Everything You Need to Know About Kitchen Plumbing

Are you planning on refurbishing, redecorating, or renovating your kitchen? You can always make this key area in your home more user-friendly and ergonomic while still considering your budget and personal preferences. Have no fear, unless that specific area is stuck in time, there’s no need to demolish everything and start from scratch for a little modern revamp. All you have to do is throw some trendy elements into the mix, combined with the signature style you love! Without further ado, here are the trends to focus on in 2023 to design a modern kitchen. 2023 Kitchen Design Trends: Décor Ideas 1- The organic, biophilic look Source: Canva This type of kitchen is in harmony, and even communicates, with nature. By integrating elements reminiscent of the outdoors, an atmosphere of well-being, something organic and natural is created. Note that there are many ways to design a biophilic décor. First off, you can add some greenery by, for example, creating a green wall or mounting suspended shelving above your kitchen island to showcase your plants. For those more disciplined followers of this lifestyle, choosing plants will be done according to what’s commonly found in your region or those that adorn your flowerbeds. Next, if your windows look out onto trees or wooded landscapes, it could be worth making them bigger. Or, at least, ensuring that the view isn’t obstructed. For the more daring ones with a budget to match, one of the most-seen trends is the kitchen extension that spills out onto an outdoor terrace. Big doors or a bar/countertop situation leading to an outdoor kitchen decorated with the same shades as the indoor one is a way of communicating with both tightly linked worlds. However, you may have to plan for an insect-contingency plan to keep these creepy-crawlies away from your food. Lastly, the décor will be based on what's indicative of nature. The colours will evoke either a seaside, forest, or beach. The materials chosen will also reflect what’s found outside (stone, wood, linen, cotton, wicker, rattan, etc.). 2- The Scandinavian minimalist look Source: Canva This design trend has been well-established over the last few years, and seems to be going nowhere! Straight lines, solemnity, abundant lighting, and elegance are all timeless characteristics. In a Scandinavian-inspired modern lifestyle, wood and light colours are it, whether featured on walls or kitchen cabinetry. Furthermore, the keyword is “clean.” As a matter of fact, everything has to be in line with the minimalist guide, meaning everything has a place and a purpose. Even the knobs and handles are discreet, subtle even, to enhance the vastness and peacefulness of the area. 3- A new trend: A dramatic look Source: Canva The prevailing concept behind this style is to create a theatrical undertone that has character, using bold colours (dark green, plum, navy blue, brown, etc.). Throw in some dark wood, some stone with a distinct veining, and some vintage decorative pieces, and there you go! You can also pull out your favourite keepsakes and silverware for an even more personalized look! Are you looking for experts for your kitchen renovation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! The Modern and Trendy Kitchen Essentials 1- Unique backsplash and ceramic tiles Source: Canva When it comes to backsplashes, this year, it’s all about adding texture and colour. First things first, sought-after tiles are small and square in shape, very much like Zellige tiles (glazed terracotta tiles that are hand-carved in Morocco). It’s very monochromatic; each tile has a slightly different and unique hue. Large, oversize tiles even, are also trending. They’re low-maintenance and don’t require as much joint grout, such backsplashes will make the space appear bigger. You can also choose a single slab, where the material is a large, continuous piece rather than tiles, much like a countertop. Lastly, retro-inspired ceramic relief is also very trendy. As for colours, terracotta and warm shades are still considered timeless essentials. Pink-tinted corral is a favourite for many paint brands like Benjamin Moore. In terms of design trends seen over the course of the last decade, we're seeing a lot of deep greens and blues. Satin and matte finishes and epoxy grouts are also very popular. 2- Timeless cabinet colours Source: Canva The iconic and timeless white. However, beware of using slightly glossy, and impersonal, cold shades of white. When it comes to kitchen cabinets, it’s best to favour neutral tones and warm shades, mixed with wood and beige, while also considering natural lighting. These shades can be paired beautifully with just about any style, from Scandinavian to a farmhouse look, by way of contemporary and industrial styles. It all comes down to the materials used to set the tone in your kitchen. Alternatively, dark wood, stained green, blue or even black cabinets will add a touch of luxury and character to your space. 3- Sizeable items Source: Canva LIGHTING Lighting becomes the focal point of the room, especially if you have a kitchen island. Pendant lights might actually serve as the starting point to create the entire décor. This year, chunky bronze, gold or mixed materials like iron and wood are the way to go. If needed, add recessed lights to further complement the lighting in the room. BOOTH A comfortable booth, why not? Straight lines and padded booths are all the rage, and, the latter is an interesting way to use up space or claim an unused corner. The material chosen will obviously differ depending on whether you live alone or have little rugrats running around. Consider velour or pleather if given the chance! For reference, typical dimensions for a booth bench are 18 inches high and 38 to 42 inches for the backrest. PLUMBING In regards to faucets, on a broad spectrum, matte finishes tend to be more appealing, however, there’s a strong liking for a lot of