It can be exciting and stressful when you’re preparing to redesign your kitchen. The room is such an important part of your daily life, so you likely have worries about how you will survive the remodel. You may also be wondering how you will decide which kitchen layout is right for you and your family.

No matter how big your room is, it’s important to utilize your entire kitchen layout. You want to maximize your storage area and meal prep space while also creating an inviting area for family dinners and entertaining. One of the best ways to do this is by implementing an L-shaped kitchen design in your home.

We are experts in remodeling kitchens, so we have a wealth of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your kitchen space. In this blog, we will go over the main features and of an L-shaped kitchen and offer popular L-shaped kitchen design ideas to show you the different ways you can fully maximize your space.

What is an L-Shaped Kitchen?

As you might have guessed from the name, this type of kitchen layout is shaped like the letter L. Two adjoining lengths of cabinets and countertops make up the legs of the L.

Depending on the design of the kitchen, the cabinets and counter space can be on two full walls, or one of the legs can be a half wall. It is common to have appliances for cooking and cleaning on one side of the L and storage on the other. This means that your stove and sink may be separated from your refrigerator. Many kitchens with enough space also feature an island in the middle of the room to add more storage and cooking area for food prep.

Due to the versatile nature of an L-shaped kitchen design layout, it is an excellent choice for small and large kitchens. Simply by varying the floor plan and the length of each leg of the L, you can likely make this popular style work in your home.

The Pros and Cons of L-Shaped Kitchens

There is a good reason why the L-shaped kitchen layout design is so popular. With help from an expert, this type of interior design creates an efficient and organized workflow by maintaining the kitchen work triangle, making everything from cooking to cleanup a breeze. The kitchen triangle refers to a kitchen that has an efficient relationship between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Additionally, this layout allows you to separate your kitchen into work zones, which is perfect for families that need to accommodate multiple cooks at the same time.

Although cooks and bakers love L-shaped kitchens, they are good for so much more than meal prep and cleanup. Because they often open into a larger room or living area, this eat-in kitchen layout is perfect for entertaining. You can carry on a conversation with your guests or family members while you prepare delicious treats and meals, keeping you from feeling isolated from everyone else.

Another benefit of the L-shaped kitchen design is versatility. The style is perfect for many different lifestyles and tastes. Whether you’re looking for something to accommodate your family in a dining area or a space that is ideal for entertaining, an L-shaped kitchen can work for you. You can also achieve entirely different looks simply by switching up the cabinets, backsplash, appliances, hardware, colors, and patterns.

L-shaped kitchens are known for using two adjacent walls to create the versatile shape. While some kitchens place upper and lower cabinets on both sides of the L, some designs only feature lower cabinets and an open countertop. This type of layout opens up the kitchen to a neighboring room and provides a more-open flow for your home, but it has one distinct disadvantage. You lose the extra storage space that is found in the upper cabinets. However, this problem can often be solved by adding an island.

When this type of kitchen has a sink in the island, it can create another issue. This layout can add more space for cleanup and meal prep, but it often means that you have to reconfigure the plumbing. Doing so can raise the price of your kitchen remodel, but you may find that the efficiency is well-worth the additional cost.

Ways to Make the Most of Your L-Shaped Kitchen

Designing the perfect kitchen for your needs and space is an art and a science. No home is exactly the same, so what works in one kitchen might not be a good choice for another. To get the right fit for you and improve your L-shaped kitchen, you need to consider many different aspects of your room and lifestyle. The best layout for your kitchen will make the most of the space, offer an intuitive workflow, and allow you to do everything you love.

Handling Kitchens with Different Wall Lengths

Some people worry when they have kitchen walls that are different lengths. They assume that it will make it more difficult to remodel the room. Luckily, L-shaped kitchens are very flexible, especially when it comes to the position of the sink and stove.

When you’re remodeling a kitchen with different wall lengths, you should include tall cabinets and appliances, such as oven housing or the refrigerator, on the shorter length. However, they should be as far away from the window as possible. The goal is to avoid blocking the natural light coming into the room.

Speaking of windows, their placement will also determine where you place your overhead kitchen cabinets. Most of the time, an L-shaped kitchen with different wall lengths should have the upper cabinets on the longest wall. The reason why is simple. It provides more overhead storage space than you would get by using the shorter wall. You will often place the cooktop on this wall as well, which makes it easy to reach the cooking essentials.

If you don’t have a window on either of the two walls of the L, you can also place overhead cabinets on the shorter wall with under-cabinet lighting. If you are looking to create an open feel for the space, you can make these cabinets floating shelves or give them glass-front doors. This allows you to have more storage space while also giving the impression of having a larger kitchen.

Maximizing Kitchens with the Same Wall Lengths

When you have a kitchen that has walls of the same length, you should typically place tall cabinets on the same side as the oven. This gives you more counter space around the sink, which you will generally place on the adjacent wall. If you are right-handed, you can also place a pull out trash container under the counter to the left of the sink and a dishwasher on the right side. This layout will be reversed if you are a leftie.

In a kitchen where both walls are about the same length, you will often have the room to separate the sink and oven on different walls. Any cook can tell you that the main food prep space is between the sink and range. By separating these two fixtures, you can gain more countertop space between them. As an added benefit, this creates a distinction between your kitchen’s cooking area and cleanup zone, which helps you stay organized.

Even if your walls are the same length, it’s still important to consider the location of your windows when you’re deciding where to place different appliances and features in your kitchen. You want to make sure you’re not only maximizing efficiency, but also that precious natural sunlight.

Work With Doorways

There’s no need to panic if one of the legs of your L-shaped kitchen has a doorway in it. This is called a broken L-shape, and it allows you to try unique designs. For example, the height of the doorway gives you the option to add a tall wall of cabinets on one leg of the L. You can also use the break to use different materials for your countertops.

The broken L-shape has another benefit. You can use it to create distinct workstations for food preparation, cooking, and cleanup. Such a setup is perfect if you will have more than one cook working in the space at the same time.

Make the Most of the Corners

So many homeowners lose the valuable storage space in the back of the corner cabinets. People often avoid using this space because it is difficult to reach and see the contents of these corner areas. Rather than losing out on a place to keep your kitchen essentials, you can implement creative solutions to make the most of it. This is especially important in L-shaped kitchen designs for small kitchens.

Some of the options include pull out units and carousel units. The first choice fully retracts into the back of your corner cabinet, which allows you to easily use all of the once-wasted space. When you want to use the pullout unit, you pull on it to make it swivel outward, which allows you to see and access everything that would otherwise be hidden in the back of the cabinet. As for the carousel unit, it does not extend outward, it simply rotates 360 degrees to let you reach whatever you need.

These corner solutions can work just as well in overhead cabinets as they do in cabinets beneath the work surface. This makes it easy to access everything from your spices to your stand mixer. No more losing items in the back of a cabinet – or giving up completely on ever using the storage space.

Incorporate an Island – or Add a Table and Chairs

An L-shaped kitchen is a favorite not only for its functionality, but also because it often allows you to incorporate an island or breakfast bar. Although smaller kitchens might not be able to fit an island, it can work for most spaces. Best of all, it can work in rooms regardless of whether their walls are the same or different lengths.

Not only does it add more storage space, you can use an island to house your cooktop or sink, depending on your personal preference. But keep in mind that this is not a great option if you want to use the surface of your island for entertaining or doing homework with your children. If this is the case, keep it clear and add seating on the side that is farthest from the cooking area.

You need to consider the size and shape of your kitchen when you’re putting in an island. If the room doesn’t have a lot of space, you may have to settle for a smaller island. Additionally, while most people think of this kitchen feature as being a square, it might make more sense in some cases to have a rectangular island.

If you don’t have room for a kitchen island, you may be able to add a small dining table and chairs. This is common in L-shaped kitchen design for small kitchens. This allows you to add a space to eat and socialize with your family or guests while you are preparing food or cleaning.

Personalize Your Kitchen

You’re taking the time and spending the money to remodel your kitchen, so you want it to be the right fit for your life. Think about what would make your life easier.

For example, if you’re left-handed, you’ll want to set up your kitchen differently than someone who is right-handed. If you or a family member uses a wheelchair, you may want to ask an expert about how you can make your kitchen more accessible. The goal is to customize your kitchen for your needs and lifestyle.

With these tips, you can design a kitchen that includes the layout and features you need to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that is ideal for cooking, eating, and entertaining.

For more ideas and information about L-shaped kitchens, check out our blog post that explains what an L-shaped kitchen is.

An L-shaped kitchen is one of the most popular types of kitchen layouts because of its outstanding functionality and ability to adapt to just about any home. You may have once loved your kitchen, but as time goes on, kitchens become outdated and just don’t work as well as they once did, especially if you have a growing family. On the other hand, you may have just purchased an amazing home, but need to make some improvements to bring it up to speed. Demo and construction can be extremely costly which is why most homeowners opt to preserve their current layout. With an L-shape this is easy to do. Whatever your reason, improving the look and function of your L-shaped kitchen is one of the best home improvements to invest in. However, you don’t have to completely demolish your existing kitchen in order to bring things to life, all you need is a little facelift. Because L-shaped kitchens are so easy to work with, you can recreate a beautiful and functional kitchen without draining your savings account.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is important for every project. Even during a small kitchen revamp, you might incur unexpected costs so it is important to budget properly. As all homeowners know, it’s much better to fall below your initial budget than to end up breaking it. For this reason, utilizing a professional to help plan all aspects of the project is highly recommended. Contractors and project managers can better forecast your exact vision and how much it is going to cost you. They will also help protect the rest of your home during the process by taking care of all the moving parts and permits- if any. And most importantly, they will help keep your kitchen remodel on a timeline so that you can enjoy your finished product as soon as possible.

Aside from all the physical work, having a good vision of what you’re looking for can get the ball rolling much quicker. From backsplashes and accent walls to countertops and appliances, the designing process alone can be a pretty arduous task. If you’re like most people and don’t naturally have an eye for palette and texture design, there are a plethora of popular kitchen design layout ideas on the internet. Remember, this should be an enjoyable process that leaves you with a product you’ll enjoy for a very long time!

Rework the Work Triangle

Ahh, the work triangle. If you’re not familiar, the work triangle refers to the placement of the three most imperative components of a kitchen: the refrigerator, sink, and stove. When done correctly, this geometric shape single-handedly improves the ergonomics of your kitchen. It does this by providing a fluid motion from station to station during the preparing and cleaning process. Unfortunately, some work triangles are not up to par. In the case that your work triangle isn’t configured correctly, it can cause quite a bit of a hassle for anyone who wants to get the most out of their kitchen. Reworking the triangle is your best option and will definitely improve the feel and functionality of the space. So what goes into this project? In most cases, plumbing and electrical work need to be rerouted to move around the necessary appliances. However, a task like this can get expensive. Because his project can be on the more costly side of the potential projects, if you can skip this step, you’re better off. So if you are already happy with your work triangle, you can use this budget elsewhere.

