Did you know the design of your kitchen, or any room in your home, can have a huge effect on your mood throughout your day? That's right! This begs the question: how do you design a kitchen that both inspires joy and provides better functionality, while also upping the value and appeal of your property?
In this article, we'll help you elevate your kitchen remodeling project by providing you with 7 time-tested tips on how to update your cooking space in Milford, CT, to influence and improve the mood of everyone in your home. Read on.
Tip #1: More color
Beyond aesthetics, the colors you use in your home can have a profound effect on your, your family's, and even your guests' emotional wellbeing. Colors instantly set the mood, subconsciously convey emotion and invoke a physiological reaction.
For instance, uplifting yellow accents can brighten and energize, while hints of emerald green can invoke a cheerful, luxurious and jewel-like sophistication. Coastal-inspired teal will add a cheerful, serene, calm and confident mood. Seafaring blue is a highly productive color, whether it’s used for the office, the kitchen, or any room to invigorate. Finally, daring red is an energetic choice that can spice up your cooking area.
Don't forget about reflective and black finishes which provide contrast and promote creativity while cooking. Consider matte black cabinet pulls paired with a black kitchen faucet. You can also look to nature for your color palette. For example, earth tones can promote an uplifting mood. Talk to your kitchen design consultant for more advice on positive color palette choices.
Tip #2: Lighten up your mood
Research shows that proper lighting can greatly improve one's mood. Start with leveraging as much natural light as possible or consider adding windows or skylights to bring more sunlight into your home. Natural light is known to have a very calming and soothing effect, while harsh, artificial light can invoke feelings of stress and negativity.
Don't have an abundance of natural light available? There are plenty of alternatives! Try beefing up your lighting fixtures with modern soft bulbs, LEDs, under cabinet lighting and more. You can also strategically place mirrors in your décor to reflect natural light, add glass front cabinet doors to your design or add accent and task lighting to preparation areas.
Tip #3: Upgrade your comfort
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PHOTO CREDIT: RAYON RICHARDS, 2019
Stylish seating that is super comfortable is a harbinger of goodwill and happiness. So, be sure to incorporate seating that is both appealing in style and comfortable for everyday use. This will not only make your kitchen more comfortable for you and your loved ones, but it'll also enable you to use your cooking space as an area for entertaining guests, if you so choose.
Tip #4: Add flora
From petite succulents to showy tropical varieties, houseplants offer many benefits. Budget-friendly, mood-boosting and air purifying, houseplants also improve relaxation, inspiration and focus. Just be sure to research the optimal non-toxic house plants for your home, family and pets.
By adding plants and greenery to your space, you'll not only improve the air quality inside your home, but the smell of fresh greens could positively improve your mood as well.
Tip #5: Declutter and organize
PHOTO CREDIT: Christian Giannelli Photography, 2021
Decluttering can make a significant impact on your mood and overall health. Proper organization will make the difference between a room you love and one you dislike - schedule a monthly time to clean, store and organize everything in your kitchen.
Stylish storage solutions can also significantly impact your general disposition. Proper storage helps to provide peace of mind through organizational principles. When in doubt, don't hesitate to ask your design consultant about storage solutions for stowing appliances, cutting boards and trays, utensils, digital devices, the microwave and more.
Tip #6: You, you, you—make it all about you!
PHOTO CREDIT: Christian Giannelli Photography, 2021
Be sure to design a kitchen that is all about you and your lifestyle, not what some fancy design magazine says works best. Your kitchen's functionality should be a priority. Talk in-depth with your kitchen expert about how you and your family use the kitchen. This will help them create a more personalized design that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
When you’re thinking about décor options, accessory pieces and accents, choose what you love. Remember, you’re the one spending every day in this space, so design something that you’ll look forward to seeing regularly.
Tip #7: Think about usability, efficiency and long-term use
When the kitchen timer goes off and you're standing at the stovetop, is it easily within reach? Can you prepare a meal using only a step or two in any one direction? Will you be able to maneuver comfortably in your kitchen in 10 to 15 years? What about an in-law, parent or a wheelchair-bound friend?
Designing a livable and accessible kitchen makes everyone happy. Your kitchen layout will be something to consider as you make changes to your space. Make sure to include enough space for everything that you’d need. An updated kitchen is an investment in your future, so plan it out accordingly.
Where can I find experts in kitchen remodeling in Milford, CT & the region?
Established in 1979, Kitchen Magic is one of the leading providers of home improvement services in Milford and other communities across Connecticut. If you're looking to update your cooking area for maximum comfort and functionality, we're the company to call.
We operate throughout the area, so you can count on our assistance regardless of whether you're located right next to Milford Station or in one of the surrounding towns. Contact us today.
