Did you know that one of the best ways to increase the resale value of your home is with a kitchen redesign? This is the room in your home that is most used, and loved by you and your family. No matter whether you’re a new home owner or have lived their for years, sometimes your home just needs a little refresh. We sat down with Sandra Mendes, a Senior Projects Designer at AyA Kitchens to get her tips to help you tackle your next renovation in style.
- First off, can you tell us a little about AyA?
AyA is a leading Canadian manufacturer of kitchen cabinetry, offering innovative products with an incomparable selection of styles, colours and accessories for the home. We have been helping people create their ultimate living spaces for 15 years, providing the perfect union of good design with value and quality.
- How do you stay on top the latest kitchen trends and designs?
I’m always paying attention to interior environments, whether at work or at play and I’m especially looking for patterns in styles and materials. Being conscientious to what’s popular in the marketplace and what’s being portrayed in the media, is an important tool in recognizing what’s in demand and potentially up and coming.
Observing European trends, tuning in to social media, reading design publications, attending trade shows, researching products, perusing specialty shops and collaborating with other designers, are other helpful ways I keep up with the latest trends.
- What is the next big trend in kitchen design?
Matte finishes are the current hottest trend, from cabinets and counters-tops, to faucets and fixtures. Also popular is the rustic-modern look, a combination of sleek clean lines with rustic elements inspired by nature, often with a simple white, gray & black colour palate.
Although difficult to predict, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a resurgence of bright bold colours sneaking into kitchens as strategically placed accents to offset all the grayness of these past few seasons.
- What are your top 3 products for a smaller sized kitchen?
Counter height cabinets with lift-up doors to store small appliances such as toasters, juicers or mixers, help to keep things neat and tidy which is especially important for smaller spaces.
Pull-out table tops and cutting boards, which provide extra surfaces when needed and are smartly tucked away when not in use.
Interior roll-outs are also popular, as they are very useful for organizing items in tight spaces while keeping them within easy reach.
- How do you incorporate extra storage in a smaller space during your kitchen redesign?
One way of incorporating additional storage space is by utilizing extra tall or stacked wall cabinets if the ceiling height allows. Using deeper wall cabinets can also sneak in some extra space, as can smart storage accessories such as inserts, pull-outs and roll-outs to help keep things well organized and in place.
- Any other decor advice for new home owners looking embark on a kitchen redesign?
Think carefully about how you use the space and what it is that you’re trying to achieve. Look at photos for inspiration, as they can help you visualize if you’re indecisive or unsure. Don’t overdo current trends, as they can quickly date your home and most importantly, be adventurous and enjoy the process of creating your ideal space!
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