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Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Serving Santa Clara Valley • 408.360.9700

Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Serving Santa Clara Valley • 408.360.9700

Tag: kitchen design

Best Paint Colors for Small Rooms

Best Paint Colors for Small Rooms

Tips on Color Choices for a Small Kitchen, Study, or Bathroom

Color Choices for kitchens and bathroomsColor is among the most subjective choices you can make in home design and décor. It’s all about creating a room that speaks to your personal taste, and when in doubt, asking the experts. Here, we have provided just a few ideas of how paint color (light and dark) can make a small room look bigger, cozy and inviting, or just fabulous at any size.

California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers can help you choose the best paint color for small rooms. Our pros can also suggest other changes to transform any space into your new favorite place in the house!

Keep Your Small Kitchen Vibrant with the Right Color Palette

Remodeling your small kitchen can make it more functional and choosing the right paint color can tie the room’s overall design and the look together. Remember, you can make almost any color work with the right kitchen remodeling plan for your home in San Jose, Willow Glen, Almaden, Los Gatos, or Cambrian, CA. Need inspiration for your remodel? Check our online bathroom and kitchen showroom.

Learn about the relationship between the color on your walls and the impact on your kitchen by reviewing our tips:

  • Pastel yellow. Soft pale yellow paired with cream or similar tones lends warmth without overpowering the room as sunnier shades may. If you have wood counters or tile floors, this could be the right color for your small kitchen. It can also make your small nursery relaxing and vibrant to charm your little one.
  • Mint green. Minty greens complement so many themes. If you want a country chic, modern or eclectic vibe, this chameleon color delivers on all counts. Use neutral décor to offset the soft but pervasive minty hue. It’s also the perfect counterpoint to crisp white or black counters and cabinets.
  • Crisp white. White makes rooms look larger, and that’s important if your kitchen is small. Before you yawn, keep reading! The love it or hate it camps might just meet in the middle when they stop to think about the benefits of crisp white kitchen walls. Without a doubt, this is one of the best paint colors for small rooms that you want to give a larger, more spacious look. If stark white seems too clinical, add a touch of pink, blue, gray, or green for an updated spin on a classic color choice.
  • Pearl gray. For elegance and warmth, luminous pearl gray is the obvious choice for your kitchen walls. The color subtly transforms as the light changes. You can have soft shades during the day and more sophisticated hues after dark. This color can also transform your small living room into a pretty, warm retreat.
  • Light beige. This neutral tone lends an earthy vibe that warms up your kitchen without making it feel cramped. The light tone, mixed with a hint of your favorite color, reflects light, visually enlarging the room.

Colors You Think Won’t Work in a Small Bathroom, Sometimes Do!

Are you having trouble deciding on a color palette for your bathroom renovation? Try these knock-out color applications that you may assume will shrink your space. They don’t, when done correctly!

  • Glossy black. High gloss paint reflects light, especially when paired with large mirrors. Add glamor and mystery to the smallest bathroom with this unexpected paint choice.
  • Navy blue. Navy blue gives your bathroom an instant nautical vibe, but you can use it as a backdrop to your theme of choice. Painting the top section, a lighter color, can open up the space without losing the personality of the bold navy blue.
  • Blush pink. A hint of pink softens your small bathroom, adding warmth without the frenetic energy of pure pinks or reds. Pair it with light blue tones to balance out a kids’ bathroom.

Contact us today for assistance in choosing the best paint colors for small rooms. We are happy to design a new kitchen or bathroom that incorporates your personality, starting with the color palette. Call 408-360-9700 for a free quote in San Jose, Willow Glen, Almaden, Los Gatos, or Cambrian, CA.

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Update Your Dark, Dated Kitchen with a Smarter Layout and a Brighter Look

Update Your Dated Kitchen with a Smarter Layout and a Brighter Look

Ideas to Update Your Dark, Dated Kitchen

Remodel for a Smarter Layout and a Brighter Look

grey tile backsplash, quartz counter tops, white cabinet, bright, modern, airy, Mountain viewExperienced designers and craftsmen can help you make the most of the space you have. From repurposing your mudroom for more kitchen space to adding a skylight to bring in natural light, we can help you update your dark, dated kitchen. Remember, it’s important to prepare for your kitchen renovation to help things go smoothly!

Strategic Kitchen Layouts and Design Elements that Capture Light

Here are a few ideas to brighten your outdated kitchen with trendy materials and a more functional layout:

  • Do you have a mudroom or laundry room entrance? Consider re-purposing this space into a kitchen expansion. If required, you can take down non-load-bearing walls to bring more direct sunlight in your kitchen. With the additional space, you can expand countertop working areas, design an in-kitchen eating space, or add an island.

