When a kitchen functions correctly, you can feel it. Your workflow, from food prep, cooking, and serving to clean up and use when a meal isn't in the works, is smooth and free of issues. All kitchens start off with the potential to be highly functional, but choices in where things were installed, what cabinets were picked, or what changes have been made over the years can all lead to a space that doesn't quite work as intended for you and the way you need it. When evaluating your kitchen for a remodel, there are 5 key areas where the function of your kitchen resides.
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Having an understanding of what styles you like is an important factor in any remodeling project. The particular look and character of the materials and products you prefer come together to create a full design, and when all these pieces are in alignment with your preferences and with each other, the results will be successful. When designing a space like a bathroom, a style category or direction greatly helps narrow down your options and makes it easier to find all the fixtures and materials needed to create a cohesive bathroom.
Read MoreTopics: Design Trends and Ideas, Bathrooms
As our ideas about how the space in our home should be connected and used changes over time, it's important to make adjustments to ensure our comfort and happiness. When an architectural choice that felt appropriate at the time a home was built becomes a hindrance or eyesore, it's time to evaluate what's needed now. This was the case for this Indian Hill remodel, where the existing separation and style of the kitchen, breakfast room, and adjacent living room began to feel like they were getting in the way.
Read MoreTopics: Project Spotlight, Kitchens
Functional kitchens require a fair amount of lighting. Light directed toward food prep, cooking, eating, and cleaning areas provide for a safer environment. Task lighting can be achieved in a variety of ways, but in some instances, a decorative light fixture can do the trick. Here are the 4 types of decorative fixtures you may want to consider adding to your kitchen's lighting scheme.
Read MoreTopics: Design Trends and Ideas, Kitchens, Lighting