10 Modern Kitchen Ideas for a Stylish Refresh
Creating a modern and stylish kitchen takes a balanced approach that considers functionality and flair. It’s a task that, while not always easy, can add value to your home and provide more enjoyment for your family.There isn’t one true definition of modern. However, some interior designers argue that clean lines, sleek surfaces, and neutral colors best express the look. We’ve seen some magnificent modern kitchens that follow this example perfectly and others that stray but still hold fast to modernism while incorporating layered textures, bold hues, and rich wood tones.So, what modern means to you may differ entirely from what it screams to your neighbor. But, generally, the look incorporates design elements that emerged in the early 20th century and continue to inspire creativity. Modern style often includes a monochromatic color palette, minimalism, and natural light. It sometimes embraces an open floor plan and the use of metals like chrome and steel.While modern design typically refers to a narrow aesthetic born of a specific historical movement, contemporary style, in contrast, refers to anything of the current movement. As you think about what modern design elements you want to bring into your kitchen, consider first the look you want to achieve and then your long-term goals for a perfectly functional space.Here are 10 modern kitchen ideas for you to consider for a stylish refresh.1. Opt for an All-White Color SchemeA modern kitchen with glossy white lacquered cabinetry that blends seamlessly into an all-white backsplash can make a massive impact. If you can leave windows uncovered in an all-white kitchen, do so to make the space appear even brighter as natural light floods in.2. Go DarkMoody modern kitchens with dark cabinets, countertops, and walls feel dramatic and luxurious. Think black-on-black with pops of steel and wood as accents for added texture, or choose dark green, blue, or other jewel tones mixed with touches of silver or gold.3. Choose a Black and White PaletteBlack and white often has a modern feel, but you can pull this look off in an impressive way with two-toned cabinetry, sleek marble countertops and matching backsplashes, painted pendant lights, and matte black metal or shiny black glass appliances.4. Mix Wood Tones and MetalsMultiple wood tones throughout a kitchen, such as shades of beechwood or oak, can give it a modern look. Equally, mixing metals can work to modernize your space if you’re intentional, such as when using black metal throughout with touches of brass, but keep in mind that mixing more than two metals may look mismatched rather than stylish. 5. Introduce a New StyleRecent events have prohibited many homeowners from completely modernizing their kitchens. Still, even farmhouse chic and cottage-style spaces can get a modern update when a homeowner carefully introduces mid-century modern or industrial elements into the mix. Look to lighting, cabinet and drawer hardware, and barstools for a quick and cheap modern update.6. Remove Upper CabinetsSkipping upper cabinets gives a kitchen a modern and minimalist look with an open and airy feel. Many homeowners embracing this trend use sleek wooden shelves in place of cabinets to neatly display utilitarian things, such as teak bowls, instead of hiding them.7. Plant a TreeIf you have the space to add a unique architectural element to your kitchen, consider planting a tree in a custom modern planter. A floor-to-ceiling olive tree makes a striking statement in a minimalist kitchen, bringing a touch of nature into a setting that might otherwise appear too clean.8. Hang Dramatic Modern LightingKitchens can receive a modern lift with a dramatic and bold pendant light, perhaps a vintage or period piece. Go glam with gold or keep it cool with chrome, but ensure that your light is one of just a few focal points in the space to avoid creating an antique shop vibe.9. Embrace SimplicityA crisp modern kitchen finds appeal in the simplicity of its cabinetry, countertops, lighting, and appliances. In a simple or minimalist modern kitchen, focus on the utilitarian aspect of the space and treat it as a blank canvas for creating culinary works of art.10. An All-Wood MakeoverModern doesn’t have to be all about metals. An entirely wood kitchen, from flooring and wall paneling to cabinetry and countertops, can be stunning if well thought out. This design move, while risky, can prove timeless and memorable for homeowners who do their due diligence researching various kinds of wood and complementary finishes.Ready to buy a new home and design a modern kitchen? Or update your current space and then sell? Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate can help you through the process.The post 10 Modern Kitchen Ideas for a Stylish Refresh appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
Higher Costs Cutting into Your Home Improvement Budget? Opt for These DIY Solutions
Renovations can add value to your home and increase the enjoyment of your dwelling, but the costs for various projects also have the potential to pile up. What do you do when you want to prepare a home for sale or give it a makeover without going into major debt or depleting your savings?Many homeowners turn to DIY solutions that may take some time and a bit of research but often prove worth it in terms of money saved and happiness gained.Projects like painting and power washing typically require only a few days to a week of your attention. Others, such as laying tile or resurfacing floors, may demand a lengthier commitment, but with the right attitude, they can produce years of benefit for little cost.Here are some DIY solutions you might want to take on if your budget is tight but your inspiration lofty.Paint Your HomeInterior walls with scratches, scuffs, and outdated colors can use a new coat of paint. Fresh paint will likely make a dramatic difference in the overall look of your home and present it nicely to future buyers.Depending on your style and interior design goals, you may want to play with color, for instance, painting a statement wall or an entire room in a bold hue. Homeowners who plan to sell in the near future should heed expert advice that says to stick to a neutral shade carried throughout the house.Painting an exterior might take a little more work, especially if you have a two-story home. But, those not opposed to erecting and climbing ladders and scaffolding may want to dive into this project.With any painting project, it’s important to properly prep your surfaces, research the different paint types and materials, and test your color on a small section. While involved, this DIY solution