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9 Considerations for Balancing Form and Function in Your Kitchen Remodel

by Home Remodeling TipsKitchen remodelingKitchens

When embarking on a kitchen remodel, there are two main goals to keep in mind: creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Balancing form and function in a kitchen remodel is essential to ensure that your kitchen is not only beautiful but also practical and efficient. In this blog post, we explore some tips and considerations for achieving a harmonious balance between form and function in your kitchen remodel.

  1. Start with the layout: The layout of your kitchen is one of the most critical factors in ensuring both form and function. Before making any design decisions, consider the flow of your kitchen and how you use the space. A well-designed layout can maximize efficiency and functionality while also creating a visually pleasing space.
  2. Set a realistic budget: The first and most important consideration when planning a kitchen remodel is your budget. It’s essential to have a realistic budget in mind that you can stick to throughout the entire project. You’ll want to consider the cost of materials, labor, and any additional expenses that may arise during the remodeling process.
  3. Prioritize storage: Adequate storage is crucial for keeping your kitchen organized and clutter-free. Consider adding pull-out shelves, built-in organizers, and cabinets that reach the ceiling for extra storage space. When selecting cabinets and choosing storage solutions, consider the style, color, and material that best fits your design aesthetic, such as glass-fronted cabinets to display your favorite dishes.
  4. Choose the right appliances: Upgrading your kitchen appliances can significantly enhance your cooking and dining experience. When choosing new appliances, consider your cooking habits and the types of meals you prepare. Look for energy-efficient models that can help you save money on utility bills. Also, choose appliances that match your overall design aesthetic.
  5. Illuminate with purpose: Lighting is an essential element of any kitchen design. Consider adding under-cabinet lighting to illuminate workspaces, pendant lights over the island for ambient lighting, and task lighting over the sink and stove. Lighting can not only create an inviting atmosphere but also increase safety and functionality.
  6. Select durable materials: The materials you choose for your kitchen remodel can significantly impact both form and function. Consider materials like granite or quartz for countertops that are durable and easy to clean. Also, choose flooring materials that can withstand high traffic and are easy to clean and maintain, such as tile, hardwood, or vinyl.
  7. Choose the right color palette: Choosing the right color palette can make a significant impact on the overall look of your kitchen. Consider trends like bold color choices or textured finishes to add personality to your space. However, keep in mind that trends come and go, so choose options that will stand the test of time.
  8. Add personality with finishes: While finishes like cabinet hardware and backsplash may seem like small details, they can add significant personality to your kitchen. Choose finishes that complement your design aesthetic, such as vintage-inspired hardware for a traditional kitchen or sleek, modern finishes for a contemporary look.
  9. Don’t forget about the details: Finally, don’t overlook the small details that can enhance both form and function in your kitchen. Think about adding features like a pot filler faucet over the stove or a built-in cutting board in the countertop.

Balancing form and function in a kitchen remodel requires careful consideration of every detail, from the layout to the finishes. By prioritizing practicality and efficiency while also incorporating your design aesthetic, you can create a beautiful, functional space that meets all your needs. As overwhelming as it may seem, let Lenton Company’s design team lead you through the process of designing your dream kitchen to be perfect in every way!

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Changing Your Home’s Style: What to Consider

by Home Remodeling TipsKitchen remodelingKitchens

Your home’s style is a reflection of your personal taste and preferences, and it’s natural to want to update it from time to time. That’s especially true when purchasing an existing home with a previous owners’ style throughout. Whether it’s a complete overhaul or just a few tweaks, changing your home’s style can be a daunting task. However, with some careful consideration and planning, it can also be an exciting and rewarding experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore some key considerations and tips to help guide you through the remodeling process of changing styles.

Considerations:

  1. Budget. Before embarking on any renovation project, it’s important to establish a budget. Consider what you can realistically afford and what your priorities are. Determine those areas of your home that are most in need of updating and allocate your budget accordingly.
  2. Timeframe. Changing your home’s style can be a time-consuming process, so it’s important to have a realistic timeframe in mind. Consider how long each project will take and plan accordingly. Keep in mind that unexpected delays can occur, so build some flexibility into your schedule.
  3. Functionality. It’s important to consider how your new style will impact the functionality of your home. Will your changes improve the flow of your space? Will they create additional storage or improve organization? Make sure that your new style meets your functional needs.
  4. Resale value. If you plan to sell your home in the future, it’s important to consider how your new style will impact its resale value. While it’s important to make changes that reflect your personal style and taste, it’s also important to consider what impact, if any, those changes will have on the marketability of your home.

