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The best kitchen remodels begin with a detailed plan of action—after all, if you’re spending the time and money necessary to update the heart of your home, you want to get it right the first time. While thinking about the big-picture pieces (cabinetry, island, and appliances) is important, it’s crucial to avoid forgetting about the smaller details that will take the final result to the next level. To keep you on track, we’re sharing our best kitchen remodel tips; they’ll help you make every decision, big and small, so you can craft the kitchen of your dreams.

01  Do an Edit of Your Kitchen Items

Start your kitchen remodel by going through all of the items in your space. “Revamping your kitchen calls for a thoughtful edit of the items that truly enrich your culinary experience,” says Kerrie Kelly, creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab. “Clear away the seldom-used gadgets and embrace the treasures that delight your senses, ensuring a harmonious and functional space.”

02  Add a Seating Area

Don’t overlook other areas of your kitchen when planning a remodel—the room can be utilized for much more than just cooking. If you have the space, consider creating a seating area (like a breakfast nook) within your kitchen’s floor plan. Be sure to choose a model that blends in seamlessly with the rest of the space.

03  Add a Kitchen Island

If you have the room, incorporating a kitchen island in the center of your space is a worthwhile update. “Kitchen islands are a great source of storage and a place to put additional appliances,” says Andi Morse of Morse Design. “They are a great spot for gathering as well as having extra counter space for cooking and serving food.”

04  Add New Technology

A kitchen remodel is a great opportunity to add new appliances to your space—even if it’s something small, like a new blender you’ve been eyeing. “Embracing updated kitchen technology during your remodeling endeavors is a great idea,” says Kelly. “Not only does it infuse your space with a touch of modernity and sophistication, but it also uplifts your culinary pursuits, making them more efficient.”

05  Upgrade Your Range Hood

Don’t underestimate the visual impact of a range hood. “Range hoods can be a great place to add design details and create a focal point,” says Morse. “There are so many ways to create the design using wood as well as steel. Depending on the layout and where the stove is going, the hoods can be transformative to the entire space.”

06  Hang Cookware From a Rack

Hanging cookware in your kitchen pulls double duty as a décor element and space-saving solution. “I like to use a hanging rack above the stovetop on a wall. It creates a pretty focal point and makes it convenient to grab what you need,” says Morse. “The only drawback is you have to keep your pots in good shape so it looks pretty hanging.”

07  Consider Clearances

Considering clearances during your kitchen remodel is essential to ensuring a functional and safe space. “Thoughtful planning of clearances for pathways, countertops, and appliances guarantees easy movement and access, allowing you to savor the culinary experience without any hindrances while maintaining a space that exudes practicality and grace,” says Kelly.

08  Create a Hidden Space for Trash

If your current kitchen layout keeps your trash can and recycling bin exposed, create a space during your remodel to keep them concealed. “To discreetly manage trash and recycling in your kitchen, consider integrating a concealed pull-out trash bin or recycling center within your cabinetry,” says Kelly. “This ingenious solution tucks away unsightly bins, maintaining a seamless and clean aesthetic while providing easy access for disposal.”

09  Add a Backplash

One way to change the overarching aesthetic of your kitchen is by introducing a new backsplash. “With an array of materials, colors, and patterns to choose from, a well-chosen backsplash harmonizes the entire kitchen, lending a touch of personality, texture, and visual allure that enlivens the walls and showcases your unique style,” says Kelly.

10  Add More Outlets

Your kitchen can never have too many outlets, and a remodel is a great opportunity to add more. “Installing outlets under the cabinets is the way to go. It avoids seeing them in unsightly places and ruining the design aesthetic of the area,” says Morse. “You can install plenty of them to enable use of small appliances.”

11  Add Corbels

Adding corbels, or shelving supports, to islands and cabinets can be a beautiful way to extend your countertops and create extra space.

12  Rethink Your Drawers

Deep drawers are ideal for storing bulky items like pots, pans, and mixing bowls. Consider adding in-drawer pegs, which help keep everything stylishly in place. They’re the unsung heroes of organized kitchens.

13  Group Like-With-Like

Keep the workflow of your kitchen in mind as you remodel. Create “stations” by grouping appliances and gadgets that have similar functions together, like coffee machines, tea kettles, and mugs, or mixing bowls, rolling pins, and a stand mixer.

14   Add Cabinets With a Top-Hinge

Consider cabinets with a top-hinge door to create easy access (most models’ lids stay put when open) to appliances, spices, and other items you want to keep hidden.

15  Collective Color

When considering colors, remember to think about your kitchen as a whole; approach cabinets, countertops, drawers, and backsplashes holistically. For subtle variation, work in different shades of the same color as opposed to using every shade of the rainbow.

16  Display Heirloom China

Do you have an heirloom china set? Or a servingware set that’s too pretty to hide behind cabinet doors? Opt for glass-front cabinetry to show off your most prized possessions.

17  Incorporate Freestanding Pieces

Take full advantage of your kitchen’s space by including freestanding pieces. A hutch can be designed to fit against an available wall that isn’t lined with built-in cabinets. It also allows for customization; it can be easily moved to other rooms. Choose a piece that speaks to your existing cabinetry, or use it as an accent moment by selecting a different color or style.

18  Use Angled Drawer Dividers

Don’t forget about the small details as you approach your kitchen remodel. Consider adding angled drawer dividers—they make it easy to store longer utensils, like rolling pins, and free up valuable countertop space.