by Nancy Boudreau | Feb 27, 2023 | Uncategorized
When it comes to entertaining guests, the kitchen is often the heart of the home. It’s where people gather to cook, eat, and socialize. So, if you’re planning a remodel and you’re an entertainer at heart, it’s important to keep that in mind when designing your new space.
→ One key element to consider is an open-concept layout, which allows for easy flow and interaction between the kitchen and other living areas.
→ Another important feature to consider is a large island, which can serve as a focal point for gatherings and provide additional counter and storage space.
Add Built-in Features and Additional lighting to Your Space
There are other elements you can include in your design to make it more suitable for entertaining:
→ You can include a built-in wine cooler or a bar area with a sink!
→ Additional lighting, such as under-cabinet lighting or pendant lights over the island, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere
→ A built-in table or seating for your island, which can be very convenient for hosting meals or events.
→ A sound system, as it allows you to play music or podcasts while you cook or chit-chat with your friends and fam!
→ A TV or projection screen. How incredible is it to watch your favourite sports games or run movie marathons with tacos and beer?
→ A built-in coffee station allows everyone to help themselves to coffee or tea without leaving the kitchen. For all those cozy winter afternoons where all you want is to have your coffee-lover buddies over for a nice tittle-tattle!
In summary, the kitchen is an ideal spot for hosting a wide range of events, from elegant dinner parties to laid-back game nights and brunch. It can be transformed into the ultimate venue, with a well-designed layout and features!
Things To Consider: Choosing The Right Materials
Durable and low-maintenance materials are ideal for a kitchen that is frequently used for entertaining. For example, choosing countertops made of granite or quartz, which are both durable and resistant to stains and scratches, can be wise…
Hardwood flooring or tile are excellent options, as they can withstand heavy foot traffic and spills without showing much wear and tear. Furthermore, they add a touch of elegance and are versatile enough to complement a variety of design styles.
Note: The kitchen is not just about the physical space or the appliances and utensils that fill it. It is also a reflection of our spirit, a symbol of our connection to the natural world and our desire to create and sustain. A place of nourishment, not just for our bodies but also for our souls, a place where memories are made, and traditions are passed down.
by Nancy Boudreau | Jan 17, 2023 | Uncategorized
Have you noticed that no matter how organized your plastic container drawer is or how neatly labeled your spice cabinet is, it always returns to its natural state of disaster? After a while, you can’t fully function in your kitchen.
Although everything looks like it’s in the proper place, something slows down the workflow when you cook or have guests over. You might think it’s a question of limited space, or you need a “Marie Kondo” miracle, but the truth is that your kitchen might not be very intuitively designed…
Ergonomics is more than an office chair that improves posture to reduce back pain. This not-so-new branch of science is the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems to fit the people who use them. It studies how the human body relates to its environment: standing, sitting, reaching and moving.
From an interior design and architecture perspective, kitchen ergonomics have predetermined rules to facilitate functionality. Think of a triangle , and the 3 points are prepping, cooking and cleaning. Every angle is carefully thought out and measured to create dedicated areas for working efficiently and effectively.
Imagine standing at the kitchen sink, scrubbing away at dirty dishes, and the dishwasher door is perpendicular to the sink counter, blocking your access to the clean plates inside. It’s a frustrating inconvenience that could have been easily avoided with a bit of thoughtful design. Or, when you arrive home laden with groceries, there is no convenient spot to set down your keys and bags as you enter your open vestibule, leaving you awkwardly juggling your items. Not very practical, is it? These subtle details may seem insignificant at first, but they can greatly impact your daily life.
Incorporating ergonomics into kitchen design can help improve access and minimize strain and stress, because it’s not just a matter of convenience and performance; it’s also a matter of safety. Here are some tips to help improve the way you navigate your kitchen space:
Pots and pans that are used frequently should be stored in a drawer near the stovetop. The oven is more accessible in a tower rather than under the stovetop. Properly organizing a storage cabinet makes it easy to find ingredients. Cabinets with drawers are suitable for organizing food storage. Also, keeping dishes near the sink is convenient, so you don’t have to carry heavy items around.
Another tip is to consider the height of the user: Kitchen units should be at a height that is comfortable and easy to reach. For most people, this means that the top of the kitchen units should be at or slightly below elbow height when the user is standing. Furthermore, choosing a durable and easy-to-clean countertop material can help drastically.
Use pull-out shelves and organizers: Pull-out shelves and organizers can help make items in lower cabinets and pantries more easily accessible. You can also opt for assistive devices, such as step stools and reach extenders, which allow users to access things that are out of reach.
