A well-designed kitchen can impact a home’s value significantly. Not only that, but it’s one of the best returns you can get on the investment of renovating within the home. As such, you want to make sure that you design a kitchen that will last for years to come, and maybe even outlast your time in the home so that you don’t have to renovate again before you sell. Part of creating any kitchen design should include trying to find ways to future-proof your investment.
Keep reading to learn just how you can do that when renovating your house.
Step One: Hire a Designer
The best way to get the perfect design, and one that won’t need to be updated again in five or ten years, is to hire a professional kitchen designer. They will know the best ways to design your space so that it keeps on giving as the years change. Another perk of hiring a designer is that you’ll be able to tell them what you want, in terms of current needs and future desires, and they will work to find the balance for you. Then, all you’ll have to do is tell them what you like (or don’t like) and let them do the hard work.
Step Two: Think Adaptability
A strong kitchen design is going to be adaptable and designed to maximize space and use. When creating the kitchen design, make sure that you think about movement needs for now and for the future, as well. Consider lower drawers and cabinets for increased accessibility as you age, and invest in items that have multiple uses or that can be adapted to changing needs in the future. If you want counters or cabinets that are lower than “standard” height for either now or down the road, talk to your designer about your options.
Step Three: Choose a Portable Island
Even if your kitchen is large enough for an installed island counter, you might not want this block of cabinets taking up your entire kitchen in 10 or 20 years. What’s more, if you end up needing a wheelchair, you may not be able to access everything. By choosing an island design that includes casters, you will be able to lock it in place for the most part and move it if it ever starts to get in the way.
Step Four: Clear the Counters
Go for built-in anything, if it’s available and within your budget and means. People are choosing boiling water taps, built-in soap dispensers, countertop appliance storage drawers or cabinets, and other fixtures that free up more workspace. Build in the microwave when you can, too. If you are thinking for the future, you should have a slightly larger budget with the intention of spending now to save on upgrades down the road, so spend it well.
The Bottom Line
There are a lot of great ways you can future-proof your kitchen design. These are just a few tips to help you get started. Working with a designer, you can create a kitchen that lasts for 20 years or more and doesn’t leave you wanting for anything, so long as you know what you are getting into.
