kitchen upgrades Archives

Sleek Style: Top Kitchen Remodel Trends for 2023

Posted on April 7, 2023April 7, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

modern kitchen with marble backsplash, marble island, charcoal cabinetry, rustic brick walls, plank wood ceiling feature with dark-stained beams — *Photo courtesy of* *PB Kitchen Design & Cabinetry*

From marble-clad backsplashes to mixed warm woods and streamlined cabinetry, the kitchen is an ever-evolving space. This essential heart-of-the-home fluxes with our changing lifestyles, functionality needs, and storage demands. Plus, a modern kitchen remodel is one of the top home improvement projects that can drastically increase the value of your lake home. So, what’s on trend for 2023? We went to kitchen expert Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, owner of Schlosser Design Group, LLC in Dallas, TX, for her top picks. Cristie is a seasoned design expert and the former president of the North Texas Plains Chapter of the National Kitchen & Bath Association, the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry.

“I immediately feel a space when I enter it,” she says. “Interior design is very intuitive for me. It is about function and flow first—and style follows.”

Sculleries & Butler’s Pantries

butler's pantry with blue cabinetry, stainless steel backsplash, built-in refrigerator, glassed cabinets, built-in microwave, black and white marble tile floor — *Photo courtesy of Dylan Riley Foto via* *Good Housekeeping*

If you love entertaining, a scullery or butler’s pantry is an ideal addition to your home. Plus, it is one of the top kitchen remodel trends for 2023. Typically located just off the kitchen, this space offers a place to discreetly store dishes on open shelves for easy access. “You can even opt to install a second sink and dishwasher that keeps the clutter out of the main kitchen area,” says Cristie. “With an open-concept floor plan, a butler’s pantry or scullery greatly improves your ease of entertaining because the heavy work is done behind the scenes.”

A scullery or butler’s pantry is a great space for caterers to prep for your special events. It also gives the family another cozy spot for grabbing a morning coffee and light breakfast fare.

Walk-In Pantries

walk-in pantry with open shelving, countertops for small appliances, mini refrigerator — *Photo courtesy of* *Pinterest*

Similar to the butler’s pantry, a walk-in pantry is also on the must-have list for the modern kitchen. “Open pantries that you can walk into and keep all your small appliances on shelves that can easily be seen and reached enhances the cooking experience,” says Cristie.

Here, a beverage refrigerator offers extra space to store cold drinks for family and guests. In addition, walls of open shelving offer plenty of room for dishes, utensils, cookware, and dry goods.

Snack Stations

Snack bar or snack station with hanging metal shelves for snacks, full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, stone countertops, snack station in home theater — *Photo courtesy of* *Décor Pad*

A snack bar or station is a perfect option for a home theater or a large open kitchen. You can use a series of baskets, containers, and shelving systems to stash chips, nuts, candy, and popcorn—along with a built-in microwave at counter height placed near open counter space.

“The number-one reason to include a snack bar in your lake home is to accommodate your guests,” says Cristie. “Many lake homeowners have visitors for long weekends and holidays, and it’s great to let guests feel at home without asking for a snack or drink.”

This one was designed in a chic gray palette for a movie room and includes a stainless-steel stove, range hood, and refrigerator, and a microwave drawer installed beneath white quartz countertops. A dramatic black marble backsplash complements the dark gray cabinetry.

In-Wall Filtered Water Stations

In-wall filtered water station by Elkay ezH20 Liv Built-in Filtered Water Dispenser — *Photo courtesy of* *Elkay*

“Along with today’s trend of using refillable water bottles, I love the in-wall water filter,” says Cristie. “This makes it super-easy to refill your bottles, and it can be installed close to an outdoor exit. One of our favorites is the ezH2O Liv Built-in Filtered Water Dispenser from Elkay.”

Convenient Coffee Bars

coffee bar in kitchen with gray cabinetry, white and gray marble countertop, built-in microwave, drawers, cupboards, storage cabinets above countetop — *Photo courtesy of* *Schlosser Design Group*

Another kitchen remodel trend must-have is an independent coffee bar that’s conveniently located and doesn’t disrupt other kitchen prep work. “This coffee and drink station includes an under-counter beverage fridge and microwave so family and friends can easily access them at any time,” says Cristie.