By reducing the need for awkward or uncomfortable positions and the risk of injury, ergonomic spaces can help prevent fatigue and improve overall comfort and productivity. Ergonomic design is essential in any workspace, but it is particularly important in areas where the risk of strain or injury is higher, such as in the kitchen, where there may be a lot of lifting and carrying of heavy items. Whether you are building a new kitchen or looking to make changes to an existing space, incorporating ergonomics into your design can help you create a functional and enjoyable kitchen. With a bit of planning and attention to detail from our experts at Cuisine Nuenza , we can create a space that meets your needs and help you work more comfortably and efficiently.
by Nancy Boudreau | Nov 29, 2022 | Uncategorized
A beautiful kitchen is any homeowner’s dream. It’s where families and friends gather to create unforgettable moments. It’s an oasis for cooking enthusiasts to share their love language: food. And, even with a small budget, you can still renovate your kitchen and make it look classy without breaking the bank. But first, you need the right renovation ideas. Below are ten renovation ideas to make your kitchen look elegant.
Install a New Sink
As it’s your kitchen’s focal point, adding a new sink can make it look brand new. Choosing a sink material that matches your style is the first step to creating a beautiful space. Keep in mind that depending on what you choose, whether it’s ceramic, stainless steel or granite, some materials are more durable than others.
Change the Countertops
Changing your countertops is an option that will make all the difference. And, while you’re at it, think about how to make your cooking area more functional. Hey! It’s where the weekly meal preps happen! Marble is fabulous, but it might not be the best for practicality and maintenance. Butcher blocks are a fantastic idea as they are an affordable alternative to stone. They also look great with any cabinet and wall color, so you might want to consider them… And remember: your style and your lifestyle will determine the proper type of countertop for your kitchen.
Change the Flooring
There are many ways to make your kitchen more stylish and comfortable, but one of the most common is changing the flooring. You can use various materials, from natural stone to tiles. But which ones are best? We can help you choose.
Install New Cabinets
Replacing your cabinets can give your kitchen a brand-new look. And, as a bonus: it can also increase the value of your house. Installing new cabinets is a great way to make your kitchen stand out. You can choose anything from solid wood doors to European Laminate.
Add a Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are one of the most popular features in modern kitchen designs, and thank the gods of home decor for that, as it’s better to have more counter space than none! They also serve as makeshift dining tables. Additionally, they create the illusion of more space in a kitchen.
Add New Lighting
Add new lighting to set the mood of your new kitchen. You can make any kitchen more aesthetically pleasing with creative lighting. You’ll also get a better sense of the room and enjoy cooking more.
Change the Colors
Change the colors to make your kitchen modern and stylish. Red and white look stunning when paired together for a modern look. Red represents passion, love, desire, and fire, while white emphasizes sleek positivity.
Install a Backsplash
Installing a backsplash can create a contrast of space and color in your kitchen. A backsplash can go on the wall behind your sink, stove, or countertop. It’s a great way to add color and personality to your kitchen.
Add a New Faucet
If you are thinking about adding a new faucet to your kitchen, we can help you choose the right style. There are many things to consider. For example, think about the number of holes you want it to have and the amount of water pressure.
Add a New Outdoor Kitchen
The Outdoor Kitchen is a recent addition to the home, and it offers opportunities for cooking and dining outdoors. If you’re considering a new outdoor kitchen, contact us today. We can help you choose the best outdoor kitchen for your home.
by Nancy Boudreau | Oct 12, 2022 | Uncategorized
As you officially say goodbye to summer to bring out the cozy throw blankets to snuggle and scroll through the latest TikTok decor trends, you might indulge in the idea of what you want your place to look like. Of course, we know that changing your living space isn’t a walk in the park, but who are we to say no?
Here are a few tips for when you finally decide to remodel your place. Before we get into further detail, let’s clarify one tiny point: renovating and remodeling are two different things. These terms are interchangeable, yet, they are drastically different. The former is integral with restoring and reviving, whether repairing or rebuilding. In contrast, the latter alter a room’s layout, style, structure and purpose. Now that that’s out of the way, here are 4 things to keep in mind when remodeling your home
First and foremost, have a Budget
No matter your home improvement project, it will cost you, but it will be an investment in the long run. One way to keep it under control is to do your research before ever picking up a tool and to have a contingency fund for any unexpected costs. Know your budget and stick to it.