    Tips:

    1. Start small. Changing your home’s style doesn’t have to be a major overhaul. Start small with a few changes, such as updating your lighting fixtures or remodeling a guest bathroom. Small changes can make a big impact and help you ease into the process.
    2. Consider the big picture. When making changes to your home’s style, it’s important to consider the big picture. Think about how each change will impact the overall aesthetic of your home. Create a cohesive design plan that ties everything together.
    3. Don’t forget the details. Details can make a big difference when it comes to changing your home’s style. Consider updating your door hardware, changing out switch plates, or adding new window treatments.
    4. Get inspired. Look for inspiration in magazines, online, or in your friends’ homes. Keep a file of images and ideas that inspire you and use them as a starting point for your own style changes. The popular design platform Houzz is a good place to start. In fact, images from Lenton Company’s Houzz profile have been saved more than 10,000 times by the Houzz community into their ideabooks!
    5. Work with professionals. If you’re not sure where to start or need some help with the process, consider working with professionals. A design professional can help you create a cohesive design plan and guide you through the process. At Lenton Company, our designers help clients navigate the many choices and make informed decisions that match their style, needs, and budget. Our designers work with clients to select materials and finishes that fit your vision for your new kitchen. We provide guidance on everything from cabinets and countertops to flooring and backsplashes, helping you choose finishes that complement each other and create a cohesive look throughout your kitchen. Our team can also provide insight into which materials and finishes will work best for your specific project, based on factors like durability, maintenance requirements, and cost.

    Remember to start small, consider the big picture, pay attention to the details, get inspired, and work with professionals if needed. With careful planning and execution, your home can reflect your personal style and taste in no time.

    BestBath walk-in shower enclosure with customized tile inlay.

    Six Key Considerations for Living in Place

    by Bathroom RemodelHome Remodeling TipsKitchen remodelingRemodeling Benefits

    With so many different stages in life, it’s not surprising that needs change as time progresses. Lifestyles suitable for a 20-something are not quite practical for someone approaching their 50s, 60s, 70s… you get the point. Add to that, aging isn’t always graceful. There could be reduced balance, decreased mobility, injury or illness, reduced mental capabilities, decreased strength and endurance, or reduced vision and hearing just to name a few. The concept of Living in Place is to adapt the home of your choice for as long as you are able to stay.

    Getting Into the House

    Even the most modest homes have steps to access entryways. Designing ramps — temporary or permanent – is a must to ensure access. Whether a concrete pour, decorative wood slats, or prefabricated metal, ramps for a wheelchair allow homeowners to get in and out. If not already in place, handrails for existing stairs provide support when a ramp is not present.

    Moving Around the House

    Flooring is an important consideration when inside the home for ease of movement. Smooth surfaces are more desirable than carpeted areas. Special hinges can be added to most doors to increase width by two inches. Sunken rooms can be elevated and leveled to minimize steps inside the home.    

    Bathroom

    Challenges in the bathroom include having sufficient room to move, a place to sit, showering and bathing, safety, and personal care. Surprisingly, the bathroom lends itself to the most opportunity for improvement with thoughtful design. Space can often be reclaimed to provide space for movement; built-in or furniture benches can be added for additional seating. Zero-entry showers provide access without barriers. Vanity counters can be designed for wheelchair roll-up access. Grab bars strategically placed for safety are now available to reflect beautiful design elements.   

    Kitchen 

    Kitchen islands and cabinetry offer enormous potential for keeping things in reach. Everything from drawer microwaves to hydraulic appliance shelves, a homeowner can avoid the difficulty of reaching beyond their grasp. Kitchen pullout pantries make storage accessibility a breeze. Varied heights incorporated into an island accommodate a variety of needs.     

    Laundry  

    Height is a factor for all things laundry related. Front loading washer and dryer minimize bending; standing height counters aid in sorting and folding.   

