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The Hottest Trends in Kitchen Design for 2019

The Hottest Trends in Kitchen Design for 2019

by | Mar 6, 2019 | Kitchens, Virginia Remodeling Blog

Your kitchen is the place where you cook, eat, gather and spend more time than any other room in the house. If it’s time to upgrade your kitchen, we invite you to take a look at what we’re seeing in kitchen renovations this year. Gathered from designer predictions and what people are asking for in their kitchens, we think you’ll find these useful as you consider your own renovations.

The Smart Kitchen: Technology

Think about it—you carry your phone and maybe your tablet into the kitchen so you can make that new recipe you found on Pinterest. Or maybe you’re using a smart home device to have a video call with a friend who’s coaching you through your Thanksgiving dinner.

You need a connection in your kitchen, but that’s not the end of kitchen tech. Bluetooth speakers and automatic lighting, and sensor-activated faucets are just a few of the things technology brings into the kitchen workspace to make it more efficient and enjoyable. Easy-to-install smart light switches allow you to just wave your hand in front of it to turn it on when you’ve got your hands full, and it’s more modern-looking than the standard plastic switch plates.

Automatic coffee makers have been around for a long time, but the smart kitchen goes far beyond that. The Internet of Things (IoT) brings appliances that are connected to the WiFi and allows you to control everything from your smartphone. A natural extension of the connected home, kitchen appliances with smart technology allow you to control cooking from anywhere with the touch of a button. Samsung’s Family Hub refrigerator is one of those IoT appliances that lets you use your smartphone to see what’s in the fridge while you’re out shopping. The touchscreen also allows you to research recipes using what’s inside your refrigerator, and leave notes to your family on the outside, all via the WiFi.

New Kitchen Colors
Pictures appear on social media of “retro” style kitchens from the 1950’s in yellow or other bright pastel colors and matching dinettes. It was fashionable back in the day, but 2019’s kitchen isn’t about whimsy. Keeping with practical applications and maximum function, kitchens are seeing bolder colors that weren’t used before.

This year, the new color is the matte black, with Navy blue and hunter green taking second and third places. But if you’re not entirely sure about making your entire kitchen completely matte black, appliances and hardware are a good place to start, even in a totally white kitchen.

Green is the warm, inviting color that when paired with walnut hardware gives a cozy look to your kitchen like no other. Navy is a bit stronger, and looks fantastic when paired with gold-colored knobs and fixtures.

Slimmed-Down Appliances
If you’re tall, you’ve probably bumped into a stove or hit your head stove hood that stuck out too far from the cabinet area. You’ll be happy to know that slimmer, less obtrusive appliances are one of the most popular trends in kitchen renovations.

Rather than being obvious, stoves, stove hoods, and other appliances blend into the kitchen seamlessly instead of than becoming hazards. “Hidden” hoods, or those with downdraft ventilation, are also trending, offering a more contemporary, minimalist look for the cooking area.

Banquette Redux
If you’re the type that prefers booth seating in a restaurant as opposed to a standard table-and-chair setup, you may like the resurgence of the banquette. Similar to the booth, the banquette is great for smaller spaces that don’t have room for a full dinette set.

While kitchen islands and breakfast bars remain popular, banquettes can be used as breakfast nooks, snack spots, or for all of your casual indoor dining.  Position it in a corner, and use either benches with cushions or position a table and chairs into the space. Benches also have storage space under the seats, adding to the kitchen’s efficiency. Both built-in and freestanding banquettes offer a minimal space footprint while maximizing dining space, especially for a larger family or groups.

Appliance Cabinets
Are your appliances, dishes and other kitchen items all over the place, or displayed in open cabinetry? This is the year to put everything away. Marie Kondo’s de-clutter mantra has influenced the kitchen to the point where many people want the counters cleared and everything out of sight. As the un-cluttered minimalist vibe takes hold, look for appliance cabinets to become the norm in kitchen renovations.