Implement an Island

An L-shaped kitchen layout is known for its ability to frame a room and make space for the addition of an island. If your kitchen does not already feature an island and has room for one, you should seriously consider adding one to your list. Islands are great in an L-shaped kitchen for many reasons. First, they provide all the extra counter space you need for preparing meals which is a highly sought-after resource in kitchens! Not only do they provide you with surface area, but the portion underneath can be structured with drawers and cabinets to give quite a bit of extra storage. On the other hand, a kitchen island is great for entertaining guests. Adding stylish bar stools to one side provides seating for guests to socialize as you prepare drinks and meals. If you choose to go this route, there are many ways to maximize the area provided by an island.

On the other hand, if you already have an island, consider updating its look and functionality. Simple things like upgrading island countertops make a kitchen appear much less outdated. You can even get the cabinets underneath stained to adhere to your new color palette. To take things further, if you really want to add to the functionality of your existing island, you can opt to add an extra sink for food preparation or cleaning. Remember to choose updates that fit your needs and lifestyle. If you find that entertaining is high among your priorities, go for a breakfast bar or stool seating area. On the other hand, if you find that you need more space to clean and prepare, use the island as an extra space for just that.

Perfect the Peninsula

In smaller or apartment sized kitchens, you may have to forego the island. So if you don’t have room to add one, a peninsula assumes much less room and provides much of the same functions. However, this will turn your beloved L-shape into more of a U-shaped kitchen. A peninsula can offer even a few extra feet of surface area which can be useful when it comes to extra storage, counter space, and seating. Peninsulas are also a great way to section off the kitchen from the rest of the home while maintaining the integrity of an open concept feel.

Revamp Cabinetry

If the goal of revamping your kitchen is to update the overall look, updating your cabinetry should be one of the first considerations that you make. This is an essential step as cabinetry is one of the first things our eyes tend to focus on in a kitchen. The upside is that there are many ways to do this at very different price points. If your budget is relatively sensitive, staining the cabinets that are currently in your kitchen is one way to go and can be done by fairly inexperienced individuals. In smaller kitchens, using a light colored stain or paint is a great way to open up space and make it appear larger.

If this is an area that you would like to allocate more of your budget towards, the l-shaped kitchen provides a layout for you to put in all different shapes and sizes of cabinetry. If you have a large family, you’ll probably find yourself needing more storage space. Mixing in full-length cabinets will provide you more area to store snacks and baking essentials. On the other hand, updating your overhead cabinetry by extending it to the ceiling is another option. One of the areas that the l-shaped kitchen excels in is corner space. There are all sorts of corner optimized cabinetry on the market for maximizing corner space. The primary purpose of these is that they give homeowners the opportunity to store larger pots and pans away without cluttering small cabinets or drawers.

Add Shelving

Aside from revamping the cabinetry in your kitchen, mixing in sleek shelving is an excellent way to offset the appearance of bulky cabinets. Intertwining a full wall of overhead kitchen cabinets with shelves looks more natural on the eye, especially in larger kitchens. For example, adding shelving onto end cabinets with blind corners will make sight lines more visible. Another place where this can be implemented is in the corner space that inevitably comes with an L-shaped kitchen. So what will these shelves be used for? They will be used to make sure every inch of available storage space has a purpose. If it fits the style of your home, you can get creative and find aesthetically pleasing dish sets or dainty wine glasses to store on them. Or if you’re prone to chipping plates or do not have time to keep them so organized, you can simply use the shelf space as a decorative function. Think a cute cookbook or trendy succulents and word boards.

Redo Countertops  

While searching the many kitchen design layout ideas out there, you may have decided to update the whole theme of your modern kitchen regarding visual appearance. Once you’ve gone through the process of picking the stain for your cabinets, it’s time to focus on the countertops. Revamping your countertops is a great way to bring even the most outdated kitchen into the 21st century. There are tons of options to choose from on any budget which makes this an essential part of any kitchen renovation. If you’re looking for something that is a little less maintenance, think about adopting an engineered stone. On the other hand, a naturally hewn countertop creates an elegant facade. The point is, you’re inundated with options, so make sure to choose one that fits your needs and lifestyle.

New Appliances

Consider switching out your old appliances with new ones. The first step in picking out new appliances is choosing a standard material that will look cohesive throughout your kitchen. This typically means deciding on either a black finish, stainless steel, or a fully integrated design. However, there are so many bonuses to updating your kitchen appliances aside from the obvious change in aesthetic appeal.

One of the most important bonuses of new appliances is the added safety that comes along with them. Changing out old machines with new ones helps keep your family safe by eliminating risks such as electrical shortages. Updating kitchen appliances can also save you quite a bit of money in the long run. New appliances that have hit the market have come a long way in terms of operating energy efficiently. For example, some dishwashers are equipped with advanced washing and drying technology designed to not only reduce wash time and conserve energy but save water as well. Because of this, modern appliances are not only pocket-friendly but economically friendly as well. As we move towards an era where protecting the planet is a central concern, appliances have adapted to be more sustainable and make less of an impact.

ROI

Aside from having an exciting and rewarding project, one of the most apparent pros to giving your home a little facelift is a high return on investment. With the kitchen being such a high priority space, updating it will only make your home more valuable on the market. Kitchens are where people spend a lot of time in their homes, and it’s easy to tell if money has been put into creating something functional that looks nice. The good thing is that professionals know how to plan a remodel that won’t strain your budget, but will still give your home enough push to sell at a higher price point. So whether or not you’re planning to sell your home, putting a little extra TLC into your kitchen is a surefire way to increase its value.

Wrapping Up

Updating your kitchen doesn’t have to include diving into full construction or breaking the bank. Making small changes such as reworking the work triangle, revamping cabinetry and countertops, or updating old appliances can go a long way in terms of enhancing your existing kitchen and increasing the value and feel of your home. The L-shaped kitchen has many benefits including being one of the easiest floor plans to rework and update, therefore, anything you plan on doing should be pretty straightforward.

What is an L-Shaped kitchen plan?

Whether you’ve already begun tearing out your old cabinets or are just pondering the thought of a kitchen remodel, it’s a great idea to have a basic idea of what you’re looking for. One of your first considerations when designing a kitchen should be basic layouts and how to use your chosen plan ergonomically. You might be a bit skeptical of feng shui, but ergonomics is something you should get behind. Ergonomics is the process of creating and designing workspaces so that they fit the people who use them. In the case of creating a kitchen layout, it is used to form a space that is as fluid for the human body as possible. Considering this, the L-Shaped kitchen earned its way to the top of our list of the most popular kitchen layouts. While sleek and clean, it is known for its flexibility to adapt to any kitchen size while maximizing the available space. Another benefit of L-shaped kitchen designs is that they include countertops that come together using only two walls which helps to frame the room and retain an open concept feel. The L shape provides a design that can comfortably fit most homes. This style came about long ago but has gained popularity as homes became more modern and focused on creating the illusion of a larger space and accessibility to those who use it. So if improving the ergonomics of your home is a top priority, this kitchen style is ideal.

Popular L-Shaped kitchen plan designs

L-shaped kitchen floor plans are typically featured in smaller spaces because of their ability to maximize usable space and capture efficiency. However, they are great for any kitchen size. No matter how much room you have to work with, homeowners know that the most essential part of a kitchen is the “work triangle.” The work triangle refers to the three key components that are deemed most important to the integrity of a kitchen: fridge, stove, and sink. The external facing leg of the L-shape should contain any permanent elements such as the stove and sink. This is so that plumbing and gas hookups are situated appropriately. The other leg provides enough surface for preparing food and extra storage. This design is tried and true, however with minimal storage under the counters, it is a good idea to consider utilizing wall mounted cabinets and trendy pot racks.

Apartment sized Kitchen

It can be challenging to maximize space in smaller apartments without giving up some essential appliances on your list. However, L-shaped kitchen layout plans work well in apartments as long as it’s done right. Because available space is so limited, it is important to have a professional strategically place each component. So what are some ways we can start? For example, correctly fitting a sink into the corner of the L allows both legs to be utilized for food preparation. Also, opting for a smaller sized refrigerator is ideal if you can manage to keep your inventory of perishables down. Most importantly, don’t forget about the floating space. Placing a microwave overhead above your stove can also be a way to maximize space as long as it fits the scheme of your cabinets. As far as cabinets go, simple will be your best bet. The idea is to create storage without overwhelming the kitchen. In small spaces, it is best to keep things minimalistic and clean with a modern design to avoid cramming. Remember, lack of space does not mean lack of style. This is where you can get creative. For example, a mixture of drawers and shelves can make storing appliances simple, while decorative glass jars can store food for preparations. Open shelves can also be utilized to store appliances while avoiding the bulkiness of cabinet doors.

Pro tip: match your appliances to the scheme of your kitchen, and they’ll blend like decorations.

Do: Measure all appliances beforehand to ensure that they will fit the “L” without taking away from necessary preparation space.

Do: Opt for cabinetry and appliances that are sleek and minimalist. This will help you avoid the appearance of over cramming.

Small Kitchens

If you enjoy cooking, having a small kitchen can be somewhat challenging. Finding a place for everything without feeling somewhat trapped can be an arduous task. However, small kitchens are the L-shapes bread and butter. Whether you’re looking for an open concept design or trying to maximize working space, the L-shape keeps things simple. One leg of the L should be set against a wall and contain most larger appliances, while the other can be free-standing. Some homes allow the plumbing to be rerouted which would make it possible to put a sink in the free-standing side. Nonetheless, the L-shaped kitchen gives you options. If you want to create multi-use, adding bar stools to one side of the free-standing leg can double as an eating area.

As far as cabinets go, you’ll want to keep things simple. If you choose to have one leg of the L free-standing, it would be a good idea to incorporate full-length cabinets on the wall side. This will provide you with enough room for storage without giving up your extra eating space. However, if both legs of the L are set against a wall, floating cabinets will provide enough storage without being too overwhelming. If you find yourself needing more room for food, dishes, or appliances, you can even go with a mixture of the two. Just be sure that you are leaving enough wall or window space so that the kitchen flows well with the rest of your home.

