When planning a custom kitchen, the phrase “always add the extras” emphasizes the importance of incorporating functional and aesthetic upgrades that enhance efficiency and personalization. These custom touches, ranging from clever cabinet organizers to high-end appliances, can significantly improve your daily experience and increase your home’s value.
### Smart Storage Solutions
Thoughtful organization can transform your kitchen by making every item easily accessible and eliminating clutter.
– **Built-in Cabinet Features:** Custom inserts for cutlery, pull-out spice racks, vertical dividers for trays and cutting boards, and deep drawers for pots and pans facilitate effortless organization.
– **Pull-out Pantry:** A full-height pull-out pantry can store a substantial amount of food and allow easy access with just a simple pull.
– **Appliance Garages:** Conceal countertop appliances like coffee makers and toasters behind retractable or lift-up doors, keeping your counters clear and organized.
– **Recycling and Trash Pull-outs:** An integrated, soft-close cabinet for waste and recycling bins provides a clean, concealed, and convenient alternative to a freestanding can.
– **Corner Cabinet Organizers:** Lazy Susans or custom pull-out shelves for blind corner cabinets ensure that items don’t get lost in deep, hard-to-reach spaces.
### High-Impact Fixtures and Hardware
Upgrading your fixtures and hardware is an effective way to enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your kitchen.
– **Layered Lighting:** Combine ambient lighting (like recessed fixtures), task lighting (under-cabinet LEDs), and accent lighting (pendants or chandeliers) to create a versatile and inviting atmosphere.
– **Hands-free Faucet:** A touchless faucet is a high-tech upgrade that improves hygiene and simplifies tasks like washing hands or filling pots.
– **Updated Hardware:** Replacing old cabinet knobs and drawer pulls with modern finishes, such as matte black, brushed brass, or nickel, can instantly refresh an outdated kitchen.
– **Pot Filler:** A wall-mounted faucet installed above your stovetop is a convenient addition that saves you from carrying heavy pots of water across the kitchen.
### Upgraded Appliances and Technology
Modern upgrades can transform a standard kitchen into a chef’s paradise.
– **High-end Range and Vented Hood:** A commercial-style range coupled with a powerful vented range hood enhances cooking efficiency and enjoyment.
– **Integrated Appliances:** Choose paneled appliances that blend seamlessly with your custom cabinetry to maintain a clean and cohesive look.
– **Beverage and Wine Fridge:** A dedicated wine or beverage cooler in a kitchen island or separate cabinet is a fantastic option for entertainers.
– **Warming Drawer:** A warming drawer is a subtle but practical addition for keeping food at the perfect temperature before serving.
– **Charging Drawer:** A charging station incorporated into a kitchen drawer keeps phones and tablets organized and protected while freeing up counter space.
### Island Enhancements
Your kitchen island offers an ideal location for adding unique features that boost storage, functionality, and social interaction.
– **Double-Sided Storage:** Increase storage capacity by including cabinets or shelves on both the cooking side and the seating side of the island.
– **Built-in Microwave:** A microwave drawer, which is installed in a drawer, frees up valuable counter space and is a safer, more accessible height.
– **Cookbook Storage:** Add an open bookshelf to the end of the island for your collection of cookbooks or favorite dinnerware.
– **Hidden Outlets:** Strategically placed pop-up or fold-down outlets in your island or countertops maintain a sleek appearance while providing convenient access to power.