7 Kitchen Shelf Ideas to Open Up Your Kitchen Space

If you are currently working on remodeling your kitchen, you may want to take this opportunity to redesign your kitchen storage layout. Although cabinets are probably the most popular form of kitchen storage, utilizing an open-shelf design can both expand your storage options and refresh the appearance of your kitchen.

Open shelving can be new territory for some people, so with that in mind, we have put together a helpful guide to a few of the best shelf ideas for kitchens. Read on to learn about attractive and convenient kitchen open-shelf ideas.

Open Shelves with Hanging Storage

Get creative with your storage design by combining a shelf with a hanging device. For instance, stylish minimalist shelves with hooks underneath will maximize your kitchen space and act as funky wall decor at the same time. 

Keep dishes and pans on the shelf, and then use the hanging hooks for lightweight kitchen tools and cutting boards. Your kitchen will have a rustic and artsy look, but will also be extremely utilitarian. 

Remove Cabinet Doors

Want a low-budget option for open shelving? Try removing the doors on your kitchen cabinets. With just a screwdriver and some quality paint, you can give your kitchen a total makeover. 

After removing the kitchen cabinet doors, consider painting the interior shelves and the back of the cabinets to give them a clean, fresh look. For a bolder style, experiment with a contrast color or a small amount of statement print wallpaper.

Open Shelving as a Coffee Bar

For the coffee and tea lovers out there, you can use open shelving to make your very own at-home coffee bar. Instead of having your coffee maker, coffee grounds, and tea bags clustered together in a sad mess, display them proudly on an attractive shelf.

Keep your main coffee maker on the countertop below, and then stock up the shelves with stylish glass canisters filled with all your favorite coffee and tea. Don’t forget to keep your go-to mugs there, too!

Corner Shelves

Take advantage of the empty wall space in the corner of your kitchen with some attractive corner shelves. Corner shelving can be an excellent solution for what would otherwise be a visually unappealing corner of kitchen clutter. 

The corner space will likely be concealed from view, which makes it ideal for tucking away uglier dishes and kitchen tools. An open corner shelf is also a handy spot for setting up a small appliance like a microwave or toaster. 

Shelves Over the Sink

Clear up the space above the kitchen sink by taking out the cabinet and replacing it with some small, aesthetically-pleasing open shelves. These shelves can be an excellent way to store soaps, sponges, and other dish cleaning tools. 

Open shelving above the sink creates a more open design and also allows you to draw more attention to an attractive wallpaper or backsplash. If you have extra space on the shelves, consider growing a small potted plant, which will thrive in the damper area over the sink.

Metallic Shelves

Open shelving doesn’t have to be farmhouse style. Put aside the natural woods for an edgier look by using metallic materials like gold, silver, or bronze. The metallics will elevate the look of your kitchen and, depending on the design, create an industrial or glamorous aesthetic.

Depending on the material, metallic shelves can also be easier to clean and maintain, often requiring just a few wipes with a damp cloth. Metallics can also do amazing things with light, reflecting natural or artificial light to brighten the entire space.

Pantry Shelves

For anyone who doesn’t have enough space for a full pantry closet, you can install a set of shelves up and down the wall to create an exposed pantry. With some well-spaced shelves and attractive paint color, this utilitarian storage space will look like a chic interior design choice.

An exposed pantry is a great place for storing all of your regularly used dry goods, such as spices or flour. As an additional perk, the easy visibility means that you’ll have no surprises when you start to run low on a necessary ingredient. 

Final Thoughts

Kitchen shelving is a creative and stylish way to open up the space in your kitchen and serves as a unique and attractive storage device. With so many different ways to arrange open shelves, it is worth considering including them in your kitchen remodel.

Dining Table Locations to Open Up Your Kitchen Layout

If you’re trying to revamp your kitchen, one important element to look at is the use of space. Whether your kitchen is large or small, you can completely change the appearance and function of your kitchen by changing up the dining table location.

Anyone who has a dining area in their kitchen knows that choosing the perfect dining table location is a tricky business. You have to make room for all the members of your household while still maintaining enough space for foot traffic while cooking. 

With those challenges in mind, we’ve put together a list of some of the best kitchen table ideas. Read on for inspiration on where to put a dining table in your kitchen. 

Make a Breakfast Nook

To open up your kitchen layout, forgo the classic dining table altogether for a table and booth arrangement. If your kitchen has a wall or corner with a nice window, consider installing a cute bench with a matching table. 

A breakfast nook keeps the dining area nestled to one side and clears up the rest of the kitchen floor space for preparing food. A classic dining booth is charming and homey and will encourage your family to all stay in one space during mealtimes. As a bonus, a dining nook can double as a neat social space for chatting with guests or as a comfortable spot to get work done.

