kitchen remodeling – Roemer's Handyman

Cabinets are one of the biggest focal points in any kitchen. If they start to look dingy or out of date, it can quickly make the rest of your room feel worn down as well.

Thankfully, there are many simple ways to give your cabinets a makeover without having to gut them and start from scratch. Here are 10 stunning San Jose Cabinet Refinishing ideas to inspire you:

1. Paint Cabinets

Give your cabinets a new coat of paint for a fresh, updated look. Aim for a high-quality oil or acrylic latex primer; stain-blockers also work well if your cabinets are heavily stained. Use a brush to reach tight spots and edges, and a roller on the flat surfaces.

Once the primer dries, you can start painting. Use a low-VOC or alkyd paint (such as Advance) that dries hard and doesn’t yellow over time.

Before you begin painting, cover the floor and countertops with rosin paper and tape plastic sheeting to protect the rest of the house from dust and paint drips. If your cabinet boxes have a glossy finish, lightly sand them and wipe away any access dust with a tack cloth. This simple preparation produces a smooth finish that will last for years to come.

2. Replace Cabinet Doors

The doors on cabinetry take the brunt of spills, stains and general wear and tear, so they’re usually the first things to show their age. Rather than repainting your existing doors, consider replacing them with new ones to completely transform the look of your kitchen.

Add a buffalo check pattern to a recessed-panel cabinet door using this simple technique. Using a pencil and ruler, mark a grid of 2-inch squares on the inset panel surface. Tape around every other square with painters tape and paint them black; then paint the exposed squares gray.

Add cottage charm to a cabinet door with wooden appliques, available at most home improvement centers and craft stores. For a more dramatic update, use a glaze color that matches your cabinetry to create shading on the inset panel. Install crown molding for an elegant finishing touch.

3. Install Crown Molding

Crown molding is a beautiful way to add detail and make cabinets feel like part of the house’s architecture. It can also be used to continue a motif across other surfaces, such as bookshelves and mantels.

A coping saw makes it easy to assemble crown molding in inside corners. A coping cut mates the end of a piece of trim to a profiled backer, eliminating the need for miters.

If you’re staining your cabinet doors, be sure to set up fans for proper ventilation since many stains can emit harmful fumes. Thoroughly clean your doors using a degreaser and scrub brush before beginning the painting or staining process.

When the doors are dry, it’s a great time to finish the cabinet boxes. This will save you time and ensure that the door finishes match the box.

4. Add Roll-Out Shelves

If your cabinets are cluttered with items, install roll-out shelves in base cabinets to maximize storage space and make it easier to access frequently used kitchen tools. This DIY project is relatively easy for a homeowner to tackle and can add value to your home.

Paint or stain your cabinet hardware to refresh the look. Brass is the perfect finish for darker cabinet colors, while brushed nickel and satin nickel complement white or gray-toned cabinets and work well in transitional and contemporary kitchens.

Instead of replacing cabinet doors, try adding a pretty patterned insert to the center panel with this DIY cabinet update idea. Cut a piece of adhesive wallpaper to fit the recessed panel, then glue it on using wood strips that have been painted black. Add tin trim to the frame for an extra-special touch.

5. Remove Cabinet Doors

If your cabinetry is in great shape but you’re tired of the doors, remove them and convert to open shelving. This is a quick and inexpensive kitchen cabinet makeover, especially when you choose to leave the cabinet stiles in place for support.

Consider a dark stain for the new look. Black, navy blue and jeweled plum hues have a high-end allure that’s often desired by modern homeowners.

If you prefer a lighter color, opt for a coffee tone or bronze shade. Yellows and creams are soft colors that border on neutral yet contribute a warm, inviting feel to the kitchen.

6. Add Pull-Out Drawers

Adding a pull-out shelf is an easy DIY cabinet project that will instantly make your kitchen more efficient. Easily store pots and pans in this one-of-a-kind storage solution.

Whether you’re looking for a bold look or simply want more kitchen storage, this unique design is an attractive option that’s sure to catch your guests’ eyes. To create a custom pull-out shelf, repurpose a 1×3 pine frame from your cabinets and assemble it with sliding rails. To keep the rails secure, install a cleat at the back of each shelf.

