When you’re remodeling or just updating any living space, you want to add value and fixtures that will stand up to years of use. So, if you’re remodeling your kitchen (or updating your plumbing or lighting), let’s see what we can do.

What’s Hot?

Single-handle kitchen faucets, like this from American Standard's Pekoe collection, are incredibly popular and can help maximize space in the kitchen.

In these days of limited resources, green technology and the desire not to be wasteful have changed the way we live. Instead of going to extravagant dinners with friends, we’re choosing to entertain at home.

With that, we keep a keen eye on consumption. Our conscientious and responsible lifestyles are never more obvious than in the kitchen, with recycle bins, water filters and compost bins popping up more and more.

Additionally, water- and energy-saving products are more popular than ever. From kitchen faucets with water-saving aerators to ENERGY STAR-rated lighting and appliances, our kitchens don’t have to be an energy black hole just because we host a dinner party.

And for those who host get-togethers often, flexible and versatile kitchen spaces go hand-in-hand. Instead of separate rooms, kitchens and dining rooms are gradually becoming one giant living space.

What’s Not?

Huge kitchens like this are gorgeous. Today's kitchens, though, tone down more on size and emphasize efficiency and multi-functionality.

Oversized fixtures and decadent consumption are in the rear view mirror. In other words “big,” expressed in a number of ways, is out.

Why go with a humongous range or refrigerator when you can do just as well with something more reasonably sized? And when you’re ready to sit down to eat, look for smaller tables that expand into a larger seating areas.

With the multi-purpose kitchen/dining room area currently in favor of kitchen designers and remodelers, separate formal dining rooms are also becoming a thing of the past.

What Stands the Test of Time?

So, if you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, what can you add that’s considered timeless? Here’s a hint: They’re very simple.

According to the International Builders’ Show earlier this year, to help your kitchen stand the test of time, consider:

• Adding warm wood finishes to cabinets and floors
• Installing granite countertops
• White kitchens

Also, attach the kitchen to an outdoor space and use windows and plants to draw of Mother Nature indoors. This is guaranteed to uplift everyone’s mood.

You spend a lot of time doing different things in your kitchen. So make the kitchen a place you don’t mind hanging out in and make it functional while you’re at it.

Until next time, Happy Home Improving!

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