Put Dining Table Against Wall

One of the easiest ways to clear up space in your kitchen is to place your dining table against a wall. Of course, before you do this make sure there is enough seating room for your household along the remaining sides of the table. 

By placing the dining table against a wall, you will leave the center of the kitchen full open for moving about. You will also be reducing space by cutting out the chair that would have been put on the now wall-facing side of the table.

Install a Slide-Out Table

If space in your kitchen is tight, you may want to consider alternatives to a table that can be incorporated into existing countertops and cabinetry. A creative and visually interesting option is to install a table that can slide in and out of a wall counter, functioning like a drawer.

With this concept, your dining table will not only perfectly match the aesthetic of your countertops, but it will also seamlessly disappear whenever you don’t need it. 

Build a Bar Top

Similar to putting a dining table against a wall, a bar top will keep the dining area off to one side of the kitchen and maximize the floor space for actual cooking. A bar top can be even more narrow than a regular small dining table, and some space-efficient barstools can help create a compact dining area with plenty of seating.

Bar tops are also a great interior design option, with plenty of unique materials and designs with which to work. You could put the bar top against a solid wall and hang up some nice art, or place the bar top in front of a kitchen window for some natural light and a pleasant view. 

Center Your Dining Table

While it may seem counterintuitive, for some kitchen layouts the best option is to place the dining table right in the center of the room. This can be especially true for kitchens that have countertops and cabinets lining the majority of the walls, and not enough wall space for a table or breakfast nook.

In this scenario, try to find a space-saving table, such as a rounded pedestal table (fewer legs and no corners means a small footprint) or a table with folding leaves. By placing a compact table in the center of the room and keeping the chairs neatly tucked in, you can increase the walking and standing space along each section of the kitchen counter. 

Extra tip: with this layout, you can maximize your space even more by picking out compact chairs, such as small round stools or high-quality folding chairs.

Final Thoughts

Opening up your kitchen layout can be a struggle, but by switching up your dining table arrangement, you can clear up a notable amount of space. Designing a more compact dining area doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice seating. Changing the location of the dining table will often allow for more seating options.

There are plenty of creative kitchen dining table locations. While you work on your new kitchen, keep these ideas in mind to design an open and convenient kitchen layout. 

Best Countertop Materials for Easy Maintenance

If you’re like many homeowners remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, you may be overwhelmed by the many countertop options. There are a plethora of countertop materials on the market these days, from luxurious marble to economical laminate, in every color and design. However, aside from matching your room’s decor, you want a countertop that will be practical, fit your busy lifestyle, and easy to clean and maintain while still looking good years from now.

We’ll help you narrow down the choices with the following beautiful but practical and low-maintenance countertops that will work in your kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere in your home.

Why Choose a Low Maintenance Countertop?

Your countertop is the most heavily-used feature in your kitchen and bathroom and needs to stand up the daily wear and tear. You prepare food on it, store things on it, serve meals from it, and spill on it. You don’t want to be worrying about stains every time the tomato sauce or red wine drips onto the countertop. An errant spray of paprika or turmeric shouldn’t cause you to panic! 

You want an easy, low-maintenance countertop that you can wipe clean at the end of the day with a damp rag and some dish soap. 

Aside from the countertop material, also consider the color. While you may think that a dark color will hide dirt and crumbs, dark counters are more likely to show water spots, dust, fingerprints, and light-colored flour and sugar dustings. Glossy countertops will also show fingerprints and water spots if you don’t wipe and dry them down well. You may want to consider a patterned countertop to hide the most in between cleanings.

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface materials are a budget-friendly and low-maintenance choice. They are made from resin and other materials and are easy to clean with soap and water. Solid surface materials are, for the most part, non-porous, which means they won’t absorb spills or stain easily. If you accidentally scratch the surface, you can buff or sand it off. Just take care not to place hot pans or your curling iron directly on the countertop as it isn’t heat-resistant. 

Quartz

Quartz is a very popular option for kitchen and bathroom counters, and one of the most versatile low-maintenance countertops out there. You can find quartz counters in a huge range of colors and styles, from solid-colored to patterned stone-look-alike. If you like the look of marble and granite but don’t want their high maintenance, quartz might be what you’re looking for.

Quartz is an engineered stone made of crushed stones mixed with resin and colored pigments. It is naturally non-porous, so you don’t have to seal it like other stone counters. Because quartz is heat resistant, you won’t have to worry about spills or stains, and you can put hot pots directly on its surface. Quartz is a beautiful and ideal choice for bathrooms or kitchen counters. Wipe it down with soap and water and call it a day!