    Lighting & Technology 

    When it comes to lighting, more is better. LED lights with dimmers offer flexibility and there should be multiple sources for accessing switches. Whether Siri, Alexa, Google or other creative names, technology can easily be added to assist. From emergency calls for help to cameras and television sound bars, let a virtual assistant help. The Amazon Echo creates an intercom type system in every room.

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    Interested in Living in Place?

    by Company NewsHome Remodeling TipsRemodeling BenefitsSeminarsUncategorized

    Lenton Company Hosts Seminar to Address Living in PlaceHome Modifications for Accessibility

    Lenton Company will host a seminar to explore the possibilities of adjusting living spaces to be accessible as owners grow older. The complimentary seminar will be held on Saturday, June 18, 2022, starting at 10 a.m. at the Lenton Company Design Studio located at 530 Commerce Ave., Suite C in Palmdale.

    According to the National Association of Realtors, 35% of people aged 65 or above upsized their homes by purchasing a 3,000-square-foot or larger home in 2020, compared with only 23% in 2017. Others choose to make modifications to stay in their current home surrounded by neighbors and family and to avoid the prohibitive cost of senior living communities.

    “Living in place home modifications often focus on the bathroom, including options to replace a traditional bathtub with a barrier-free shower and to design the overall space to allow for easier access of walkers and wheelchairs if necessary,” said co-owner Rob Lenton. “Design details like stylish handrails strategically placed to provide stability can make a home more aging-friendly.”

    “My mother has lived with us for more than 20 years and we’ve made adaptations along the way,” said Evelyn Lenton. “We recently completed a single-story addition to our home with the concept of our own future accessibility needs in mind.”

    For property owners interested in exploring the feasibility of living in place in their existing home, the upcoming seminar led by Rob Lenton will provide information on accessibility issues including getting in and out of the home, moving around in the home, bathroom challenges, and kitchen considerations.

    Seating is limited; call 661.273.9179 or email carrie@lentoncompany.com to reserve a space.

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    What Makes a Great Kitchen Island?

    by Home Remodeling Tips

    There’s nothing that can make or break a kitchen like an island. Being one of the most requested items on remodels, kitchen islands are something that we have become very familiar with over the years. In our experience, there are a few things that a homeowner should always look out for when considering an island for their home.

    Placement and Size:

    There is nothing more important than how the kitchen island fits in the kitchen itself. No matter how badly you want an island, if there isn’t room then it will only cramp up your space. As a rule of thumb, there should always be enough room for two people to easily pass alongside one another inside the kitchen along all sides.

    Multipurpose Function:

    Islands have the power to become a statement piece in your home and kitchen, but that doesn’t mean they can’t also be functional. When considering an island, think about how you can utilize it and what purpose you want it to serve in your home. Islands can include storage space, sinks, dishwashers, seating, and more. Pro tip: drawer microwaves are trending in 2022!

    Striking Design:

    Islands give you the opportunity to create a striking center piece in your home like no other. With color contrast, unique materials, or interesting shapes, your kitchen can be transformed both aesthetically and functionally. With islands, the sky is the limit!

    Location:

    Who says you need to put an island inside of your kitchen? With our most recent remodel, we placed the island outside of the kitchen and towards the living room. With this redesign, the kitchen was transformed into a much bigger space with an open, flowing floor plan. If your kitchen is too small for an island, all hope may not be lost!

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    Design Trends to Look for in 2022

    by Home Remodeling Tips

    With the new year comes new design trends, both big and small.

    We have kept track of what experts are saying about the newest trends and have put together a handful of the ones that we are most excited about.

    With everyone spending so much time at home, there’s never been a better time to freshen up your home. We hope some of these ideas inspire you!

    Warm Greens:

    Olive, jade, eucalyptus, and other warm greens are making a big come back this year. Their earthy, warm colors make for a comforting, relaxing space in your home like no other. This is a shift from the cool blue that has dominated the past year, but we think the change of heart is a welcome one.

    Vintage Furniture:

    Give your home a unique feel and character by choosing pieces of furniture that have history, be it a family heirloom or an antique shop find. With the supply chain making it difficult to find newer furniture, there has never been a better time to expand your antique collection.

