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Remember the Details with Kitchen Remodeling

Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009

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During a kitchen remodeling, there are several major decisions to make. The room layout, the types of appliances, and the kitchen sink material all will affect how well you like the finished project. Don't forget all the little decisions that can affect the kitchen design too.

Don't Overlook Kitchen Lighting

During a kitchen remodel, lighting is sometimes an afterthought or is chosen based on design rather than function. Once you finish the kitchen remodeling and start cooking, you will quickly realize that the room has too little light or has lights in the wrong places. Here are the three areas to consider:

Task lighting -- try canned or florescent lights above the kitchen sink and over an island. Remember to put light in front of where you will stand; otherwise it will cast shadows.
Undercabinet lighting -- works well for lighting the back sections of the kitchen countertops.
Decorative lighting -- that is functional, too. Consider whether you want light shining up or down. When buying sconces, look for ones that can burn at least 40 watt bulbs.

Other kitchen remodeling tips:

Think carefully before buying a kitchen sink with one bowl that is much smaller than the other, as it may be awkward to use.
When selecting lighting, consider adding switches so lights can be turned on from multiple locations.

Con-Figuring Out the Kitchen Sink

While the kitchen sink configuration may seem unimportant, the wrong configuration can doom your daily kitchen chores. If you use large pots and pans, consider a large, one-bowl sink configuration. If you like to wash dishes in one sink and rinse in another, try a two-bowl kitchen sink.

Faucet Fun

Two handle kitchen faucets offer a great look, but they are not as functional for heavy everyday use. When buying a kitchen faucet with a sprayer, make sure the hose is long enough to reach across your sink. Also try out the faucet in the store to see if it's comfortable.

Can You "Handle" Cabinets?

Cabinet hardware is a small expense, but one that is important because you open and close kitchen cabinets daily. Cabinet hardware that is rough or slippery to the touch will be uncomfortable. Knobs and pulls with intricate designs might be hard to keep clean. If you have a physical ailment, look for cabinet hardware that is easy to operate.