Pantry Storage
One of the biggest complaints about kitchens is the pantry—it’s not big enough, and if it is, it’s a lot of wasted space. It’s frustrating to try and find that bottle of vanilla extract you bought last week, because it’s buried behind several other small items. It’s inefficient, and slows down everything. Additional shelving, slide-out shelf units and other individual storage units make everything much easier to find. Upgrading kitchens with more efficient storage is a trend that doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

Metal Mixtures
If you’re concerned about all of your metal kitchen parts—faucets, cabinet hardware, etc.—being the same, don’t be. Trending this year is the mix of metals in the kitchen, especially faucets and fixtures. Gunmetal and pewter don’t have the stark look of black, but offer a different, distinct look. Copper is becoming particularly popular. The stainless steel-standard gets a run for its money, so don’t be afraid of mixing and matching. You may be pleasantly surprised at how well it turns out.

The Un-Matched Set
If you’re one of those people who enjoys finding vintage pieces, you’ll understand why a matching-table-and-chairs may become a thing of the past, at least for some. As we move toward sustainability, expect to see less of that matched pieces in kitchen in favor of mixed, repurposed furniture. Antique and second hand stores are great places to find usable pieces, as well as online sales forums like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. Pull together several chairs with a good table for a comfortable, casual look.

If sustainability is one of your goals, look for more recycled and repurposed materials available in new environmentally-friendly kitchen materials. They’re more widely available, and come in a range of styles that offer personal expression as well as durability.

What’s Not Hot Anymore

  • Complete Whiteness—with black as the new “in” color for kitchens, all-white kitchens are looking dated. While there’s nothing wrong with white by itself, but it’s just that—white. Mute it with some accent color, such as cabinets and appliances. Add some plants, pottery, upholstery, and window treatments to soften the edges. These design elements will help tone down the harsh brightness while introducing color into the mix.
  • The Accent Wall—frequently seen in white kitchens, the accent wall with a different color just isn’t done in 2019. Expect everything, including molding and trim, to be painted the same bold color.
  • Glossy surfaces—too much gloss is hard on the eyes. Much like the white, you can tone down the high shine with the same items.
  • Rose Gold Metal Anything—it was a thing from 2017 through 2018, but not anymore. Brass, copper, pewter and other metals are a better option for fixtures and other metals in your kitchen. Rose gold belongs in the jewelry box.
  • Open Shelving—while it looks good in pictures it isn’t practical. Dishes and other displayed items collect dust faster, and it contributes to a cluttered look. Putting everything behind cabinet doors offers a much cleaner aesthetic.

Let Beckworth Upgrade Your Kitchen
If it’s time to update your kitchen with a new look or added functionality, call for a free quote (703) 423-0281, or contact us here. We’ve been renovating homes in Woodbridge since 2015, and have more than 25 years of experience. Let us show you how we can turn your present kitchen into the one you’ve been dreaming about.

 

5 Kitchen Remodeling Trends

5 Kitchen Remodeling Trends

by | Aug 8, 2018 | Remodeling, Virginia Remodeling Blog


5 Vienna Kitchen Remodeling Trends

Here are five Vienna kitchen remodeling trends to keep in mind as you start planning your own kitchen improvements. A kitchen update is a project most homeowners choose to pursue because they want a cooking and social gathering spot that’s modern, visually appealing, and functional. From using different cabinet, countertop, and flooring materials to replacing outdated lighting and plumbing fixtures, there are many things that can be done to achieve these goals.

1. Smart Kitchens

A “smart kitchen” simply refers to the use of the latest available technology with everything from appliances to fixtures. For example, you might opt for motion sensor faucets that turn on when hands are detected or lights or appliances that can be controlled with your smartphone or tablet. With appliances, in particular, more homeowners are investing in refrigerators with touchscreen features and stoves with smart sensors that adjust cooking temperatures as necessary.