Another optional addition to the L-shaped kitchen is the island. If both legs of the L are set against a wall, opting to have a small island in the middle is a beautiful way to create surface area and extra storage. However, in smaller kitchens, it is important to note that the island may take up too much space and make the kitchen appear smaller. In this case, the space in the center of the L can be reserved for a small dinette table and chairs. If you choose to go the route of adding a dinette, you should take note of how much working space you will need between the table and countertops. For smaller kitchens, the rule of thumb is to have at least 32 inches of space behind your table, but the more the merrier!

Mid-sized Kitchens

A mid-sized space provides more of an opportunity to play around with the floor plan when designing your new kitchen. Though there are a few options when it comes to deciding the layout for your mid-sized kitchen, the L-shape is very popular; and for good reason. The L-shape allows an immense amount of room for creativity during a kitchen remodel while eliminating the risk of things getting too tricky and looking out of order. Because of this, making the most out of your L-shaped kitchen is easy as long as you follow the rules of the work triangle. Unlike the apartment sized L-shape, larger kitchens provide you with the ability to expand the scale of your work triangle. Instead of placing your sink in a tight corner, purchase a beautiful double basin sink and make it a focal point.  In this scenario, you’re free to mix and match full sized cabinetry with floating cabinets and pot racks alike.

Mid-sized L-shape kitchens are the perfect candidate to take advantage of an island. If you add bar stools to one side, this space can also serve as an area for guests to sit while you cook and entertain. Because you have a little extra room, the bar stools will increase the usability of the space without taking away from working area. If you need to conserve space because one of your goals is to also have a dining table, opting for an open space beneath your island serves as a trendy space to store the stools while they aren’t in use.  However, in this case, you may have to give up underneath the island storage space.

Do: Find an island that is large enough to serve food and coffee, but doesn’t take away from the efficiency of your kitchen.

Large Kitchens

The L-shaped kitchen can make a large room feel even larger without the risk of appearing empty. With a bigger space, you will have a lot more room to play around with your layout. For example, one leg of the L can be set against the wall, while the other strategically sections off a room. This is used to sustain an open concept while clearly defining living spaces. In this case, both the leg and an island can be used for extra seating.  On the other hand, both legs can be set against the wall and used only for preparation, while the island takes over as the focal point. If an island isn’t your style, this large space is perfect for your dining table. Bringing the dining table into your kitchen creates an intimate setting that is optimal for serving and entertaining guests. Another advantage of this is allowing the whole family to socialize as dinner is being prepared. On the other hand, if your family typically eats at different times, it creates a space where some can eat while others cook.

Another advantage of the large-scale L-shape is that you don’t have to go without any of your favorite appliances. Need a double stove or stacked oven? No problem. The L-shape can be expanding any which way, as long as your work triangle is somewhat concentrated to a specific area. Cabinets and drawers can vary in size in a large kitchen, so play around with different arrangements.

Do: Take advantage of your large space when remodeling your kitchen. Every family loves to eat, and the kitchen is the best place to bring them together.

Don’t: Expand your work triangle too far to where it becomes less functional.

Wrapping up

Paying attention to traffic flow, entry, and exit points are all important when it comes to choosing a kitchen layout and improving your L-shaped kitchen. The L-shaped kitchen plan is the best way to ensure that all these points are covered because its design keeps the work zone restricted to just two sides of the room, leaving the rest for free space and entertaining. Aside from that, the design is easily shifted to any sized kitchen. Lucky for you, once you decide on the L-shape, all you have to do is configure what goes where. The L-shape gives you a solid base to create various plans around important appliances and amenities. From full to floating cabinets and drawers, the amount of storage can be easily adjusted. Because the L-shape makes excellent use of space, islands and dinette tables are encouraged based on each given kitchen which opens up opportunities to expand your kitchens purpose. Whatever the size of your kitchen, the L-shape is renowned for its adaptability; this allows it to be easily flexible toward your design taste and requirements.

Do: Focus on creating an aesthetically pleasing environment while adhering to the rules of ergonomics.

Don’t: Do it all by yourself. Designing a kitchen start to finish can be overwhelming, and it is best to let a professional help you along the way. A great contractor will value your vision and opinions and help bring your dream kitchen to life.

Are you looking to maximize the space in your kitchen while maintaining an open design? You may want to consider an L-shaped design when you’re remodeling your kitchen. This is one of the most popular kitchen designs today because this type of layout offers many advantages, especially for homeowners who are looking for an open design that maximizes space.

We will use this blog to review the main characteristics of this kitchen style, explain its advantages and disadvantages, and compare L-shaped designs to other kitchen layouts. We’ll even provide some ideas and information about how to design the kitchen of your dreams. By the time you finish reading, you will be an L-shape expert.

L-Shaped Kitchen 101: What is it?

As the name suggests, an L-shaped kitchen is in the shape of the letter L. Generally, this type of kitchen layout will feature appliances for cooking and cleaning on one side of the L and space for storage on the other.

In order to support this design, you must have at least one wall. This wall will include cabinets and other important kitchen features such as the sink and stove. This section makes up one side of the L.

As for the other side, the adjacent wall or half-wall will feature counter space, which allows you to spread out your workspace while you’re cooking and baking. In some cases, this side of the kitchen will be open to the living room or dining room. This means that there are no overhead kitchen cabinets. Many people love this design because it creates the illusion of having more space and keeps the kitchen from feeling closed off.

Many L-shaped kitchens will also incorporate an island into the design. This feature provides extra food preparation and storage space, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen.

Together, all of the basic features of an L-shaped kitchen come together to create a functional and attractive kitchen space that is ideal for cooking, eating, and socializing.

The Advantages of an L-Shaped Kitchen

The design of an L-shaped kitchen allows you to create an open floor plan, which can make it easier to move around your home. It also gives you the option to open your kitchen up to other living areas, including the living room, dining room and breakfast nook. The open flow provides a modern feel and is what many people are seeking in their cooking area and kitchen layouts.

The versatility of L-shape kitchen designs is another benefit. The style lends itself to many different layouts, ranging from ones that are more family-oriented to options that are perfect for entertaining. You can also have entirely different looks for your kitchen, depending on your cabinets, backsplash, appliances, and hardware. From sleek and modern, to cozy and traditional, you can make your kitchen’s interior design your own by selecting the colors, textures, and patterns that appeal to you.

Homeowners who spend a great deal of time cooking praise the L-shaped kitchen for maintaining the valuable kitchen work triangle. Wondering what this mysterious work triangle is? It means that the kitchen arrangement creates an efficient relationship between three of the most critical features in the space: the stove, sink, and refrigerator.

Most of the time, the external wall of an L-shape kitchen design will feature the cooking and cleaning appliances, including the sink. This arrangement is ideal because it is a very efficient way to make the plumbing more accessible – and easier to hide in the cabinets.

Many people also praise the L-shaped kitchen because the area allows them to easily accommodate an island or breakfast bar. This addition can provide more storage, eating space, and room for meal preparation. Not only that, it can be a stylish and aesthetically pleasing option for homeowners.

The Disadvantages of an L-Shaped Kitchen

L-shaped kitchens are known for using two adjacent walls to create the unique and versatile shape. While some of these kitchens place upper and lower cabinets on both sides of the L, some designs only feature lower cabinets and an open countertop.

This type of layout opens up the kitchen to a neighboring room and provides a more-open flow to your home, but it has one distinct disadvantage. You lose the extra storage that is found in the upper cabinets.

Another disadvantage relates to a specific-type of L-shaped kitchen: one with a sink in the kitchen island. Although this layout can make the kitchen more efficient by adding more space for cleaning and food prep, it often requires reconfiguration of the plumbing. Doing this can make your kitchen remodel more expensive, but many homeowners find that the added efficiency is worth the cost.

The amount of counter space can sometimes be a disadvantage in an L-shaped kitchen. The vast countertops may be too much from a visual perspective and take away precious storage space, especially in a smaller kitchen. To solve this problem, you can incorporate hutch-style cabinets on the countertop. Not only does this improve the appearance of the kitchen by breaking up the counter space outside of the kitchen triangle, but it also creates additional storage.

Comparing L-Shaped Kitchens to Other Designs

Before you commit to an L-shaped kitchen in your home, you may be wondering if another layout would be a better fit for you. Here are some other popular kitchen designs and how they compare to the L-shape.

The one-wall kitchen is common in apartments and small homes. It keeps all of the appliances, cabinets, and countertops on one wall. Although this design has everything within reach of the chef, it can be short on counter space because the appliances take up much of the space. However, depending on the size of your space, you may be able to add more countertops by installing an island.

The galley kitchen is one of the most efficient kitchen designs for basic cooking. Named after the kitchen of a ship or airplane, this layout makes excellent use of a small space. In fact, many restaurants and commercial kitchens use this layout, which consists of a long narrow space that includes appliances and countertops.

Although a galley kitchen is perfect for efficiency, it has some disadvantages in a home. It doesn’t allow you to have a dining area in the space and it can limit the cook’s interaction with their guests and family. For people who are fans of the L-shaped kitchen’s open design, this style can feel too confined, even when both sides of it are open.

Another kitchen layout that features an alphabet letter in the name is the U-shaped kitchen. This design is efficient for one cook because it features cabinets, countertops, and appliances on three adjoining kitchen walls. It can be open on the fourth side of the room or closed with another wall.

One of the biggest complaints about the U-shaped kitchen is the lack of room for a dining table and chairs. Although this can be addressed by adding an island in the center of the room, many older kitchens don’t have room for one. Industry guidelines recommend that there be three and a half feet between the kitchen island and the cabinets and appliances. Because older kitchens were not built to include islands, they lack this valuable space.

Questions to Ask When Designing an L-Shaped Kitchen

Installing an L-shaped kitchen can be a great way to maximize the space in your kitchen and improve the appearance of your home. But before you commit to this design, you’ll want to ask yourself a few important questions.

How Will You Use Your Kitchen?

An L-shaped kitchen can meet a wide variety of lifestyles and needs. The layout is perfect for entertaining and households with multiple chefs who will be cooking at the same time. It’s also great for families because children can sit at the kitchen island or counter to do their homework while their parents prepare dinner.

Although this eat-in kitchen is a great option for just about every lifestyle, it’s important to think about how you will be using the room. If you’re passionate about entertaining, you’ll want to create a more open concept, while you should focus on appliances and counter space if you’re a chef. Customizing your kitchen to meet your lifestyle and needs will help you create a space that will make you and your family happy for years to come.

How Big Is Your Space?

