kitchen

Kitchen cabinets can be painted (if they are wood and in decent shape). Many times the cabinets themselves can be reused; it’s just the doors and drawer fronts that are tired. If they are too far gone to paint, or you just don’t want to do it, new doors and drawer fronts (refacing) can be found at the Taylor Cabinet Door Company (www.taylorcabinetdoor.com 800.852.7087). Don’t forget to get the new soft close hinges to replace the old ones. You can then install doors and fronts or hire a contractor to do the job. Taylor says it usually runs about $15 an item to get installed. For example, a good sized kitchen with 30 doors, 16 drawer fronts, and 4 false doors in painted maple (with accompanying hinges) will cost (uninstalled) around $3,800, another $300 if you want a glazed finish. There are also plenty of different woods and panel styles available. Plan on about a month, however, to receive your new custom fronts.

Cabinet door and drawer hardware – just surf the internet. There is a lot of cool stuff out there. Even Home Depot, Lowes, and IKEA have big selections.

Counter Tops – Granite is still in fashion and prices have fallen, but some of the newer materials are also gaining popularity. Quartz and silestone are less porous and just as heat resistant. Stainless steel is gaining favor. Laminates, tile, and concrete are losing popularity. Corian and wood are once again gaining popularity on the west coast – but not here in Delaware yet. It’s hard to go wrong with a decent granite and an under mounted stainless steel sink. I also really like the hands free kitchen faucets. Shop on the internet and you can find them substantially discounted!

Lighting – It’s time to get rid of the old brass bar lamps. There are a wide range of new fixtures out there that will grace any kitchen.

Appliances – Brushed stainless and nickel are the choice of the moment. Just don’t get ones that show fingerprints or discolor with heat (read reviews on the appliances you are considering). Not all expensive appliances are worth the expense. If practical get a gas cooktop/range. Obviously you need a dishwasher and refrigerator, but forget the trash compactor and maybe the wine cooler (or maybe not, they are kind of cool).

Flooring – Hardwoods and Tiles seem to rule the floor. There are plenty of exotics from which to choose from but don’t go overboard.

Backsplash – Options include tile and, well, tile. I recommend the tile!

Information courtesy of New Castle County Realtor Tucker Robbins.