2. Hardwood and Ceramic Flooring

Because of its durability, natural beauty, and versatility, hardwood flooring has long been a favorite choice for homeowners, which is why it’s still trendy today. In kitchens, it can serve as a perfect complement to other sources of wood in your design, like your countertops and cabinets. A popular trend with hardwood floors, especially ones in kitchen-dining areas, is to paint them in vibrant, bright, or bold colors. Ceramic tile flooring is an equally trendy choice for kitchen makeovers these days. Ceramic tiles are appealing because they can replicate many other materials. You’ll also have a lot of flexibility with tile sizes and shapes.

3. Quartz and Granite Countertops

A choice you’ll likely have to make during a kitchen remodel is your preference for countertop materials. The top two trendy options are quartz and granite. Quartz is a good choice if you regularly use your countertop since it’s a highly durable material. Quartz is also available styles that include traditional cream and taupe designs, brighter yellows and greens, midnight black and rich reds, and swirl and intricate deep mix patterns. Aside from being made from a super earth-friendly material, granite countertops are appealing because they are easy to repair and complemented by a high sheen that naturally enhances the colors and patterns.

4. Dark, White, and Gray Color Schemes

White is still a popular color scheme with kitchen colors, partly because of the ability to incorporate so many different other colors in your kitchen design with wall colors, cabinets, and various accent pieces. If you prefer more versatility and some depth with color choices for your cabinets and other main kitchen features, explore various shades of gray. Both white and gray color schemes can produce a fresh, modern look. Darker color schemes are also growing in popularity in kitchens. Darker cabinets and countertops or backsplashes and floors with richer, darker tones can give a kitchen a rich, luxurious look. Darker blues and varying shades of red and purple are especially trendy today.

5. Dressed Up or Concealed Range Hoods

This one is actually related to another trend that’s not going away anytime soon – open shelving in kitchens. If you are going to go with open shelving as part of your remodel, this means you’ll have a void where upper cabinetry would normally go. Take advantage of this space by dressing up your range hood. Many homeowners are exploring options such as copper sheeting complemented with rivets and straps. On the other hand, if you want to play up your cabinetry, another trend worth considering is a concealed range hood that keeps the focal point on your other kitchen features.

A kitchen remodel that’s done right could earn you a return on investment of at least 70 percent of your original costs should you decide to sell your home. Even if you have no plans to move any time soon, a kitchen update can result in a space that’s more in line with your current living preferences and needs. A home remodeling contractor can help you determine how to incorporate some of the trends discussed here into your own kitchen improvement plans.

Vienna Kitchen Remodeling

If you ‘re interested in some of these Vienna kitchen remodeling options then you can call Beckworth LLC for a free quote (703) 570-6777, or use our contact form. You can also find good resources on our Blog or Facebook page.

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10 Home Improvement Options

10 Home Improvement Options

by | Aug 8, 2018 | Remodeling, Virginia Remodeling Blog


10 Alexandria Home Improvement Options

Alexandria home improvement projects come in all shapes and sizes, from minor single room spruces to top-to-bottom renovations. One of the good things about home remodels of any size is the ability to customize your plans in a way that allows you to add beauty, function, and value to your property on your own terms. Here are ten home remodeling options to consider.

1. Small Bathroom Updates

A smaller, carefully planned bathroom can easily pay for itself over time while also giving you a more inviting and efficient space. With a basic bathroom remodel, some homeowners are saving money with:

• Newer, more efficient plumbing and lighting fixtures
• Wall-hung toilets
• Windows in showers for more natural lighting
• Vanities with drawer storage instead of cabinets (an especially appealing option in bathrooms short on space)

2. Complete Bathroom Remodels

If you really want to make your bathroom your owner personal paradise, you’re not alone. Bathroom remodeling was the top home improvement project of 2017. With a more extensive bathroom makeover, homeowners often prefer to consider the latest bathroom remodeling trends, which include creative tile choices, brass and gold fixtures, floating vanities, and in-floor heating. Referring to a bathroom built with materials designed to get wet like a freestanding tub with a shower space encased in tile, “wet rooms” are especially popular among trendy homeowners today.