Stainless Steel 

There’s a reason why commercial kitchens choose stainless steel countertops. They’re heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and as low maintenance as you can get. You’ll never have to worry about your countertop getting stained, although stainless steel will show scratches. Since the material can withstand high temperatures, you can place hot pots and pans on it, and you don’t have to worry about hot wax or hair-styling tools in the bathroom.

Recycled Glass 

Never worry about wine stains with a recycled glass countertop. This trending and environmentally-friendly material is stain-resistant and easily wipes clean. However, you will need to be careful not to place hot pots directly on the surface and may choose this for a bathroom countertop rather than for your kitchen. 

Laminate

Laminate is one of the most cost-effective countertop materials available. You can find laminate in every color and style to match your kitchen decor. Laminate is made from multiple layers of plastic adhered to particleboard. It’s not stone, but it’s strong, hardy, and stain-resistant, so you’ll never have to worry about sealing it. 

Laminate, however, is not heat-resistant, so you’ll need to make sure to place hot pots on a trivet or towel and not directly on the counter’s surface. Also, avoid cutting directly on a laminate countertop as it can get scratched, unlike stone surfaces.

In Short

You can find many low-maintenance countertops in a range of colors, styles, materials, and budgets. Look into the different options to find the right one that fits your lifestyle, tastes, and requirements. 

How to Remodel Your Kitchen (Step-by-Step)

Are you interested in performing a DIY kitchen remodel to give your home a better look? Did you know that if you remodel your kitchen, your home value will also increase? 

Whatever your reason for the remodeling project, we have provided an easy, step-by-step guide below explaining how you can redo your kitchen for your whole family to enjoy. 

1. Redo Your Cabinets

There are two methods you can take to redo your cabinets. You can either paint your older cabinets or install brand-new ones.

If you’re fine with where your cabinets are located and how well they function, then you could save plenty by painting over the old paint. Pick a cheerful color like green, yellow, or red with a satin sheen. 

If your current cabinets are breaking down and looking aged, you may want to install new ones. You can even pick a new location in your kitchen to place your cabinets.

2. Add a Brand-New Faucet

When completing a DIY kitchen remodel, you might also want to install a new faucet. You can follow these steps to replace your kitchen sink and install a faucet:

  • Measure the size of the current sink and check drain spaces
  • Prepare for removing the sink by unplugging the garbage disposal, turning off the water supply, and disconnecting the drain pipe
  • Remove the original sink
  • Cut out a large hole for the new faucet and sink
  • Install the brand-new faucet and sink

3. Pick a New Color to Paint Your Kitchen

What’s your favorite color in the whole world? What type of kitchen do you dream about? Can you see its color or shade? Whatever your preferred colors and shades, pick them out at a hardware store and bring that paint back home for your kitchen remodeling project. Go bold and bright, or keep things neutral for a modern look.

4. Prep the Kitchen Before Painting

First, you will need to sand out rough spots and fill in any nail holes or patch up cracked walls. You should also get ready to paint the kitchen before you pick a backsplash. 

Don’t forget to get newspaper or old sheets all over the floors and use blue tape to cover the spots of the kitchen you don’t want to paint over.

5. Start Painting!

You can paint over the large parts of the wall and then start working on the corners, bottom, and upper sections of the wall. You might also want to put a second layer on top once the paint dries. When you’re done, don’t forget to remove the blue tape.

6. Pick a Tile Backsplash Full of Personality

When choosing a tile backsplash, there are plenty of decisions you can make to show your personality. You can either pick some colorful tiles or choose some dark colors to give some contrast from the bright paint.

You can choose a classic and traditional look or pick an interesting pattern instead. There are plenty of choices to make.

7. Choose a New Material for Your Countertop

You may want to install a new countertop. The most popular material for countertops today is quartz. It looks great and comes in many colors. Along with its luxurious look, quartz is a very durable material and won’t chip or crack quickly. 

Furthermore, it can even resist staining, so be sure to install a quartz countertop for your kitchen remodel.

8. Invest in New Lighting Fixtures

Some new lighting fixtures you might want to include in your dream kitchen are:

  • Under-cabinet lighting
  • Ceiling fixtures that can brighten islands and sinks
  • Recessed ceiling fixtures for workspaces

9. Change Up Your Kitchen Floor

For your kitchen floors, you can choose wood or porcelain tiles. However, wood can scratch easily and show more wear-and-tear over time. Porcelain tiles can be too hard and make it easy to break anything that falls to the floor.

