Woman Places Microwave in Ingenous Spot After Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen renovation can be a hassle but the results are often worth it, breathing new life into our homes. While designs have changed over the decades, one thing remains true. The goal is to create a functional, aesthetically pleasing, welcoming space to cook, prepare meals, and share time with loved ones. A new trend is taking off, hiding appliances and the results are incredible.

Before and After

Jennifer from Redesign Daily has been sharing her kitchen renovation process and the work has finally been completed. The original kitchen had dark countertops, outdated cabinets, and white appliances, making the space feel small. Meanwhile, the new space is light, open, and “airy.”

Read More: 40+ Kitchen Cabinet Ideas To Take Your Home to The Next Level

A Successful Kitchen Renovation

The almost all-white kitchen is a sleek and modern space beautifully accented by lights, dark-colored hardware, darker cabinets for the island, and a “charming” brick “mantle.”

“The mantel gives me a vintage, old-world feel. It’s also a great place to put artwork which helps break up all the white space,” she wrote.

A Hidden Microwave

The final project is stunning but perhaps the most interesting thing about the kitchen renovation is the microwave placement. The microwave is a stainless steel plated drawer that sits inside the island. It doesn’t take up counter space and is inconspicuous, creating a more open feel.

Creative Ways to Hide the Microwave

Microwaves and other appliances are big, clunky, and can be eyesores. Fortunately, modern designs allow them to be hidden in the rest of the kitchen decor. Moreover, some people have hidden them in cabinets, pantries, and extra cubbies. Some may be freestanding and require an additional outlet or power source. Meanwhile, others can be compact, although they’re not much smaller they do fit better in more compact spaces.

Manufacturers Make Changes

Another example of modern change in appliances is that refrigerator manufacturers offer design options so the door matches the rest of the cabinetry. This hides the refrigerator so that everything color coordinates perfectly. Meanwhile, some refrigerators have a transparent or opaque door for a sleek and modern feel.

Kitchen Renovation Ideas

According to Martha Stewart.Com current popular trends for kitchen renovation include:

• Open Concept
• High tech appliances
• Ceramic, Porcelain, and Marble for the Backsplash
• Bigger Islands
• Cabinets with some color
• Ample Seating
• Stainless Steel Cabinetry
• Multi-Purpose Islands
• Textured Cabinets
• Tiled Accents
• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

Read More: 15 Things You Don’t Need in Your Kitchen

Costly Downsides of a Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen renovation is often a big and costly project so it should be well thought out before starting. In many cases, people face unexpected expenses due to unforeseen issues within the foundation, pipes, or electrical. Therefore, it’s always recommended to work with trained, licensed, and bonded professionals, and ensure your homeowner’s policy is up to date and covers unexpected incidents before starting the project.

Some examples of unexpected expenses may include:

• Mold
• Water damage
• Wood rot in boards and support beams
• Termite damage
• Wasps nests
• Permit and licensing restrictions

However, breathing new life into your space may be easier than a kitchen renovation.

Easy Alternatives to a Kitchen Renovation

Jennifer incorporated organization into her kitchen renovation but some can be done without committing to a kitchen renovation. Firstly, she had lovely wooden separators for silverware and Ziploc bags built into her cabinetry. Alternatively, companies like Target, Amazon, Walmart, and Kitchen Stores sell kitchen cabinet organizers, in different sizes to fit most size cabinets. Additionally, utensil holders range from stainless steel to clay and more and can sit on the counter and add a decorative touch without the cost of a kitchen renovation.

Hidden Pantry

Secondly, she had a hidden pantry. The doors matched the cabinets because they were part of the kitchen. Luckily, this doesn’t always require a kitchen renovation because you can do this already if you have a few open cabinets in the kitchen.

Add Color and Texture

Lastly, barstools and chairs offer an affordable alternative to a kitchen remodel. While they don’t save the whole space, they can add a fresh change and pop of color, or bring the kitchen together. For instance, certain patterns or designs can accent outdated kitchens giving them a sense of rustic coziness or nostalgia. The trick is to find decor that doesn’t contrast. For instance, darker-colored cabinetry, appliances, and counters should be accented with light, subtle colors, and patterns. Meanwhile, lighter counters, cabinets, and backsplashes benefit from a pop of color, texture, or patterns to add depth to the room.

Decorative Alternatives to a Kitchen Renovation

Interior Modern Kitchen Blue Wall Stock Photo 1640961109 | Shutterstock

Here are some examples of decorative options that will breathe new life into your cooking space without breaking the bank or requiring a kitchen renovation:

• Update the light fixtures
• Add a bookshelf
• Accent with wood
• Create DIY herb grow kits and drying racks
• Add a wood chopping board with wheels and hopefully drawer space
• Use a runner or get a new set of place mats
• Paint only the ceiling or 1 wall
• Add vintage accessories and light switches
• Use the kitchen table as an island or vice versa.

The kitchen renovation options are endless, even on a budget!

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