For most families in Atlanta, kitchen’s aren’t just a place for meal preparation. It’s also a space for homework, family gatherings, and making memories. As such, a kitchen remodeling project requires special attention and careful planning in order to come up with a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
This is especially true if your motivation for renovating your kitchen is because you have young children running around the house. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you come up with a family-friendly design for your next kitchen remodel:
Select Adaptable Fixtures and Features
Adaptability is key in a family-friendly kitchen. As children grow, their needs and abilities change, and the kitchen should be able to accommodate these changes. Adjustable shelves in cabinets, for example, can be modified over time to house larger dishes, appliances, or even tall cereal boxes.
Another smart feature to consider is a pull-out step stool integrated into the cabinetry. This clever design allows young children the independence to reach higher countertops or cupboards. As they grow and no longer need the step stool, it can be easily tucked away, freeing up space.
Opt for Durable, Easy-to-Clean Materials
A family-friendly kitchen needs to withstand the test of time and lots of wear and tear. Choosing durable materials during the kitchen remodeling process can help ensure the space maintains its appeal over the years. Quartz countertops, for instance, are resistant to stains and scratches, making them an excellent choice for families with young children.
Wall finishes also matter in a bustling kitchen. Opting for semi-gloss or satin finish paint can make maintenance easier. These finishes can be wiped clean quickly, keeping the kitchen looking fresh despite spills and smudges.
Give Kids Their Own Space
Seeing as you’re already in the process of making changes to your kitchen to accommodate your kids, you may want to consider providing them with their dedicated space. This could be a lower countertop for little ones to help with meal prep or a corner of the kitchen set aside for art projects and homework.
For families who love to bake or cook together, a kid-friendly baking station with dedicated storage for child-friendly kitchen equipment could be an excellent addition. This not only involves the kids in kitchen activities, but also helps keep the kitchen organized and safe.
Incorporate Safety Into Your Design
Safety is paramount in any family environment, especially the kitchen. While planning a kitchen remodeling project, homeowners should consider incorporating safety features that protect children without compromising functionality. Induction cooktops, for example, stay cool to the touch, preventing potential burns.
Lockable controls on appliances can prevent curious little fingers from causing accidents. Even small details, like rounding the corners of countertops and choosing slip-resistant flooring, can make the kitchen safer for little ones.
These are just some of the ways you can renovate your kitchen into a family-friendly space. If you are planning to engage in this kind of renovation project in the coming months, make sure you consult a trusted Atlanta kitchen remodeling contractor like Sterling Works. An experienced contractor can help suggest other design concepts that suit your wants, needs, and budget.