Not sure which layout will work best for you? California Bathroom and Kitchen Remodelers has designed many kitchens in both new and older homes. We can design your new kitchen layout to ensure you have a more spacious and brighter room that considers your functional and aesthetic preferences.

  • Customized light fixtures: From overhead lighting to under-cabinet LED lighting, we can add layers of illumination to make your kitchen appear airy and bright. Our team can help you choose faucets, cabinetry, hardware, and paint colors that reflect light and fit your style. For inspiration, take a look at the eclectic elements our team achieved with this kitchen makeover.
  • Glass or metallic backsplash: Glass reflects light, creating a cool, modern tone. Burnished metal also reflects light but creates rich, warm tones. Consider copper, stainless steel, or brass in brushed or hammered textures for a unique look.
  • Add cabinets and pantries for extra storage and paint them in lighter hues. Whites, yellows, and pastel shades will brighten your kitchen and give it a modern feel. Work with our designers to personalize your custom cabinetry and brighten up any dark nooks in your kitchen.

Expert Kitchen Remodelers in the San Jose Area

Thorough planning and painstaking design coupled with high quality craftmanship define every project we touch. Ask for a no-obligation consultation to discuss your kitchen renovation goals. For a brighter, updated, and more welcoming kitchen, trust the professionals at California Bathroom and Kitchen Remodelers.

Please browse our gallery of kitchen remodels for ideas and layouts that could work in your home.

Contact us today to update your dark, dated kitchen with a smarter layout and brighter look. We serve clients in San Jose, Willow Glen, Almaden, Los Gatos, and Cambrian. Call 408-360-9700 to set up a complimentary consultation today.

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Relaxing Paint Colors for Your Home

Relaxing Paint Colors for Your Home

Relaxing Paint Colors for Your Kitchen and Bath Remodel

Choose Soothing Hues for Your Busy Home

QUARTZ, COUNTERTOP, SHAKER, WHITE, CABINETS, KITCHEN, SARATOGA, FARM SINK, TILE SPLASHWhile sunshine, blue skies, greenery, ocean views and scenic landscapes are proven ways to find relaxation in the outdoors, simply choosing relaxing paint colors can offer a similar feeling inside your home. At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we do everything we can to make your remodel as stress-free as possible. Our goal is to leave you with warm, inviting spaces where your family can unwind and relax.

The Wall Street Journal recently published an article summarizing the expert advice of hundreds of interior design professionals. Here, we evaluate the top four hues recommended to bring your home up to date with the most beautiful and restful tones of 2021.

Premium Paint Shades Recommended by Top Designers

Try these colors to update your décor and create a chill ambiance:

  • Borrowed Light No. 235: Cool blues and mints were well-represented on the favorite colors recommended by today’s best interior decorators. The top pick from Farrow & Ball is part of the company’s Borrowed Light collection. It evokes the cool blue light that streams in through your windows and has a soothing tone that can brighten your kitchen or bathroom while changing slightly in different lighting throughout the day.
  • Alabaster OC-129: Benjamin Moore’s Off-White collection includes this bold shade that designers felt would pair well with jute, rattan, and other naturally inspired tones. The chalky white doesn’t tend toward other hues but maintains a beautifully neutral shade throughout the day. This sophisticated color exudes tranquility and helps you create a serene space for your bathroom spa. It also works well as an accent for your kitchen walls.
  • Portola’s Graceland: This shade wins for the most fun name! Portola’s Graceland is a muted green hue with natural appeal and earthy undertones. Overall, it creates an optimistic backdrop for your remodeled bath or kitchen. This sage-inspired color adds personality without any disorienting intensity.
  • Shark PPG1006-2: This light gray calls to your senses without overwhelming them. Since it contains both cool and warm undertones, you can match this relaxing paint color with an eclectic color palette. Pairing Shark with white trim creates an elegant look. You can find it at PPG Paints.

Do you need more ideas for your kitchen color palette? Browse our online kitchen gallery for examples of our completed projects. We use top brand finishes and fixtures. Our online bathroom gallery can give you great ideas for fixtures, finishes, cabinetry, and flooring for your bathroom renovation.

Relaxing Paint Colors, Kitchen and Bath Designs, and More

For help planning and designing your kitchen and bath, contact California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, Inc. We serve homeowners in the Santa Clara Valley and are happy to consult with you on everything from relaxing paint colors to fixtures and flooring decisions.  

Turn your outdated kitchen or bathroom into a serene and highly functional space with relaxing paint colors and a tasteful remodel. Call us at 408-360-9700 or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.