This coffee bar, designed by Schlosser Design Group, is outfitted with elegant white marble accented with soft gray cabinetry. Brushed nickel hardware coordinates with the sleek aesthetic, and extra drawers and overhead cabinets provide storage space for table linens, utensils, and decorative accessories.

Stone Slabs

Gorgeous stone slabs bring a sense of organic beauty to your kitchen while creating depth and visual interest. Cristie’s tips include:

Using a natural stone slab with lots of movement and earthy colors to bring the outdoors inside and connect with nature
Try soapstone and treat it with oil to keep the finish rich and prevent it from absorbing spills
Onyx and aggregates can be backlit and add vitality to a bar or island front

Mixed Metals

Mixed metal hardware in modern kitchen, gold trimmed metal counter stools, stainless steel range hood, gold faucet fixtures, glass orb mult-tiered lighting fixture over wood island, flower pattern tile backsplash — *Photo courtesy of Gail Owens via* *Good Housekeeping*

Mixing metals—faucets, light fixtures, cabinet hardware, seating frames—is gaining popularity in modern kitchen updates, especially in 2023. “We love to use mixed-metal finishes in our projects,” says Cristie. “They are particularly good for a lake house because you can pull in a more industrial look, which lends itself to a rustic environment. In addition, many appliance and plumbing brands have started to add color options to their appliances and kitchen sink lines, which is a great way to punch up a lake home retreat.”

With that advice in mind, Cristie offers these additional tips:

Mix oil-rubbed bronze, black, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and antique brass to add depth and interest to your space
Use different finishes on lighting and cabinet hardware versus matching finishes
Add earthy metal tones with bright white to create dynamic contrast

We hope these ideas inspire you to update your lake home kitchen in 2023. For even more kitchen remodel trends, check out The Spruce.

Kitchen Evolution: Top Kitchen Trends 2023

Posted on March 7, 2023March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Sunapee New Hampshire Lake House | Lauren Miles Interior Design — *Photo courtesy of* *Lauren Miles Interior Design*

The heart of the home continues its evolution in 2023. This year, the top kitchen trends are more thrilling than ever. As lake lovers, our never-ending quest for soothing spaces, natural materials, and nature-inspired hues has reinvented how we think about this favorite gathering space. No longer considered a purely functional place where you prepare meals, the kitchen has transcended into a real living space where people come together, dine, celebrate, and work from home. Plus, our desire to integrate the kitchen with other living spaces has also inspired us to embellish it like other rooms with artwork, collectibles, and refined materials.

In addition, color is making a comeback in 2023, with cabinet hues in dusty blues, sage greens, neutral browns, and earthy terracottas. B o ld pattern is trending in opulent stone slabs cladding kitchen countertops, waterfall islands, and backsplashes. Natural stone elements, lustrous metals, wooden accents, and eco-friendly materials that create an organic vibe are also having a moment in 2023.

So even if you’re not looking for a full kitchen remodel, don’t be afraid to try out some of these ideas for a fresh, updated look. Apply a new backsplash, paint your cabinets or island base, and bring in some new artwork and accessories. Here’s our list of some of the top kitchen trends for 2023.

Full Circle

Who says a kitchen island has to be rectangular? Like a round dining table, rounded edges are delightfully inclusive and inviting. They inspire convivial group conversation and encourage guests to gather ‘round. Last year, we saw the emergence of curvaceous, rounded furniture, and 2023 has extended that idea to the kitchen—taking the trend full circle. This one from Cesar’s Tangram collection was inspired by the ancient Chinese game of geometric shapes that can be combined to create endless figures. The collection includes five curved elements that can be added to Cesar’s modules to build kitchen islands with unusual shapes.