An L-shaped design can work in kitchens of most sizes, but the smallest spaces may benefit from another layout. A galley or U-shaped kitchen may be better options to maximize space in a tiny kitchen. But you can sometimes make an L-shape work in a smaller space. You might just have to make some sacrifices. For example, you probably won’t be able to incorporate an island in your L-shape kitchen if your room is on the small side.

How Big Is the Space in the Middle of the Room?

If you have the space and want to include an island in your kitchen, you will want to consider the space in the center of the room. You should think about the size of the area. If it’s on the smaller side, it might be more difficult to include a sink in the center island.

The configuration of the space should also be a consideration. Although most people think of kitchen islands as a square, a rectangular one might be a better way to make the most of the space in your room.

What Are Your Storage Needs?

Each person has unique storage needs. While one may love to use different gadgets in the kitchen – and need somewhere to store all of them, another person may only use the basic essentials when they prepare meals. You should think about how much storage space you need when you’re designing your kitchen. This is especially important if you have many kitchen gadgets and accessories to organize.

If you’re someone who has a wealth of pots and pans, you may want to consider adding a pot rack to free up space in your cabinets. This addition can be functional and attractive over an island in the center of the room. If you’re someone who would prefer to keep your clutter hidden, think about maximizing your wall cabinets. This might mean that you need two full walls in your L-shaped design, but it can make a huge difference from a storage perspective.

Do You Have a Doorway on One of the Walls?

You can still have an L-shaped kitchen, even if one of the walls has a doorway in it. This is a broken L-shape, and it provides a wonderful opportunity to try unique designs. The height of the doorway allows you to add a tall wall of cabinets on one leg of the L. You can also use the break in the L to play with using a variety of materials for your countertops.

In addition to these benefits, you can also use the broken L-shape to create distinct workstations for food preparation, cooking, and cleanup. This is ideal if you have multiple cooks working in the same space.

Do You Have Any Special Considerations?

When you’re remodeling your kitchen, you want it to be right for you. Now is the time to think about what would make your life easier. Are you left-handed? If so, you may want to configure your kitchen differently than a right-handed cook would. Do you or a family member use a wheelchair? If yes, you may want to ask an expert for ways to make your kitchen more accessible. You can make so many modifications to make your kitchen work better for you.

Now that you know the ins and outs of L-shaped kitchens, you will be able to decide whether this layout is the right fit for your home and family.

For more ideas and information about L-shaped kitchen design, check out our blog post on how to make the most of your L-shaped kitchen.

Are you considering remodeling your kitchen, but not quite sure whether you will recoup the cost? From a homeowner standpoint, remodeling your kitchen is a very rewarding home improvement opportunity. Sure, you will have to make some lifestyle changes while the remodel is underway but the outcome will not only drastically improve the visual appearance of your whole home but improve your quality of life as well. It is up to you to decide your purpose. Most older kitchens will generally need a full remodel to bring it up to date while some kitchens only need a change in cabinets or update in appliances to give it a new sparkle.

Kitchen remodels do the trick better than most room remodels, as far as increasing the value of your home goes. Updated kitchens drastically improve the marketability of your home once it is on the housing market and will give you a good return on investment without a doubt. To make things easier, kitchen remodels can be put into the categories: minor and major. This post will dive into what kind goes into each category and how much return on investment you can expect once everything is said and done. Because all homes are different and so are the neighborhood they are built in, it is important to speak with a professional to determine the average return on investment kitchen remodel for your home in particular.

Minor Remodel

We tend to hear the word remodel and run as fast as we can. Most homeowners have heard horror stories of their friends and family’s remodels either taking much longer than the proposed construction period or costing them much more money than they had ever planned to spend. But this doesn’t have to be the case. The realm of remodels falls on a sliding scale rather than into one large lump category which means that it is up to each individual and their contractor to decide what works for their home, time frame, and budget. Therefore it is important to note that minor kitchen updates are far different than major kitchen remodels.

A minor kitchen remodel includes but is not limited to renovations that fall under the surface level features. Think in terms of a kitchen facelift rather than preparing for major construction. These are generally the least costly, and therefore make your home appear much more updated with very little work.

If you are interested in the numbers behind a minor kitchen renovation, you will be pleased to know that recouping most of your cost is not hard to do. According to This Old House, an average minor kitchen remodel can cost around $14,773 and resell one year later for $13,039. This means that the average return on investment is 87%. So, If you have a tight budget on time and money spent on your kitchen project, consider a minor remodel. So what are some things that can be done to make this happen?

New Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the first things that people notice when they step into your kitchen which is why they are the first things to consider when beginning your renovation process. However, this does not mean you have to tear them out and start from scratch. Having your cabinets painted or stained is a great way to bring them into the 21st century without exhausting your budget, and it will go a long way in terms of ROI. Make sure to plan ahead and match your new cabinets to the rest of your kitchen updates.

On the other hand, some kitchens desperately need new cabinets for various reasons. Whether yours are scratched, chipped, or just too outdated to bring up to speed, you don’t need to fret. Cabinetry can be affordable. For example, stock cabinets generally range in price from $60 to $200 dollars per linear foot while more custom cabinets can range anywhere from $100 to $650 per linear foot.

New Floors

New floors are just about every homeowner’s dream which makes them a good project if the goal is to enjoy your home renovation for the remainder of the time you’re living in it. Although flooring may not be the first place that your mind goes when planning a remodel, it shouldn’t be taken for granite. The goal of putting new flooring is to keep the room looking put together. If you’re on a time and wallet budget, linoleum and vinyl tiles come inexpensively but may not return you any value. Another other option would be to install eco-friendly floors such as bamboo or cork.

New Fixtures

Once you have updated your cabinets and maybe even your floors, new kitchen fixtures take things to the next level in the simplest way. A small change such as updating lights, switches, and even outlet plates can drastically update the appearance of your home and make it seem more put together. However, it is essential to know precisely how every fixture works and will function in your home before purchasing. For example, many home fixtures have been updated in terms of technology and can function as a way to make your daily kitchen life much more manageable. For example, non-touch fixtures are becoming increasingly popular. In this case, make sure that your current kitchen updates can keep up with this technology!

Major Remodel

It is no surprise that a major kitchen remodel comes with a higher price tag, but it is definitely worth it. Major kitchen remodels are one of the best ways to improve the feel of your home because it is arguably one of the most used rooms in the house, and therefore the quickest to become run down. That being said, the return on your investment is not as high as a smaller kitchen remodel. The average cost of a major remodel is approximately $38,769, with a resale value of around $31,344. This means that you will be bringing home an average of 80% return on investment. So, what are some changes that are common in creating a beautiful kitchen in a major remodel?

New appliances

Replacing your old appliances is one of the quickest ways to make your whole space seem updated. If you’re more interested in increasing the marketability of your space to receive a maximum return on investment, then you don’t need to go with the most expensive name brand appliances out there. The idea is to think about appliances that are aesthetically pleasing and functional as possible. Unless you are in the luxury home market, buyers want products that look nice and work well. As a rule of thumb, stainless steel is the way to go. Stainless steel is a universal style that most buyers on the market will appreciate. In terms of adding value, opt for more  energy-efficient appliances. These are seen by buyers as a way to save money and will, therefore, help them justify spending more money on a turnkey home in the first place.

New Layout

A new kitchen layout is probably one of the most dramatic changes that can be made during a kitchen remodel, but if it is in your budget it is well worth it! There’s no denying that a solid open floor plan kitchen remodel will leave you with a functional and highly sought after product. Working with a professional with make smooth the process of deciding which layout is best for the style of your home, but there are a couple most popular. For starters, the L-shape kitchen layout is coming back to popularity. The reason for this is its ergonomic status and emphasis on the work triangle which is a main priority in any kitchen. Constructing an L-shape kitchen also ensures that design is functional and traffic is directed away from working areas while supporting an open concept plan.

Open Concept

Open concept kitchens have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s no wonder why: they do a great job of creating space, improving functionality and flow, and generally enhancing and modernizing the aesthetic of any old home. In the 1900’s open concept homes kitchens were unheard of, which is why older homes are seen in a multi-room style where every single room was sectioned off for a purpose. As functionality became a main priority, architects began designing the open concept homes that we see more often today. While there are a wide variety of ways to design and execute an open concept floor plan, perhaps the most popular route is opening up a kitchen to a dining room. It’s easy to understand why so many potential buyers are seeking out homes with kitchens that open up into their dining room space.

Open concept kitchens are seen on the market as great for families. Opening up the space between a kitchen and dining room creates a space for families to bond during preparation and meal times. On the other hand, buyers who are looking for an entertainment space see an open concept design as a great asset to a home as well. The conjoined room is perfect for a larger amount of people to gather without separation and keeps the flow of serving much more fluid. Pro Tip: a new island will work wonders in this design as well.

Island

Now that you have an open concept or L-shaped kitchen, your next step is to consider adding a kitchen island. Kitchen islands are highly sought after by potential buyers because they increase counter space, storage space, enhance the work triangle, and provide more seating area. Potential buyers will see this as an asset that adds value to their prospected home. If you want a wow factor kitchen island, you could be spending upwards of $5,000, but you may not see a high return on investment compared to the price you spent for the improvements. The next step down would be a basic built-in island with stock cabinets that usually starts at $600. The downside to this option is the lack of ability to match your current kitchen style. To get back to the basics, freestanding and rollable worktables generally go for around $200; however, they’re better for personal preference rather than resale value.

Universal Styles

One of the most important things to remember when considering a kitchen remodel with a return on investment in mind is that personal preference should be set aside as far as possible. The best way to increase the value of your remodel is to situate it in a position that the majority of buyers will like. Keeping cabinet, flooring, and backsplashes more neutral and on par with current trends will allow buyers to envision themselves in the home much better. Make sure to do your research so you know which kitchen remodel trends to avoid.

Wrapping up

Although a kitchen remodel is a big project to take on, it is definitely worth it for two main reasons. First, there is nothing more valuable than having one of the most used communal spaces in your home fresh and updated. And second, once it comes time to sell, you will be able to recoup most of the renovation costs. Aside from recouping the cost, an updated kitchen will also help your home sell quicker which means less time and fees for staying on the real estate market. Whatever scale remodel you decide fits your homes needs best, don’t do it alone. Be sure to involve the help of a professional to make sure that you’re getting the best prices for your materials, and the project is finished as quickly as possible.  

There are always new trends in the world of remodeling, some of which are more beneficial than others. They each have their advantages and deciding on the right remodel for your kitchen will obviously depend on your lifestyle and your plans for your home.

It’s not hard to spend a lot of money on a remodeling project for your kitchen, but it’s a project that can produce the most return on investment. An impressive kitchen remodel is often one of the main selling points of a home.

