The old adage is true: the kitchen really is the heart of the home. If designed correctly, the layout should be conducive to serving as the main space for socializing and hosting while enjoying a bite to eat.
Ironically, it also has the potential to be one of the messiest spaces in your home. In the whirlwind of preparing food for your family and guests, the necessity to clean is a near constant in the kitchen. In preparation for this messy flow of food, it is important to plan ahead!
If you are considering remodeling your kitchen or are in the throes of designing a brand-new kitchen for your custom home, we suggest you take a few things into consideration. Set yourself up for success with these low-maintenance finishes:
Flooring: Whether or not you live in a humid environment, the kitchen is inevitably a “wet zone” between the humidity that builds from cooking, spills, and the like. To combat this, consider using ceramic or porcelain tiles, specially-treated engineered hardwood, or even a vinyl finish for your flooring. These materials are scratch resistant and do not absorb a lot of moisture.
Cabinets: Think smooth and easy to clean when it comes to cabinets. Flat-panel doors allow for less dust to settle into grooves and smooth surfaces without much grain allow for easy wipe-downs. Select finishes and materials that facilitate an overall quick cleanup process when the residue from cooking builds up.
Countertops: Countertops made from quartz are our go-to when a client is concerned about keeping a clean kitchen, as they’re engineered for wear and tear. Quartz is highly resistant to stains and is available in many different shades, plus it requires much less care and upkeep compared to other materials like marble or granite. Quartz has strength and durability that will last for years and years and still look brand new.
Finishes: Whether it be paint or stain, the final coat that you select can be a game changer. Satin paints function well on cabinets as they are durable and do not absorb as much moisture. If paint is not the look you are going for, use a well-sealed stain that can endure scrubbing and cleaning over time.
Appliances: Love it or hate it, stainless steel is commonly used on appliances as it is highly durable and fairly easy to clean. If you’re not a fan of shiny silver, there are also black stainless options that are still easy to clean but don’t have that bright, metallic finish.
Adding these finishes to your kitchen will help expedite your daily cleanings and make the messy but delicious meals shared with friends and family worth it.
Let’s start designing YOUR perfect custom kitchen! Contact us to learn more and make your dream home a reality.