Statement Stone

*Photo courtesy of Steven Dewall via* *Good Housekeeping*

Dramatic stone features are becoming the central focus of the modern kitchen. Marble waterfall islands, countertops, and backsplashes that showcase the beauty of the material are becoming increasingly popular. Plus, the natural stone brings a lustrous organic element to the kitchen and pairs exceptionally with warm wood finishes. Here, the cabinetry color echoes the soft gray veining in the marble. Additionally, it creates a striking contrast against the light finish of the wood-plank flooring.

Brilliant Backsplashes

*Photo courtesy of Amanda Kirkpatrick via* *Dwell*

Backsplashes are front and center this year as one of the hottest kitchen trends. The options are endless, and it’s one of the best ways to give your kitchen a complete makeover without breaking the bank. As functional as they are decorative, the ideal backsplash should not only protect the walls behind your countertops but also complement the cabinetry, flooring, and other design elements of your kitchen.

Available in an impressive range of options and styles, backsplash materials run the gamut from marble and natural stone to metal, stainless steel, and glass. To select one that fits your functionality needs and budget, here are some easy guidelines:

If your kitchen seems dull and lacks an exciting focal point, consider a stand-out backsplash with vibrant color or interesting decorative detail.
If your kitchen is void of natural light, choose light-reflecting materials such as lustrous metals, glass tiles, or stainless steel.
Think about ease of cleanability and choose a surface appropriate for your lifestyle.

This luminous backsplash from TileBar is composed of copper-colored stainless-steel tiles. Its gorgeous reflective capability produces a warm glow against contemporary white cabinetry with black Caesarstone countertops, and the copper look is reiterated in the cabinet hardware

Ultra-Cool Refrigeration

*Photo courtesy of* *Signature Kitchen Suite*

This innovative 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer from Signature Kitchen Suite boasts unprecedented capacity and functionality in the trendy French door configuration. Making its debut last year, this industry leader is now available on the market. It features a convertible drawer with temperature-changing capabilities, a dual ice maker with Craft Ice™, a user-friendly LCD display, and an internal water dispenser.

Looking for next-level refrigeration that will wow you and your guests? LG Studio’s MoodUP™ customizable refrigerator features color-changing LED panels, voice activation, craft ice, and Bluetooth speaker connectivity. This innovative design offers more than 190,000 color combinations to choose from. Plus, the ThinQ™ app makes matching your refrigerator to your cabinets a breeze. Knock twice on the InstaView™ glass, and you can illuminate the contents of your fridge and see inside.

Graphite & Gunmetal: The New Black

*Photo courtesy of* *Native Trails Home*

Superseding matte black hardware in 2023, graphite and gunmetal finishes are becoming the new black. A gleaming example is this new gunmetal sink from the Italian-made Precious Metals Collection from Native Trails. The handcrafted fireclay sink basin with a matte white interior integrates sleekly with an array of kitchen styles and offers an elegant complement to marble countertops and backsplashes. Look for this shimmering metal finish in hardware and plumbing fixtures as well.

Smart Water

Smart technology is everywhere, even your kitchen faucet. Recently unveiled by Kohler, the Sensate® touchless pull-down sink faucet has voice-activated technology that dispenses measured amounts of water at your command. It also includes a motion sensor that turns your water on and off with a wave of the hand. In addition, the Sensate® works with the KOHLER® Konnect™ app, which monitors water usage and notifies you of unusual flow. It is available in oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, vibrant stainless, and polished chrome finishes.

Island Dining

*Photo courtesy Interior Impressions via* *The Spruce*

Since everyone loves to hang out in the kitchen, many homeowners are opting for sit-down dining with larger islands for family meals and entertaining. In fact, many are forgoing a formal dining room altogether and instead expanding the kitchen to accommodate more seating and table surfaces. As a result, double islands are growing in popularity, as are sizeable in-kitchen dining spaces with plenty of seating and accent lighting.

So dive in, dream big, and give your lake home kitchen a modern refresh in 2023. For more top kitchen design trends, visit Elle Décor.