Staying updated on what is in demand will help you make the right choices when picking a new style for your kitchen, so you can get the greatest return on investment for your kitchen remodel. Here are some of our top kitchen remodel trends to avoid.

Over-the-range microwave

Installing an over-the-range microwave, that sits above your stove, has been a common practice in kitchen designs as a way to leave your kitchen with more counter space, but now there are more convenient alternatives to keeping your microwave over your stove. Contemporary and trendy kitchen designs keep the microwave in places that are easier to reach by the entire family such as small nooks or within an island, allowing for more accessibility while hopefully maintaining some counter space.

Granite Countertops

Another countertop material that used to be a focal point but isn’t being utilized as much as it used to be is granite. As beautiful as they can be, granite countertops can stain over time and might not be the most cost-effective option if you’re considering changing out your countertops. Although many homeowners still choose to add granite to their kitchen decor, quartz is another common, less expensive alternative. Quartz is a great option for someone that’s hoping for that classic look, but also need a durable surface that can handle the use of an entire family.

No More Brass

Color can be seen as a crucial aspect of your home, including you kitchen and trends in color choices occur just as they do in kitchen layouts and designs. One kitchen color that is losing its appeal is the bright brass coloring that was once a very sought-after look. There are so many choices when it comes to picking a color theme for your kitchen, avoiding what was once a desirable style still leaves plenty of attractive alternatives such as other metals that will give your kitchen a more modern feel. Changing up the color of your kitchen hardware from brass to a more fashionable color is a reasonably simple undertaking and you can usually complete this type of project without breaking the bank.

Open Shelving Vs. Closed Cabinets

Open shelving has long been a popular choice during a kitchen remodel and can provide great opportunities to put your cookbooks and colorful dinnerware on display, but choosing this might not be the most functional or convenient choice during your next kitchen renovation. Open shelving is still a favored look, but closed cabinets can help keep fragile and precious valuable safe while leaving more room for storage. You might not always want to put your kitchenware on display which leaves you with an obvious choice when it comes to kitchen cabinets. No matter whether you go for open or closed shelves, you probably won’t have to worry about whether your choice will maintain its appeal, as both of these cabinet layouts are still common in kitchen remodels.

Rustic Wood Look

While this once desirable and holistic look is alluring, this theme may not stand the test of time as you might hope, especially if your planning to put your house on the market sometime soon. The wooden finish may give you just the natural and calming effect you’ve been hoping for but, It seems that this color-theme can be very hit or miss when it comes to finding a buyer for your home. You may even decide that you’re tired or bored with your design which is why adding wooden items to your kitchen might be a smart alternative to installing wood all over your kitchen. A simple way to mock this look is by adding cork flooring into your kitchen plan. For more information about flooring, check out our blog about choosing the best kitchen flooring options.

Brightly Colored Appliances

One of the more unique trends in kitchen coloring and design is the use of brightly colored, appliances or those that contrast the general look of your kitchen. Adding some colorful appliances to your kitchen is an easy way to spice things up, but before you invest in those larger appliances, such as a magenta stove, think about how you’ll feel about it in a few years and whether magenta is really your favorite color–your prospective buyer or your in-laws might not agree.

Hanging Pot Racks

It used to give you the feeling that there was some real cooking going on in the kitchen and also saved you plenty of room, but now a hanging pot rack might be viewed by many as an eyesore. These days, most people are choosing to hide their pots and pans in drawers and cupboards to maintain a neat look. Unless you spend your night furiously cooking up dishes that require you to be able to pull pots and pans quickly out of the air, we suggest simply storing your cooking tools inside the island rather than above it. Check out our kitchen island design ideas for inspiration!

No More Kitchen Desks

Who knew that so many people were trying to eat and get work done at the same time in the same place. The kitchen desk became an interesting element to include in your kitchen, especially if you enjoyed reading the paper with your breakfast, but now people are ready to simply enjoy their meals and save work for another room in the house. Although a kitchen desk might seem like a good use of space, they can end up becoming the perfect spot to store whatever is in your hand at that moment leading to a desk buried in stuff and a significant loss of kitchen space. Not that many people are trying to work at their kitchen counters anymore, so foregoing the kitchen desk during your kitchen remodel is probably a solid choice.

Leave the Farmhouse Sinks to the Farmhouses

If you’ve ever wanted to live on a farm, but you weren’t sure if how you’d adjust, then installing a farmhouse sink might be a way for you to get a feel for the lifestyle, but when it comes to your kitchen remodel, you’ll probably want to steer clear of this kitchen trend. There are plenty of more contemporary looks that can give you a similar rustic feel, but provide your kitchen with more practicality and long-term value.

Tiled Countertops

Tiled countertops were once a very fashionable look for kitchens around the country. Now they seem to give the feeling of existing in a bygone era not to mention they are a pain to clean. Who likes scrubbing the grout in between tiles trying to bring back the original color? Not many people, which is why it’s a good idea to explore other countertop options, such as granite, quartz or stainless steel.

While we’re on the subject of tiling, another kitchen trend that has lost its demand is the small and minimal backsplashes that some people have been utilizing in their kitchen designs and using tile, in this case, might be your solution. There is an abundance of choices when it comes to choosing a tile for your backsplash and going with a tiled surface behind your sink will give you an opportunity to add some color to your kitchen.

Forget Faux Finishes

This once edgy and stylish look is not as common in contemporary kitchens for various reasons. This type of finish provides a very specific look that future buyers might find unattractive, not to mention, it is not an easy treatment to apply during a kitchen renovation. There’s a multitude of other colors and treatments that will help you maintain a modern look throughout your home and provide visitors and buyers with a more welcoming feel.

Windows Without Curtains

Another kitchen design trend that has come and gone many times is the inclusion of window curtains and shades in the kitchen. For some time now, a common practice has been to abandon curtains for a more simplistic look that provides plenty of natural light. The problem with this trend is that you have no choice in the amount of light coming into your kitchen or the amount of privacy you have when you’re in the room. It seems that people are remembering why they first installed curtains on their kitchen windows and this is becoming the new trend.

Distressed Cabinets

If you trying to decide on a color or finish for your cabinets, you should know that distressed cabinets are no longer a go-to in most contemporary kitchen designs. Although this style of finish was once very popular, most people don’t feel that this look is keeping up with modern kitchen themes. There are plenty of other options out there when choosing a finish for your cabinets and bold colors for cabinets are becoming more of a trend these days.

Trendy Alternatives

Now that we’ve covered some of the trends that should be avoided during kitchen renovations, here are some contemporary suggestions that will keep your kitchen looking stylish and inviting and help you steer clear of bad kitchen designs. An entire kitchen remodel can be costly and end up taking more time than planned, but there are certainly a few cost-effective things you can do to spruce up your kitchen’s design and maintain the value of your home.

Add Some Color

A fresh coat of paint in your kitchen is one of the simplest ways to update your kitchen and can really change up the entire feel of the area. While all white kitchens have been a popular theme in modern kitchens, many people are now choosing to stylize their kitchen with bold colors. Instead of spending money on big appliances you can add some color by simply purchasing a toaster or teapot that brings your favorite color into your kitchen.

Wooden Cabinets

Another one of the infamous kitchen design trends that has gone in and out of style, but always sticks around is wooden cabinetry. There are numerous options when it comes to the style and stain of your cabinets and they are easy to repaint if you grow tired of the original color. Many homeowners are choosing cabinetry with an unfinished look that differs from the traditional wooden cabinets we’ve seen in the past.

Lighting

Changing the lighting setup in your kitchen might seem like an overwhelming undertaking but can be worth the effort if you’re hoping to revamp the feel of your kitchen and your home. Today, most modern home designers are implementing asymmetrical lighting into their kitchen plans. It’s a way to add some action and edge to your kitchen and will allow you to emphasize different spaces in your kitchen.

Wrapping Up

Kitchen trends can change very quickly and the theme for your kitchen will ultimately depend on your own taste. If you’re ever in any doubt, minimalism and neutral colors are common themes throughout home designs today and will be safe bets if your thinking about redesigning your kitchen space.

Don’t forget to do your homework on surviving a kitchen remodel if you’re planning to remodel your kitchen for an eventual sale. The region that you live in, as well as your neighborhood, are things that will affect what is trendy and what is out. Some of the trends that are listed above are likely to come back into style so keep your eyes and ears open. While you’ll want to keep these kitchen remodeling trends in mind if you plan to put your home on the market, you may decide you still enjoy the look of a less popular trend. You might end up finding someone that appreciates a specific look and feel just as much as you.

Remodeling any part of your home can be a scary, overwhelming, and frustrating experience. If you’ve remodeled before and had a poor experience, you might be afraid of starting another (what seems to be) never-ending remodeling project (or “nightmare”). You may be saying, “Never again!” Or, you are at the point where you walk into your bathroom and see the outdated fixtures and cracked tile in the shower, and think to yourself, “I want to re-do this entire bathroom, but I have no idea where to start!” and then continue on your way with your old-fashioned style. There’s also those of us that look to hiring an interior designer and remodel crew to come into our home, give us an idea of what it could look like, and sign away, allowing them to freshen up our place. This could be the best decision you make during your entire remodel process. At Remodel Works, we offer free quotes for your San Diego County remodel. Let us help you every step of the way during your remodel. Request a quote today.

Getting started is sometimes the hardest step, but with the right information, it can be the easiest part (and the most fun)! This is the time that you get to be creative and let your imagination flow! Your possibilities are endless. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled information on the most popular trends and styles. All you need to do is pick which trends call out to you and match your personal style. After you’ve planned, everything is a breeze. If problems arise or you want to change something that you initially planned for, head back to the drawing board and re-evaluate your options. All of these practices together will give you the easy, stress-free, and fun bathroom remodel you deserve.

Although a bathroom size can range from big (luxury, master bathroom) to small (pocket-size bathroom), the list of things to consider for remodeling one is the same. Some important factors will be the must-haves (toilet, sink), and some will be add-ons to your bathroom area. All of these things are up to you (the creator and designer or your new space). With Remodel Works, we work with you so you can get the best return on investment for your bathroom remodel. 