Softer flooring solutions, such as wood-like laminate flooring, could be better and more affordable when remodeling your kitchen.

10. Install New Windows for Better Energy Efficiency

Putting in new windows can improve your home’s energy efficiency. You could even consider relocating your new windows to a different place in your kitchen. 

Before You Go

If you follow these ten steps, you will soon have the perfect kitchen and raise the value of your entire home. Whether you want to enjoy your new kitchen with your friends and family or you want to sell your home for a great price, these remodeling tips will make the whole process a breeze.

Keep Your Kitchen Remodel on Track with This Checklist

So you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen. That’s a big decision and one that will have a significant impact on the look and feel of your home. You’ll need to plan carefully because it can be easy to get carried away with all the different options available for materials, finishes, appliances, etc.

Still, before you know it, you’ve spent way more than anticipated, or worse yet, you haven’t planned at all. To help you stay organized, we’ve created a kitchen remodel checklist of the top eight things you should do to keep everything moving forward.

Gather Your Ideas

It would be best if you first decided what your must-haves are and what are your nice-to-haves. You should also have an idea of the color scheme you want or whether you want something brighter or darker in color. Next, you’ll need to decide whether you want appliances that match the cabinets’ finish or ones that blend in with them.

Finally, make sure when gathering ideas that you keep track of when certain materials will go on sale. You might have a hard copy, but it’s even easier if you save all your information to your phone to access it at any time.

Plan Your Budget

This is probably the most critical step because it will dictate how much you can spend on your remodel. You’ll need to account for materials, appliances, labor, and permits (if required)—and remember that unexpected costs always seem to come up.

You should also decide whether you want to do the work yourself or hire a professional. If you’re hiring a contractor, get estimates from several different companies, and read the contracts carefully.

Create a Timeline

Once you have an idea of what you want and how much it will cost, create a timeline for the project. This will help ensure that everything is completed promptly and with no delays. It’s also important to factor in time for ordering materials and appliances and any necessary permits.

Shop Around for Materials and Appliances

This is another critical step, as prices vary greatly depending on the supplier. It would be best to wait until after you’ve created your timeline to order materials and appliances, as you might need to adjust some of the dates depending on what’s available. You’ll also want to do this before choosing a contractor to ensure that they’ll be available to complete the job on time.

Get Permits (If Needed)

Some remodeling projects will require a permit from your local municipality. Be sure to check with them before starting anything, as they might have specific requirements that you’ll need to adhere to so that you avoid fines or other penalties. You don’t want to start work and then have to tear everything down because you didn’t follow the rules.

Set Up a Temporary Kitchen

If your remodel will involve any construction, you’ll need to set up a temporary kitchen. This can be as simple as using a camp stove and a cooler for food, or you might want to rent a small kitchenette unit. This will allow you to continue cooking during the remodel and avoid eating out or relying on takeout all the time.

Handle Waste Carefully

There will be a lot of debris and construction waste during a kitchen remodel. Make sure you have a plan to dispose of it properly, as you don’t want to risk running into problems with the municipality or your contractor. You’ll also want to be strict with yourself regarding recycling, such as plastics and cans.

Stay Involved

A kitchen remodel is an excellent opportunity for you to get involved in the project to learn some basic skills related to home renovations. Even if you’re hiring a contractor, ask them lots of questions and stay on top of what’s going on.

This will help ensure that the project goes smoothly and that you’re happy with the results. It’s your kitchen, and you want to be satisfied with it, so don’t be afraid to ask questions until you get the answers you’re looking for.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to keep your kitchen remodel on track, it’s time to get started! Gather your ideas, set a budget, and create a timeline—and then get to shopping! With a little planning and organization, you’ll be able to accomplish everything on your list and have a beautiful new kitchen in no time.

5 Fun Kitchen Wallpaper Ideas

Updating the walls can be a great place to start if you’re looking to refresh your kitchen. Although many kitchen walls are lined with tile or simply painted, the space can be entirely transformed just by adding some kitchen wallpaper. 

Whether you want a minimalist and modern kitchen or a vintage-inspired cooking space with plenty of colors, wallpaper can help bring your interior design vision to life. Get inspired for your kitchen remodel with these fun and creative kitchen wallpaper ideas. 

Best Kitchen Wallpaper Styles

Many people fear that a kitchen wallpaper will look kitschy or outdated, but with a wide selection of quality designs and patterns, as well as creative application, wallpaper can make your kitchen look sophisticated and classy. 

To help you decide which wallpaper is the right choice for your kitchen, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite kitchen wallpaper styles and design ideas. Read on to learn about some of the best kitchen wallpaper ideas being used in contemporary interior design. 