Stow-Away: Smart Storage Tips for Your Lake House Kitchen

Posted on August 19, 2022January 26, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Cooking at your lake house can be a sheer pleasure if your kitchen is functional and well organized. But it can quickly become an annoyance if you’re forever short on space and you’ve let clutter get out of control and take over every square inch. If you’re constantly searching for more space in your kitchen—or even the proper cooking utensils—these brilliant storage solutions will instantly simplify your life and free up that coveted counter space we all crave. For most of us, our kitchens are the favorite gathering spot in the house—the heart of our homes. So, take the challenge this year, and tidy up this most beloved hangout to make your cooking and entertaining endeavors at the lake an absolute joy.

Climb the Walls

*Photo courtesy of* *Tessa Neustadt* *via* *Dwell*

In this newly renovated lakeside home, a formerly dark-wood kitchen made the space appear closed in and dreary. Insufficient counter space and outdated cabinets only made the problem worse. After a fresh facelift, this little jewel of a kitchen feels bright, airy, and full of storage opportunities. The addition of rustic wood-beam open shelving on the walls—over the stovetop and on an empty wall next to the window—along with chicken wire installed on the cabinet fronts creates more storage space and makes the room feel open and breezy. A tip? Keep open shelf space neatly arranged with beautiful dishware and glasses that align with the kitchen’s overall color palette.

Tower Power

When you run out of horizontal space, go vertical with a handy tower countertop freestanding pot rack. This portable vertical shelving will enhance the useable space around your stovetop or anywhere you need some extra storage space atop your existing kitchen counters. This one is designed to hold all your vital kitchen tools, spices, and other basic cooking essentials. Handy hooks on the side store your hanging utensils within easy reach. Equipped with three spacious shelves, it also features gray pads on the bottom shelf that can double as trivets for hot pans fresh off the stove.

Island Oasis

*Photo courtesy of Future/Davide Lovatti via* *Homes & Gardens*

Maximize the functionality of your kitchen island by incorporating prep space, seating, and storage. Cabinets and drawers on the working side of your island make cooking a breeze and are within easy reach for the chef. On the seating side of your island, make room for some open shelving to store cookbooks, tableware, or other appealing kitchen items you don’t mind having on display. In addition, installing glass-front cabinets is also an innovative way to open up your space visually. They instantly create a light and airy sense of spaciousness you can’t get from solid-front cabinetry.

Stash & Spin

Corral your spices and oils with a miniature lazy Susan along with some clear storage bins to organize your pantry in a snap. All from Squared Away ä, this divided cabinet turntable and stackable cabinet organizers are both made of shatter-resistant plastic, ensuring long-lasting use. Ideal for a lake house, where cabinet space is often limited to essentials, these transparent storage solutions will keep your items orderly and in clear view—a beautiful sight indeed. And don’t forget to add them to the cabinet below your sink to store dish detergent and other cleaning products.

Pantry Panache

*Photo courtesy of Martin Moore via* *Homes & Gardens*

Take advantage of every square inch in your kitchen by installing a hinge-mounted shelving unit inside the pantry doors. These clever organizers can store spices, oils, and other baking goods to save space inside the pantry for larger, bulkier items. With an endless array of styles to choose from, you’re bound to find one that fits your needs, taste, and dimensions. For example, check out this one we found on Etsy that includes a full-size spice rack with baskets below for onions, potatoes, and awkward items like foil and plastic wrap.

Chop Chop!

Bring function and a touch of elegance to your counter space with this sleekly designed over-the-sink cutting board. Created by StoneWon Designs Co., the board is handmade from thick American wood that has been coated and waxed with a vegan-friendly mixture made from mineral oil, beeswax, and coconut oils. Available from West Elm in mahogany, ambrosia maple, and walnut, this clever kitchen necessity features a built-in mesh strainer that’s perfect for prepping fruits and veggies. Choose from 30-inch and 36-inch widths, depending on the size of your kitchen sink. After use, wash it clean and store it in an easy-to-reach kitchen cabinet, preferably right below your sink. Beautifully crafted and brilliant!