Here is a quick list of things to consider for a bathroom remodel to get your wheels turning (or read here for a more extensive bathroom remodel checklist):

• Toilet (style, color, type of toilet handle/flush)
• Shower (material for the walls, material for the floor, style of fixtures/faucets/shower head, walk-in or with a tub, shower door or none, material for shower curtain)
• Tub (material of tub, connected to shower or stand-alone, jacuzzi tub or basic)
• Sink (material of sink, color, style of faucet/fixtures)
• Flooring (material for the floor, dark or light color, pattern, temperature of the floor)
• Shelving (material of cabinet doors if any, color, open shelving or closed off, how much storage needed)
• Counter (material, how much area for countertop)
• Walls (paint color, or add a material to walls)
• Accessories (bath mat, rug)
• Color Scheme (which colors do you like together, what colors match your style, what colors make you think of a fresh and inviting space)
• Functioning vs. for Show (will the space be used as a functional and practical space, or is it just for show)
• Floor Plan (how could you move things around, toilet, shower, etc.)
• Bathroom size (be realistic about the size of space you have to work with)
• Patterns (which patterns do you like on the floor, walls, shower, etc.)

The list provided may seem like a lot to think about right now, but it is helpful when figuring out your own personal style. If you aren’t really sure what you like (or you like a lot of different styles), then you’re at the right place. By matching different personalities with different styles, textures, and materials, you may just find the perfect remodel ideas to implement in your own home.

Keep in mind, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to mix styles around and create a space that is 100% you. That is of course what this all about…answering your questions about what is trendy this year, and “What’s your ideal bathroom style?” The message I’d like to start you off with is that 2018  is the year for functionality, minimalism, and conservation! You’ll soon come to see what exactly that means in terms of a bathroom remodel.

The Out of Date Duo: Tub and Shower

There’s nothing that saves more room than the combination of a tub and shower. Although it may be convenient and functional, the bathroom remodel trends 2018 are saying otherwise in terms of style. This year, designers have said goodbye to the old-fashioned bulky tubs and showers. If you have little ones at home and/or if you sometimes just want to soak in the tub, go for it! With limited space, it’s hard to separate the tub and shower. By creating a clean and sleek shower and tub combo, your bathroom will stay up-to-date and trendy. Nothing is better than functionality, simplicity, and comfort.

Consider the Floorplan

With so many options of where to lay things out in your bathroom, it is essential that you consider your floor plan during the planning stage of your bathroom remodel. If you are planning to change plumbing, wall placements/support, and other major moves, make sure that the space is thoroughly thought-out and that it works exactly for what you need.

When choosing the best bathroom floorplan (or creating the floor plan, if you’re building the house from the ground up) be sure to create a realistic space. This is where that word “functionality” I’ve been mentioning really comes into play. If you do not have a functional space to move around in and use, you will regret the money spent on the remodel. Do not make the mistake of prioritizing style and looks over the practicality and functionality of the space.

Draw it out! I cannot emphasize this enough. The more you draw out the floorplan you envision for your bathroom space, the better thought-out your ideas will become. I’m a firm believer in seeing it to believe it. If you start moving things around without fully thinking things out (or measuring), you may find yourself in a lot more trouble than when you started the project. Things will not fit, or they will stick out, interfering with your use of the space.

Side note: plumbing is an expensive thing to move around. Once a toilet, shower, sink, or tub are in place, it will be costly to freely move them around. Plan out the space before making any permanent decisions.

Color Trends

If 2018 bathroom remodel trends have taught us anything, it’s that colors are a key factor in making a clean bathroom space. Designers are ditching colors that appear dated (mustard and salmon to name a few) and traditional neutral colors. Beige used to be the go-to color for any home/bath remodel. It needs updating, and too much of it can become boring and tired for a home. Colors that are too extreme can also make it hard to sell your home, as interested buyers see the color and are immediately unattracted. These types of colors also make it hard to easily upgrade the style of a bathroom without painting the walls.

All-Dark

When looking for a color that matches the feeling of a fresh, new, clean space, go for something rich and bold. That being said, do not (and I emphasize do not) paint every wall a deep red, or make the entire bathroom navy blue. This will make the bathroom feel like a dark hole.

To create a space that feels open and inviting, paint all of the walls white except for one — make this wall the rich and bold colored one. This creates an accent wall and compliments the other touches of color in the bathroom (possibly a vintage rug). You’d be surprised with how far a single colored wall can go in terms of making your bathroom welcoming and complete. By keeping most of the room white, the bathroom will feel lighter and more spacious.

All-White

Similar to my advice about not overdoing it with the “all red” or “all navy blue” walls, don’t get carried away with white paint and fixtures either. Although all-white makes the room look very open and clean, it can experience more noticeable wear-and-tear over time. With all-white, it is easy to see stains and dirty much better too.

Simple Shades

For a simple and clean looking bathroom, olive green and a soft-blue green are great colors to put off a happy and revitalizing feelings. These colors aren’t extreme (not a bold and rich colored accent wall), but aren’t a boring and dull neutral either. They are colors that go well with clean surfaces and different accessories, so you won’t get tired of it and have to paint in the next year or so. This color scheme is normal for a traditional bathroom. It provides simple color shades and clean lines for the whole bathroom. There’s no crazy fixtures or accents here; simply simplicity, functionality, and freshness.

Shower Design

In terms of your shower design, you can go any way you want. Read more here for Shower Design 101.

For maximum functionality, a shower and bathtub combo would be your go-to choice; however, if you don’t need a bathtub, go for a trendy shower! Walk-in shower benefits are amazing and definitely worth noting for making your final decision on the shower type you choose.

Showers with metal frames are a new hit in 2018. The frames make the shower look window-like and create a bathroom that looks and feels much bigger than it really is. The metal on the frames also adds a touch of the rustic and industrial style.

A simple glass wall is another trendy idea for separating a shower from the rest of the bathroom. This design can be taken in various directions such as a modern approach, European style, or simply a clean and sleek layout. Whatever you decide to do with the glass, it is guaranteed to make things feel more open and functional.

Although people steer away from hanging shower curtains, they are not out of style. They are functional, practical, and can sometimes even brighten up your bathroom. Get a color that compliments the colors in your bathroom. If your bathroom is mostly white and you want to add a dash of brightness, get a shower curtain with a fun design or pattern. If you want a clean and simple look, go for white. Shower curtains are made in all sorts of textures (plastic, cotton, cloth, etc.), so your options are endless. If you’re unsure about a few different colors and/or designs when looking at them in the store, bring them home and hang each of them up! Compare, see which one you like best, and return those you don’t! It’s as simple as that.

Tile Patterns

Popularity for the chevron tile pattern peaked in 2016 and carried over to 2017, but it started to drop in 2017 and continues its downfall as I write. Although it was the hottest new trend not too long ago, it is now seen as old school—especially when the chevron pattern is on the wall. As you will read more in the flooring section, patterns are transitioning from walls to floors, as floors are becoming the main accent piece of a room.

Different patterns of the same color used together can create a fun and inviting space as well. Although for some people it may be too busy to have four or five different patterns going on next to each other, it’s a trend growing in popularity and it works for those with a minimalist style.

Ceramic tiles and textures are the new big hit for remodeling! With the capability of looking like almost anything (literally everything including granite, marble, slate, and wood), ceramic stands as an affordable option that people need to take advantage of now! Ceramic textures are also much easier to maintain than other textures such as marble and wood. They allow you to enjoy high-quality results without the high cost.

Honeycomb tile has been around for a few years, but is still trendy, as it gives the impression of a much larger area (making small spaces look bigger). If you have a narrow bathroom, this is a great tile to use for the ground, as it makes the space look a little wider. By adding brass fixtures/faucets and some yellow honey accents, your small space is cute and complete!

Fish-scale pattern is another fun and popular bathroom tile this year. The tile has a scalloped shape, making it look like goldfish scales. This pattern could be a fun one to use as an accent shower wall.

Countertops

Granite was the rave a few years ago and stood its ground as a superior quality material for quite a few years before that. However, granite is losing its popularity as a focal point and for many designers, seems old and dated. The new rave is marble and quartz countertops.

Flooring

The latest trends for flooring are a little all over the place. Almost anything you choose to put on your floor will be in-style (as long as it goes with the rest of the style you have going on).

Wood Flooring

The popularity of wood floors has increased tremendously in the past few years. The trends of 2018 aren’t shying away from the either. Light colored wood, dark colored wood, or somewhere in between seems to be a hit in almost any home.

Although tile is generally the go-to for bathroom floors, wood works just as well for the material of your floors. It also creates a fluid style if the area outside the bathroom has wood floors as well.  

Wood floors can achieve a variety of different styles within a bathroom. The following are some trends you can shoot for with wood flooring:

• Natural Materials: By using blonde natural colored wood, you can create a warm, relaxing, and peaceful space that is enjoyable.
• Minimal Rustic: By using a dark wood floor, the space will feel simple, cozy, and homely.
• Industrial: Any type of hardwood flooring can go in an industrial styled bathroom. However, this doesn’t mean that the wood needs to be rough and splintery. Exposed elements (including the wood) in the bathroom can make it industrial, but still functional and comfortable.
• Renewable Materials: For the person who is all about the environment and going green,  choose to use bamboo floors! They provide amazing durability and are an excellent renewable resource.

Tile Flooring

For many years, tile has been the go-to choice for the cleanest and most durable bathroom floor. There isn’t much to argue about when the tile is easily kept clean and looks sleek. Certain styles of tile are no longer trendy, while some are taking off with their popularity. Here’s the scoop on the newest tile trends to hold on to, and those to leave behind.

A popular trend has been a matte finish over the once popular glossy tile bathroom floors. The dull-look from the matte finish brings warmth to the bathroom with its soft textures, giving it a smooth and comfortable look. This style of tile ties into a minimalistic bathroom design with a natural feel—a trend that is also heavily influencing interior design.

Terra-cotta styled tiling is also a favored tile choice. Similar to the matte finish, terra-cotta tile isn’t glossy either. Whether laid out on the floor as square tiles or arranged in various shapes to create a pattern, terracotta tiles brownish-red-orange color gives it an earthy look that expresses a more organic and natural feel as well.

More recently, tile patterns have become the main accent for an entire room/space. It’s a popular trend that continues to take off and gain more approval. With a pattern on just the floor, and light colored walls (i.e. white) or an accent wall to create a two-toned effect, a minimalist approach can be achieved. (more about patterns in pattern section)

Accent Rugs

Accessories to decorate bathrooms have taken a complete 180-degree turn from what they used to be. Instead of the basic bath mat that matches under the sink and around the toilet, designers are going for authentic and vintage rugs. The goal here is to promote elegance but keep the bathroom simple as well. Vintage rugs provide a dash of color and pattern, which helps dress up a simplistic and clean approach to a bathroom.

