When you do a new or remodeled kitchen or bath, there are common regrets that people have that are easily avoided if you know what to look for beforehand.

We can help you avoid any pitfalls or regrets when you do a Brakur Custom Kitchen. Here are some of the top things that you should think about before starting your custom kitchen remodel.

Regret #1 – “I should have utilized storage space better”

Many times people don’t realize they missed some organizing opportunities until they are actually working in their new kitchen. When it’s too late.

When you look at your proposed design for your new kitchen, think through how you will utilize it. Picture yourself working in it. Walk through it in your mind, and imagine where you would want to store the things you use in your kitchen. Consider and think about different kitchen work zones. Then think about and ask your designer what organization solutions you could utilize in the correct places to help you make it ideal.

Wouldn’t it be nice if your laundry room could work for you instead of the other way around? There is nothing better than a well-organized laundry room that not only looks good but also is efficient.

The New Year is around the corner. Many take advantage of this time to begin planning and thinking about a new kitchen remodel. If you’re considering remodeling your kitchen sometime in the year, you’ll want to see what kitchen trends are predicted in 2016 to be a hit.

Just like many trends or popular styles, some may appeal to you while others won’t. Learning what trends are anticipated to be popular is a great way to help you choose kitchen design elements that won’t go out of style soon. Not only will you love your kitchen, but others will too!

White has remained a constant favorite over the years when it comes to choosing cabinet colors. According to a recent Houzz survey 49 percent of homeowners in 2014 chose a white cabinet. White is probably one of the most versatile and classic looks when it has a little spice and flair added to the kitchen. Since it appeals to at least half the American public, you don’t have to worry about your kitchen going out of style. It is a kitchen color with staying power.

For years granite countertops have remained a popular choice for many homeowners in the Chicagoland Area. Nothing with the exception of quartz has even come close to being a rival for this popular material. Still some homeowners opt for other materials because of things they have been told or just assume. Understanding what granite is and is not will help you make the decision if it is the right countertop for your Chicagoland custom kitchen remodel.

Most people have heard the terms Framed Cabinetry or Frameless (AKA “Full Access”) Cabinetry. Many wonder what the difference is between them. This article explains the basics so you can make an educated decision on what’s best for you and your project.

Framed Cabinetry

Framed cabinetry has been the tradition in the United States, and is still very popular today. Having a “picture frame” face on the cabinet identifies framed cabinetry. The sides and top and bottom attach to the front face-frame to complete the cabinet so it’s a true “box” when it’s complete.

Since it’s a full “box” cabinet, it’s considered sturdier than Frameless cabinetry, which has no face frame. A popular variation in Framed cabinetry is to vary the size of the face frame by specifying what type of “Overlay” you want. See article on Overlays here.

Finally, the doors and drawers attach to the face frame of the cabinet.

Not every home will work with a large open kitchen. Rather than go to a big expense of knocking down walls if that is an option, why not choose a layout such as a galley kitchen that will work with your current home structure.

A galley kitchen, often referred to as a corridor kitchen, is known as being one of the most efficient and user-friendly kitchen layouts. In this layout they have cabinets and appliances lined up parallel on two walls directly across from each other. Homeowners have everything they need within close proximity and it is a great way to maximize the space you have. Keep in mind that galley kitchens are most often used in smaller spaces, but they will work well in larger spaces as well. You might be surprised to find out it is also one of the more affordable layouts.

Some homeowners want just a little color where other homeowners use the bathroom to add bright and bold colors to their décor. The bathroom is the perfect place to add those striking colors. You don’t necessarily have to blend it in with the remainder of the house since it is typically closed off. So have some fun and add some personality to your home.

While most homeowners are not using it for a cabinets they are finding the wall color is the perfect place. If you grow tired of the color or it goes out of style it is easy to change and you can still keep an updated bathroom that stays updated.

When it comes to getting a new kitchen it is not something you do on a frequent basis. It is not like getting your hair done where your can easily change the style or color with minimal expense. So when choosing colors for your custom Chicagoland kitchen remodel you will want to make sure you pick colors that will not go out of style and have staying power.

With the ability to choose a painted cabinet that can be almost any color you want, it is easy to be tempted by fads that will change in just a few years. That electric blue kitchen may be fun and exciting at first, but if it is the main kitchen in your home it may get old really fast.

Getting a new custom kitchen is a big deal. It is an exciting time and definitely something to look forward to. Especially if you have been putting off that remodel or are building a new home.