Magnetic Attraction

*Photo courtesy of* *Food 52* *via Architectural Digest*

An ingenious space-saving solution to be sure, this steel magnetic spice rack can attach right to the side of your refrigerator—or any other metal surface. This stream-lined Japanese design by Yamazaki can hold up to five spice jars, depending on their size. Perfect for smaller lakeside cabins, this magnificent and versatile little gem will keep your most-used spices within quick and easy reach. The shelf measures 4 inches deep by 10 inches wide and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

For more clever kitchen storage ideas to create that luxurious space you never knew you had, check out these smart kitchen solutions. From all of us at Lake Homes, cheers to a carefree—and clutter-free—life on the lake!

2022 Kitchen Design Trends

Posted on March 25, 2022March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

If your lake home kitchen is begging for a refresh this year, read on and enjoy. Today, we’ve tapped into top talent Matthew Quinn, a leading expert in kitchen, bath, and product design, to get his take on what’s hot in 2022.

Author of Volumes One and Two of his book series, Quintessential Kitchens and Quintessential Kitchens and Spaces, Matthew is a principal of the Atlanta and Nashville-based Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio and founder of the Matthew Quinn Collection, a luxury kitchen, bath, and architectural hardware showroom that blends the best of today’s products with his own expanding lines of kitchen, bath, and closet product designs.

The recipient of numerous national design awards, Matthew’s designs have been published in magazines and books, including House Beautiful, Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Elle Décor, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Luxe, and Veranda.

Matthew is also a passionate lake homeowner who knows first-hand what it takes to create fresh, functional, and beautiful spaces that make lake living a breeze—especially in the kitchen. Here are his top 7 kitchen trends for 2022.

Working Pantries

“A larger version of the walk-in pantry, these hardworking spaces feature deep countertops for all the small appliances that can be plugged in and used right there,” explains Matthew. “A sink, microwave, and sometimes an additional oven and refrigerator are popular add-ons for this highly functional and versatile kitchen space,” he adds. “These are especially perfect for lake houses, so your coffee maker, toaster, and other self-serve items are easily accessible and out of the way of the chef making pancakes in the main kitchen area.”

For this sleek working pantry, Matthew used dark ebony flooring against contrasting glossy white cabinetry and contemporary pendant lights overhead. Glass-front cabinets showcase beautiful dishware and serving pieces that connect to the overall color palette.

“When designing or renovating your kitchen, keep in mind that all the features of a traditional city kitchen can easily be translated to the comforts of your lake home,” notes Matthew.

Handmade Tile Backsplashes

*Matthew Quinn’s lake house kitchen.*
*Photo courtesy of* *Emily Followill*

“I love the perfect-imperfect aesthetic of handmade tile,” says Matthew. “The more uneven edges and undulating surfaces, the better,” he adds. “This look is especially ideal if you’re wanting a relaxed yet sophisticated lake home vibe.”

Create unique looks to suit any taste using oversized rectangles or even 4-inch square tiles. Depending on your style, you can incorporate a wide range of complementary hues to design eye-catching patterns or simply select one color for harmonious continuity.

“I love using a honed countertop with a glossy handmade tile and letting candlelight reflect on the tile—similar to what you see when the moon reflects on the water,” sums Matthew.

Antique Metal Finishes

“Antique finishes are warm, inviting, and casual,” says Matthew, “and they also represent a relaxed lifestyle. You can even mix them with more lustrous contemporary surfaces to introduce a charming vintage feel in your kitchen,” he notes.

Here, an otherwise modern kitchen gets a hint of antique-like patina via a brass-topped pub-style table that connects visually to an antique brass and stainless-steel hood over the stovetop. “Lake homes are all about entertaining with effortless ease,” says Matthew. “When you’re at the lake, having to maintain or worry about polished finishes should not be a priority or an item on your to-do list,” he laughs.

Steam Ovens

“Microwaves are becoming a thing of the past,” says Matthew. “These days, single-serve coffeemakers are the norm, so there is no reason to reheat coffee—and popcorn is mostly bought in bags in the chips aisle,” he adds. “Enter steam ovens. This innovative appliance will reheat your food as if you just made it fresh and cook just about anything else perfectly with healthier results,” he adds.