When planning out your floor plan and choosing the shower bathtub, consider the size and style of your accent rug if you want it to fit into the layout. However, don’t plan your entire bathroom around a rug. Although it does sound silly, it happens. Keep an open mind to it all. There is a huge variety of vintage rugs and they each offer their own unique style. Choose a few different styles and sizes and see which works best for your space.

Storage

Functionality and practicality call for storage! A common misconception about storage is that it’s ugly…big bulky cabinets that take up bathroom space; however, storage doesn’t have to be ugly. The key here is to find the best spot for storage. Utilize corners that are left empty, tall ceilings that go wasted, and spaces that are below eye-level. This goes for big and small bathrooms. Storage is your best friend…it knows everything about you, but hides it and keeps it safe when visitors come over. So, let’s be honest, we all need our best friend to keep our things hidden.

Accessories

High-tech accessories are always a trendy option, especially in 2018. This includes accessories such as digital temperature settings for your water, which enables you to set your shower at a preferred temperature. This results in a steady flow of water that doesn’t change temperatures during your shower, ultimately saving you money and time spent adjusting and waiting for your desired temperature.

Another high-tech bathroom installation is heated floors. Although they aren’t a necessity for living in San Diego, they sure are nice to walk on in the early mornings of the winter. They automatically heat to a certain temperature, so your tile floors won’t feel so cold, especially during the winter months.

For a consistent refreshing look for your bathroom, add accessories that are mostly white, but don’t be afraid to add a hint of some bold colors, such as green. You can add wooden accessories too, such as bamboo accessories.

For a simple and clean looking bathroom, olive green and a soft-blue green are great colors to put off a happy and revitalizing feelings. These colors aren’t extreme (not a bold and rich colored accent wall), but aren’t a boring and dull neutral either. They are colors that go well with clean surfaces and different accessories, so you won’t get tired of it and have to paint in the next year or so. This color scheme is normal for a traditional bathroom. It provides simple color shades and clean lines for the whole bathroom. There’s no crazy fixtures or accents here; simply simplicity, functionality, and freshness.

Accents for a certain feel

Brass and metal finishes are becoming more popular accents. Providing an industrial look, but also a look that could tie in with rustic, traditional, or modern style bathroom, these finishes aren’t likely to go out of style anytime soon.

Mirrors (and glass) are the best accents to make a room feel and look bigger. The reflection has that impact on every room, but for small pocket bathrooms, you can truly feel a difference.

For a bathroom that feels like a spa, aim for lots of open space. Put the tub out in the open, have a marble countertop, and even add a chandelier to create elegance and style.

Modern is a style that varies from person to person, depending on what their definition and linking of modern is. If you want extreme modern, possibly you go for clean lines on all fixtures and faucets, simple and geometrical shapes, a simple color scheme, very few earthy touches, and that’s it. For a mix of modern and vintage, simply add a rustic rug to warm up the room and bring it color.

For all things industrial, have exposed textures and fixtures stand as the accents of the room. Exposed light bulbs and piping are the two most popular things to give an industrial feel. If you want to add a vintage touch to the industrial style, install dark tile or a vintage looking wallpaper to stand as the vintage accent.

Bathroom remodeling trends to avoid include rose and copper finishes. Use of these finishes is declining, as gold, bronze, and silver increase. Although they may only small touches, they can heavily impact the overall look of your bathroom.

Small Pocket Bathroom

You may have what feels like the smallest bathroom on planet earth, and think that there’s no way you can remodel or redesign it to make it more functional and YOU!

Having a window is key in tiny bathrooms. It brings in natural light and makes the space feel breathable and more spacious. To add character and personality, find a tile that has a small pattern on it, and use it as your accent of the space. Keep the space as light and bright as possible. Any rich or dark colors will make the space feel smaller than it is. For a finishing touch, bring in a small plant—it will give life (literally) to the bathroom.

Large Master Bathroom

You may have what feels like the biggest bathroom on planet earth, and that you could fit a king sized bed inside of it. Because you have so much space to work with, the planning for your bathroom remodel may be a bit easier. However, too much space may be dangerous as it’s easy to get carried away and go overboard with decorations and fixtures that are unnecessary. Like mentioned before, a minimalistic style and practicality are the important trends of 2018. Stick to this trend, and your master bath will look functional, clean, spacious, and welcoming.

Read more here for 8 Master Bathroom Remodel Ideas For Your Dream Remodel.

Conclusion

As I’m sure you can see, a remodeling project in a bathroom has a ton of nuts and bolts. However, the challenging part isn’t knowing the design trends or styles (if you think this is the challenging part, reread all of the above info), it’s narrowing down your options of what you’ll love most!

Your decisions that need to be made have tons of options, so no need to panic. Knowing all-things needed for a trendy bathroom remodel and having the experts at Remodel Works to help you along the way, we believe you are ready to create a space that is truly functional, practical, clean, and you. Contact us today and get started on your new bathroom remodel.

At some point, homeowners come across the question of which home improvements add the most value. Are you planning on selling your home soon? Or do you just want to make sure that the value of your home is keeping up with the market? Either way, there is a multitude of home improvement projects that can be done to not only improve your living standards but add value to your home on the real estate market as well. The first thing you want to think about is your budget. How much are you willing to spend to get a return? The second thing to think about is how long you’re willing to endure the process of remodeling. Some projects take longer than others are far more invasive on your daily lifestyle. For instance, bedroom and kitchen renovations will force you to find creative ways of cooking and sleeping. Lastly, you need to consider how much return on investment you’re looking for and which areas of your home improvement will help you reach your goal. This post will help shed some light on common areas of home improvement.

Kitchen Remodel

Remodeling your kitchen is one of the most rewarding home improvement opportunities. Sure, you will have to make some lifestyle changes while the remodel is underway but the outcome will not only drastically improve the visual appearance of your whole home but improve your quality of life as well. That being said, most kitchen remodels end up lasting a long time as long as you steer clear of the kitchen remodel trends to avoid.  On the other hand, kitchen remodels can be as comprehensive or minor as you see fit. Most older kitchens will generally need a full remodel to bring it up to date while some kitchens only need a change in cabinets or update in appliances to give it a new sparkle.

As far as increasing the value of your home goes, kitchen remodels do the trick better than most room remodels. Updated kitchens drastically improve the marketability of your home once it is on the market and will give you a good return on investment without a doubt. Overall the many things that can be done to improve a kitchen, there are a few most notable. To begin it is important to speak with a professional to determine the average return on investment kitchen remodel for your home in particular.

Open Concept Kitchen

Open concept layout defined: the elimination of barriers such as walls and doors that traditionally separated distinct functional areas in a home. In the context of the kitchen, an open concept floor plan is typically based around a kitchen layout that opens up to a dining room, a living room, or some combination of the two. Open concept kitchens seem to be the most desired remodel at the moment – and it is not hard to see why. They have a special ability to maximize the appearance of space and therefore make your home look much larger than it would with an enclosed kitchen. They are also renowned for better functionality and design, especially for a family home where the main value is spending time together.

A home with an open concept design is shown on the market at a higher ticket price for the reason that it functions well for all types of buyers. The most obvious is its ability to keep families engaged during meal and down times. For other buyers, the open concept design is seen as the perfect layout to host events and entertain. Because of its versatility, the open concept design is a great way to boost the value of your home.

New Features

If your goal is to improve the appeal of your kitchen to buyers, implementing new features is a way to do so while keeping costs down and minimizing time spent without a cooking space during remodels. One way to go is updating countertops and painting cabinets. If you want to take things further, you might even add some fancy backsplashes and new hardware. However, if the plan is to improve the marketability of your home, chances are that once you sell it, the new buyers will change all this anyways.

So what can you do to add that extra push to buy? The answer is simple. If your home does not currently have an island, you might want to think about having one constructed. With enough surface area, an island becomes an extra feature that can be manipulated in many ways. For example, adding an extra sink to the island increases the scope of the working triangle, while still providing more area for preparation. Families generally appreciate an island because they not only allow for more storage but serve as an extra dining space as well. If your buyers don’t live the family lifestyle, the island serves as a station to entertain guests while food is being prepared as well.

Bathroom Remodel

When undertaking a home improvement project, remodeling an existing bathroom is a small tweak that can make a huge difference in the appeal of a home especially considering the current bathroom remodel trends. Aside from the kitchen, bathrooms are one of the top rooms that make a home feel outdated- and they’re one of the easiest to fix making a bathroom remodel return on investment so high. Fixes like new paint and appliances can go a long way in making things feel more up to date, but a full remodeling project will really do the trick and last for years to come.

That being said, one of the most commonly targeted areas is the master bathroom. The master bedroom is an area of the house that homeowners interact with every single day which means that it needs to be up to par and exceed potential buyer expectations. On the other hand, daily use causes quick wear and tear which means bathrooms need frequent fixes and updates.

A few of the best master bathroom remodel hacks are to focus on bringing in natural light, incorporating a luxurious bathtub, and bringing in sleek finishes. These are some of the things that are highly sought after by potential buyers and are sure to increase the perceived value of your home on the market.

Room Addition

Homeowners fantasize over the idea of adding square footage to their property. However, there are a number of things to consider when deciding to invest in a home addition, and it should not be taken with a grain of salt. In fact, a home addition is the single most expensive home remodeling purchase a homeowner will ever make – even when done in a cost-effective way!

However, a home addition can do wonders for your property value and investment. Room additions are one of the best ways to increase the value of your home because they allow room for families to grow. With more space, your home now has more to offer to potential buyers. Whether it is a bathroom, bedroom, bonus room, or living room a home addition can pay for itself and still provide a positive return on investment.

Living Room Addition

Living room additions are a great way to not only expand the square footage of your home but also to improve the comfort and design aesthetic of your interior. Family room and living room additions have become incredibly popular over the last several years, which makes expanding the one in your home a great way to increase its value. If your home does not currently have a large living room, you might be looking at a standard addition. However, standard additions can still be on the higher end of the price point because they require major construction that involves creating and building an entirely separate structure.  Average costs run anywhere from $80 to $200 per square foot.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a smaller scale version of a room addition that still opens up a living room a bump out is a viable option. Bump outs generally extend a living room 10 to 15 feet which is perfect for families that just need a little more space. They also do not alter the exterior of your home as drastically as a complete addition which creates a more seamless transition when the time comes to sell your home.

Although room additions can be costly, they can add significant value to a home not only by increasing square footage but also increasing usable family shared space.

Bonus Room Addition

Bonus rooms are highly sought after in the market because they create a shared living space for families to gather and entertain in addition to the kitchen and living room. The extra square footage demonstrates the homes ability to grow with families. Since most homeowners do not have the extra yard space for a bonus room addition, they are commonly built above an existing garage. The approximate cost of finishing the bonus room over your garage is approximately $35 per square foot. To find out more, check out our blog about how to add a bonus room above a garage which goes into more depth about this two-story addition.

