Kitchens for Foodies

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Are you a self-proclaimed foodie? If so, you probably spend a lot of time in your kitchen and that time should be enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a complete remodel or just looking for ways to spruce up or optimize the space you have, these ideas are on trend and will make you hunger for cooking time.

Some changes can make your space more appealing while others will improve functionality, so we’ve broken everything down into two main categories: aesthetics and time & space savers.

Aesthetics

• Color – Smaller spaces benefit from simple, bright colors, but pops of fun or contrasting colors can cheer up any kitchen. Eliminating multiple wood finishes by painting cabinets can make a huge difference. Don’t overlook the ceiling. Keep it well-lit and bright but consider painting it a contrasting color to the walls and cabinets.
• Style & Flow – Whether you’re a minimalist or love patterns and themes, reflecting your personality in the kitchen might even help you be more expressive in your cooking. Consider a color scheme for a cohesive look and decorate seasonally for a fresh perspective. Also, if the space feels cramped or has poor flow, consider knocking down walls, changing where large appliances sit or changing the flooring. Going with the same flooring in surrounding living areas creates a unified look and improves natural flow.
• Backsplash – Add personality to your kitchen with backsplash. Get creative with patterns and placement. From textured tile to colorful mosaics and subway tiles placed in unique patterns versus the traditional grid, backsplash can break up a space, add interest and most are easy to wipe clean. Another idea is beaded board or shiplap, which are both cost effective and add style.
• Lighting – Natural lighting is best but a mix of lighting in your kitchen is recommended. For an intimate dining or entertainment area, consider recessed lights on a dimmer. Under-cabinet lighting helps with visibility in dim places and pendants above islands with seating areas offer a casual dining area for guests to perch while meals are being prepared.

Time & Space Savers

• Prep Space – If your kitchen is a little on the small side, consider a hidden prep table that can be rolled out for use and hidden away until next time. Extra prep space makes a world of difference when cooking.
• Sinks – If you can, consider choosing a sink that’s slightly larger and can be covered for more prep space. For your faucet, give one of the newly popular soaker faucets a try. Their versatility, range of motion and blasting power gets dishes and your sink clean in no time.
• Surfaces – Choose easy-to-clean surfaces that don’t show fingerprints and smudges. Consider quartz versus marble. It can withstand high temperatures and doesn’t scratch or stain easily. Butcher blocks in place of standard countertops gives a warm feel and the natural wood is a great contrast to other materials.
• Storage – Invisible drawers and cabinets that slide out can conceal the clutter – like that utensils jar on your countertop, trashcans, spices, pots/pans and even knives. Speaking of knives, don’t leave them to rattle around loosely in a drawer where they can become dull or be a threat to fingers. Store them in a drawer in a separated organizer.

If you do remodel your kitchen, remember to check with your Shelter Agent to ensure you have the proper homeowners insurance coverage. A kitchen remodel can increase the replacement or repair cost, so it’s important to protect your investment.

Now that your kitchen is ready to go, check out the recipes section of the website. We feature seasonal dishes that are guaranteed to bring a smile and can help you properly “break in” your new kitchen. 

• Hiring a Contractor for Home Repairs

  

  So, you have a remodel plan all mapped out but it’s more than you bargained for, and you need a contractor. Before you hire one, check this out.

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• ACV vs. Restoration Cost

  

  Now that your kitchen project is finished, call your Shelter Agent to talk about the difference in ACV vs Restoration Cost coverage for your new kitchen.

  See Difference

• Pumpkin Spice Caramel Banana Bread

  

  Ready to start cooking in your new kitchen? We love a great recipe, and this pumpkin spice caramel banana bread has us saying, “Ohhh yeah!” 

  Get Recipe