Geometric

For a modern and eclectic feel, geometric kitchen wallpaper works wonderfully. The geometric print adds dimensionality to the space and is a nice changeup from the typical floral or botanical print wallpaper frequently found in kitchens.

There are a variety of styles when it comes to geometric prints, which makes it a great conceptual starting point when planning your kitchen design. The prints can be larger or smaller in scale and can come in bright or muted color palettes. 

Overall, geometric prints are a fun way to create texture and depth in a space while forgoing a fussy floral pattern in favor of something more modern and bold.

Vintage Floral

If you want to go the floral wallpaper route, take inspiration from vintage prints to create a chic and timeless style. 

A vintage-inspired floral wallpaper is likely to have a more unique composition and interesting details than a mainstream floral print, making for an aesthetically pleasing addition to your kitchen.

Depending on the print you choose, a vintage floral can make your kitchen glamorous and cosmopolitan or create the perfect cottage core vibe. Keep the look more current by pairing the wallpaper with complementary modern appliances and decor items. 

Mural Style

Wallpapers don’t necessarily have to exhibit a pattern. Some of the most trendy kitchen wallpaper designs feature large works of art and function as murals. 

Pick a wall that you want to be the main attraction in your kitchen, and use wallpaper to put up an image of a beautiful vista or enchanting garden. 

Using kitchen wallpaper as a mural can transport your kitchen into an entirely different environment, whether it’s the Tuscan countryside or an abstract aquatic realm. A mural will certainly add personality to your space and make your kitchen dining area feel warm and full of life. 

Faux Marble

If you have fantasies about a marble kitchen, this option may be perfect. A marble print wallpaper is a creative way to create a luxurious marble aesthetic without breaking the bank. 

Furthermore, it’s a nice option for experimenting with a marble style without the permanency of a stone installation.

A white marble wallpaper evokes a calming tone in your kitchen. It’s cool, crisp, light, and most of all, elegant. The marble pattern will add texture to the kitchen but still maintain a neutral color, making it an excellent choice for either a contemporary design or a vintage-inspired look.

Classic Plaid

For a retro style that stays current, consider a neutral plaid wallpaper. Many retro-inspired kitchen wallpapers can be bright, loud, and overpowering. Still, a nice neutral-toned plaid (think gray on gray or shades of tan) will gently nod towards the mid-twentieth century. 

A quality plaid wallpaper creates texture and dimension in your kitchen but won’t overpower other decor elements. With a simple neutral tone or pale color plaid, you can brighten up your kitchen by elevating your walls beyond being ‘just’ a plain painted wall.

Final Thoughts

Kitchen wallpaper can be used for the entire space, the backsplash, just an accent wall, or even the ceiling. Whichever style or arrangement you prefer, a new kitchen wallpaper can make the whole room feel entirely different. 

With these trends and style ideas in mind, get excited to put your interior design skills to work and find a unique and special kitchen wallpaper for your remodel. 

Ugly Water Lines In Your Kitchen? Here’s How To Hide Them

Introducing high-tech appliances into your kitchen shouldn’t mean dealing with unsightly plumbing. Exposed plumbing behind kitchen cabinets, such as a running water line or fridge water line, can ruin your kitchen’s ambiance. Fortunately, there are several ways you can go about turning a kitchen line eyesore into an attractive complement. 

Hiding Ugly Water Lines

Whether you bought an older home recently or are looking to remodel your current one, hiding a traditional running water line can be challenging. Kitchen cabinets can be costly and buying new ones to hide a kitchen line isn’t always an ideal solution. Here are three alternatives to consider. 

Paint Over The issue

One of the easiest and simplest ways to transform your pipe eyesore into a part of your kitchen decor is to use paint. If the plumbing behind kitchen cabinets is awkwardly sticking out due to an outdated design, painting them the same hue as the wall can offer an easy solution. 

Alternatively, you can work with your color schemes to create a pleasing paint combination. For example, a pop of bright color on your plumbing can do wonders. If you’ve got a neutral shade like grey on most of your kitchen, painting exposed pipes a bold shade will look like an intended change. The color you choose should match or complement other details in your kitchen too.

After choosing your colors, scrub the pipes down to make sure they’re smooth and clean. Next, thoroughly dry the pipes and spread protective layers around your work area to prevent paint from staining anything. You’ll want to purchase a rust-resistant metal primer to apply to the pipes before you paint them.

While this solution may help your kitchen water line blend into the wall in a way that looks deliberate, the pipes will still be exposed. 

Box Them Up

Building a box or shelf around the pipes you wish to hide is a more involved project than simply painting, but it’s not terribly complicated. 

