Richmond VA Kitchen Remodeling is a large-scale project that requires attention to detail. It may involve repainting or replacing cabinets, adding backsplash, and upgrading appliances.

Take this opportunity to add storage spaces – think drawers instead of shelves in lower cabinetry for tall stock pots and cookie sheets. It can also be a good time to upgrade appliances for better functionality, safety, and efficiency.

Cabinets are large contributors to the kitchen’s overall aesthetic. They provide ample storage space for cooking, dining and kitchen supplies. They also serve as focal points for the room. Many homeowners choose to install decorative cabinetry to enhance the space’s décor.

Cabinetry can be updated by repainting or replacing the door and drawer fronts. This process is known as cabinet refacing and consists of applying new veneer to the existing cabinets and installing new doors and drawers. Cabinet refacing is cheaper than cabinet replacement and allows you to upgrade the look of your kitchen without changing the layout or footprint of the space.

Some cabinetry is built into the counter, wrapping around the dishwasher or fridge for a more seamless look. Other cabinetry is recessed into the wall, serving as a display case for decorative items or a hidden pantry. Cabinets are even used in basements and garages to house everything from tools, sports equipment, household items and Christmas decorations.

A complete kitchen remodel usually includes installing new cabinets and may include relocating the sink or adding an island. It might also require moving plumbing lines to accommodate new fixtures or change the location of an exhaust vent. This type of project calls for the expertise of design, construction and plumbing professionals.

Countertops are one of the most visible areas in any kitchen, and they have a big impact on the overall feel of the room. Choose a durable surface that fits your lifestyle and matches the cabinets, flooring and appliances for a cohesive look.

Natural stone countertops add elegance to a kitchen, and are heat-resistant and stain-resistant. They can also be quite expensive, ranging from about $65 to $190 per square foot, with installation included, Home Advisor says.

Quartz, a manufactured material that’s available in hundreds of looks, is popular for its durability and cost-effectiveness. It can mimic the look of stone but is easier to clean and resists bacteria and scratches better than other countertop materials.

Laminate, once the cheapest option, is making a comeback. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles and is easy to install yourself. It’s also relatively durable, though scratch- and burn-resistant laminate is less hardy than other countertop options.

Many kitchen remodels involve new appliances. Sometimes it’s a failing appliance that spurs the renovation, and other times it just makes sense to upgrade as you revamp your layout or refresh the style of your space. Either way, it’s important to shop for appliances mindfully. Brands and styles should only be secondary considerations to how the appliances work with your cooking habits and your needs as a cook.

Upgrading your appliances during a remodel gives you the opportunity to add unique features that streamline everyday tasks. Mixer risers, sink workstations and microwave drawers are just a few of the innovative options that elevate functionality without sacrificing aesthetics.

If you decide to go all-out on your kitchen upgrades, be sure to ask your local repairman to service the new models you’re considering before making any final decisions. You wouldn’t want to splurge on the perfect fridge or stove only to discover that no local repair company supports it!

Every home requires a well-thought-out lighting scheme, but the kitchen is especially critical. A good lighting scheme not only offers essential illumination, but it can also make the room feel warmer and more inviting.

Incorporating a layering of ambient, task, and accent lighting is the best way to brighten your kitchen without creating harsh shadows. This can be done by increasing the number of light sources, using fixtures with diffusers, and coordinating the color temperature.

Ambient lighting — such as ceiling lights, wall sconces, and track lighting — provides general illumination of the space. It’s generally the first thing you see when entering a room and can be turned on with a single switch. Task lighting, meanwhile, is used to illuminate specific work zones such as countertops and sinks. This can be accomplished with under-cabinet lighting, pendants, or recessed ceiling fixtures.

Accent lighting, on the other hand, can draw attention to certain features of your kitchen, such as a beautiful tile backsplash or a custom-built island. Geometric and decorative lighting options, such as chandeliers, are a great way to add an eye-catching focal point. It’s important to be aware of size when choosing this type of fixture, though, as too big can overwhelm the room.

Flooring can make or break a kitchen remodeling project. Whether the kitchen is completely overhauled or simply getting updated with new cabinets and counters, flooring will likely need to be replaced or re-done to match the style of the new space.

Durability is key for kitchen floors, which are often exposed to heavy foot traffic and furniture, as well as spills and leaks. Most homeowners opt for ceramic, porcelain or stone tile, which are stain-resistant and water-proof. This material is also available in a wide array of colors and styles to match any design theme.

Hardwood flooring is another classic option, which can bring natural warmth and a timeless aesthetic to any kitchen. Contemporary trends include lighter shades of wood and sustainable options like bamboo. In addition, hardwoods are now being produced in wider planks for a more open and spacious feel.

Vinyl is a less expensive alternative to most other flooring materials, and it is easy to install with self-stick or glue-down applications. It is also durable and water-resistant, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns to complement any design theme. Cork is another environmentally-friendly option that provides comfort underfoot and acoustic insulation, while being mold- and mildew-resistant.

A professional plumber can help ensure kitchen remodeling projects are completed correctly. Even simple renovations may require rerouting of water supply lines or connecting new fixtures and appliances. Professional plumbers are trained to properly install plumbing pipes and meet local building codes. Attempting to make these modifications on your own could lead to dangerous leaks and/or a failed inspection.

For kitchen remodels, the plumber can also upgrade outdated pipes to improve water flow and prevent issues such as leaky faucets. For example, old galvanized steel pipes can be replaced with PEX piping that is more durable and energy-efficient.

Some professionals divide kitchen renovations into major and minor categories, with major projects involving structural changes. A major kitchen redo typically includes replacing all of the cabinets, flooring and countertops, along with installing a new sink and custom cabinets. It also involves any floor plan reorganization that requires moving of existing appliances or equipment.

Professionals with extensive experience preparing for and conducting kitchen remodels can spot potential problems the average homeowner would miss, such as corroded or worn pipe insulation. They can then recommend the most effective solutions. These repairs can help protect the integrity of the existing plumbing infrastructure and save homeowners money in the long run.

Most kitchen remodeling involves significant construction tasks that will require tearing down walls and adding structural elements like new windows or a kitchen island. It’s also likely that the existing plumbing and electrical wiring will need to be upgraded. While some skilled DIYers may be able to tackle this portion of the remodel themselves, it’s more common for a professional general contractor to take care of the major construction and installation.

A modern kitchen requires an adequate number of electrical outlets to power appliances and lighting. The National Electric Code recommends that there be an outlet within six feet of every sink or countertop. In older homes, there may not be enough outlets or there may not be GFCI outlets (ground-fault circuit interrupters) installed. GFCIs protect against electrocution by sensing small differences in the amount of current going to and from an appliance and shutting off the electricity before anyone can be shocked.

During kitchen remodels, it’s also a good time to install additional outlets or upgrade existing ones to USB ports for charging phones and tablets. A good electrician can help you create a plan that will meet all of your kitchen’s electrical needs and increase the overall value of your home.