Split Level Kitchen Remodel - Upgrade To An Open And Airy Space
Split level homes built in the 60s and 70s often have cramped, closed off kitchens that leave much to be desired. By opening walls, adding lighting, and selecting the right materials, you can transform your split level kitchen into a stunning, contemporary space. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to upgrade your outdated kitchen into an open, airy chef's dream.
We'll provide tips on layout changes, smart lighting techniques, material options, appliance upgrades, and more to help you create a split level kitchen that looks and functions better than ever imagined.
Assessing Your Existing Split Level Kitchen Layout
Before demolishing walls or choosing new cabinets, take time to thoroughly evaluate your current kitchen layout and workflow. This will provide the information needed to remodel your kitchen in the most efficient, functional way possible.
Take Measurements and Create Floor Plans
The first step is to measure every inch of your existing kitchen - walls, windows, appliances, and all. Be sure to note odd angles and other unique quirks of split level construction. Using these measurements, draw up a detailed floor plan of how your kitchen is now. This will serve as the blueprint for changes to come.
Mark up areas on your floor plan where issues exist, like wasted space, poor lighting, or bottlenecks. This visualization exercise will help you identify the necessary updates to improve workflow and storage.
Identify Ways to Open Up the Space
One of the main goals of a split level kitchen remodel is opening up the space to give it an airy, modern feel. Assess your current layout for opportunities to knock down walls enclosing it.
Creating an open concept by removing walls between the kitchen and adjacent dining room is a popular update. This layout makes entertaining easier by improving visibility and traffic flow.
Eliminating upper cabinets is another tactic to impart a sense of openness. Replace them with shelving or go for a minimalist look with none at all. The removal of upper cabinets draws the eye upward, expanding the feel of the room.
Adding a kitchen island is great for delineating work zones in an open concept kitchen. Islands provide extra countertop workspace and storage while defining the kitchen area.
Evaluate Workflow and Storage Needs
Consider how your family currently uses the kitchen. Make a list of what works and pain points to address in the remodel. Will usage change after the project, like more space for entertaining?
Analyze if you have adequate storage for cooking gadgets, dishes, pantry items, and more. Are cabinets and drawers conveniently located? Identify ways to improve organization and access through additional cabinets, roll-out shelves, lazy susans, and pull-out racks.
Smart Lighting Transforms a Split Level Kitchen
With their frequently low ceilings and lack of windows, lighting is critical in making split level kitchens feel bright and airy. A good lighting plan combines several layers of illumination tailored to the task and aesthetic.
Ambient Lighting
This provides overall background lighting for the space. Options like recessed can lighting, attractive ceiling mount fixtures or LED strip lights offer ambient illumination.
Generous use of recessed cans in the kitchen ceiling visually lifts the space. Washing the walls and counters in soft, even light makes a world of difference.
Task Lighting
Focused lighting on work areas allows you to clearly see food prep surfaces for chopping, cooking, and more. Under cabinet lighting provides ideal task illumination without competing with overhead ambient lighting.
Discrete LED strip lights or puck lights installed beneath wall cabinets shine down on the countertops below. This makes working in the kitchen much easier and safer.
Accent Lighting
Layering in accent lighting adds style and visual interest to the kitchen. Strategically placed lights highlight architectural details or display special features.
Mini pendant lights spaced along a kitchen island emphasize its length while breaking up a long expanse. Their warm glow makes the island an inviting focal point.
Track lighting offers flexibility to spotlight display shelves or glass-front cabinets showing off pretty dishware and collectibles.
Material and Finish Options for an Airy, Modern Aesthetic
Selecting the right materials and finishes is key to achieving the bright, contemporary look a split level kitchen remodel aims for. There are many budget-friendly options that contribute to an airy vibe.
Countertops
When choosing new countertops, popular choices like quartz and granite offer durability and style. Both come in colors like creamy white and light grays that reflect light and feel fresh.
Laminate countertops provide an affordable option starting under $10/sq.ft. The latest wood-look and stone-patterned laminates rival higher-end surfaces at a fraction of the cost.
Backsplash
An eye-catching backsplash introduces color, texture, and pattern to the kitchen. Glass, metal and ceramic tile all suit a contemporary aesthetic. Complementary neutral colors maintain the airy vibe.
Mosaic backsplashes reflect light beautifully. Tiny glass, stone or ceramic tiles in soft hues or metallic finishes create dazzling focal points.
Flooring
Durable vinyl plank flooring mimics hardwood beautifully at a lower cost. The waterproof planks install easily over existing floors, holding up well to heavy kitchen use.
Ceramic or porcelain tile floors lend a crisp, clean look. Choose larger tiles and neutral shades so the floor doesn’t overwhelm.
Paint Colors
Fresh paint using light, airy colors opens up a dark, dated kitchen instantly. Soft white, pale gray, light blue and other muted tones work well.
Consider an accent wall behind the stove or island in a bold shade like navy blue. This adds a contemporary edge while keeping the overall palette serene.
Selection of Appliances and Fixtures
The appliances and fixtures you select should match the clean lines and streamlined aesthetic of your new contemporary kitchen. Fortunately there are many budget-friendly options available.
Appliances
Purchasing floor models, open box items and scratch and dent appliances can mean big savings. Focus on finding discounted prices on must-have appliances like your range, refrigerator and dishwasher.
Look for ENERGY STAR rated models offering conveniences like convection cooking, French door refrigerators and quiet dishwashers. Stainless steel finishes suit the modern scheme nicely.
Faucets and Hardware
A sleek, eye-catching faucet makes a style statement. Matte black or brushed brass finishes complement both traditional and contemporary designs.
Hands-free faucets turn on via motion sensor or touch technology. They make it easier to maneuver in the kitchen when your hands are messy or full.
With careful planning and strategic design decisions, you can revitalize your split level kitchen into a stunning contemporary showpiece. Opening up the space, upgrading the lighting and finishes, and choosing appliances and fixtures with clean lines yields breathtaking results.
This guide provided tips on layout considerations, lighting techniques, material options and appliance selection to help you create your dream kitchen. With some vision and elbow grease, your outdated split level kitchen can become a bright, modern hub for gathering.