3. Minor Kitchen Spruces

Looking to bump up your home’s value without breaking the bank? Consider a small kitchen remodel as your preferred project. Minor kitchen updates are mostly cosmetic in nature (e.g., refacing cabinets and drawers, replacing countertops with more resilient materials, updating flooring). Sink and lighting fixtures can also be updated without adding too much to your project costs.

4. Major Kitchen Overhauls

Is your kitchen’s layout way too confining? Are you tired of being isolated from your dining and living areas while cooking? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, you’ll likely benefit more from an extensive kitchen remodel. Such projects often involve:

• New cabinets, countertops, shelving, flooring, and lighting
• Removing non-supporting walls to create an open kitchen-dining area
• Complete plumbing and electrical updates

5. Basement Remodels

Many homeowners have an extra living space that’s under-utilized – the basement. A remodeled basement can become a family entertainment hub, a home office, or even a rental apartment.

6. Attic Conversions

Another source of unused home space is the attic. Every attic has unique characteristics and some unavoidable structural issues that limit space use. Even so, a converted attic could become a quiet home office, a private room for an older child, a kids’ play area, or a secluded bathroom bathed in natural light.

7. Exterior Improvements

If your goal is to make a good first impression, consider some exterior improvements. In addition to landscaping, popular exterior updates include replacing entry doors, updating porches, and replacing outdated outside lighting fixtures. Roofing and siding updates can also pay off big time while also providing added beauty and energy efficiency.

8. Window and Door Replacements

Outdated windows and doors aren’t just a cosmetic problem. They can also affect your home’s energy efficiency and even present possible security and safety risks. Updating windows and doors also gives you the option to explore different designs, styles, colors, and materials.

9. Porch, Deck, and Patio Additions

You’ll recoup about 90 percent of your costs at resale with investments like this. A new or expanded porch, deck, or patio can also give you an excuse to enjoy your home’s outdoor features more often. Another option is to have an existing patio enclosed to create an entirely new living space.

10. Laundry Room Remodels

The laundry room is another commonly under-utilized space in homes. Sure, you need to make room for your washer and dryer. But there’s no reason why you can’t use the rest of your available laundry room space for other purposes. Options include adding:

• Built-in shelving
• A traditional sink and cabinet
• Cabinets that conceal the washer and dryer when it’s not being used
• Brighter lighting
• A skylight or window (if possible)

When you’re ready to move forward with your home remodeling plans, a home remodeling contractor can help you work out the details and determine the most effective way to complete your improvements. If budget is a concern, more extensive updates can be done in stages to minimize inconvenience and spread the costs out in a way that’s more affordable.

Alexandria Home Improvement

For more Alexandria home improvement ideas call Beckworth LLC for a free quote (703) 570-6777, or use our contact form. You can also find good resources on our Blog or Facebook page.

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10 Home Renovation Design Ideas

10 Home Renovation Design Ideas

by | Aug 8, 2018 | Remodeling, Virginia Remodeling Blog


10 Alexandria Home Renovation Ideas

If you need some help fine-tuning your Alexandria home renovation design plans, here are some suggestions for your consideration. Planning a home renovation is akin to having a blank canvas to work with. However, in order to end up with a masterpiece, you’ll need to have a clear focus with your design ideas.

1. Multi-Use Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands can be more than just extra counter space. Depending on how much space you have available, an island in a kitchen can include either your main kitchen sink or a second sink for use during meal prep and appliances such as dishwashers and mini-fridges. Islands can be even more functional with stovetops, shelving, and varying surface heights to allow for multi-purpose use.

