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9 Considerations for Balancing Form and Function in Your Kitchen Remodel

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

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.

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    7 Tips for Remodeling a Small Space Kitchen for Maximum Functionality and Beauty

    Remodeling a small space kitchen seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and design, it can be transformed into a beautiful and functional space that maximizes every inch of available space. Here are some tips for remodeling a small kitchen for maximum functionality and beauty:

    1. Prioritize functionality. When every inch counts, make sure to prioritize functionality in the design by identifying the essential elements needed in your kitchen, such as a stove, refrigerator, sink, and storage. Plan the layout of your kitchen in a way that allows for easy movement and accessibility to these essential elements.
    2. Optimize storage space. As in all kitchens, storage is key. Utilize available space by installing cabinets and shelves up to the ceiling. Consider using pull-out drawers and organizers to maximize the use of the lower cabinets. Consider using open shelves or glass-front cabinets to create an illusion of space while also displaying beautiful dishware.
    3. Choose the right appliances. In a small kitchen, it’s important to choose appliances that are compact and efficient. Look for appliances that are designed for small spaces, such as a slimline refrigerator or a compact dishwasher. Consider using a combination microwave and oven instead of separate appliances to save space.
    4. Use light colors. Light colors make a room feel larger and brighter. Choose light-colored cabinets, walls, and countertops to create an illusion of space. Consider adding a pop of color with accessories, such as a colorful backsplash or vibrant kitchen towels.
    5. Incorporate lighting. Good lighting is essential in a small kitchen. Make sure to incorporate plenty of light sources, including overhead lighting, under-cabinet lighting, and task lighting. Consider using pendant lights or a chandelier to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
    6. Add a functional island. An island can be a great addition to a small kitchen, as it provides additional counter space and storage. Look for a compact island that is specifically designed for small kitchens, such as one with built-in storage or a fold-out table.
    7. Consider the flooring. Flooring can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a small kitchen. Choose flooring that is durable and easy to clean, such as ceramic tiles or vinyl flooring. Consider a patterned floor to create an illusion of space and depth.

    In conclusion, remodeling a small space kitchen for maximum functionality and beauty requires careful planning and attention to detail. By prioritizing functionality, optimizing storage space, choosing the right appliances, using light colors, incorporating lighting, adding a functional island, and considering the flooring, you can transform your small kitchen into a beautiful and functional space that maximizes every inch of available space.

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    What’s Trending in 2023?

    The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) has a long history of delivering a marketplace for the introduction of the latest products and innovation in the kitchen and bath industry. This year’s trek to Las Vegas did not disappoint.

    Lenton Company’s design team – Design Sales Manager Kendal Lenton along with Designers Heather Poulliot and Karla Madrid – joined over 30,000 industry professionals to see, feel, and touch all the new features, materials, and textures available and to learn what’s trending in 2023.

    Functionality, ergonomics and making spaces effortlessly perform better were promoted as to how they affect a homeowner’s overall well-being. Smart design features help streamline the day-to-day tasks.

    In bathroom remodeling, the trend is to have fixtures tailored to promote better health and wellness. Automated showers with multifunction additions like steam and aromatherapy take the spa shower experience to the next level.

    Regarding kitchen remodeling, function remains key. Workstation sinks are replacing farmhouse sinks. Large single bowl sinks make this area less about just doing dishes. Customization of unlimited accessories make the space easy for food prep or as a serving space for entertaining. Faucets were ergonomic, stylish, and multifunctional with some companies offering filtered or sparkling water options. Tea and espresso came from the same tap used to clean dishes but seamlessly combined.

    Beyond new products with purposeful functionality, the show went in depth with design and style. The design world is directly opposing the white shaker cabinets and white quartz counters, although we will likely still see them for a while. This year’s trend isn’t shy about the use of bold color and pattern to achieve an overall elevated and curated design style.

    In the words of designer Heather, “I see a drive for uniqueness of style done in a way that unifies materials and experiences. Personally, I think a space should reflect a client and not necessarily be a view of what’s current and popular. What’s new is a mix of older styles blended in unexpected ways; bold palettes mixed with warm earthy neutrals. The show displayed use of lots of color, including black. Metals mixed not only in the space but within fixtures and appliances. Complex combinations of texture and color were brought to life and highlighted on mood boards.”

    Next steps? The design team looks forward to introducing clients to all the exciting textures, materials, and trends featured at this year’s show. Make this the year to invest in your home to create exceptional life-changing spaces.

