makers, within reach. Built-in coffee bars may have shelves, countertops, and cabinets to support organization. To improve functionality without crowding your kitchen, contractors can adjust a coffee bar’s counter height and place it in a location that would otherwise be unused. Additional features, such as outlets and a small water tap, also support functionality.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Installing lighting under cabinets provides improved illumination when entertaining guests or family, as it enhances the ambiance. Under-cabinet lighting evenly illuminates counter surfaces, improving visibility when you are chopping, cooking, or measuring. Focused lighting on work surfaces may also help eliminate eye strain, especially when completing long tasks.
When installing lights, remodeling teams often opt for LED options, such as strip or puck lights, to enhance energy efficiency and minimize glare. Intentionally placed lights can create interplays of light and shadow that highlight design details in your kitchen. They may draw attention to architectural elements, texture variations, or decorative items.
Start Your Kitchen Remodeling Project Today
Upgrading certain features in your kitchen helps you multitask, organize your items, and move easily throughout the space while completing tasks. Whether you need to increase storage or prep areas, you can discuss your requirements with an experienced contractor. They evaluate your lifestyle and current kitchen design to recommend functional upgrades. To get started on your remodel, call a trusted company today to learn more about their services.