Consider where in your kitchen the water lines are you want to hide. If they’re on a single wall or in a corner, you’ll only have to work on one box or shelf. The things you’ll need are:

  • A tape measure
  • A carpenter pencil
  • A combination square
  • Plywood
  • Screws
  • A drill
  • Spirit levels

Measure the area carefully to ensure you end up with the correct size. It’s crucial to use a combination square to ensure your measurements aren’t off. Using the square, measure from the opposite wall to the square or ruler at the widest point of your pipe. 

When you know your measurements from floor to ceiling, cut out pieces of wood into battens. You’ll need about two inches in thickness. Drill holes and screw in the battens along each side of your pipe. Cut up wood to make the box sides. Make sure these measure the same as the length between the corner/ wall to the outer batten. 

Connect the pieces of wood (or plywood) you’ve cut to the battens by either screwing or gluing them on and using a nail gun. While this is a relatively simple DIY project, it’s also easy to make mistakes when leveling and measuring. Plus, the situation may end up looking even more slap-dash than it did before. If you know your kitchen is already not level, it may be worth hiring professional help. 

Cover Them With Wrap

There are several kinds of pipe covers on the market, including wooden types. You can find pipe coverings at your local hardware store. Decide whether you want plastic or wood material, and pick out something that matches your kitchen theme. 

All you’ll need for this is:

  • A knife
  • Pipe cover material
  • Adhesive Spray

After choosing the covering you like, place it around your kitchen pipes and carefully spray with adhesive to stick them on. Use the knife to cut off any excess at the end. 

Takeaways

A kitchen can be a sanctuary for many and should be a place for your family to gather comfortably, but outdated water line pipes can become an unsightly distraction and make your kitchen look chaotic. If you are tired of looking at your water lines and want a solution that looks professional and is done with precision, contact our experts today. 

10 Kitchen Countertop Ideas for Your Kitchen Remodel

When starting a kitchen remodel, you realize just how important it is to choose the right countertop look. We’ll go over our choice of materials and kitchen countertop ideas.

Stone

Homeowners choose stone countertops because they are durable and make a statement. There are stone options at every price point.

Marble and Granite are pricier but are classic choices for a reason. Your counters will be works of art but need to be protected.Choosing Quartz or Soapstone is always a good investment. These are also more durable and take less maintenance. You can even cut directly on granite and quartz countertops without damaging them. However, keep in mind that it will leave your knives dull.

Wooden

One of our favorite kitchen countertop ideas is to use wood because this natural material can define the style of your kitchen. Live-edge countertops are perfect for rustic kitchens. Polished and sealed woods can add sophistication and warmth.

Use butcher blocks on all your counters for convenience and beauty. Butcher blocks are also the only countertop material that are made to cut on. Just be prepared to oil your wood counters a few times a month to avoid drying out the wood.

Sheet Metal

Metal countertops are very on-trend right now. The material offers a variety of looks while offering the durability you need in the kitchen. Plus stainless steel holds up to cuts, but be prepared for marks and dull knives if you chop food directly on your countertops.

Stainless steel and zinc are kitchen countertop ideas that never go out of style. Go sleek or industrial with both options. For a unique look, check out stunning laminated copper.

Tile

Be daring with tile so that you don’t date your kitchen! Try metallic grout, diamond-shaped tiles, or trendy granite squares. One of our favorite kitchen countertop ideas is to use giant subway tiles.

Mix in Mexican or Mediterranean tiles for an eye-catching look. Tiles are easy to clean and not hard to maintain. 

Cost-Efficient Materials

For a limited budget, there are options. Laminate countertops have come a long way over the years. Today’s laminate can mimic the look of more expensive stone materials. Keep in mind that these materials don’t stand up as well to heat and can scratch easily.

MDF is easy on the budget but also easy to install. Choose from fun colors and designs! Have concrete installed professionally or DIY it. It makes quite a statement, and you won’t damage it if you cut directly on it.

Eco-Friendly Options

If you want to choose environmentally-friendly options, there are a handful of kitchen countertop ideas! Feel guilt-free about your remodel with recycled glass countertops. This style can be dramatic with large shards or have the look of shimmering Quartz countertops.

Look into paper composite countertops made with non-petroleum-based resins. Reclaimed wood is always a popular eco-friendly choice. Wood and glass materials are also highly durable if you cut food on them.

Countertop Edges

Who knew that there are so many details to countertops! When you start picking materials, you will have to think about the counter edges. They can make a big impact on the final look.

Rounded edges can make your kitchen feel very casual. Choose trendy edge finishes like cast iron or leather-finished stone. A raised edge goes naturally with stainless steel.

