Invigorate Your Raised Ranch Kitchen With These Brilliant Remodel Ideas
Raised ranch style homes are a popular choice among many homeowners. Their practical layout and ample space are great for busy families. However, their kitchens can start to feel dark, closed off, and dated over time. The good news is there are many terrific ways to open up and modernize a raised ranch kitchen through remodeling.
With strategic layout changes, updated cabinetry and finishes, and smart lighting selections, you can transform your raised ranch kitchen into an invigorated space for cooking, dining, and spending quality time together. Read on for brilliant raised ranch kitchen remodel ideas that will help you create a more open, stylish, and livable heart of your home.
Open Up Your Space With An Open Concept Kitchen
One of the best ways to update a raised ranch kitchen is to open it up to adjacent living areas. Creating an airy, connected open concept kitchen instantly makes the space feel more current and spacious.
Knock Down Walls For An Airy, Connected Layout
Eliminating walls between the kitchen and dining room or living room is a dramatic way to get an open concept floorplan. Taking down barriers allows natural light to flow between rooms and creates a more inviting gathering area for cooking, eating, and relaxing together. Be sure to consult a structural engineer before removing any load-bearing walls.
Extending the same flooring, cabinets, and other elements throughout the kitchen and surrounding rooms also enhances visual flow. Just be sure to maintain adequate separation for each functional zone.
Add Pass-Throughs and Breakfast Bars
If knocking down full walls seems too drastic, consider adding wide pass-through openings or installing a breakfast bar. Even relatively modest openings of 3-4 feet between rooms can make spaces feel connected. A breakfast bar island is ideal for quick meals and casual dining while keeping some separation intact.
Pay attention to sight lines when creating pass-throughs. You want to make sure you can see through to the adjoining room. Locate them thoughtfully to open up views and facilitate traffic flow.
Repeat Design Elements For A Unified Look
Using matching or complementary materials on flooring, cabinetry, lighting and other features is key to making an open concept kitchen cohesive. Think about extending the kitchen backsplash tile, flooring, or paint color into the dining room. Repeat cabinetry finishes too. The goal is to allow the eye to flow smoothly around the connected space.
Just be careful not to make the aesthetic overly matchy-matchy. Vary textures and introduce architectural details to define different zones while maintaining harmony.
Optimize Your Layout With A Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are a perfect addition for raised ranch floorplans. Islands not only provide extra prep space and storage, but they also allow for casual dining and conversation. Keep these tips in mind when adding an island during your remodel.
Include Seating For Casual Dining
Look for islands with an overhang or space to tuck stools for seating. A breakfast bar configuration lets you take advantage of the raised ranch's spacious layout and creates a spot for quick family meals. Sitting at the island fosters easy interaction while cooking.
Opt for sturdy counter height stools with back support. And make sure there’s adequate room to pull them out without blocking doorways or work zones.
Add Storage And Work Space
Islands are the perfect place to add extra kitchen storage. Incorporate drawer bases, pull-out shelves, and corner storage solutions. For ample workspace, extend your island top at least 15 inches beyond base cabinets. This gives you room for rolling out dough and other tasks.
Consider including additional appliances like another sink or wine fridge. Islands can also support pendant lighting over prep zones and under cabinet task lighting.
Moveable Islands Offer Flexibility
Installing your island on casters offers the flexibility to reconfigure your layout down the road. Movable islands can be rolled around to better suit different functions or gatherings. Just be sure to use heavy-duty casters and locks so your island stays securely in place during use.
Update Your Cabinetry For Maximum Storage And Style
Most raised ranch kitchens have an abundance of dated, closed off cabinetry. Replacing old cabinets is one of the most dramatic ways to revitalize the space. From fresh paint to new door styles and hardware, cabinet updates make a huge impact.
Glass Doors For An Airy, Open Feel
Incorporating some glass-front upper cabinets keeps your kitchen looking open and airy while still offering storage. Mixing open shelving and glass doors with some solid door bases creates pleasing texture and dimension. For durability, opt for tempered glass inserts.
