Redesigning a kitchen is often one of the most exciting home improvement projects, but it can also be one of the most stressful. From navigating a sea of design choices, chronically overthinking counter space on a kitchen island, to sticking to a budget, it's no wonder that any homeowner could be easily overwhelmed. Working with a design team was the best part of renovating our own kitchen. From considering the right ambient lighting to the placement of extra storage space, our kitchen designer was on it.
Understanding the full range of complexities homeowners face when reenvisioning their kitchen space, CAFÉ Appliances launched the Style Studio, where designers like Emily Hodge and Nissa Cardell have been offering personalized solutions for kitchen dilemmas all month long.
Knowing Where to Start
One of the most common issues homeowners face is simply knowing where to begin. As designer Emily Hodge, owner of Emily Hodge Interior Design, explains, “I find a lot of people get stuck on where to start at modern kitchen renovation – from general layout to budget."
According to Hodge, the best starting point is selecting your appliances. By identifying which appliances you need and where they'll go, you can set the foundation for your kitchen's layout and even get a handle on your budget before speaking to a contractor. "Pay close attention to the appliance dimensions and think about where you want to place them in the kitchen," she adds.
This approach streamlines the process and helps avoid future hiccups in both design and costs. With new innovations like beverage drawers, built-in coffee makers, and wine towers, the possibilities are endless. By prioritizing appliances, you can ensure your kitchen is functional and future-proof.
Avoiding Decision Fatigue is Real
Another major challenge in kitchen redesign is the sheer number of decisions homeowners must make. From cabinetry styles to kitchen countertop materials, the options seem endless, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. "People struggle with the number of decisions they have to make," says Nissa Cardell, Principal Designer at Three Oh One and Senior Designer at Village Handcrafted Cabinetry. "They look at so many ideas and options on social media and have a hard time narrowing it down and figuring out how it all works together."
The constant influx of inspiration can lead to what Cardell refers to as “decision fatigue,” where homeowners feel paralyzed by too many choices. This is where working with a designer to navigate common kitchen design problems can make all the difference. Cardell highlights that a professional can not only help narrow down the choices but also make the process fun and less daunting.
Simply put, a professional designer can see through the appeal of a pretty picture. They'll help dissect whether the kitchen appliances are in a practical place, assess kitchen workflow, flooring, the placement of outlets and the practicality of storage options. A good partner will help a homeowner think through each careful planning stage in a way that makes the most sense for the kitchen remodeling project.
Aligning Vision with Practicality
While many people have a clear vision of what they want their dream kitchen to look like, making practical choices can be challenging. There are functional space constraints in common design, as well as structural limitations, and, of course, budget concerns that need to be balanced with aesthetics.
This is where the expertise of a design professional becomes invaluable. Expert advice from designers like those at the Style Studio are trained to address the tricky balance between beauty and function. They'll help make sure that your kitchen is not only visually appealing but also works seamlessly for your everyday needs with proper lighting, space for food preparation, and a floor plan that's perfect for that notorious kitchen work triangle.
The CAFÉ™ Appliances Style Studio is dedicated to helping homeowners overcome these common hurdles. Whether you’re stuck on the kitchen layout, overwhelmed by choices, or just need a little inspiration, the designers at the Style Studio are here to guide you through the process.
For more kitchen design advice or to get your specific kitchen question answered, follow CAFÉ™ Appliances on Instagram or visit their Style Studio.