unique colours. As such, it won't be too shocking to see fancy purple, white, green, or light pink faucets in 2023. PANTRY If the planned work is more large-scale and consists of remodelling the entire kitchen, consider creating a separate space for a walk-in-type pantry. This area, that’s often hidden away behind glass doors or a cabinet door, is an extension of your main space. Along with the perks of tucking away breakfast stuff or a few smaller, less complimentary appliances, one can store larger quantities of food in there. If your house plan allows for it, you can even build an additional countertop, add a small sink, store your less-often-used dish sets, have a second fridge and freezer, and the list goes on. RANGE HOOD Last but not least, what are you supposed to do with your range hood? The latest trend calls for a built-in or concealed range hood, or on the flip side, for it to be the downright centrepiece because of its imposing size and chic design. Overall, anything but the standard and narrow white range hood that’s very reminiscent of an awning. Common 2023 Kitchen Errors to Avoid Far be it from us to tell you what to do or to steer you away from your personal preferences. Let's just say that the following items are no longer recommended by interior and kitchen designers. While tile kitchen countertops are harder to clean, stainless steel ones aren’t in line with the nature-inspired design. The overuse of open kitchen cabinets concept or shelving is also a no-no. Such shelving accumulates dust and cleaning becomes very time-consuming to keep everything neat and aesthetically pleasing. Over-the-range microwaves are often too high. There are increased risks of accidents and it’s often difficult to stir anything that’s already inside the microwave. Now that you hold much knowledge to create a living space that’s up to your standards—your dream kitchen—have fun with it! Highlight your personality and don't forget: just like a fine wine, moderation will always taste better.

Growing older in the comfort of your home and facilitating independence for individuals with reduced mobility or suffering from various other disabilities are desirable lifestyles nowadays. Knowing that people are less and less marginalized and can, with ease, share their real needs with others lends a helping hand to the cause (French only). Rather than institutionalize individuals at the first sign of weakness, a lot of people are looking for various ways to make everyday life at home easier. Besides, one of the main areas in any home is the kitchen. Not having to depend on anyone to facilitate daily tasks is a given for most. However, 33% of Quebecers live with restricted mobility, hence cooking meals and doing dishes can be quite troublesome, especially if the kitchen isn’t adapted according to one’s needs. The Basics of an Accessible Kitchen Source: Joffre Essley – Flickr This core area in any home should be conceived in a logical, ergonomic, and safe way. As a matter of fact, a well-thought-out and fitted kitchen made specially to limit movements, efforts, and potential accidents will meet all the needs of the intended residents. What are the challenges involved, you ask? Not pinching pennies when it comes to aesthetics and allowing family members dealing with distinct mental or physical disabilities to make good use of this space. Universal design planning allows one to integrate changes to primordial kitchen features, notably when it comes to the layout, flooring, lighting, and appliances, as well as work and storage spaces. As such, furniture design and positioning must ensure the balance between storage and worktops, as well as pathways. Factors to weigh in on when making the plans are as follows: Ideal dimensions based on the house and the type of mobility aid device used by the individual; Facilitate daily maintenance; Amount of effort required to accomplish each task; Budget allocated; Accessibility to all (age, size, and limitations); Safety in general; Reducing the distance between each workstation to avoid having to frequently move around and lift heavy items. Before we delve into the details of the matter, note that you’ll have to plan for a renovation budget that wavers between $10,000 and $40,000 to make your kitchen accessible. However, there are plenty of ways to get financial assistance in Canada and in Quebec. In fact, in order to plan a large-scale project such as an accessible kitchen, you'll need to consult with a kitchen designer, an occupational therapist, and an architect. Hiring professionals to alter furniture and other elements will save you money and a lot of frustration down the line. Société Logique, to name just one, is a Montréal-based, non-profit organization that specializes in universal design. Volunteers and staff are there to offer sound advice and refer you to appropriate services and companies with knowledge regarding functional limitations. Accessible Kitchen: Details and Requirements No matter the kind of style you’re looking for in your kitchen, keep in mind all the individual details that will benefit the daily life of those with disabilities: Will they prefer open-concept or closed cabinets? Would a handrail be useful in certain areas? Should the outlets be positioned lower? From left to right, according to the length of the cables attached to smaller appliances and the user’s preference. Is the layout favourable to swinging doors, for example, for the pantry or other storage areas, or have larger drawers in general? Based on the person’s mobility, should you opt for knobs or handles? If your loved one is suffering from dementia, head trauma impairing their ability to focus, Alzheimer or cognitive delays, maybe you should think about further adapting the kitchen to better fit their needs… Some devices shouldn't be left running unattended or readily accessible at all times. Consider installing motion sensors on faucets, override switches for certain appliances, cabinetry where cleaning products are stored shouldn’t be conveniently located, and so on. On another note, people with impaired vision or dementia can react negatively or become overwhelmed by overly colourful or loaded designs. Instead, favour solid, neutral colours when decorating and picking out flooring, cabinets, or countertops. On the flip side, accentuate edges, appliances, and handles with a contrasting colour. Next, having a storage system in which important items are readily available and labelled can greatly facilitate independence. Lastly, don't disregard the obvious; individuals with hearing loss should rely on visual cues to determine when timers, microwaves, or smoke alarms are beeping. Looking for experts to make your accessible kitchen project a reality? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! A Wheelchair-Accessible, Ergonic Kitchen Source: Marcus Aurelius – Pexels Whether your kitchen is U- or L-shaped, or more like a galley, one will have to ponder over the best pathways between one appliance to the next, based on whichever is used most often. Have you ever heard of the famous “triangle rule,” based on a specific area in the kitchen which connects the 3 main workspaces (cleaning, cooking, storage)? When it comes to interior design, it’s understood that it shouldn’t be less than 4 feet square, and no more than 9 feet. If you’re wheelchair-bound, moving around on a scooter or with the help of a walker, or if you benefit from the help of a caregiver (human or canine), you’ll without a doubt need to increase the size of said triangle. When calculating plan-wise, keep in mind the possibility that rolling carts and other helpful objects that could litter the centre of the room. These removable surfaces are very useful for people who are wheelchair-bound to move objects and food around, from one end to another or to an adjacent room, without too much of a hassle. Reduced Mobility: Kitchen Cabinets and Counters Nowadays, manufacturers and tinkerers alike custom-build everything: remote-controlled cabinets at varying heights to well-lit drawers, by way of built-in, pull-out shelves to double the space available… Suffice it to say: If you can see it, you can have it. However, in this case, all of these tweaks and gadgets are designed to improve ergonomics and to optimally use all worktops. And, there’s something suited for all budgets: installing loop pulls to lower surfaces is way cheaper than putting in a remote-controlled system. In all cases, you’ll have to make sure that the backsplash is suitable for pull-out countertops or cabinet shelves. A major factor concerning countertop alterations is their height. In a "standard" home, countertops will be positioned 36 inches off the floor. However, for children, people who are wheelchair-bound or of short stature, counters will be more convenient at 34 or 29 inches. Keep in mind that by lowering the counters, you’ll have to consider that for anyone sitting down, their knees will need to comfortably fit beneath the surface or accommodate those using a walker, so they can get as close to the edge as possible. You'll find that a full or partial cut-out might be needed under some of the countertops or the sink. Consider rounding off the corners as well. When it comes to upper cabinets, though they have to be lowered to allow a person that’s wheelchair-bound to reach the first shelve, you’ll still have to leave a 16-inch clearance between the countertop and the cabinets. Otherwise, you won’t be able to comfortably use the counter space to mix ingredients or to use a toaster. Instead, consider a storage system that can be pulled out and lowered at will. Accessible Countertops Source: Gerd Altmann – Pixabay As previously mentioned, the goal behind this renovation concept is comfort, safety, and efficiency. Therefore, it’s important to streamline actions and movements, and as such, it’s especially useful to group together such items. For example, it’ll be much easier to empty your dishwasher if your glasses and plates are stored nearby. Unless you have enough space to put in two sinks at varying heights, a single sink equipped with a flexible plastic hose that can withstand temperature changes can be used for a makeshift, adjustable “cleaning” corner. Keep in mind that the hose will still need to retract and the basin shouldn’t be too deep, a wheelchair-bound individual risks burning themselves if their knees come into contact with the bottom of the sink. Fitting the faucet on the side of the basin instead of at the far end is super practical, as well as fitting it with a pull-out spray head. Here are a few examples to consider when designing your “cooking corner:” A wall-mounted, low oven with a sideways door; A separate, pull-down cooking hob with wheelchair clearance and a pot filler faucet; A remote-controlled range hood; Heat-resistant surfaces, such as a pull-out shelve underneath the oven; A fire extinguisher in proximity. Accessible Kitchen: Flooring Other than avoiding area rugs scattered about and waxed flooring, vinyl remains the best option to regularly accommodate wheelchair casters. Vinyl or cork floorings are non-slip and glare-free surfaces, whether wet or dry, thereby making them the safest options. Accessible Kitchen: Lighting Well-thought-out lighting will be even and well-spaced over the countertops. It shouldn’t be blinding nor should it cast over very bright areas. Plan for track lighting, since it can be adjusted and positioned differently to light specific areas, like when cutting vegetables. You can also install little light strips in your cabinets or drawers. A motion sensor that progressively lights a fixture can also be quite useful when moving around at night. Lastly, one can’t discount natural light. Wheelchair-bound individuals should be able to look outside and open and shut windows without a fuss. Accessible Kitchen: Maintenance All surfaces should be selected based on easy-to-clean and durable factors. Glass is easier to maintain than stainless steel. Also, some countertop materials have to be treated regularly to prevent the surface from degrading or being subject to bacterial proliferation. Adding containers or garbage cans in strategic locations, built-in or not, will really help maintain a clean environment on a daily basis. Focus on adding these near the sink, oven, or cutting board. Here are some related articles that could be of interest to you: Lifting Devices for Disabled or Mobility Impaired Individuals Tout savoir sur l’accessibilité dans une salle de bain (French) Comment installer un ascenseur résidentiel pour personne à mobilité réduite (French) Main image: Marcus Aurelius – Pexels