2. Baseboard Drawers and Other Creative Storage Options

Is your home lacking sufficient storage space? If so, consider creative renovations like adding baseboard drawers in your kitchen or bathroom. Another possibility is to use available space along the top part of walls to place shelves for items you don’t use daily. Clever storage options also include:

• Knee-wall dressers
• Wall-hung cabinets for TVs
• Built-in benches with hidden storage space
• Pull out drawers under stairs

3. Dog Shower Areas

This may seem like the ultimate in excess. But if you have one or more family dogs frequently needing to be rinsed off, having a separate shower space for dogs is a clever way to relegate pet cleaning to a certain area of your home. Plus, you can always add shelves or cabinets in the same area to store your pet supplies.

4. Raised Platforms

Do you have a larger room you want to divide during your renovation? One way to repurpose larger spaces like this is to have a raised platform built in one part of the space. The raised area can serve as a sleeping area while the lower portion could function as a sitting or relaxation area. If your home doesn’t have a dining room, the elevated part of the room could serve this purpose and the lower part could become a cozy living room. A platform raised a bit higher could also conceal a bed if you want an instant spot for overnight guests.

5. Wine Storage Under Stairs

If you need a place for your wine collection in your home, a full wine cellar can be included as part of a basement renovation. But if you don’t have space for this kind of update, wine cabinets can be built under your stairs for convenient access and appropriate storage of your various vintages.

6. Home Steam Rooms

For a different and refreshing twist on a bathroom renovation, why not consider a home steam room? This can be a welcome addition to your home if you want to soothe minor aches and pains and promote mind-body relaxation. Include S-shaped seats and you’ll have a place to lie down. Shelving for towels can also be added.

7. Mixing Up Materials

A white kitchen must have light-colored wood countertops and stainless steel fixtures, right? Not if you want create a more personalized and visually appealing space. More homeowners are ditching traditional home renovation concepts in favor of things like rustic wood range hoods combined with modern countertops and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. The mix-and-match concept can also work with color and material combinations (e.g., two or three different wood styles of varying shades in a single room or multi-color shelving).

8. Architectural Detailing

An Alexandria home renovation is a perfect opportunity to add architectural details to your living spaces that can create entirely different looks. For instance, a large family room that naturally flows into the dining room can appear less overwhelming to the eye with a series of symmetrical beams. Visual relief can also be provided by such things as faux mantles and non-supportive columns.

9. Subtle Design Updates

Not all renovations have to dramatically alter your home. You may be surprised at how much of an impact smaller design changes like installing molding at unexpected angles, placing a larger trim around doorways and windows, or updating or completely changing lighting fixtures can have on various rooms.

10. Creative Uses for Unused Spaces

Creative renovation design is all about paying attention to details and looking for opportunities to use spaces that normally go unused, like corners or narrow spaces. This means considering things like curved brackets on narrow shelves and corner kitchen cabinets. Using narrow spaces or unused corners can also give you room for things you thought didn’t have the space for in your home, like a small corner home office crafted with a corner cabinet that has a built-in desk. You can even set up shelving in a corner by your patio door to create a mini-mudroom.

Finally, don’t entirely focus on trends with your improvement plans. It’s just as important to choose updates that match your personal preferences and lifestyle. Once you have some home renovation design ideas to work with, a home remodeling contractor can help you fine-tune the details.

Alexandria Home Renovation

If you’re in the market for an Alexandria Home Renovation then call Beckworth LLC for a free quote (703) 570-6777, or use our contact form. You can also find good resources on our Blog or Facebook page.

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5 Window Renovation Tips

5 Window Renovation Tips

by | Jul 20, 2018 | Virginia Remodeling Blog, windows


5 Window Renovation Tips

Replacing windows is an investment. For this reason, some homeowners prefer to look for other ways to keep their home energy efficient and comfortable throughout the year as an alternative to replacing windows. However, there are times when a replacement can offer very good long-term benefits for homeowners. If you think you might be putting “replace home windows” at the top of your to-do list soon, here are some tips to keep in mind.

