When planning a kitchen remodel, it is easy to reach a point called “selection fatigue.” There are so many different options for materials you could choose to include in your kitchen – how does one narrow down the choices? How do you ensure the materials you’ve chosen for your kitchen remodel are the right materials? Let’s discuss.
Methodology of Choice
There are several ways to go about selecting the materials you want to include in your kitchen remodel. Different factors will rank differently in importance for you, depending on your vision for your kitchen and your values.
Lifestyle & Use
Before you begin selecting kitchen remodeling materials, you need to understand how you use your kitchen. Are you the Hostess with the eat-in kitchen that looks like it could be photographed for Architectural Digest? You’ll want to select materials that are show-stopping. Do you have a large, messy family and several pets? Prioritize materials that are low-maintenance, easy to clean, and long-lasting. Is your kitchen a place that is used frequently? Consider if you like the look of patinated materials or if you would prefer they stay looking new. Is sustainability something that you prioritize? Look into materials that are renewable, such as cork.
The Cost Factor
For a long-lasting, high quality kitchen, we recommend high quality materials. That does not necessarily mean you need the most expensive materials, but recognize that quality materials have an associated value. The cheapest option is almost never the right option.
Stylization
You have a distinct personal style, and your home reflects that. Ensure your kitchen visually matches your home’s design style to make your remodel a seamless extension of your existing home. Is your style more traditional or contemporary? Do you love an industrial farmhouse look, or would you rather have modern, clean lines? The design style you pursue will affect which materials you should consider. Resources like Houzz or Pinterest are a great way to view a plethora of design styles to see what inspires you, what calls to you.
Cabinetry Selections
The first decision you need to make about your cabinets is whether they will be natural wood, stained wood, or painted wood. Perhaps you’ll even mix and match for a two-tone kitchen cabinet look.
Cabinet Woods
If you are opting for natural or stained wood, you’ll need to select a type of wood. Some things to consider are color, grain, and durability. For natural wood cabinets, be sure to select a wood that you love the color of because that is what you will see day-in and day-out as you use your new kitchen. With stained cabinets, you’ll want to see how the wood absorbs the color – not all stains are equal, and two different types of wood are going to take the same stain differently.
The Janka Wood Hardness Scale measures the durability of a particular wood in withstanding normal wear and tear. Pine is one of the softest woods, so it’s not recommended for a high-traffic, high-use kitchen. White Oak, on the other hand, is a very hard wood and would be a good option for kitchen cabinets.
Different woods have different grain patterns. Some, such as Birch, have very large, seemingly random patterns to their grain. Others like Zebrano have very small, very tight lines that are almost perfectly straight. And some have large knots in them, such as Knotty Alder. It is important to understand how obvious you want your grain pattern to be, and then, if it is highly visible, if you want it to run vertically or horizontally.
Painted Cabinets
If you opt to paint your kitchen cabinets, they’ll be made out of a paint-grade material to ensure maximum bond of the paint to the cabinet. This will help improve longevity.
Countertop Selections
While quartz, marble, and granite are countertop classics, Utah’s bold spirit craves options that push the boundaries. Here, we explore three intriguing alternatives that add unique character and functionality to your culinary haven:
- Butcherblock Charm: Embrace the warmth of nature with butcherblock countertops. Picture rich honey tones of maple contrasting with sleek stainless steel appliances, exuding a rustic-modern charm that echoes the rugged elegance of Utah’s canyons. This low-maintenance option patinas beautifully with time, acquiring a unique story with each knife mark and spilled spice. Just remember, regular oiling keeps it singing for generations.
- Solid Surface Serenity: Step into a world of seamless beauty with solid surface countertops. Imagine a pristine white surface flowing effortlessly from countertop to backsplash, mimicking the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Mountains. This non-porous material resists stains and scratches, ideal for busy families and passionate chefs. Its versatility allows for integrated sinks and custom shapes, creating a truly bespoke culinary canvas.
- Concrete Coolness: For a touch of industrial chic, consider the raw beauty of concrete countertops. Picture a charcoal grey slab with subtle swirls, reminiscent of the volcanic rock formations found throughout Utah. This durable material is heat-resistant and perfect for bakers or pizza lovers. Pair it with exposed brick or sleek metal accents for a contemporary edge, or soften it with wood tones for a warm, industrial vibe.
Flooring Footprints
Your journey doesn’t end at cabinets and countertops! Crafting a cohesive kitchen look demands careful consideration of your flooring. Each option offers distinct advantages for your lifestyle:
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) & Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): These versatile champions combine the warmth of wood with the resilience of vinyl. Picture distressed wood-look planks echoing the weathered charm of historic Lehi homes, or choose a sleek stone-mimicking tile for a contemporary feel. LVP and LVT are water-resistant, low-maintenance, and perfect for high-traffic areas.
Ceramic & Porcelain Tile: Elevate your space with the timeless elegance of tile. Imagine gleaming white subway tiles reminiscent of the grandeur of Temple Square, or opt for patterned ceramic tiles adding a touch of Moroccan flair. This durable option is ideal for kitchens prone to spills and offers endless design possibilities.
Hardwood Floors: For those who crave the warmth and natural beauty of wood, hardwood floors remain a classic choice. Picture honey-toned oak underfoot, complementing the rustic-modern aesthetic of many Lehi homes. While not as water-resistant as other options, proper care ensures they grace your kitchen for decades.
Laminate Floors: Budget-conscious homeowners need not despair! Laminate floors offer a surprisingly realistic wood-look at an affordable price. Imagine textured planks mirroring the weathered elegance of reclaimed wood, or choose a sleek, high-gloss finish for a modern touch. While water-resistant, they won’t withstand spills like their solid wood counterparts.
Remember, the ideal flooring choice depends on your individual needs and lifestyle. Consider factors like durability, maintenance, and noise transmission before making your decision.
Unlocking Your Dream Kitchen
At Bright Homes, we believe your kitchen should be a masterpiece – a reflection of your unique style and a haven for culinary creation. Our expert design team will guide you through every step of the process, helping you navigate the plethora of countertop and flooring options to find the perfect combination that elevates your home.
Don’t settle for anything less than extraordinary. Contact us today and let’s embark on a journey to craft your dream kitchen, a space where culinary magic flows as effortlessly as the stunning Utah landscape.
