generating enough air flow when opened, removing them to make space for more cabinetry
might be the best option to find space when you need it the most.
Planning for a spacious kitchen means concentrating on your main functional areas including
cooking, baking, prep areas, refrigeration and dishwashing. Before your redesign of the
physical space, plan for savings, too. Look for the Energy Star label when you’re shopping for
appliances such as refrigerators. The EnergyGuide label on new models will explain the amount
of electricity a refrigerator uses in one year. The difference in used energy is such that a new
refrigerator uses up to 15 percent less energy than non-Energy Star models. Other appliances
that help save space in your yearly budget include natural gas ovens or ranges with an automatic,
electric ignition system. These styles save gas by not having the continual burn of the pilot light.
For efficiency regarding your dishwasher, many models have an internal heating system that
enables you to conserve water heating. The EnergyGuide label will estimate how much power
is needed for the year for you to heat the water in your dishwasher. Exploring the amount of
money and energy you can save will reduce the cost of your redesign in the long run and make
more space in your budget for a kitchen where you’ll want to eat, stay and love.
PET AMENITIES
Four-Legged Luxury
A rising trend for homebuilders
is pet amenities and a residential
paradise built for man’s best friend.
From step-in wash stations featuring
handheld sprayers and designated
drying area, to rooms dedicated to
your dog or cat, pet considerations
are one of the latest elements in
home design. Your pet is a part
of your family and pet-friendly
design can accommodate up to 170
square feet of your home. For some
homeowners this designated space for a pet can also be shared space in the mud, laundry or
utility rooms. Using space as a goal from the kitchen redo, creating space in the laundry room
for your pet can be easily attained by purchasing a stacked washer and dryer unit. This space
saver can help expand the options for your furry friend’s tub or basin, toys and bed.
Carpeting and flooring are also a top consideration—the more durable and easy to clean,
the better. The list of must-have flooring includes laminate, stone, marble, bamboo and cork.
For homeowners leaning toward hardwood, bamboo or carpet, each will need to be properly
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