Consider Your Backsplash

Kitchen countertop ideas should take the backsplash into account. For a neutral or minimalistic look, match countertops to your backsplash. Matching these materials can let other elements in the kitchen take center stage.

Extend counters up the wall to the backsplash. This can look classic with tile counters or sleek with a slab or sheet materials. Or go with solid, minimal countertops and a trendy statement backsplash!

Mix and Match Materials

You make the rules! Imagine a white Quartz island and dark wood below to center the room. Then use blue Soapstone on top of white cabinets in the rest of the kitchen.

The options are endless here. Add your personality and style to your kitchen with multiple materials.

Stone Finishes

Last but not least on our list of kitchen countertop ideas is to consider the finish stone materials. 

Polished stone is classic for countertops and makes cleaning up a breeze.

A newer trend is the more modern-looking honed finish. Honing is like a matte-finish, softening light reflecting on your countertops. Leather-finished stone looks sophisticated and works well with textured stone.

Inspirational Kitchen Countertop Ideas

Your countertops make up a large surface area of your kitchen. It’s worth taking the time to consider the best kitchen countertop ideas. We hope you found inspiration on our list!

Stylish and Clean Kitchen Faucet Ideas for 2022

The kitchen is by far the most used room in the house. It’s the central hub of cooking, snacking, chatting, and celebrating. From the colorful kitchens of the 60s to the Tuscan style that invaded in the early 2000s, kitchens have seen it all. 

Today’s kitchen trends include a healthy mix of clean and functional designs with contemporary, modern, and traditional touches. Modern kitchens often include statement pieces, from light fixtures to ovens.

One such statement piece that has landed on the scene in the 2020s is the kitchen faucet. Designer kitchen faucets have become a big deal. Not only are they extremely functional, but they look fabulous. 

Brass Galore

While black hardware, fixtures, and faucets have certainly dominated modern kitchens over the last few years, brass is making a bold entrance to the front of the trend train. 

Brass has a unique way of turning any space into a modern yet elegant room. It pairs perfectly with bold accent colors like navy blue, modern green, or deep red, but it also adds flair to a neutral palette. 

Brass has a similar effect as gold but takes a more toned-down approach. While gold is shiny and obvious about its attraction, brass is a bit more unassuming—a hidden gem, in terms of fixtures and metals. 

You can pair a brass faucet with brass lighting fixtures and brass cabinet hardware for that extra touch you’ve been looking for. Brass also works well in mixed-metal designs. 

All Black Accents

One trend that is still very much “in” is the all-black approach to hardware and statement pieces alike. Black faucets have been trendy for quite some time now, but it doesn’t look like they’re going away any time soon.

So, if you want an easy way to upgrade your kitchen to a more modern feel, try swapping out your current faucet for a black matte piece. 

Not only does the black offer a nice contrast to light-colored kitchens, but it goes with just about anything. High-arching, black matter faucets are both functional and eye-catching in the best way.

Functional Commercial 

Functionality has become a huge investment when it comes to today’s kitchen renovations. Now, more than ever, homeowners want a kitchen that’s clean, well-organized, and, well, useful! This is where the functional kitchen faucet comes in. 

The functional, commercial faucet in kitchens today mimics the look and feel of a commercial kitchen sink. That’s right—like the ones you’d find in commercial kitchens. 

These faucets are trimmed down to size to fit a smaller kitchen sink, but still feature the pull-down hose that makes cleaning quicker and easier. The high arch gives you plenty of space, while the upgraded design still looks fabulous in any kitchen. 

These commercial faucets come in practically any color you can think of, including chrome, black, copper, and brushed nickel. 

They look particularly stunning and less commercial in black, and you can knock out two trends in one with this option. 

Vintage Faucet 

Vintage accents are all the rage right now—and we mean vintage accents all around the home. In the kitchen, vintage pieces can include industrial lighting, old-timey knick-knacks, and of course, vintage faucets. 

Adding a vintage faucet is an easy way to make a statement in your kitchen without overdoing it. This small detail can be just enough to turn a standard, modern kitchen into something special. 

Vintage faucets often display brass, gold, and nickel finishes, so you can take your pick. They settle into any space well and go with practically anything. 

Smart Faucet

When the smartphone first entered the scene, no one could have predicted how far that technology could reach. Before long, we were seeing smart TVs, smart cars, and even smart refrigerators. 

In 2022, designer kitchen faucets will start to include smart faucets. These faucets come in sleek, arching styles and various colors, from black to chrome and everything in between. They feature contactless operation, voice activation, and personalized controls. 

Maybe you think smart faucets are unnecessary, but maybe you’ll love the idea of upgrading your kitchen to work for you.