With its trendy materials, refined look, multi-functionality, and welcoming vibe, the contemporary kitchen has everything to please, even when it comes to the pickiest of them all. Are you considering embracing a contemporary look in your new kitchen? Here are a few pointers that’ll allow you to create a kitchen with sleek, modern lines for unique and high-quality style. What’s a contemporary kitchen? Source: Canva A contemporary kitchen is a kitchen design that’s very sought-after and especially favoured at the moment. It happens to be a very progressive style since what was trendy in kitchens 10 years ago, won’t necessarily be today, and more so, in a few years, whatever is trending right now won’t be so much then. The contemporary kitchen will typically take inspiration from various different styles. Most often, it’s the result of a fusion of modern, industrial, and traditional styles, to then create a custom look that meets all needs and wants. A simple and clean design Source: Canva The contemporary kitchen is defined by its very clean and straight lines. The area must be as open-concept as possible for one to easily move about the space. As such, walls or partitions are to be avoided. The kitchen must still mesh with the rest of the house. Simplicity is key. The décor must be light and minimalist. Therefore, no frills, please. A functional space In a contemporary kitchen, optimizing the space available is a must. Every nook and cranny should be used so that stuff doesn’t just pile onto the counter space and other surfaces. The contemporary look can suit your kitchen no matter its shape and dimensions. If your kitchen is on the narrower side, a lot of storage will free up space and allow you to move around with ease. On the other hand, if your kitchen is rather spacious, the space will have to be cleverly designed to create a room that’s both welcoming and comfortable. Likewise, to showcase its simple and clean look, the contemporary kitchen puts a lot of emphasis on storage. Nothing is done randomly; all superfluous elements are taken out of the décor, and everything has a purpose and a place. To achieve a uniform décor and enjoy a more spacious kitchen, some appliances such as the oven, refrigerator, microwave, and toaster, can be built into the cabinets. Are you looking for experts for your kitchen renovation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Key Items in a Contemporary-Looking Kitchen Source: Canva The contemporary kitchen differs from that of other types of kitchens on account of the elements that make it whole. Let’s take a look at a few indispensable elements that will give any kitchen a modern feel: A wide range of materials The contemporary kitchen can be characterized by combining diversified materials. Put together, they give off a warm, cozy look. The most commonly used materials are laminate and melamine. Priced affordably, these materials are available in numerous colours and finishes. Wood, glass, and stainless steel are, too, very common in contemporary-looking kitchens. Aside from the above-mentioned, there’s also quartz, ceramic, Corian, and Dekton. FENIX surfaces are also used because of their great resistance against heat, scratches, cleaning products, and abrasions. Its matte surface with a velvety finish gives the room a unique look. As a matter of fact, it’s especially soft to the touch and easy to maintain. Marble can also fit in a trendy kitchen, especially when it comes to a credenza and countertop. It’s a super stylish material that’s especially valued for its elegance and noble-like aspect. However, note that marble is very fragile, as such, it’s not very resistant to impacts. It’s also pretty vulnerable in terms of acids and stains. Using marble requires constant cleaning and maintenance. As for flooring, tiles are the way to go. This option adds a certain aesthetic to the area while also giving way to the idea of adding a personal touch to the decoration. Numerous flooring options are available, like porcelain stoneware tiles, which give off a natural stone look, or even faux cement tiles. Over the last few years, we’ve been seeing a lot of parquet flooring, as well as vinyl, PVC, and laminate floors. Using faux wood or any other imitation of noble materials can also work when designing a contemporary kitchen. During our interview with FIDM’s Chris Dyke, we learned that generally speaking, “materials used in a contemporary kitchen are most often highly resistant”. Bright and Bold Colours Source: Canva In terms of colours, white is the colour of choice for modern kitchens since it gives the latter a luminous look while giving the impression that the space is more open. Bright colours like grey, prune, red, or blue even can be used for a bolder look. These shades will bring life to the room. For example, mixing red and grey will give your kitchen a unique look. On the other hand, if you decide to go with a bright, lively colour, go for a matte finish to make the room more modern. Softer colours are also very stylish. Powder pink and light blue are very often used in contemporary-looking kitchens. We can’t omit the mention of darker shades that are also especially trendy nowadays: dark blue, maroon, charcoal grey, or