RENOVATIONS W
hen renovating a kitchen or bath, take it to a whole new level of beauty with Cambria® .
Not surprisingly, kitchen and bath remodels are by far the most popular home renovation projects in the U.S., with consumers spending upwards of $180 billion on updating their spaces last year alone. It can be a complex and costly process to remodel a kitchen or bath, but when done well, you'll be hard pressed to find any regrets. As far as the complexity...there are a few core tips that you can apply to any bath and kitchen project that will make things just a little easier. First, determine the overall scope of your project; are you starting from scratch or sticking to some smaller updates. This determines what type of pro you need or if you can tackle it yourself. If you are committing to a full project, there are a few types of pros to choose from. An architect, contractor, and/or an interior designer with an expertise in kitchen and bathroom design will all be the best bet if you’re looking to transform a space entirely. The pros can also help you determine how best to utilize the space; flow, layout, function and the feel of a fresh kitchen or bath changes not only the aesthetic of the space but how it's lived in. All great reasons to commit to such a worthy investment. When considering a full renovation, start with the 3 C’s: Color, Cabinets, and Countertops. Color can be daunting, but don't overthink. Go with what you already love. Still not sure? Check out your closet, see what you gravitate towards. Cabinetry should be the epitome of form and function. It needs to look good but work hard for you. Think maximized storage with the ability to display those collectibles and beautiful dishware. Countertops...the key to countertops is beauty backed by durability. Keep in mind, there are more choices out there than ever, but most don't combine both qualities. This is your workhorse, so you want a surface that will look beautiful and hold up to the wear and tear that a kitchen or bath will dole out. Quartz continues to gain popularity as the go-to choice due to its wide array of design options combined with its durability and maintenance-free qualities. A great looking kitchen's shine will quickly dim if it's not highly functioning. This is where a pro can help in the planning. What kind of space are you working with? Is there ample room for a center island? Are you limited by a galley or peninsula? How does traffic flow into your kitchen? Think about how your family lives and take that into consideration with the flow and layout of your space. If you’re not quite ready to invest in a major renovation, opt for a few small updates that can instantly update a space. Painting your cabinets, switching out pulls, or upgrading light fixtures are a few updates that don't break the bank, but can give any space instant style. 6
www.livingwellmagazine.net
August 2019
