Most families spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Remodeling this area is one of the best things you can do to improve your home and boost the resale value of the property. If you’re looking for inspiration with your renovation project, here are a few ways to update your kitchen that will really pay off.

Add a Kitchen Island

One of the most effective kitchen improvements is installing an island. These are available in various shapes and sizes and come with a variety of features. Make sure there is a large food-prep surface. Include drawers and shelves for extra space, or add a sink to your island. You can also use the island to house your dishwasher or microwave.

Install a Breakfast Bar

A breakfast bar adds a functional element to your kitchen. Get rid of the bulky table and open up your space by putting in a small seating area instead. Low-back chairs or bar stools are a nice addition to your bar area.

Put in New Countertops

New countertops may be the best kitchen upgrade if your goal is to improve your home’s value. The countertops are one of the first things a buyer sees when entering your kitchen. Look at the various types of materials available and choose a brand new look for your countertop. There are many attractive choices for materials including granite, wood, concrete, quartz, and marble.

Extend the Countertops

Don’t stop at simply replacing the countertops. More counter space makes food prep easier, so add more. Choose an area where the kitchen has room for this project and extend your countertops for a more usable kitchen.

Create an Open Floor Plan

Knock out a wall to connect the dining room or family room to the kitchen. This open floor plan allows for a larger table and you can host groups of friends and family comfortably. Open floor plans are more appealing and contribute to a roomy feel in the home.

Update Your Kitchen by Updating the Flooring

You probably notice the floor every time you walk into the kitchen. Make the change to an easy-to-clean concrete floor or classic hardwood flooring. If you don’t have the budget for real hardwood, explore options that mimic hardwoods, like vinyl or laminate.

Add Space Inside Cabinets

Make better use of the space inside of your cabinets by adding dividers, drawers, or pull-outs designed for the pantry. These handy features will make sure no space is wasted.

Install a Rolling Ladder

If you are installing ceiling-height cabinets as part of your kitchen remodel, also add a rolling ladder. The high cabinets give your kitchen extra storage space, but it can be difficult to access that area because everything is slightly out-of-reach. By installing a rolling ladder in your kitchen, you stylishly solve the problem.

Modernize the Cabinets to Update Your Kitchen

Along with your other kitchen upgrades, consider changing out old, out-of-date cabinets. Your cabinets will look out of place in an otherwise modernized kitchen. If new cabinets aren’t in the budget, improve your current cabinets with fresh paint and new hardware.

Add a Backsplash to Update Your Kitchen

A new backsplash is an easy and inexpensive way to update your kitchen. There are many styles and designs available. Use tile, aluminum, wood, or wallpaper to create a unique backsplash that adds personality to your kitchen.

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