Glass fronts also allow you to display attractive dishware while keeping it dust-free. Led lighting inside glass cabinets can create an eye-catching glow.
Timeless Shaker-Style Cabinets
Clean-lined shaker cabinetry offers a versatile look that suits both contemporary and traditional kitchens. Their simple recessed door panels and smooth surfaces fit right in with today's styles. Choose a paint color like light grey or antique white for a fresh modern look.
Shaker cabinets' flexible design also allows for lots of customization options. Go for more character with open shelving, accent colors inside, or unique hardware.
Fresh Coat Of Paint On Cabinets
Don't underestimate the transformative power of paint! Just painting tired cabinets white, especially if walls are light too, visually expands the kitchen. Soft greys, blues and greens are also uplifting. Consider accenting an island base in a deeper tone for contrast.
For a budget-friendly DIY, properly prep and use high-quality cabinet paint. Replace outdated hardware while you’re at it.
New Hardware And Hinges For Facelift
Freshen up your cabinets by swapping out dated round knobs for flat bar pulls or angled handles in brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or matte black. Concealed soft-close hinges give a smooth, modern look.
Add Personality With Your Kitchen Backsplash
The backsplash is the perfect place to add eye-catching style. From sleek metal to handmade tile, backsplash materials come in endless options. Consider these ideas to complement your raised ranch kitchen:
White Subway Tile - Classic and Timeless
Subway tile has versatility to match any style. White is clean and bright, reflecting light to make the kitchen feel more spacious. Add dark grout for contrast.
Mosaic Tile - Colorful and Textured
Small mosaic tiles pack visual punch. Introduce pops of color, geometrics, or stone-look tiles. Keep patterns simple for a balanced look against busy cabinetry.
Metal Backsplash - Sleek and Modern
Brushed brass, copper, or stainless steel backsplashes infuse contemporary appeal. Metallic finishes add subtle shine and warmth. Coordinate metals with fixtures and hardware.
Stone Backsplash - Natural Material
Dimensional stone like marble, travertine, or slate brings lovely texture. Opt for polished stones for a dressier vibe or tumbled for rustic charm. Neutral tones keep the look refined.
Glass Tile - Shiny and Luxe
Glass tile comes in every color and imparts high-end style with its translucent, mirrored finish. Accent a neutral kitchen with jewel tones or bright pops. Glass tile gleams when illuminated.
Patterned Tile - Fun and Bold
Make a statement with playful patterned or handpainted tile. Geometric motifs, Moroccan influences, and floral designs infuse personality. Keep surrounding finishes simple so the tile design shines.
More Raised Ranch Kitchen Remodel Ideas
In addition to layout, cabinetry, and backsplashes, don't neglect these elements during your raised ranch kitchen overhaul:
Countertops and Sinks
Quartz and granite countertops are popular options that add style and durability. Undermount sinks have a streamlined look. Add a stylish faucet in black stainless, matte black, or brass finishes.
Appliances
Update appliances to energy efficient models with the latest features and finishes like black stainless or custom color panels that complement your design.
Lighting
Thoughtful lighting makes any kitchen shine. Incorporate recessed ceiling lights, pendant lights over islands and counters, and under cabinet LED strips.
Flooring
Durable luxury vinyl plank, wood-look porcelain tile, and vinyl sheet flooring are great options for remodeling kitchens. Just ensure proper waterproofing.
Architectural Details
Elevate your kitchen with trim accents, open shelves, arches between rooms, or columns supporting a eat-in bar area. Decorative vents and moldings add character.
Fresh Paint Finishes
Painting walls, cabinets, and adding colorful lacquered or stained islands are fast ways to reinvigorate the ambiance. Uplifting hues create an energized mood.
With good planning and design selections, you can breathe new life into a dated raised ranch kitchen. Removing walls to open the floorplan, adding a kitchen island, installing beautiful backsplashes, and updating cabinetry and finishes allows you to create a fresh, stylish kitchen your family will enjoy for years to come. Use these remodeling ideas to enhance your home’s function and value.