black. These will give quite a bit of character to any kitchen. However, it’s best to combine darker colours with lighter and brighter colours to have a decent, balanced outcome. Kitchen Island: The Key Piece In a modern kitchen, the island not only opens up the space, but it allows for a cozy spot to gather around with friends and share quality time with family. More so, it’s practical, aesthetic, and user-friendly. On account of its strategic layout, one can prepare delicious dishes while still interacting with guests in the other room. On top of doubling as additional storage space, it can also have a sink or be used as a dining table or a homework station for the kids. High-Quality Countertops Source: Canva Countertops in such kitchens are typically made with robust and resistant materials. Ultra-compact surfaces are definitely preferred. Although expensive, they have a lot of advantages. Crafted using a variety of natural stones, such countertops offer superb resistance to scratches and heat. They're thin, anti-bacterial, and stain-resistant. Corian countertops are less pricey but they’re just as efficient as the ultra-compact models. Its downside lies in the fact that it’s a material that’s vulnerable to scratches and stains. However, note that it can be sanded down, which makes repairing its surface in case of scratches easier. Another ideal countertop in a contemporary kitchen is the resin counter. This type of material will resist heat perfectly, but it’s still likely to scratch easily. However, this downside can be quickly offset by ironing out the affected areas. Note that resin countertops are available in just a few colours: black, white, and grey. Minimalist Cabinet Designs Even when it comes to kitchen cabinets, a minimalist style prevails in the contemporary kitchen. There’s no need for mouldings or too complex finishes. Wood, especially oak, is a very sought-after material for furniture. MDF is well-suited for cabinet doors. Dark shades like grey, blue, and black are the preferred colours when repainting. As for door knobs and handles, we’re relying on simple, less ornamented models. Golden-coloured hardware is trending right now. Light Fixtures Source: Canva Contemporary kitchen lighting should be aesthetically pleasing and functional. Lighting should be used in all areas to maintain the cozy and homey feel of the room. Consider recessed lighting on the ceiling and under the shelving. You can even have some installed under the upper cabinets or under storage niches. Pendant lighting is also really interesting. Position these right above the kitchen island, thus giving a chic and modern look to the kitchen. Appliances and Other Modern Gadgets In order to maintain a current and trendy look, go for appliances that are sophisticated with cutting-edge technology. Induction cooktops, smart ovens, wall-mounted range wood, etc. There’s a plethora of options on the market. Modern Kitchen Design Ideas Source: Canva There are various possibilities available when it comes to conceptualizing a contemporary kitchen. It’s super important that the outcome be both aesthetic and practical. The decoration itself has to be in line with the rest of the house, in terms of colour and style. Check out some contemporary kitchen ideas below to inspire your dream kitchen project. The white kitchen Source: Canva Dreaming of a bright, sleek, and simple kitchen? Well then, the all-white look is perfect for you! All the more if the space is on the smaller side. White gives off the illusion that the space is bigger than it is while also emphasizing the contemporary look of the kitchen. For a more striking visual effect, you might prefer to use white lacquer wood furniture. These pieces reflect the sunlight very well. The all-black kitchen Source: Canva Black is a timeless colour that’ll make any room look chic and elegant. It suits almost all types of materials and helps showcase items and colours. Blending black with metallic items, like faucets or appliances, results in an authentic décor. The automated kitchen Source: Canva Automated items blend perfectly in a contemporary kitchen to facilitate daily tasks and enhance your well-being. A lot of appliances feature an optional remote connection and control via smartphone or tablet. For instance, this is true of the smart oven, which allows you to remotely set a temperature according to the type of food being cooked. There’s also the smart fridge which, depending on the ingredients already stocked, creates a shopping list by itself. This appliance can, as a matter of fact, flag foods that are nearing their expiration date! The partitioned kitchen Source: Canva The kitchen partition is a great alternative to a full wall. Besides dividing the space, it also limits the noise coming out of the kitchen and prevents cooking smells from spilling into the rest of the house. It's perfect if you want an open-concept kitchen but with some degree of privacy. Partitions are available in various models to fit different room configurations and preferences. The contemporary yet vintage kitchen Source: Canva Contemporary designs don’t exclude vintage looks. It’s quite the opposite actually; the two mesh really well. A hint of vintage will give your contemporary kitchen a lot of character, right off the bat. You can add to your décor items such as a china cabinet, antique furniture, second-hand pieces, etc. Nevertheless, ensure you don't overdo it to preserve the clean lines of the contemporary style. The subtle and minimalist kitchen décor Source: Unsplash Less is more! We can’t say it enough: the contemporary look doesn't need a lot of embellishments. As Chris Dyke confirmed, “the [two main, Ed.] advantages of a contemporary kitchen is style and simplicity”. Focus on simple, clean lines. Maximize storage space for items and utensils. If you're looking to create a cleaner look in your kitchen, opt for handleless furniture/cabinet panels and try to keep the walls bear.