Empty space above upper cabinets can feel empty and unfinished. Filling the empty wall with a vertical fluted molding adds texture and visual interest while keeping the design modern. Choose from a variety of fluted molds or explore more unique options like reeded, leaded, or tinted glass.

7. Extend Cabinets to the Ceiling

If a full cabinet remodel isn’t in your budget, spruce up your kitchen with decorative accents that add flair and sophistication. Even minor changes like a fresh coat of paint or crown molding can make a huge difference!

Consider applying a bold high gloss backsplash for a modern look. The slick finish helps the light reflect off your cabinets for a clean, bright space.

Swap out solid cabinet doors for glass-paneled versions to create a more open, airy look. Or, remove cabinet doors entirely for a trendier option that allows you to display decorative dishware or frequently used cookware.

Extending cabinets to the ceiling opens up more storage space. Adding roll-out shelves also improves functionality by making it easier to access hard-to-reach items in deep cabinets. Line your cabinet interiors with new paper or dividers to make them feel completely new.

8. Line Cabinet Interiors

Cabinets play a critical role in the kitchen. They store everything from delicate glassware to heavy pots and pans, so they need to be able to withstand daily wear and tear. Over time, the constant impact of opening and closing cabinets can degrade surfaces, causing warping or stains. Additionally, food spills and crumbs can create an unappetizing buildup and attract insects and rodents.

The best way to protect your cabinet interiors is by lining them. Start by emptying out your cabinets and removing all non-perishable bottles, cans, and boxes of food. Then, wipe down all cabinet surfaces.

To line cabinet shelves, purchase a sheet of copper metal and cut narrow wood trim pieces to fit around it. Then, attach the copper to the cabinet’s raised panel. Alternatively, you can use a hammer to nail a printed honeycomb pattern into the copper sheet.

9. Add Glass Panels

If you want to break up an all-wood look, add visual interest with glass cabinet doors. Choose a color that complements other kitchen finishes to add cohesive style.

To install a simple, DIY glass panel, nail layers of plywood or MDF together to make guides for the router’s pattern bit. Cut the guide to fit inside the door panel, then apply a wood glue and press in place. Paint or stain as desired.

Use contact paper or removable wallpaper to line drawer and cabinet interiors for a fresh, modern look that’s renter-friendly and easy to clean. Thistlewood Farms used a sample pot of olive green paint to turn plain white cabinets into striped kitchen cabinets in this rental apartment. The new look separated the kitchen from builder-grade basic and instantly added flair to the room. This update is also a great way to organize Tupperware, cookbooks and other kitchen necessities.

10. Add Hardware

Adding knobs and handles is a great way to upgrade the look of your cabinets. Knobs and pulls come in a variety of shapes, materials, and finishes to suit any style. To install new hardware, you’ll first need to remove the cabinet doors and use wood putty to fill any old holes. When drilling the new holes, start with a smaller bit to avoid splintering the wood.

Another option is to switch to a handleless door for a sleek glass look. This style has been trending in modern kitchens, and it can create a clean, minimalist aesthetic that will enhance your space’s brightness. Finally, if you want to brighten up your cabinetry even further, consider adding lighting underneath the cabinets. This will make it easier to find and reach your favorite cooking and dining items. This is also a simple DIY project you can do yourself!

Home Improvement

Kitchen Remodeling – The First Steps

June 18, 2025 Megan Cotton

Your kitchen should work for your family. If it doesn’t, a remodel may be in order.

A major remodel changes the entire layout and features new cabinets, countertops, flooring and appliances. It also includes any structural changes and plumbing or electrical upgrades. Contact Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY for professional help.

A minor remodel improves aesthetics but doesn’t change the layout or add new features. It usually doesn’t require permits, and it typically costs less.

Removing old cabinets, countertops, and flooring sets the stage for your kitchen remodel. This first step can range in scale from swapping out faucets to rerouting plumbing or electrical systems. To ensure a successful renovation, it’s important to consult experts who can navigate local building codes and design a layout that optimizes functionality and aesthetics.

Demolition can be dangerous work, especially when working around utilities. It’s critical to shut off the water supply and locate gas or electrical breaker panels before beginning any work. Demolition may also release hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead paint, and rotted wood. While it is possible to do this portion of the remodel on your own, it’s generally best left to professionals who understand how to safely and efficiently take down walls and reroute plumbing and electrical.

