Get Remodeling Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets, Countertops, and More
Walk into any remodeling store, and you might feel immediately overwhelmed by the sheer number of options to choose from.
You may feel indecisive, because choosing the wrong material could cost you, whether you’re DIYing your own kitchen or you’re a Maryland kitchen remodeling contractor working for a client.
After helping hundreds of people with their kitchen remodels, we realized these seven things will help you make smart choices and fall in love with your end result.
1. Start Your Kitchen Remodel With a Clear Vision
Choosing materials you “like enough” but don’t love means you probably don’t have a clear vision for your project. Even if you’re shopping on a strict budget, you can find materials that inspire you and work cohesively to achieve your vision.
Start by creating a vision board. To begin, write down specific elements you love, like shaker cabinets, a geometric backsplash, and warm tones. This list will help you stay focused during your search.
Then, collect images and specifications about the kitchen remodeling materials that align with your vision. Think of all the details, down to the countertop edge and drawer pulls. Bring them all together in one place – either physically printed out and glued together or assembled in a digital document.
Your completed vision board guides your shopping trips and helps you communicate your wishes when you’re talking to suppliers like Elegant Kitchen and Design..
2. Measure Twice, Shop for Kitchen Remodeling Materials Once
Measurement mistakes derail projects. We recommend measuring multiple times to make sure you got it right. Include detailed locations of everything: outlets, window heights, door swings, light switches, vents, or anything else in your space..
Pay special attention to corners, soffits, and any odd angles in your kitchen. These quirks can require creative kitchen cabinet remodeling ideas or innovative layouts.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! The Elegant Kitchen and Design team can measure for you and draw up layout ideas for your project.
3. Set Your Kitchen Remodel Budget Early
Money talks can feel uncomfortable, but let’s be real about costs. Maryland kitchen remodeling projects use about 40% of their total budget on cabinets and countertops combined. Break this down further: quality cabinets can typically use up 25 to 30% of your total budget, while countertops take up 10 to 15%.
Include often-overlooked extras that can blow your budget: hardware, cabinet organizers, end panels, toe kicks, and specialty trim. Set aside another 10% of your budget for unexpected obstacles or upgrades you might fall in love with along the way.
4. Research Material Quality Standards
This is where insider knowledge makes all the difference. For cabinets, look beyond the pretty door styles. Pull out a drawer and examine the joinery. They’re a key indicator of quality construction. Check the drawer glides; the highest-quality ones will likely be undermount, full-extension, and soft-close.
For countertops, thickness matters more than most people realize. Industry standard is 3 centimeters for granite and quartz.
Some thinner countertops are available for reduced prices, but it’s because you’re actually getting less material.
If you’re a kitchen remodeling contractor, consider your clients’ perception of their new kitchen. Talk through the differences between their options so they understand what they’re getting, and there are no surprises. That’s how five-star reviews are made!
5. Think Long-Term
What will look great for years to come, versus what looks great right now? The most expensive materials aren’t always the best choice, and trendy isn’t always timeless. Take white cabinets, for example. They’ve been a popular choice for decades because they work with most decor styles and brighten spaces. But bright white isn’t your only timeless option. Wood tones and other neutral hues have proven staying-power too.
For countertops, consider your lifestyle as much as aesthetics. Quartz is popular for its looks and practicality – no sealing required, and it stands up to lemon juice and red wine without staining. Granite adds unique natural beauty and excellent heat resistance, while quartzite offers marble-like good looks with improved durability.
6. Explore Fresh Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Ideas
Let’s talk about what’s working in real kitchens right now.
Upper cabinets extending to the ceiling add practical storage and eliminate that out-of-reach area where dust accumulates.
Glass doors give you the chance to display your favorite dishware, or opt for frosted glass for character that hides cabinet contents.
Large drawers instead of doors in base cabinets can help you stay organized and keep your most-used kitchenware easily accessible.
Contrasting details in kitchen islands create a focal point for the room, but not every island needs an ultra-modern countertop waterfalling to the floor. Matching your finishes to your home’s architecture helps your home feel cohesive.
We think these choices will stick around for a long time, and future buyers – and your future self – will find value if you’ve included them in your kitchen remodel.
7. Partner With Trusted Maryland Kitchen Remodeling Suppliers
The right supplier becomes your partner in creating your dream kitchen. At Elegant Kitchen and Design, we offer:
- Free design services to help visualize your new space.
- Complimentary measurements for precise material ordering.
- Quick delivery of pre-assembled cabinets.
- Professional countertop installation.
- The best possible prices on premium cabinets and countertops.
Visit our showroom in Parkville, Maryland, to learn more about our wide selection from leading manufacturers like MSI, Cambria, Tribeca Cabinetry, Vita Cabinetry, and more. We’re happy to help both homeowners, real estate investors, and contractors achieve their kitchen visions.
Looking for inspiration? See our kitchen cabinets and countertops in action in our portfolio.