Besides their basic and somewhat obvious function, kitchen light fixtures are, nowadays, vital assets to personalize and add a decorative and welcoming touch to your kitchen. Are you looking for information to help you choose the right light fixture for your kitchen? Check out the following to learn more about styles, models, and costs. What kind of kitchen light fixtures are trendy right now? Nowadays, the kitchen is considered a focal point of any home. Gone are the days of considering the kitchen as a mechanical space in which only meals were prepped. Today, it represents a gathering spot for families and friends to get together and share stories. As such, it needs to be both inviting and cozy. Kitchen light fixtures are perfect to help create a homey vibe and showcase your personality by way of decor. It has both a functional and decorative purpose. Therefore, one has to choose wisely to ensure optimal comfort levels. For example, washing dishes in the sink or preparing food on the countertop requires really good lighting to ensure all-around cleanliness when it comes to surfaces and adding the right amount of ingredients to a dish. Furthermore, if you have a dining room, well-thought-out lighting will liven up the room and make your family meals all the more enjoyable. There are numerous different types of kitchen lamps available on the market. Between spotlights, sconces, pendants, and many more, there’s something for everyone. At this point, let's take a look at some of the kitchen light fixture models and their unique features. Ceiling Lamps If your kitchen is on the smaller side, ceiling lamps are your best bet. Typically, these can be positioned in the middle of your ceiling to evenly brighten the area. We highly recommend opting for metal, glass, steel, or plastic fixtures. These materials are easy to clean and aren’t likely to trap cooking smells. Select powerful yet glare-free models to shield your eyes and enhance the overall look of the room. There are ceiling lamps with a dimming feature, sort of like mood lighting, which can go from a warm white light to a daylight light. As such, your lighting can be adjusted according to your daily activities. If the ceiling light isn’t enough in itself to properly light up the area, you can always add wall-mounted light fixtures next to the countertops or under the cabinets. Position light panels under your upper cabinets or even recessed or built-in lighting. You can also invest in built-in motion light sensors that can detect movement and subsequently turn on when someone enters the kitchen or is cooking. Sconces You can count on wall sconces to set a soothing, relaxing tone to your kitchen. They're well suited for tamed and understated decors. As such, sconces will create a unique and sophisticated look in said area of your home. And, they usually brighten up isolated corners and break up direct light. For instance, you can pair up your wall sconces with pendant lights to create a more serene setting in your kitchen. There are several models of wall sconces; you can choose between a hanging wall sconce, a half-wall sconce, or a vintage strip sconce. Are you looking for experts for your kitchen project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Hanging Lights: Pendants or Chandeliers Hanging lights are basically a must-have in kitchens nowadays. They’re perfect to light up a kitchen island or countertops, while also adding a little something to the overall ambiance. Also, they're available in several colours, sizes, and models; from vintage and rustic to Scandinavian or bistro, not to mention industrial too. It's important to choose your pendant lamps according to the size of your kitchen. If the room is spacious, choose a pendant that can be rotated to direct the light to specific areas such as the sink, stovetop, or countertop. If the room is smaller, choose a fixture that matches the paint colour of your walls. To highlight your fixtures, you can position several at the same height, one next to the other, or instead, opt for a multi-tier chandelier model. We highly recommend a warm white or cool light. Note that light-coloured kitchen light fixtures can make a room look bigger and brighter than it is. We also suggest favouring silicon, glass, or metal models; such models can withstand humidity. LED Strip To add a touch of flair to your kitchen, you can even install LED light strips. The latter are LED kitchen light fixtures with lights embedded into a strip. Most often, they’ll be positioned at the far end of countertops, cutting boards, or shelves. You can affix them with double-sided adhesive tape. They come in numerous colours and wattages. They’re equipped with a cable, plug, and switch. Some models have a colour range option, which can be remotely controlled with a remote control or smartphone. LED strips have the added benefit of being energy efficient. Cable and Track System The cable and track system lights kitchens in a particular fashion. This type of kitchen light fixture lets you plan for several lights next to each other. That said, a single rail is enough to light various areas of a room. You can even install, within the same system, different light fixture models. That way, you can benefit from both variety and elegance in your kitchen. How to Choose the Right Lighting for Your Kitchen Here are a few tips to help you choose your light fixtures: For better lighting, pair various types of fixtures: You can, for example, pair sconces with ceiling lights for additional background lighting. Make sure to choose functional lighting: That way, you can benefit from optimal results, both visually and comfort-wise, to enable you to work in an ergonomic fashion from your countertops. Most often, you’ll be tasked with slicing and dicing with sharp objects, so good lighting will make the whole endeavour much safer. Think of lighting in terms of specific areas such as the stovetop, sink, storage, countertops, etc. Choose layout-specific lighting: It’s important to know what you want in terms of kitchen lighting when purchasing fixtures. There’s nothing more unpleasant than too-bright or too-low lighting. A kitchen needs, on average, 300 lux lighting, however, to efficiently light all worktops, you can go up to 500 lux. If you think that direct lighting drowns out the ceiling, you can fix that with one or two wall sconces. Choose adjustable kitchen light fixtures: This allows you to better light any surface area. A dimmer can also help you control the amount of light output depending on whether you want a cozy or bright setting. Kitchen Light Fixtures: Models & Prices The Z-LITE JENAMEES INC. LENYX Chandelier Designed with six light bulbs, this elegant chandelier has a versatile design that can suit just about any room. It’s 134.5 inches high and costs about $662.00. This Dainolite, 24-inch modern kitchen island light fixture from the Prudence Collection This one is height-adjustable and is designed for sloped ceilings. It’s rather hard to install and is LED-compatible. It’s priced at $310. CANARM Polo Track Light Fixture This light fixture has two light bulbs and is made with 14-inch brushed nickel. It’s multi-directional and gives any kitchen a bit of flair. It’s super easy to install and costs about $89.99. SCOTT MCGILLIVRAY Semi-Flush Mount Light Fixture Matte black in colour with clear glass, it has four 60W lightbulbs. It’ll surely add a touch of elegance and charm to your kitchen. Plan on spending about $189.99 for it. SCOTT MCGILLIVRAY Winslow Flush-Mount Light Fixture This light fixture adds style to any room with its matte black and gold colouring paired with a metal black shade. It has an Easy Connect® push-in connection system and costs about $114.99. GEENI Smart LED Prisma Colour 3 m Light Strip This light strip adds creative lighting to your kitchen courtesy of millions of different colour combinations. It’s priced at about $50.99.

