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Special Section Home Improvement
Kitchen Makeover
Whether your cooking style is
Chicken Cordon Bleu, or just some
great Pad Thai take-out from the corner
restaurant, you need a place to prepare
your meals that’s fun, organized and
feels like home.
Even in today’s hectic lifestyle, you’ll
probably spend a significant amount of
time each day in your kitchen.
Though it’s a significant investment
to update your kitchen, it’s a worthwhile
endeavor from both a personal
standpoint and a financial one. And, like
bathrooms, HGTV.com estimates that
a kitchen remodel can offer returns that
are upwards of 100% on the resale of
your house.
According to Jamie Varner, owner
of Varner Remodeling, most kitchen
remodels start around $25,000, and on
average will range up to about $50,000.
You can give your kitchen a whole
new look in any style from ultra-
contemporary to French country in this
price range. Your designer and builder
can assist you with computer-aided
design (CAD) to help you envision your
dream.
Some new trends in the kitchen
include spacious farm sinks that offer
tons of space for food prep. Clean, white
subway tile can match virtually any
décor, making it a popular choice for
backsplashes. Recycled glass tiles can
be found in any color for a look that’s
great for your kitchen and great for the
environment as well. Varner says that
mosaic tiles are frequently used and
can be laid in customized patterns for a
uniquely personal look.
Although cherry wood cabinets are
popular, he’s seeing an increase in white
cabinets. Cherry will give your kitchen
a warm feel, while white cabinets will
brighten the space and have a clean
appearance.
As for flooring, Varner notes, “You
can’t go wrong with natural stone,”
adding that travertine is extremely
popular right now. After the stone
is sealed, it’s an easy-care option
for homeowners and offers a lot of
longevity.
It’s not just about the look you want
to achieve in your kitchen, it’s also about
the way it makes you, your family and
your friends feel when you’re there. ■