    Textured Walls:

    Make your space cozier and more welcoming than ever with the addition of plaster textured walls. Harkening back to colonial Spanish styling, the textured wall will make any room feel elegant and full of character. Although it may look like lime wash, plaster makes for a much cheaper and easier finish to apply.

    Exciting Fixtures:

    No more are the days of subtle, small light fixtures. With 2022, the world is turning to light fixtures that double as art pieces, featuring dramatic designs with large, exciting exteriors. Take a chance with fixtures that pop in your room, it’ll transform your space.

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    The Importance of Color

    by Home Remodeling Tips

    If you’re considering redesigning your home or space, color choices may seem like the least of your worries at the beginning, falling behind things like material choices or budget. Yet, your choice of color palette can completely define your remodel.

    Here at Lenton Company, we know the importance of color, and how it can make or break a space. We stay up to date on what colors are trending, keeping in mind how we can make each and every remodel special, down to the gritty details.

    Soothing Simplicity:

    So, what’s in style today? Color trends are always evolving, and never a sure thing, but they sure are a great way to get ideas. Throughout this year, simple, subtle color palettes have taken the throne in popularity. So, warm pastels might just be the cherry on top for your home. If that’s not your style then no worries, color trends are far from a rule book.

    Color of the Year:

    We work closely with Dunn Edwards for all our remodel painting needs. As paint pros, we make sure to pay attention to their take on color. Each year they release a color of the year, with this year’s being Art & Craft, a mellow, earthy brown. This calming and subtle color will make any space feel like home.

    See the Color Here

    Be Prepared:

    When considering a remodel, we promote all our clients to create a color splash and brainstorm ideas for a future palette for their space. This way, we can best help point you in the right direction for a design that you’ll love for years to come.

    Picking the Right One:

    If you’re having trouble picking colors, we get it, there are so many to choose from! Luckily, we’re here to help, with expert designers to guide you on your color and design journey. In the Design phase, we will help you to sort through colors and materials, finding exactly what you’re looking for.

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    What Are the Most Popular Home Renovations Since the COVID-19 Pandemic?

    by Home Remodeling Tips

    Over the last year, home improvement has seen a significant surge. More money is being spent on home improvements as people are spending money that they previously spent on dining in restaurants, travel, and entertainment. If you’re curious about the most popular home renovations since the COVID-19 pandemic, have a look at four of them below.

    Bathroom Renovations

    Renovations to the bathroom have always been popular, and they have just become more popular. A good design-build contractor will help you realize the intentions you want for your bathroom, whether you want to change the finishes or even add extra space. A good bathroom renovation will make the bathroom more comfortable for the entire family, so you may consider doing one yourself.

    Smart Home Improvements

    In a digital age, it only makes sense to live in a smart home. There are many smart home improvements that can be made, from smart thermostats and electronically controlled doorknobs to smart home security systems and control units that let you manage your home’s temperature, security, and more from one point.

    Fencing and Landscaping

    This improvement was done by homeowners seeking to create an outdoor haven. Introducing a fence is crucial for improving privacy and safety, and a design-build contractor can help you find the right materials and style to use. Landscaping will give the space a facelift, and you can add features like lights and more for a gorgeous appearance.

    Floor Renovations

    This popular home improvement will see your house increase in value, becoming more modern in the process. If your home has an old floor, renovating it can give you benefits like changing the material, color, and adding features like floor heating. To make sure you get the most bang for your buck, you should enlist the services of an experienced design-build contractor.

    The fact that between 2020 and 2021 the home remodeling searches done on Google have doubled shows that many people are keen on improving their spaces. If you want to jump on the bandwagon, you should know that paying for the services of a professional always pays off. Lenton Company can help you achieve your dream home. Contact us today!

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    6 Factors to Consider Before Starting Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

    by Home Remodeling Tips

    Spending more time at home over the past year made homeowners notice things around their houses that they could improve or repair. Kitchen remodeling remains the most popular renovation project, with Google search trends for “kitchen remodeling“ increasing by 23% over the last 12 months.

    Designing and renovating your kitchen can be an exciting yet intimidating experience for most homeowners. Here are six factors to keep in mind before you begin your kitchen remodeling.

    1. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors Vs. DIY

    The first step would be to consider whether to fix up your kitchen yourself. While completing the home improvement project alone may be fulfilling, it may come at a great financial and safety risk.