Nowadays, in our homes, one of the rooms in which we spend the most time is the kitchen. Not only is it where we cook, but it’s the ideal place to spend time with friends and family, usually over a good meal. Hence, there’s value in making it cozy and welcoming. So, without further delay, why not give your kitchen the makeover it deserves to make it as homely as possible? This space can be revamped with the help of just a few clever ideas! Here are some interior décor tips that’ll make your dated kitchen look modern in no time! 15 Makeover Ideas to Revamp an Outdated Kitchen There’s no need to remodel your kitchen from top to bottom to give it a new look. Simply follow some (or all!) of the tips listed below, and the outcome is bound to amaze you. And best of all, it can be done within a reasonable timeframe. 1- Repaint the walls Source: Canva Dull and faded walls, maybe a worn-down credenza, and weathered wooden cabinets. Sometimes, all you need is a fresh coat of paint to revamp an outdated kitchen. Repaint your walls to your liking; there’s an infinite amount of colours to choose from. If you want to brighten up a space, go for white. If you’d rather make the room a bit cozier with a hint of pizzazz, focus on warm colours. For something more on the sophisticated side, opt for clear, neutral colours, with a slight satin finish. To give your kitchen a makeover, consider repainting your credenza. When it comes to coating furniture in fresh paint, you should go with clear hues and favour brighter colours for walls. 2- Turn your attention to restoring kitchen furniture Source: Canva Don’t limit yourself to painting the walls, do the same for your cabinets and other kitchen furnishings. As a matter of fact, restoring cabinets can be an inexpensive and eco-friendly way to give your kitchen a makeover. To maintain the look of the wood and highlight its veining, a clear stain will get the job done. Opt for kitchen-specific acrylic paint for a slightly more contemporary finish. Said paint doesn’t contain health-hazard solvents and is heat- and stain-resistant. As for a satin-finish paint, it’ll make the space appear bigger and brighter. You can paint all your furniture or just a few pieces, it’s totally up to you. For low-level furniture, use dark paint colours and for tall furniture, use light tones to further convey the illusion of height. 3- Change the light fixtures Source: Canva Light plays a vital role in the kitchen’s overall appearance. Not only does it set the mood prevailing, but it also turns out to be quite useful when it comes time to cook. From wireless puck lights to drop-ceiling light panels, by way of LED strips to oversized light bulbs dangling above the dining table… When it comes to lighting and light fixtures, the choice is yours. And, light fixtures affixed right above tall furniture or upper cabinets are still widely popular in Quebec, in due part to the element of privacy created within. 4- Rethink the layout to modernize the kitchen Source: Canva A small and disorganized kitchen can quickly turn into an unwelcoming space. It’s important to consider the practical side of things when moving forth with your kitchen makeover. You have to rethink the layout in a way in which you can move with ease. If you think that your dining table is too big or outdated, switch it out for a newer, more modern model suited to the space available. You can also extend your countertop to include a dining area. To achieve a trendy and contemporary effect, trim the top of your furniture for sleeker-looking furnishings. It’ll make your kitchen seem more open! You can also affix shelves and racks to your credenza for extra storage. That way, you can clear your counter, which often appears to welcome clutter, like knick-knacks and utensils. If you have the space for it, consider investing in a kitchen island to have a dedicated spot to cook and eat. Also, think about consulting with kitchen design companies to obtain quotes if you’re thinking of custom-designing your new kitchen. 5- Renovate the kitchen counter and backsplash Source: Canva It might be time to change your kitchen countertop that’s most likely worn out from years of cooking delicious meals. There’s a revamp in there somewhere! To do so, you can remove it and put in a new one, or simply stick a new one atop the old one. Doing as such can easily revamp your kitchen. Otherwise, you can always lay a coat of waxed concrete atop a tiled countertop; it’ll help fill in the grout joints while also levelling the surface. You can also revamp your backsplash by sticking new tiles over the old ones. A quick and easy alternative would be to use stick-and-peel tiles. The outcome will surprise you. Are you looking for experts for your kitchen project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! 6- Focus on the decorative aspect Source: Canva Well-thought-out decorative items will render your kitchen cozy and friendly. Let your creative flag fly and decorate the room as you please. Get colourful utensil holders, frames, a clock, etc. Position plants about the room and pick out eye-catching appliances (stand mixer, kettle, microwave, toaster, etc.). More so, you can also use stencils and templates to decorate and add a touch of colour to vertical surfaces. You can find numerous colours and patterns of these in home décor stores. Some are specially designed for kitchen surfaces. Prices vary depending on the quality and thickness of the material in question. Applying wallpaper can also be a really good idea if you’re looking to give your kitchen a makeover. You can thus add a retro-like aspect to the room. You can choose between a heavily patterned or solid-coloured wallpaper. In any case, you’ll still need to apply a coat of wallpaper varnish to protect your furniture from any damage when cleaning the material. Check out the current retro kitchen trends. 