Final Thoughts

Kitchens make up a significant portion of all home remodeling projects in the United States, so it’s easy to say they’re pretty common. While there are tons of decisions to make during a kitchen remodel, your faucet is a pretty important one.

Given how often we use our kitchen sinks, it’s a good idea to choose something that’s functional yet stylish for a clean, appealing look that you’ll love to use every day. 

 

 

Trending Kitchen Backsplash Ideas (2022)

An important step of the kitchen remodeling process is choosing a backsplash. Some think that backsplashes are going out of style, but this functional element is just evolving! Keep reading for the top trending kitchen backsplash ideas of 2022.

Minimalism

For our first backsplash look, throw out the tiles. Go with slabs of marble or tempered sheets of glass for your backsplash!

With stone slabs, this look can be dramatic and minimalist at the same time. Glass allows for easy cleanup, and you can let wallpaper or paint show through. Consider this look if you are installing your backsplash all the way to the ceiling.

Blue and Green Color Trends

These days we’re spending so much time in our homes. Make your home a relaxing getaway with one of the most popular kitchen backsplash ideas in 2022: blue and green kitchens.

Psychology shows that color has a big impact on our mood and actions. Try adding a pop of color in your kitchen with calming blues and greens. Keep things calm and make a statement!

Metal Finishes

Try a modern twist for your backsplash. Consider the fun backsplash trend of metal sheets or mirrored tiles. It’s easy to clean and can add an exciting touch to your space.

If you’re thinking classic, go with copper tiles. For contemporary touches, look into patina sheet metal. And you can’t go wrong with polished stainless steel sheets in a kitchen!

Tiles in Bold Patterns

Some of the top trending kitchen backsplash ideas for 2022 involve new takes on traditional styles. Go with subway or chevron tiles, but oversized! This would work with the color trend as well.

Use tiles in geometric shapes like hexagon, arabesque, fan, or picket tiles. Keep things balanced but also interesting by using natural materials. Think limestone, marble, or cement.

Eye-Catching Layouts

An exciting backsplash trend for 2022 is using eye-catching layouts. This can work with every style, from contemporary to minimalist. Go with monochromatic tiles and lay them out in a different patterned tile under your stove hood.

Install vertical subway tiles instead of horizontal. Use mosaic tiles to create an art piece above your countertops! For a natural look, install pebble-shaped tiles in a very organic layout.

Grout-Free Tiles

One of the top kitchen backsplash ideas for 2022 is peel-and-stick or grout-free tiles. If you’re new to DIY kitchen renovations, consider this easy trend.

But these aren’t your mother’s peel-and-stick tiles! These days brands are making high-quality backsplash tiles that are easier for homeowners to install themselves.

If the idea of grouting makes you nervous, don’t worry! Trendy grout-free tiles are easier to install and are a clean, modern twist on the look of classic tiles.

Gold Grouting

Glitter grout was a whimsical touch a few years ago. Think of gold grout as a more mature, sophisticated alternative. When it comes to kitchen backsplash ideas for 2022, gold and metal touches are making a big splash.

Use gold grout along with other top trends, like oversized tiles, bold colors, and unique layouts. For an alternative, look into glass tiles with a metal finish to match the metal fixtures in your kitchen.

Nature-Inspired Materials

For more ways to make your kitchen a stress-free haven from the world, add elements of nature. Install an eye-catching backsplash of textured stone or slate tiles. Brick also works with the increasingly popular industrial style.

For a calming effect, go with natural materials like ceramic or cement tiles in neutral colors. Wood backsplashes are also really hot right now, but make sure it has a sleek finish. This makes for easy cleaning and won’t look dated.

Low-Cost Materials

Next on our list of trending kitchen backsplash ideas for 2022, get creative with your budget. Cost-effective materials like laminate, vinyl decals, or plastic backsplash can give you a stylish look without breaking the bank.

Consider a laminate backsplash in bold colors or plastic peel-and-stick that looks just like stone. Try vinyl decals for the trendy bold looks that are popular right now. When you’re ready to switch it up, just peel them off!

Window Backsplashes

If your kitchen renovation will allow it, consider a window backsplash. This stunning 2022 trend is perfect for bringing natural light into your home.

This is a unique take on backsplash design because it’s not exactly a window. It can be especially eye-catching for spaces between counters and cabinets. Bring in the calm of nature with this look.

2022’s Top Trends for Kitchen Backsplash Design

Tear down a wall or change a color in your kitchen. Backsplash can change the whole look of your space. We hope you found inspiration in our list of trending kitchen backsplash ideas for 2022!