    If there’s more to your kitchen remodeling than a simple appliance replacement, you need help. A design-build contractor will help you actualize your vision for the home. Additionally, the experts may have the necessary skills and equipment to complete the project in record time.

    2. Examine Existing Layout

    Examine the existing layout to determine the additions and replacements you may undertake. Your kitchen remodeling contractors will help you determine if all you need is a facelift or a whole new floor plan. Before you knock down your walls for new cabinetry or high-quality appliance, weigh in the cost of the extra space. An experienced kitchen remodeling contractor can reconfigure your walls, windows, or ceiling to make the room feel larger without the expense of a room addition.

    3. Know Who Will Use the Space

    The more people that will use the kitchen, the more functional and spacious it should be. A home with young children can benefit from having an open floor plan with an island or large peninsula separating two sides of the room. This way, everyone can have easy access to food without crowding each other even when cooking at different burners on the stovetop or preparing meals in the oven at once. On the other hand, some homeowners do not mind leaving the design of the kitchen open if they are usually alone in using it. However, if you do not use the space frequently, consider closing off one or two sides to give the room a more intimate feel.

    4. Consider Your Appliances

    One of the key reasons homeowners consider kitchen remodeling is to upgrade their existing appliances. You may need to factor in the rearrangements that may carry out to accommodate the new appliance. The design-build services will help you prepare the additional wiring, plumbing, and cabinetry.

    5. Keep Track of The Budget

    Kitchen remodeling can be expensive. Most homeowners spend between $12,800 and $21,200 for a basic upgrade. The final price may depend on the size of your space, the appliances bought the reconfiguration of major systems required, and the design-build company that you pick. You may need to find remodeling contractors that can work within your set budget. Study your favorite kitchen magazines and online publications for inspiration and budgetary hints.

    6. Function Over Trends

    You may need to avoid investing in fads that can negatively affect your kitchen’s functionality over time. While aesthetics are a critical factor to consider, neglecting the functionality of your space can affect its utilization. For example, 58% of homeowners that upgrade their kitchen islands use them for dining. Other activities include entertainment 49% and socializing 45%. You may need to ensure that your kitchen upgrade reflects these intended uses.

    Kitchen renovations remain one of the top home improvement projects for most households. To discuss your design and upgrade touches for your new kitchen, reach out to Lenton Company.

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    How Can You Add Value During a Home Renovation?

    by Home Remodeling Tips

    Renovating your home is not only an opportunity to change and update your living space, but it’s also a great chance to add value to your home. Whether you’re thinking of selling or simply looking to improve your investment, working with design-build contractors is one of the best ways to ensure that your renovation pays off.

    1. Replace Your Siding

    Updating your siding is a quick and easy way to improve the value of your home. Most siding lasts for anywhere from 20 to 40 years, so once done, you’ll most likely be able to recoup the investment upon resale.

    2. Remodel Your Kitchen Cabinets

    If you’re interested in doing a complete remodel, updating your cabinets is a great move. Replacing your cabinet doors and fixtures will beautify and modernize your kitchen. White cabinets are still a popular choice among homeowners, and wood-tone cabinets are the second most popular.

    With a complete remodel, you also have the option to redo the layout of our kitchen. If you choose to tweak your layout, you’ll definitely want to work with design-build contractors to ensure your renovations are properly thought out and designed. For a fun update, consider installing a kitchen island with cabinets of a different color than your wall cabinetry. Gray and blue remain popular combinations.

    3. Replace Your Window Casings and Windows

    Not only will replacing your windows casings and windows make your home look great, but it’s also a fantastic way to save money on energy. Both vinyl and wood window casings increase resale values. But while you’re at it, why not go ahead and have energy-saving double-glass windows installed. If you’re not planning to sell your house and move right away, this one green investment can save you a ton of money in the long run.

    4. Install Hardwood Floors

    Getting rid of old carpet is a quick and easy way to almost immediately improve the value of your home. Hardwood floors look great, are durable, and come in a variety of tones, widths, and finishes. Design-build contractors can help with the selection and installation.

    If you’re looking for other creative solutions to add value to your home, contact us at Lenton Company. We are an experienced firm ready to help you design, build, or remodel your dream home. Call us today or reach out through our website.