7- Change your faucet Source: Canva Your faucet can help revamp the kitchen as a whole. Switch out your old faucet with a new and sleeker one. It’ll without a doubt modernize your kitchen. There are plenty of models available on the market, it’s up to you to select the one that best suits your needs. For an industrial look, we suggest getting a black or chrome faucet with a high spout. For a more refined effect, consider square spouts. 8- Switch out the cabinet knobs and handles Source: Canva To successfully complete your kitchen makeover, you have to take into account all details. Don’t overlook anything. You can switch out your old cabinet knobs and handles with trendier and more unique ones. You can choose between light wood, aluminum, metal, or stainless steel handles. For a look that’s tailored to your liking, you can custom-make your knobs and handles with repurposed items like toys, silverware, etc. You just need to figure out how many knobs and handles you need to change. Next, measure the distance between the two screws on the handles to make the newer model. Right now, black and matte colours are in. 9- Change the flooring Source: Canva Consider changing the flooring. Cracked or worn tiling isn’t a good look and it can be undeniable. Upgrade your floor with more modern tiling. You can also find stick-and-peel floor tiles that you can lay yourself atop the existing flooring. You don’t need to be a professional to get the job done. Just trim them accordingly with the help of a utility knife, and then glue them down. 10- Repaint the inside of your cabinets Source: Canva You can coat the inside of your cabinets with paint for a needed refresher. We highly suggest using a light hue if your cabinets are dark or painting the inside with a dark colour if the cabinets are light-coloured. Do as such if your kitchen features open shelving or if you want to remove the cabinet doors to feature your tableware and the new colour inside. 11- Embrace an industrial look Source: Canva The industrial look is really in right now. To give your kitchen a makeover, you can replace some of the cabinetry with stainless steel modular. You can also use a stainless steel industrial table instead of a kitchen island or a shelf alike. These add-ons will definitely give your kitchen a unique look. 12- Replace cabinets with open shelving Source: Canva If your kitchen is small, we suggest replacing the upper cabinets with open shelving. That way, you can lighten the room and free-up space. Furthermore, shelves are incredibly aesthetically pleasing and are sure to be a striking feature. They’re super easy to make and can be mounted on the wall without any visible supporting brackets (floating shelf), by sliding the support directly into each frame. 13- Open up the kitchen Source: Canva Opt for open-concept storage. That way, you’re exposing your dinnerware, thus making it a part of your décor. A wall-mounted shelf could be ideal to showcase your nicest dining sets and kitchen gadgets. You can also open up your kitchen into your living room by adding a glass partition wall. That way, natural light can seep into both spaces and ensure maximum comfort. A workshop-like wall partition would do perfectly. 14- Make use of the upper wall area Source: Canva Some kitchens only feature base cabinets. The empty upper wall area is an obvious space to decorate. You can add shelves or small storage crates. You can also paint on patterns or simply paint a bright strip—the colour of your choosing—across the wall. There are so many options available to you, be creative! 15- Wrap it up! Source: Canva To successfully revamp your kitchen courtesy of a makeover, you may need to add little finishing touches here and there. The same goes for those never-ending interior décor projects. The whole won’t be the same if there are electric wires strewn about, if the tiles are damaged in some areas, or if the ceiling needs a touch-up. Make sure to finish any related work prior to undertaking your kitchen makeover. Budget-Friendly Kitchen Makeover: It Can Be Done! On average, the cost of a minor kitchen renovation amounts to $21,000. This includes costly changes such as new cabinets, flooring, and appliances. For a mid-range kitchen renovation, it costs, on average, $31,000. As for a high-end kitchen renovation, costs start at $50,000. As you’d guess, these prices can vary depending on any number of factors, like the project’s complexity, the material's quality, the space's size, etc. Notwithstanding, you can still give your kitchen a makeover on a tight budget. You don’t need to undertake a complete kitchen overhaul or put in all-new, trendy appliances and cabinetry. The ideas listed above are purely examples of simple and inexpensive ways to obtain great results. However, if you decide to turn to a professional to renovate your kitchen cabinets, the cost can be rather steep. On average, you’ll need to fork out $3,500 for modest projects, and $7,000 for large-scale projects. The project timeline won’t be the same either.