Steam ovens maintain more nutrients in your food, cook more evenly, and eliminate the need for oil. They look just as sleek as other built-ins, so no worries that your steam oven will appear cumbersome, even in a smaller lake home. And if you still insist on having a microwave, simply stack both for an elegant, uniform look that will bring more versatility to your kitchen.

The “New” Shiplap

“Vertical and horizontal wall planking has been the rage for many years—especially in lake houses,” says Matthew. “Now, designers are pushing the envelope with cabinetry, walls, and entire rooms outfitted in fluted, ribbed, and square-beaded facings. It looks amazing—like these high-gloss fluted butler’s pantry cabinets. But be careful with fluted or ribbed walls, as art can be difficult to hang,” he cautions.

Strip Lighting

“I have never before seen technology in lighting move so quickly,” says Matthew. “LED strips and accent lighting are becoming smaller and smaller, making the source of the light almost unnoticeable. We are installing them everywhere—under each stair tread, under the toe-kicks of bathroom cabinets, under beds for night lights with motion sensors that turn on when you get out of bed, and, of course, in ceilings, outdoor kitchens, and open shelves,” he sums.

These high-tech lights offer lake homeowners endless opportunities to install wherever you like—especially in the kitchen. Here, soft and subtle cabinet lighting illuminates wine bottles and barware, creating a dazzling focal point when entertaining family and guests.

Color

“At no time in my career have I seen such enthusiasm to use lots of color in the kitchen—from cabinets to ranges to countertops,” says Matthew. “Although white will always be classic, it is now considered too safe. Clients are wanting to make this highly visible and most-used space all about their personalities and not about the marketability of selling the house later. And at the lake, there is no better inspiration for color than looking out the window to all the colors outside,” he adds.

For this kitchen, orange is the superstar, even though used sparingly. Just small pops of vibrant color—a La Cornue range, orange throw, and orange-trimmed upholstered banquette—are all it takes to create dynamic visual impact and personalize this most beloved space.

If you’re interested in working with Matthew on your own dream kitchen, click here. From all of us at Lake Homes, here’s wishing you a blissful 2022 at the lake—cheers!

New Year, New Styles: Lake Home Interior Design Trends in 2020

Posted on December 27, 2019December 27, 2019 Camille Smith

It’s hard to believe that 2019 is almost over. We hope it’s been a year full of boat rides, bonfires, fishing, and generally enjoying all the seasonal luxuries that your lake house has to offer. As the new year approaches, you might be brainstorming exciting interior design ideas. Maybe you’re thinking of redecorating your living room with a nautical theme or finally buying new curtains for the guest bedroom.

Regardless of the project, we’re here to help inspire you with the latest interior design trends that are on the horizon in 2020. To get a sneak peek into these up-and-coming trends, we consulted Anne Mueller, a residential interior designer and co-president of Briar Design based outside of Boston. She told us about three specific trends to be on the lookout for next year!

White Kitchens are Out the Window

Warm natural toned kitchen with exposed beam ceiling

For several years, white kitchens have been a popular interior design trend for lake homeowners. They create a clean, fresh look in contrast with the rugged outdoors. However, new kitchen trends are moving away from purely white kitchens because this minimalist look can evoke a cold, sterile feel. To add a sense of warmth, Mueller notes that “designers and lake homeowners alike are opting for richer finishes such as “off-white” colors like beige, light gray and bone or even taking a bolder approach and going for more saturated colors like navy that used to only be relegated to the island.” So before painting your kitchen counter white, keep in mind that slightly darker tones may make your space feel a little warmer and inviting.

Green is the Color of the Year

Smith and Vasant Architecture lake house in Vermont with green paint and view of the lake interior design trend — Photo courtesy of Smith and Vasant Architects.

Although Pantone named “Classic Blue” as the color of the year for 2020, Mueller comments that in fact, the real winner is actually green. Especially for lake homes, the idea of “bringing the outdoors in” is a staple interior design trend. As such, integrating different shades of green in your interior decor will seamlessly extend the natural look of the outdoors into your home. Mueller advises against using only one shade of green. She notes, “Green pairs very well with other shades of the same color. The rule of thumb is any combination you find in nature, works in interior design.” Just as the trees in your backyard have different colored leaves at any given time, don’t be afraid to venture beyond forest green tones in your home.