Once the walls pass inspection, it’s time to finish them as per your project plan. Hanging, taping, and finishing drywall takes time and requires proper tools to avoid compromising structural integrity. It’s also a good opportunity to set aside any salvageable materials that you can recycle or sell to help cut costs.

Rough-In

Rough-in is a major stage of kitchen remodeling that creates the skeleton for all other segments. It involves laying out the pipework, electrical wiring, and HVAC ductwork, all following the plans laid out during the design phase. Plumbers, electricians, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals work together during this step to install the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems in your new kitchen.

During this stage, your plumber will mark the locations for sinks, tubs, toilets, and appliances and ensure that they align with the floor plan. They’ll also lay out the piping for water supply lines and drainage systems, and install venting and sewer pipes. Your contractor will use laser tools to ensure accurate drain and supply line heights, which saves you time and money in the long run.

The mechanical rough-in process typically includes installing safety features such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, and emergency shut-off valves. In commercial buildings, this includes putting in plumbing for restrooms and cafeterias, electrical wiring for office workstations, and HVAC ductwork for climate control.

Once the plumbing and electrical rough-in is complete, your professional contractor will schedule an inspection. This is a required step that will ensure your remodel is up to code and can proceed. This process is relatively quick, and there may be a small fee involved in some locations. The inspector will evaluate your completed rough-in work and make recommendations for any changes or repairs.

Cabinets

Cabinets are the building blocks of your kitchen and determine the overall look of the room. Whether they are simple slabs of wood nailed together or expertly designed to fit your home layout, cabinets add style, function and value to your house.

Many homeowners choose custom cabinets to meet their specific needs and preferences. They can be made to accommodate specialty storage solutions like spice organizers or pull-out pantries; crafted from durable materials like hardwood and solid-core plywood; or enhanced with detailed trim, molding and hardware options.

The right cabinets can help create a smoother workflow in your kitchen. Drawers that keep your cooking utensils and pots within reach of the stove save you from having to bend down and dig through layers to find what you’re looking for. In-cabinet accessories can help organize everything from plastic-ware to pot lids.

A customized cabinet can even be a great way to make meal prep easier, which encourages healthy eating habits. Having a place to store cleaning supplies keeps items out of reach from children or pets and can be secured so they aren’t misplaced.

Budget-friendly stock or builder-grade cabinets are available in industry-standard sizes and designs. However, they are less expensive than custom cabinets and don’t promise the durability that a professional-grade solution provides. Consider refinishing your existing cabinets to update the look and extend their lifespan. Refinishing is a relatively inexpensive process that involves sanding and/or stripping the old paint and stains to reveal fresh wood and new hardware.

Countertops

Countertops are one of the most integral components in kitchen remodeling. They provide a platform for food prep, act as the base of your cabinetry, and can make or break the overall design of your kitchen. Because of this, it’s important to choose a material that checks off as many boxes as possible when it comes to functionality, durability, and style.

A variety of materials are available for countertops, ranging from the budget-friendly laminate to marble and granite. Your choice will be based on factors like how often you cook and entertain, how much space you have, your preferred color palette, and whether you want to create a sleek, contemporary look or a warm, rustic feel.

Another factor to consider is the amount of wear and tear you’re expecting on your countertops. If you plan to cook a lot or have a busy household, you’ll likely need a surface that is heat- and stain-resistant.

Depending on your preferences, DIY countertop solutions like peel-and-stick makeovers and contact paper transformations may be an excellent option for you. They’re easy to apply and remove without causing damage to the underlying surface, and they offer an array of designs that complement every design style. If you want something more permanent, however, tiling is a cost-effective and beautiful solution. It’s essential to note that tiling requires meticulous skill and experience, so it’s typically best left to a professional.

Appliances

The choice of appliances is one of the most significant decisions in kitchen remodeling. Whether you choose to invest in new energy-efficient models that promise long-term savings on utility bills, or classic designs that blend seamlessly with your design style, you will be living with these kitchen fixtures for many years. As a result, it’s important to make this decision early in the process so you have the time to shop around and find the best deal.

Luxury kitchen appliances are designed to enhance your cooking experience with smart functionality and superior performance. From a dual-fuel range that offers gas precision and electric baking to a dishwasher that uses condensation drying technology to eliminate the need for rinsing, these premium features help you achieve professional results at home.