Over-the-garage additions tend to have a high impact on the curb appeal of your home. Because they typically face the street, your home will appear much larger. Most two-car garages are typically upwards of 24 feet by 24 feet, which makes installing a sturdy garage bonus room drastically increase not only the visual appeal but also the resale value of your home to prospective buyers.

Bedroom Addition

Expanding your home for the purpose of adding a bedroom can be done for a number of reasons. The two most popular are a growing family or having an extra room for parents are grandparents to move in during their elderly years. Instead of leaving a beloved home with fond memories behind, families have the option to gain extra square footage. Homeowners almost always request a spare bedroom in their home when if they have space, just as buyers like to see an extra bedroom in potential homes. For this reason, a bedroom addition increases not only the housing capacity of a home but also the value return as well. Bedroom additions are typically on the more expensive side and can cost anywhere from 80 to 200 dollars per square feet depending on the existing structure and materials used. That said, extra rooms are highly sought after and can increase the value of your home significantly. Therefore, if you need the extra space, opting to add a bedroom is an excellent alternative to moving to a larger home for a number of reasons. To look at the sentimental side of things, all the memories that you have made in your home won’t go with you to a new home. On the other hand, the resale value of your home will most definitely cover the cost of building if you find a great architect.

Bathroom Addition

A bathroom addition is usually not done alone but in conjunction with a living room or bedroom addition. If a bedroom addition is done on the first floor where all other bedrooms are on the second, it is most likely intended to be a guest room. In this case, it is essential that the room has its own private bathroom so that guests can feel ease in their own private space. On the other hand, a downstairs bathroom addition can be used as a half bath addition for any and all guests in the home.  

Fireplace Surround

If you’re looking to get your feet wet with a minimally invasive project, then replacing an old fireplace surround or adding a new one is a perfect place to start. The purpose of fireplace surrounds is to create a lovely focal point for your main room or even tie in another remodel to the rest of the home.

Wrapping Up

Overall, there are endless opportunities to improve the look, feel, and value of your home. No matter what you choose to take on, the most important thing to remember is not to go at it alone. Hiring a professional will not only help the project along smoothly but quickly as well. If you are unsure of what improvements could be made to your home, get the advice of a professional to steer you in the right direction and also to make sure that you are getting the most out of your home improvements.

Whether you’re already thinking about putting your house on the market our you’re just considering how you can add value to your home, an up-to-date and thrifty bathroom renovation may be a perfect improvement. Earning some return on your investment is a somewhat difficult prospect when it comes to home renovations, but with careful consideration and planning, updating the design of your bathroom might be the perfect selling point when the time comes to sell.

That’s why we’ve laid out some of the options and key benefits of an effective bathroom remodel, as well as some things to watch out for to help your renovation run smoothly.

Getting Started

So, if you’ve decided that if you remodel a bathroom you will be brought closer to your goals, then the next thing to do is to decide on the theme and design of your bathroom. If you’re not sure about the direction that you want to take in the early stages of the renovation, then keeping it simple and investing in designs that have been proven to produce a solid return on investment is the way to go.

When housing markets are thriving, there is much more opportunity to get some of the funds you dedicate toward a renovation back. The bathroom might be the space that adds the most value to your home if your money is spent wisely. Bathrooms can be the most expensive spaces in a home and often become powerful selling points for a homeowner.

What Can Be Renovated?

Many homeowners are choosing to replace their tubs with walk-in showers in a bath remodel which seem to be the more efficient choice when it comes to time management and water control. A beautiful walk-in shower can replace an under-utilized tub as the most attractive part of a new bathroom. Many couples and prospective buyers still look for double sinks in the master bathroom, so thinking about adding another sink might help add some value to your house. Also, check out 8 other master bathroom remodel ideas for your dream remodel!

If you’re living in a home that only has one bathroom, rather than thinking about how you can renovate your only bathroom, it might be a better idea to invest in a new bathroom. If you end up putting your house on the market, you’re likely to have more interest in multiple bathrooms instead of only one.

If you are thinking about selling your home sometime soon, keep in mind that the look and design of your bathroom might be what makes the sale or what turns potential buyers away. Here are some tips to keep your bathroom remodel on track, as well as some trends that should be avoided. Many buyers today are seeking a renovated bathrooms and kitchens so making smart choices in how you invest in your bathroom might be what gets you into escrow.

What Materials Produce More ROI?

Another vital consideration during a bathroom remodel involves the types of materials that you have at your disposal. Some of these materials will produce a better return on your investment which is why knowing what design features are trendy and which are outdated will help you determine the best material choices for your remodel. If you don’t plan to move anytime soon, then you have the luxury of concentrating on what you will enjoy and what will work best for your lifestyle.

When choosing a theme for your bathroom and the look of your fixtures, choosing copper, gold, nickel, and gold can be safe bets when it comes to maintaining resale value. There are plenty of ways to materials into your bathroom design, and replacing fixtures can be a simple and quick way to spice up the look of your room. One material that might not produce the return on your investment that your expecting is a brass color-theme. This once very popular look is not as hip as it once was while prospective buyers are seeking a more modern look. Going with a brushed nickel or brushed copper look is another cost-effective way to start updating your bathroom. Get more information on color schemes in the article, “Master Bathroom Ideas to Enhance Your Space.”

Other fixtures you can think about matching can include a new towel rack or mirrors. These simple cosmetic changes might be all you need when it comes to stylizing your bathroom and maintaining a relevant look. New fixtures can also give the appearance of a more extensive remodel during open houses.

Saving Space During Renovations

One of the most important elements of an effective bathroom renovation involves the appropriate and efficient use of space in the room. You’ll want to plan wisely and leave plenty of space in your bathroom during your remodel. If you’re trying to decide whether you want to begin work on your one-and-a-half bathroom, it might be smarter to think about if you can dedicate those funds toward completing another full bathroom.

Most buyers will prefer multiple bathrooms over the newly-renovated one. If this is the only bathroom in the house then maximizing your space is that much more important. Replacing your vanity cabinet with a wall-mounted sink will save you a good amount of space in your bathroom. Other areas of your bathroom that you can think about improving include storage space, flooring and even shower seating.

Cost-Effective Renovations

Few homeowners are spending money remodeling their bathrooms if they don’t believe that they will see some sort of return on investment. And most prospective buyers will make a point of checking out the bathroom before deciding to buy. Although remodeling your bathroom can become pricey, it doesn’t have to be. There are some easy and cost-effective ways to update the design of your bathroom, so you can still keep up with the times without breaking the bank.

Earning a return on your investment can be tricky no matter how the housing market is doing, but in healthier markets, a new-looking bathroom might raise the value of your home to your target price range.

Implementing Natural Light

Opting to add some natural light to your bathroom is one way to achieve the appearance of space in your room. If you aren’t getting the natural light you’d like in your bathroom, then adding some recessed lighting can be an appropriate substitute– this type of lighting helps preserve the appearance of space in the room instead of the immediate and abrupt feeling that bright bathroom lights can give.

Other Lighting Options

If you’re feeling fancy and your ceilings are just high enough, you might even consider implementing a hanging light fixture in your bathroom. There are plenty of choices when it comes to hanging lights and chandeliers so be sure to stick with something that matches the other fixtures in your bathroom.

Pick and choose the elements you replace in your bathroom wisely– you may only end up changing your lighting and your toilet but still add a significant amount of value through the renovations. This is also a convenient way to save on time and other resources as well as avoid worrying about some of the more complicated parts of a full bathroom remodel.

Adding Glass Features

Frosted doors aren’t as sought-after as they’ve been in the past, which works out because plain glass doors are another way to give the feeling of more space in your bathroom. If you can afford to take on the project, changing out your tub for a glass, walk-in shower can be another way to save space and add the appearance of extra room in your bathroom all at the same time. Glass also maintains a modern look so you don’t have to worry about updating again in a few years,

Fresh Paint Job

Re-painting your bathroom is another example of a relatively simple project that can really update the feel of your bathroom at a reasonable price. Most buyers today are seeking clean looks and colors that bring in extra light. Adding some fresh color to your bathroom is one of the most efficient ways to update your room.

If you have trouble deciding on a new color, consider going with a neutral color paint that is more likely to stand the test of time than the color that is trending at the moment. This will help make sure that your bathroom doesn’t become dated-looking a few years down the line.

What Affects Return On Investments for Remodels?

Not every bathroom renovation will produce the same return on investment. It may be wise to speak with a broker while you do your research to find out more about what sells in your area and what buyers look for in a bathroom. Neighborhood and timing make a huge difference as far as the return on investment you should expect. Doing your homework based on your area will save you from spending more money than you need to on your renovations.

Location

The part of the country that you live in is another aspect that will impact the ROI that you see from any type of remodel. Changing tastes and varying markets can make it difficult to predict exactly what type of money you’ll get back from your renovation. If done right, a bathroom remodel can produce more than half of its value and depending on current trends it may yield more. That’s why it’s important you are aware of the latest bathroom remodel trends before getting started. 

Timing

Timing is key when it comes to assessing the value of your bathroom renovations and the money you’ll get out of them. Most brokers explain that the longer you remain in your home, the greater your chances become of earning a better ROI– unfortunately, there are no guarantees when it comes to earning some of your investment back. Bathrooms styles can go in and out of fashion quickly, so if you’re not planning on selling soon, stick with some you’ll appreciate years from now and hopefully, that timeless look will still be appreciated when the time comes to put your house on the market.

When you’re deciding how you’re going to update your bathroom, make sure the finished product is still consistent with the look of the rest of your home. If your bathroom doesn’t mesh with the theme throughout the house, it might be a little jarring and deter a potential sale. Most buyers aren’t looking for uniquely eccentric design in their bathrooms, so choosing traditional materials and styles for your bathroom will help protect your investment.

Wrapping Up

There are many avenues to explore when it comes to how you can renovate your bathroom. Simple and cost-effective renovations might include simple fixture replacements or a fresh coat of paint on the walls. Other, more extensive renovations, such as a new toilet, tub, or cool shower design, might be necessary additions to a newly-remodeled bathroom, but these projects should be handled with caution if you want to keep your average cost down and give yourself the best chance of earning some sort of ROI. A renovated bathroom can add a real sense of comfort and elegance to your home if it matches the theme throughout. If you’re still lost on ideas, take the quiz, “What’s Your Ideal Bathroom Style?”