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    Selecting the Right Cabinets for Your Kitchen Remodel

    Choosing the right cabinetry can make or break your remodeling project. Especially in kitchen remodels, cabinetry plays a major role in drawing focus to the overall design and room functionality. One reason is that cabinets command so much wall space and rightly so. Can you imagine if everything housed behind those cabinet doors was in full view? The chaos would be overwhelming.

    Even before deciding type of materials, color, and style for the cabinets, the first question to ask is whether the cabinets will be custom, semi-custom, or ready-to-assemble (commonly referred to as RTA). There is quite a difference between them, most importantly, cost and flexibility.

    Custom cabinetry has the greatest level of flexibility and highest quality since every cabinet is built to the home’s exact specifications. The downside is that the cost can impact the budget substantially. The level of craftsmanship and personalization found in custom kitchen cabinets if often considered the best available.

    Semi-custom cabinets are a popular option. This form of cabinetry is pre-designed with several options to choose from to piece together a custom kitchen. Rather than being hand-crafted, most are made in a factory. Pre-assembled and ready for installation, this is the type of cabinetry found in large box stores. The downside can be its construction using medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or particle board that won’t last as long as hardwoods.

    RTA kitchen cabinets are a sub-type of semi-custom cabinets. The difference is that RTA cabinets don’t come assembled, which saves money upfront on shipping and labor. The downside is that not all RTA cabinets are created equal. On one end of the spectrum are the budget-friendly IKEA cabinets – good price but you may need to speak fluent IKEA to follow the diagrams and directions. Another pathway for better quality, availability, convenience, and options is to enlist the services of a dealer to access an industry cabinet manufacturer specializing in this alternative.

    Here’s what to look for to help you select quality RTA cabinets for your project.

    — Do the cabinets use solid wood drawers and doors?

    — Is the material plywood or hardwood construction?

    — Do the drawers have dovetail joinery?

    — Are there easy-to-follow assembly instructions?

    — Have multiple layers of finish or paint been applied by brush?

    Whether selecting custom cabinets, semi-custom, or RTA, Lenton Company can help guide you through the design build process. They partner with dealer-only NorthPoint Cabinetry for many clients looking to stay within a defined budget. The manufacturer’s line offers a QuickBuild quality cabinet solution that addresses the need for a custom look. It is a professional-grade solution without the time and labor associated with custom cabinets. Manufactured in North America with solid wood construction, the cabinets feature sturdy dovetail design and pocket screw assembly that reinforces the cabinet’s structural integrity. Check out this month’s featured project for a dramatic kitchen remodel that used RTA cabinetry.

    BestBath walk-in shower enclosure with customized tile inlay.

    Six Key Considerations for Living in Place

    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.

    Dramatic Santa Clarita Kitchen Transformation

    Tips For Remodeling Your Kitchen

    If you want to transform your home, one great way to do so is by remodeling your kitchen. The kitchen is such an important part of the house that making changes there will create a new feel throughout. However, remodeling your kitchen can be a major endeavor, even if you’re using design-build services to help you. Here are some tips to get you through the process.

    Plan Everything Ahead of Time

    Before you start anything, you want to know exactly what you are doing. Start planning your renovation well in advance. Determine your budget first, then consider what you want to do with the kitchen. Even your design and color scheme should be considered beforehand. There are some approaches that are very popular. White cabinets are the most popular option, followed by wood-toned cabinets. If you’re adding a kitchen island, consider contrasting the color with your chosen cabinets, which is another popular trend. By planning ahead, you can do these kinds of things to get the best results.

    Focus On Storage

    Your kitchen will need enough storage. As you work with design-build services, you can determine what kind of storage you need and how you can design it into the kitchen. There are many creative ways to deal with storage in the kitchen. So, while counter space is one of the more popular considerations, you should also think about things like wall storage and appliances.

    Make It Yours

    The best part of a kitchen remodel is that you get to choose how it ends. When you move into a house, you often have to deal with some less desirable aspects of your kitchen. But by working with design-build services, you have creative freedom throughout the whole process. Think about what you want most in a kitchen. Is there a way to make that happen within your current budget? While you need to consider all the practical aspects of your remodel, you should also have fun with it. This is the opportunity to make your kitchen fit your personality and your lifestyle. So, take advantage of it.

    A kitchen remodel is a lot of work, but it is worth it to get the kitchen of your dreams. Apply these tips and the process will go much smoother for you. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, call us today!

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    4 Signs Your Kitchen Is Ready for a Makeover This Year

    Even the most beautiful kitchens eventually require a refresh. You’ll know it’s time for a kitchen makeover when you find yourself spending more time in the living room than in the kitchen, wanting a change but not sure what’s making you so restless. You’ve come to the perfect place if you have a sneaking sense that it’s time to change things in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at some of the telltale indicators that your kitchen is ripe for a makeover.