is usually a much cheaper option than hiring someone to do the job.Update FixturesSwapping old outlet covers, switch plates, curtain rods, door knobs, light fixtures, and faucets can be a cheap and easy way to give an outdated home a quick update. Often, homeowners overlook these minor parts of a home until they look so bad they can’t be ignored or it’s time to sell.Consider that attractive switch plates and outlet covers typically cost less than $5 each. Additionally, you can usually get modern curtain rods and door knobs cheaply. Good quality light fixtures and faucets may run you a couple of hundred dollars or more (especially for luxury versions with touch or sensor technology built in), but consider their impact on your home for a relatively low cost.And, remember that instead of paying a handyman, electrician, or plumber to install fixtures, you can do it yourself and save money. Some great video tutorials available online walk you through every step of the process. Of course, when working with electricity and plumbing, it’s wise to research ways to keep you and your home safe before you begin.Upgrade Window TreatmentsShabby curtains, shades, and blinds don’t add value to your home and they may, in fact, decrease it. For just a small cost, you can upgrade your window treatments yourself to lighter, brighter, and more contemporary versions that provide privacy while giving your home an airy and open look.There are plenty of low-budget options available for beautiful drapes, shutters, and horizontal or vertical blinds. Some of the most impressive window treatments we’ve seen, however, require a bit more of an upfront investment (i.e., smart shades and blinds with voice-activated opening and closing) but are still a cost-effective solution if installed yourself.Restore or Reveal Hardwood FloorsIt’s possible to bring original or replacement hardwood floors back to their like-new splendor with a little time, elbow grease, and money. Consider that flooring often makes or breaks a room. Imagine, for example, how much more dramatic a dining room or study could be with pristine hardwood to set the mood.Likewise, pulling up old flooring to reveal hardwood underneath can be worth the effort, especially in a period home. Not sure if you have hardwood underneath your laminate, tile, or carpet? Some homeowners are willing to take the risk of time and money to pull up a small corner of old flooring and potentially reveal a treasure underneath.Stain or Paint Kitchen CabinetsPurchasing and installing new cabinets, or even new cabinet doors, is not cost-effective in many markets. Instead, homeowners often trade a little time for a fresh coat of paint to breathe life into a stale kitchen or bathroom.As on walls, new paint on cabinets and cabinet doors can completely transform a room. Depending on your design and real estate goals, you may want to paint cabinets a neutral shade or go bold with a dark or bright hue, or lather on an ultra-high gloss.Remember, though, that before you start this DIY project, it’s essential, again, that you research methods for prepping your surface and choosing the right materials.Are you considering fixing your home and putting it on the market? Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® can help you when you’re ready.The post Higher Costs Cutting into Your Home Improvement Budget? Opt for These DIY Solutions appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
Why Selling Your Home During Winter Is A Smart Move
When it comes to selling your home, timing is everything. While spring and summer are traditionally seen as the best times to sell, there are compelling reasons why listing your Sioux Falls home in winter, particularly in January, can be a surprisingly strategic move. In this article, we'll explore the unique advantages of winter home sales and how timing your sale just right can help you beat the spring rush and stand out in the market. Less Competition, More Attention Winter in Sioux Falls, with its serene snowscapes, brings a slower pace to the real estate market. This slowdown is actually beneficial for sellers. With fewer homes on the market, your property can shine brighter. This reduced competition means your home gets more attention from potential buyers who are serious about making a move, even in the colder months. January Listings Lead to Perfect Timing If you list your home in January, it's common for the closing process to extend into March or April. This timing is ideal for multiple reasons. First, it allows you to capitalize on the early birds who are eager to buy before the spring rush. Second, closing in March or April positions you perfectly as a buyer in the competitive spring and summer market, should you be looking to purchase your next home. Winter Buyers Mean Business The buyers braving the Sioux Falls winter weather to house hunt are typically more serious about making a purchase. Unlike the casual browsers of the warmer months, winter buyers often have pressing reasons to move, whether it's a job relocation or a significant life change. This seriousness can translate into quicker sales and potentially better offers. Showcasing Your Home’s Winter Appeal Sioux Falls winters are beautiful, and your home can be too during this season. A cozy fireplace, efficient heating, and good insulation are more appealing when buyers can experience them firsthand. Additionally, winter gives you the chance to showcase how well your home handles the colder months, a significant selling point in Sioux Falls. Professional Support Through Winter Challenges Selling in winter does come with its unique challenges, such as maintaining curb appeal under snow and dealing with cold weather during showings. However, working with a Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliated REALTOR® means you have professional support to navigate these challenges seamlessly. They can provide valuable tips on winter staging, ensuring your home looks inviting and warm, no matter the weather outside. Embrace the Winter Advantage Selling your home in winter, especially in a community like Sioux Falls, can be a strategic and advantageous decision. With less competition, more serious buyers, and the perfect timing to transition into the spring market, winter might just be your secret weapon in the real estate game. As you consider the best time to list your Sioux Falls home, remember that winter offers a unique set of opportunities that can work in your favor. Embrace the winter advantage and take the first step towards a successful sale. Your journey towards selling your home starts with this snowy season!
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