A variety of color options are available for your refrigerator, oven, stove, and dishwasher. Bold hues create a statement that elevates the aesthetic of your kitchen. Classic finishes, such as stainless steel and black, can be combined with other colors to create a balanced and unique look. For a more whimsical feel, consider retro-style appliances that evoke the charm of bygone eras. These are an excellent option for adding personality and character to your kitchen without overspending. Also consider custom appliance organization options like pull-out shelves and lower drawers with dividers to reduce clutter and streamline cleaning and cooking routines.

Finishing Touches

A kitchen remodel transforms a functional workspace into a modern and beautiful centerpiece of your home. A professional contractor can help you create a customized design that suits your lifestyle and tastes. By carefully planning the layout, choosing high-quality materials, and adding storage solutions that maximize space, you can have a kitchen renovation that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

The final touches are what set your new kitchen apart from the rest. Backsplashes and cabinet hardware are small but important decisions that add texture and color to the space. You’ll want to choose colors that complement your countertops and cabinets but also reflect your style. For example, subway tiles work well in most kitchens, but you could also opt for a patterned tile or a glass backsplash to make a bold statement.

While you’re choosing finishing touches, remember to plan for how you’ll store your cooking utensils, pots, pans, and other supplies. The more organized your kitchen is, the easier it will be to find what you need when you’re in a hurry. Consider a pantry, a corner solution (like Lazy Susans), or a pull-out trays for cabinet doors to keep your items neatly organized and easy to access. Then you’ll have more room to entertain guests, cook dinners, and enjoy the space you love!

Home Improvement

How a Bathroom Remodel Can Increase Your Home’s Value

March 27, 2024November 5, 2024 Megan Cotton

A sleek, updated bathroom instantly increases your home’s value. But beyond a financial return, this renovation can improve the way you feel about your space and the way your family uses it.

A licensed contractor will be able to help you understand the details of complex tasks such as plumbing and rewiring. They also offer warranties for materials and workmanship.

Upgrades

There are many upgrades you can make to your bathroom that will increase its value and make it more enjoyable to use. Some of the best ones are small and affordable, like installing a new vanity that has ample storage and sturdy materials, and updating lighting fixtures to a modern design with a brighter bulb. You can also add ventilation to your bathroom to help prevent odors and mildew, and upgrade the flooring with a tile or vinyl that’s easy to clean and durable.

Some more significant improvements, such as upgrading the toilet with a low-flow model that’s elongated at comfort height and has a seat cover to keep water off the floor and a new showerhead and a curtain or door that are both more efficient and attractive, can significantly increase your home’s resale value. However, large-scale changes to your bathroom, such as changing the layout or moving plumbing and sewer pipes, will be much more expensive and require a professional’s touch.

Replacing outdated hardware, such as towel bars and hooks, cabinet knobs, and even the shower curtain rod, can give your bathroom a fresher look without requiring any major work or cost. Replacing a bathtub surround with a new, more modern design is another quick and inexpensive bathroom remodel that can add significant resale value.

Other small but worthwhile updates include:

Adding recessed shelves for stylish storage that doesn’t clutter surfaces.
Replacing a plain shower curtain with one that has an interesting pattern or a window-inspired design.
Laying radiant flooring in your bathroom to make it warm and comfortable to stand on.

Depending on the area, radiant flooring can return up to 93% of its initial investment when it’s installed properly by a licensed professional.

You can also add luxury amenities that are desirable to most homeowners, such as a soaking tub, dual or even a rainfall showerhead, and a broad bench to sit on while you enjoy your bath. However, it’s important to remember that style fads can come and go, so it may be better to stick with more traditional, classic, or neutral options when selecting your fixtures, vanity, and other large components.

Energy Efficiency

Modern energy efficient appliances, fixtures and lighting help reduce your water and electricity usage. That’s good for the environment and your wallet. Replacing outdated bathroom items with new, eco friendly versions during a remodel is a great way to go green without sacrificing comfort or cost. Items like low-flow toilets and water-saving showerheads conserve precious resources while saving you money on your utility bills.

Increasing storage space is another common element of a bathroom remodel. This eliminates clutter, which creates an unsightly mess and can also pose health risks by trapping dust and other allergens. Removing cabinets or adding built-in shelving can provide a great amount of extra storage space for towels, toiletries and other household items.