Wallpaper is Making a Comeback

Striped navy blue wallpaper with paintings and vibrant pillows on daybed interior design trend — Photo courtesy of One Kings Lane.

The days of subtle, muted toned painted walls are over as 2019 comes to an end. Instead, wallpaper is back in style and designers are seeing it everywhere. While overtly lake-printed wallpaper of sailboats and canoes might be too on-the-nose for a lake house, Mueller recommends that lake homeowners select long-lasting colors or graphic patterns. She comments that patterned walls “offer a sense of texture and warmth.” While Mueller does not advise selecting lake-themed wallpaper, this rule of thumb does not extend to accent pieces. She offers, “Go ahead and get the duck pillow and the tray with the hand-painted harbor scene. These decorative touches are easy to swap out after a season should you get tired of them!”

We hope these tips inspire your own interior design endeavors in the upcoming year! In the meantime, you can follow Anne at @briar_design on Instagram to keep track of the latest looks.

For more home improvement advice and tips, take a quick look at “Top 5 Lake Home Upgrades That Can Backfire on Sellers“.

Lake Home Tips: Kitchen Upgrades to Make Your Space Feel Bigger

Posted on September 14, 2018June 12, 2019 Staff

To be honest, most of the time spent at your lake home is spent outdoors – as it should be. But the second-most popular place at your lake home is inside: It’s your kitchen, and when you’re entertaining your family and friends, a cramped space just won’t do.

Construction crews aside, there are many simple ways to make your kitchen feel bigger. Take a look at the few examples below to see how you can update your space this lake season!

White and Wood

Lightening up the color of your kitchen may sound simple, but it’s effective.

Lighter colors, such as creams and whites, are better at reflecting light, which helps create the illusion of a larger room.

To take your upgrade a step further, interior designers suggest putting up trim around the top of your space, painted an even lighter color than the walls.

Add texture to your kitchen by paneling your walls with whitewashed wooden planks, commonly known as shiplap.

Popularized by the HGTV show “Fixer Upper,” shiplap can not only help make your kitchen feel bigger, but it can also make your space feel warm and cozy, like a comfy lake cabin.

Or, when accented appropriately, can give your kitchen a coastal vibe.

Let the Light in

Another technique to making your space feel bigger, is increasing the amount of natural light that flows into it.

Do away with your dark colored window shams and thick, heat-blocking curtains, and spring for a set of indoor shutters that can be opened and closed at your leisure while still inviting in ample sunlight.

You can also incorporate reflective surfaces in your kitchen. Similar to how lighter colors can make a space feel roomier, so can reflective surfaces like stainless steel appliances and metallic backsplashes.

Eliminating low-hanging chandeliers and frosted light fixtures can also open up a room.

Redo Your Floors

Installing patterned flooring is another option to consider when attempting to make your space feel bigger.

One way to achieve this is to use over-sized tiles in your kitchen. The size of these will help to create a sense of wideness to the area.

In selecting these tiles, choose similar colors that are slightly different, such as a slate and a lighter grey. Dark floors will contrast well with your light walls.

If you want hardwood floors, install planks of alternating colors. As with your tile, be sure not to very the color drastically. Slight variations will achieve the look you desire without being visually jarring.

Another tip is to install your hardwood floors vertically, rather than horizontally. This will help make your space look as it longer.

Incorporate Open Shelving

Ditch your boxy ceiling-to-counter shelves and opt for several open shelving units.

This will help add depth to your kitchen by optimizing the amount of light in your space and help make better use of your wall space.

Often thick and dark, closed cabinetry can also have an oppressive effect on a space.

Open storage aides in functionality of your kitchen by eliminating the time you take hunting down that pot or pan, as well as makes the room more inviting.

So before you call the contractor, try out one of these simple upgrade suggestions for making your space feel bigger, and be sure to check out our other home improvement articles here and here!