Trends in Kitchen Remodeling: Cabinet Refacing, Granite Countertops and More

by Kirk Bangstad
Face Your Kitchen Columnist

When it comes to kitchen remodeling, it is sometimes advisable to adopt a "keep up with the Jones" mentality. Independence and uniqueness are great attributes in some areas, but if you plan to ever sell your home, you'll want to blend in as much as possible and keep up with kitchen remodeling trends such as kitchen cabinet refacing.

Trend #1--Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Kitchen cabinets are the most visible part of your kitchen. To make them look luxurious for a fraction of the cost of actually buying new kitchen cabinets, many people invest in kitchen cabinet refacing projects. Cabinet refacing involves covering old cabinets with thin sheets of wood or laminate. On the surface, cabinet refacing can transform low grade wood cabinets into luxurious oak, maple, or cherry masterpieces. Only you will know that the entire cabinet is not what it appears like on the surface.

Trend #2--Granite Countertops

Most people looking for kitchen remodeling jobs love the idea of spending less on a kitchen cabinet refacing, but are still willing to shell out big bucks for granite countertops. Granite is a sturdy and attractive material, and is thus more costly that some others. Many view granite countertops as a status symbol.

Trend #3--Kitchen Wine Coolers

If you want to impress people with a fancy cabinet refacing job, you might as well hold a few more parties. People who like to entertain are starting to install wine coolers in their kitchens that store many bottles of wine at the perfect temperature.

If you're looking to remodel your kitchen with an intent to eventually recoup your costs, incorporate remodeling trends that will add value to a kitchen over the long run, and don't worry so much about short-term design trends that could eventually go out of style.

Source

• Kitchen Remodeling Trends

About the Author
Kirk Bangstad is an artist manager and singer working in Chicago, IL. His previous experience includes consulting for technology companies in the Silicon Valley and serving as a field director and publicist for a statewide political campaign. Kirk holds a B.A. in government from Harvard University.