New lighting fixtures can set the mood for your bathroom, whether you want soft and relaxing for a bath or bright and stimulating for morning routines. Repainting your bathroom in a crisp white color or adding new sconces can brighten the room and make it feel open and inviting.

A remodel can increase the value of your home, which can help if you plan to sell it in the future or use it as collateral for other loans. Upgrading bathroom features and adding functional storage can also improve your home’s resale appeal.

In addition, a remodel can accommodate changing family needs. For example, an older family member may need a wheelchair-friendly bathtub or walk-in shower. Adding these accommodations during a remodel is more convenient than having to modify your house at a later date and can help you stay in your home longer.

A bathroom remodel can improve your quality of life by enhancing daily routines. It can also increase your home’s resale value and help you save on utility costs. By choosing a professional and experienced remodeling company, you can be sure to get the results you want while avoiding costly mistakes. With the right project scope and goals, a remodel can be an affordable and effective way to upgrade your bathroom. For more information about how a remodel can benefit you, contact us today!

Functionality

A bathroom remodel can make your home more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable to live in. It can also increase the value of your home if you decide to sell it in the future.

A professional contractor can help you plan a functional upgrade that molds your bathroom to fit your needs, whether it’s adding more storage space, improving the layout, or increasing square footage. If you have limited storage options in your bathroom, a remodel can increase the number of cabinets or shelving to provide adequate space for towels, toiletries, and other supplies.

Another way to improve the functionality of your bathroom is by upgrading its plumbing systems. Outdated pipes and fixtures often result in clogs, leaks, and other problems. A remodel gives you the opportunity to replace these old components with newer models that are designed for better performance and less maintenance.

Replacing older showerheads and toilets with more energy efficient versions can reduce your home’s water consumption without sacrificing comfort. These improvements may also result in lower water bills.

In addition to making your bathroom more comfortable and convenient, upgrades can make it easier for people with disabilities or mobility issues to use the room safely. For example, installing grab bars or a handheld showerhead can allow individuals with limited mobility to bathe without assistance. Changing out old tubs for walk-in showers or a newer model with an elongated bowl can also offer increased comfort and accessibility.

If you have an older home, a bathroom renovation can be the perfect opportunity to address any lead paint concerns in your home. This is an important health and safety issue for pregnant women and children who may come into contact with it. By removing all the existing paint in your bathroom and replacing it with fresh, lead-safe drywall, you can avoid any potential exposure and protect your family from harmful lead chemicals.

Aesthetics

Bathroom remodels provide an opportunity to improve your home’s aesthetic. Your bathroom is one of the most important rooms in your house, and it should be a place where you feel comfortable, happy and calm. If your bathroom is in disrepair and outdated, it can make you feel like your home is unfinished. With a simple remodel, you can transform your bathroom into an elegant oasis.

Adding cabinets is one of the most effective ways to add storage space and create a more streamlined look in your bathroom. You can also take advantage of existing spaces in your bathroom to increase storage space, such as unused corners or the area under your sink. Increasing storage space in your bathroom will not only improve the overall appearance of your bathroom, but it will also help reduce clutter and keep your home organized.

If you want to make your bathroom more modern, consider removing the tub and replacing it with a large shower. Shower fixtures can be designed to spray multiple directions, giving you the feeling of being in a spa while you shower. You can also find shower heads that offer a variety of spray settings, including pulsing jets for massaging your body.

Another way to improve the look of your bathroom is to add natural lighting. Natural light can help brighten up your space and make it feel more open and inviting. If you don’t have access to natural light, you can try installing light fixtures that mimic the appearance of natural light.

When you’re remodeling your bathroom, it’s also a great opportunity to upgrade your fixtures and hardware. Newer faucets and sinks will look more stylish and modern than old, outdated ones. You can choose from a wide range of different finishes and styles to match your personal taste.

Whether you decide to renovate your bathroom or remodel it completely, it’s always best to seek professional advice. A renovation expert will be able to point out any issues that you might have overlooked and help you come up with solutions that are both functional and beautiful. They can also walk you through the approval process, which varies depending on your property type and management company.

Tag: kitchen remodeling

10 Stunning Cabinet Refinishing Ideas to Modernize Your Kitchen