Functionality and Storage Space
If you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right, right? For instance, declutter your space before the remodel so you know what to keep, recycle or donate. As a result, you’ll be more organized and have more room to breathe, knowing everything is in its proper place. In addition, you’ll also want to consider who else besides you will benefit. Who’s coming to dinner? How many guests for your next movie or game night? This will help you figure out the interior ergonomics so that you and your friends move naturally within the room.
Set the dates
It all comes down to breaking down a project into its basic tasks, then planning them. Writing plumber and electrician appointments on a calendar or a timeline in list format can be pretty useful.
reinvent yourself
Your style, just like you, is ever-changing. It’s never a one-size-fits-all, thankfully. So remodeling is the perfect time to change it up and get creative; browse through a plethora of design styles and color palettes, mix and match them, and play with shapes and textures, too. The possibilities are endless, and the goal is to add a touch of YOU with intention. Learn more about the various styles Design Nuenza has to offer, and book your consultation with our passionate designers.
by Nancy Boudreau | Jul 20, 2022 | Kitchens
To most people, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It is where people gather and relax, enjoying each other’s company as they prepare a family meal. Unfortunately, in many cases, older kitchen designs leave a lot to be desired – in terms of functionality, layout, and décor – which can hamper meal preparation and good times.
A kitchen renovation requires a significant investment from the homeowners, which begs the questions – is a major kitchen remodel really worth it?
What Does A Kitchen Remodel Entail?
A kitchen renovation can be a big investment, but it can also have a major impact on your quality of life. A well-designed kitchen is not only more functional, but it can also make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable. In addition, a beautiful kitchen can add significant value to your home. If you’re thinking about making some changes to your kitchen, here are a few benefits to keep in mind.
First of all, a kitchen remodel can make your kitchen more user-friendly. If your current kitchen is cramped or inconveniently laid out, a renovation can give you the opportunity to create a space that better meets your needs. You can add storage, install new appliances, or reconfigure the layout to make it more functional.
In addition, a kitchen renovation can also make your kitchen more visually appealing. If you’re tired of looking at the same dated cabinets and countertops, a new kitchen can give your whole home a fresh look. You can choose from a wide variety of materials, finishes, and fixtures to create a kitchen that’s both stylish and practical.
Finally, keep in mind that a kitchen renovation can also increase the value of your home. If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, a kitchen renovation can make it more appealing to potential buyers and help you get a higher price.
Building Your Dream Kitchen
Broadly speaking kitchen renovations fall into one of two categories: either a major renovation of a minor kitchen remodel.
A major kitchen renovation typically involves gutting the entire kitchen and starting from scratch, which can be a costly and time-consuming process. A minor remodel, on the other hand, typically focuses on making smaller changes, such as replacing outdated appliances, painting existing cabinets and adding under cabinet lighting, increasing storage space or installing new light fixtures.
Kitchen Upgrades: Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets
When you start planning your kitchen upgrade, a great place to start is the kitchen cabinets. What you do with them will largely depend on your budget, but whether you choose custom cabinets or simply changing the current cabinet doors, keep in mind that upper cabinets should serve both a functional and aesthetic role, as they can dominate the overall décor.
Once you have selected your new cabinet design, the next logical step is your counters. Kitchen countertops can become tired and worn rather quickly, because they see so much traffic on a daily basis. If you are going to make the investment to remodel your kitchen, new countertops should be at the top of your list.
Kitchen countertops are a big part of any kitchen remodel. They set the tone for the whole kitchen, and they can be a big investment. That’s why it’s important to take your time to look at all the options available to you before making a final decision. Granite and marble have always been popular choices, and they’re definitely worth considering. But don’t forget about other materials like engineered quartz, wood, or even custom glass products.
There are pros and cons to each option, so do your research and decide what’s right for you. You’ll be looking at your countertops every day, so make sure you choose something you’re going to love.
The Benefits Of Kitchen Remodeling
The first thing people think about when they start considering renovations to their current kitchen is the hassle and expense it will involve. But, the long term benefits are much more valuable and worthwhile and should be considered an investment that will increase their home value rather than money they will simply spend on a whim.
Giving your kitchen a completely new look will ensure you have a more functional and enjoyable space. Cooking will no longer feel like a task in a kitchen you love, but will rather become a moment of enjoyment that helps you relieve the stress of your day.
Additionally, one of the best returns you will get from renovating your kitchen will reflect on your home’s resale value, which will increase significantly. So, to answer the question, yes, investing in the renovation of your kitchen is definitely worth it, both for your family’s well-being as well as the value of your home.