With restaurants closed to in-person dining for much of the last year, families have taken to the kitchen to whip up their favourite meals. Cooking at home not only allows you to save money, it also urges you to get creative and offers an escape from the stresses of everyday life. It’s a fun activity to do as a family, and is also therapeutic to do on your own. With more time spent in the kitchen, it makes sense to do some upgrades to make it a space you truly love. If it’s time for a kitchen renovation, here are some tips to keep in mind.
 
Kitchen Trends 
Check out this list of 10 kitchen trends to get you excited for your renovation: 

 

• Contemporary quartz countertops
• Minimalist, clean-lined kitchen cabinets
• Warm colour palettes
• One-piece backsplashes in materials such as marble or metal
• Stylish kitchen sink faucets 
• Patterned/textured backsplash tile
• Black walls, cabinetry or work surfaces 
• Gold finishes and hardware
• Innovative appliances inside drawers
• Decorative pendant lighting 

 
Where to Splurge on Your Kitchen Renovation 
 
1. Frequently Used Appliances 
Appliances such as your fridge and stove are something you use everyday, so you want to make sure they’re going to last. You don’t have to break the bank and buy top-of-the-line models with features you’ll never use, but it is worth it to buy quality appliances with good warranties. Stainless steel appliances are always a great option. They’re versatile, stylish and you’ll be able to count on them for years to come.
 
2. Statement Countertops 
Your countertops are a great place to invest. Not only do they get a lot of use, they’re often a main focal point of the kitchen. Gorgeous stone countertops such as granite or marble will add beauty to your kitchen and add appeal for future buyers. Keep in mind, there are ways to get the aesthetic you’re looking for without breaking the budget. For example, there are various grades of granite and opting for a lower grade will still give you beautiful countertops, with a better return on investment. 
 
3. Hardware and Faucets
Cabinet pulls, knobs and handles, along with sink faucets are used all the time, so it’s worth it to invest in quality options that feel good and sturdy. Your hardware and faucets can also really enhance the aesthetic of your kitchen, making it look trendy and upscale. On the flip side, hardware and faucets that look dated can make your entire kitchen feel this way. These pieces are a relatively small investment, so it’s a smart place to splurge. 
 
Where to Save on Your Kitchen Renovation
 
1. Cabinets
Custom cabinets are great if you have the budget, but you can get a really nice look with flat-pack or semi-custom cabinetry. With these budget-friendly options, you can get well-made cabinets and give them a custom look by painting them and adding high-end hardware. Another option to consider is installing open shelving instead of upper cabinets. If you like the idea of having your dishes exposed, this will help your budget even further.
 
2. Lighting
Kitchen lighting is an important element that contributes to the look and functionality of your space, but there’s no need to spend an arm and a leg on light fixtures. Make sure to have task lighting focused in the right areas such as over the stove and above the counters, and you’ll need ambient lighting in the form of pot lights or overhead fixtures. 
 
3. Sink
Your sink is a fixture that’s used quite frequently, but you don’t have to spend a lot to get a nice, quality sink. There are plenty of stainless steel options that are durable, easy to clean and will fit any kitchen aesthetic. A high end kitchen sink is a luxury, but it’s not a necessity and you can save a lot of money by not splurging on a sink. 
 
If you’re ready for a kitchen renovation to suit the new chefs in your family, consider these tips to make the most out of your reno!