    Limited Storage

    If you have to store your food on the worktops because you don’t have enough space in your cupboards or drawers, it’s a sure sign you need extra kitchen space. Although there are several innovative space-saving devices on the market that come highly recommended, replacing drawers and cupboards can occasionally make a substantial difference. An island is the ideal value-added enhancement for most kitchen renovations, as it alters the way you use and enjoy your home’s busiest space. About 58% of people who have a kitchen island use it for dining. Two additional popular activities on the island are entertainment and socializing.

    Outdated Appliances

    It may be time to call kitchen remodeling contractors to replace your appliances if they have been giving you a long list of problems. It’s also worth noting that older appliances have a higher energy consumption than newer models. Consider a full upgrade rather than a phased rollout of replacing one appliance at a time. Buying many appliances at once provides you with additional bargaining power at the retailer, potentially allowing you to receive a better deal.

    Furniture and Fixtures That are Deteriorating

    Kitchen remodeling contractors know broken knobs and jammed drawers are inconvenient, especially when you need to retrieve an item fast. An unfastened door and a tilted wall cabinet dangling perilously are two common, and potentially dangerous, characteristics. When your kitchen reaches this point, it’s time for a makeover. New, upgraded cabinetry will be installed securely, so you can enjoy your kitchen with confidence.

    Poor lighting

    You could have the most beautiful kitchen in the world, but you won’t be able to enjoy it without sufficient illumination. Lighting is not something that should be overlooked. High-performance task lighting is required in your kitchen. You may also improve the look of your kitchen by installing under-cabinet lighting and some statement pendants. Professional kitchen remodeling contractors will know which lighting is ideal for your upgraded space.

    Remodeling your kitchen is more than simply a financial investment. It’s an investment in your own well-being. For ideas, schedule a consultation by calling the best kitchen remodeling contractors today!

    Dramatic Santa Clarita Kitchen Transformation

    3 Smart Tips to Ensure a Successful Kitchen Remodel

    Baby boomers and Gen Xers account for more than 80% of Americans investing in home improvement projects. Kitchen and bathroom remodeling remain the most popular projects, accounting for 79% and 81% of the renovations respectively.

    Renovating your kitchen is outright thrilling and fun. Kitchen remodeling contractors help you create an ideal cooking space, designing a beautiful makeover where style meets functionality. While it may be exciting to finally pull down your old cabinetry, the renovation process can be quite hectic. Here are three tips to ensure that your kitchen remodeling is a success.

    1. Plan for a Temporary Kitchen Space

    Kitchen renovations are an art. You may not know how your space will end up looking like until it’s complete. The arrival of the kitchen remodeling contractors will signify a change to your family routine.

    Your cooking space will be out of use for a while. Your family members may have to contend with take-out for several weeks as the design-build contractors work on the project. If you do not wish to order out, you can create a temporary kitchen space in one of the rooms that can accommodate your food preparation.

    Every family member may handle the changes differently. You may need to brief them about the noise and loud bangs that they may have to tolerate for the coming weeks. Even though the process may be an emotional rollercoaster, keep calm and carry on.

    2. Create an Excellent Relationship with Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractors

    Your kitchen remodeling company is the essential link between you and your dream kitchen makeover. You should work in unison with your design-build contractor, not against them. Look forward to forging a healthy relationship with their kitchen designers. Doing so can open them up to offering valuable opinions and solutions to dilemmas that you may have about your renovation project.

    You want to pick the right partner to actualize your vision. The easiest way to find the best kitchen remodeling contractors is through referrals. Ask your family and friends for honest recommendations to reputable contractors that they know.

    After receiving a few referrals, conduct background checks on them. You can start by inquiring about their licenses, insurance, and state permits. You can also dive deeper online to find reviews from past clients. The testimonials may paint a picture of the relationship that you may end up having with them.

    3. Walk Through Your Vision and Design

    It is important to have your things in order before the technicians come to your door. Most kitchen remodeling contractors schedule a series of meetings that can help you define and set expectations for all parties. You can review examples of what the finished kitchen remodel may look like. Talk to the designers and contractors about the cost involved and see if they can match your dreams to your budget limits. It is important to sign a written construction contract that details the costs and timelines of the project.

    Kitchen remodels can quickly become frustrating if you fail to plan properly. They can also become quite expensive. However, with the right kitchen contractors and a well-defined design process, you may be on your way to a successful kitchen renovation project.