1. Determine Your Priorities

What’s the main reason you are considering window replacement? The answer to this question makes a difference because it can help you narrow down the specific features or qualities you want in your replacement windows. For instance, if energy efficiency is your top concern, you would do better with windows with a higher Energy Starrating. But if you want something lower in maintenance, you might opt for vinyl windows that mimic other materials like wood.

2. Consider Personalized Options

If you “inherited” your windows when you first moved into your home, you may have grown to like them over the years – for the most part. With window replacement, you can have things your way. This means you can personalize your windows with:

• Customized shades that complement your home’s color(s)
• Privacy or safety glass
• Upgrades from single-pane to double-pane windows
• Materials with qualities that are more appealing to you

3. Be Mindful of Your Budget

It’s true that replacement windows can be an investment that pays off in many ways. Still, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider what you can comfortably afford before you start narrowing down your choices. Knowing what you can afford can also help you plan your project better. It may, for example, be easier for you to replace windows that are particularly problematic first and update the other ones later in the year or next spring.

4. Consider the Time of Year

Most home improvement contractors can replace windows any time. However, there are still certain times of the year when factors like weather conditions can present issues that can make the job more challenging. Generally, it’s better to replace windows at a time when you’re not likely to be dealing with extremely cold temperatures, accumulated snow and ice, or excessive heat and humidity.

5. Embrace New Technology

There’s all kind of new home window technology that didn’t exist even 10-15 years ago. For example, some newer windows have special glazes that react to light, while others are capable of blocking out most of the sun’s harmful rays. Other windows are now made in a way that eliminates weak points along seams.

Lastly, remember you don’t have to limit yourself to windows that are exactly the same as your older ones. There are many different window styles and designs that can give your home an entirely fresh and new look. Ready to invest in replacement windows? A home remodeling contractor can guide you through the process by offering suggestions and an initial estimate before any work is done.

Window Renovation

If you’re considering a home window renovation then give us a call for a free in-home estimate! We will send our team to help cover the styles, costs and options with you.

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Energy Efficient and Affordable Windows

Energy Efficient and Affordable Windows

by | Jul 20, 2018 | Virginia Remodeling Blog, windows


Energy Efficient and Affordable Windows

By nature of their design, energy efficient and affordable windows are meant to allow fresh air and light into a home in a way a homeowner can control; either by opening windows or installing curtains or blinds. When windows become worn or damaged, however, there may be times when air is passing through windows even when they are closed, which can make them less efficient. If you haven’t yet decided to resolve such problems with new windows, consider how energy efficient windows could contribute to much-appreciated savings.

Improved Insulation

You may be surprised that many of those hot and cold spots you have in certain rooms could be related to windows lacking sufficient insulation. Well-insulated windows boost energy efficiency by providing a better protective barrier against unwanted airflow. Better insulation can also contribute to added savings.

Lower Heating/Cooling Costs

It only stands to reason that a home where windows are keeping air inside better will be one that’s easier to heat and cool. This can contribute to lower heating and cooling costs since your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to keep your interior spaces comfy.

Better Protection for Certain Home Items

Many newer energy efficiency windows also have special coatings that block out a good chunk of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Too much UV exposure from light coming through windows can lead to faded or damaged carpets, upholstery, and wood flooring. But with windows that block most of the sun’s powerful UV rays, you’ll save money from not having to replace home furnishings as often.

Tax/Insurance Savings for Energy Efficient Windows

According to the Energy Star website, homeowners that install new windows may receive a tax credit equal to 10 percent of the product cost. Additionally, some homeowner’s insurance providers offer discounts for new window installations.

When selecting new windows, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends choosing ones with Energy Star and NFRC labels. Also, pay attention to the U-factor. This is a measure of the rate of heat transfer. A home remodeling contractor can provide further guidance when selecting windows likely to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Energy Efficient and Affordable Windows
If you’re looking for energy efficient windows that are also affordable then you can contact us for a free estimate. We would be happy to go over the brands, styles, and prices with you to find the best selection for your home.

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