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6 Things to Get Ready for a Kitchen or Bath Remodeling Project

6 Ways to Prepare for a Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel

Top Tips for a Successful and Cost-Efficient Home Renovation

Renovating your home can be both exciting and unnerving. From prioritizing your expenses and making design choices to getting everything completed on time and on budget, you will have several things on your mind. Prepping for the makeover will help you focus on the important aspects that are likely to drive the successful completion of your project and ensure cost-efficiency. The experts at California Bathroom and Kitchen Remodelers suggest 6 essential things to get ready for a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project.

Take these Key Steps before a Kitchen or Bathroom Makeover 

Some of the most important aspects that any homeowner seeks from a remodeling project are:

  • An improved space that enhances the visual appeal and value of the home
  • A lifestyle friendly layout and amenities that allow greater movement and functionality to meet your family’s needs and preferences
  • Minimal mess and disturbance to your routine during the remodeling
  • Completion of the project within agreed costs and timelines
  • No surprises or hidden fees

With the right amount of foresight, patience, and attention-to-detail, you can navigate the renovation process smoothly from start to finish.

Here are 6 Things to Get Ready for a Kitchen or Remodeling Project

  1. Define your project scope: Determine the scope of work based on the money you can spend and your ability to stay home or move out during the renovations. It may be tempting to pile on multiple small projects into one major remodeling project. Check to see if your budget allows it. You will also need to decide whether you can live through longer periods of noisy and dusty demolition and construction.
  1. Think strategically: One of the ways to maximize your remodeling budget is to renovate those areas that will give you the most return on your investment. For example:
  1. Do your homework: Look for inspiration on the internet. Scour through online platforms, such as Houzz, Pinterest, and Instagram. Track what you like and create an idea book. Visit home centers or ask for site walk-throughs to see the work done by your shortlisted remodelers.
  1. Find the right remodeling contractor: Whether you need a minor refresh or a complete transformation, choose your remodeling contractor wisely. Do they take the time to understand your lifestyle? Can they reimagine spaces and offer thoughtful, space-maximizing solutions? Are their past clients happy with their work and project delivery? Does their portfolio showcase quality craftsmanship and professional finishes?
  1. Get organized before the work begins: Once you have finalized a home remodeling contractor and signed off on the scope of work, get yourself and your family organized for the duration of the project:
    • Take an audit of your belongings, clear out the areas where the work will take place, and keep only the essential items handy.
    • There will be days when your home will feel like a revolving door of contractors, designers, and delivery people. Maintain peace of mind by updating your security systems, and install smart locks allowing controlled access to essential crew members.
    • Take stock of other inconveniences and make necessary arrangement to minimize the disruption to your routine.
    • Find options to keep children and pets away from the work areas.
  1. Maintain an open line of communication: No matter how well you plan your remodeling project, there is always the possibility of unforeseen obstacles. Hence, it is essential that you and your renovation team maintain an open line of communication and know what to expect from each other. 
    • Establish some ground rules on the traffic areas, daily cleanups, and protection of other spaces that are not part of the project 
    • Invest time in regular and timely progress updates 
    • Find mutually agreeable solutions for unexpected problems related to structural surprises, materials availability and delivery, or unsatisfactory execution 

Call Santa Clara Valley’s Trusted Home Remodeling Specialists for Successful Makeovers

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers Inc., we offer comprehensive design and installation services for kitchen and bathroom makeovers. Our team of creative designers and master craftsmen are passionate about creating attractive and functional spaces that complement your lifestyle, reflect your personality, and increase the value of your home.

Happy homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley count on us for our personalized solutions, impeccable finishes, and efficient project management skills. See our gallery of projects completed for homes in San Jose, Santa Clara, Almaden, Willow Glen, Los Gatos, Los Altos Hills, and Monte Sereno, CA.

Looking for more tips on how to get ready for a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project? Call CBKR, your trusted home remodeling experts at 408-360-9700 to book a consultation or contact us online.

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WHAT MAKES FOR A GREAT KITCHEN DESIGNER?

What Makes for a Great Kitchen Designer?

A Great Kitchen Designer Starts with YOUR Lifestyle and Needs

Kitchen Transformations Need More than Just Vision and Skill

kitchen remodelPlanning a makeover for your kitchen in Santa Clara Valley? Translating your vision into reality while staying within budget is not always an easy task. Your dream kitchen needs a designer who can offer creative, affordable and quality solutions that suit your lifestyle and preferences. As you compare quotes, consider these aspects that make for a great kitchen designer.

Top Qualities of a Great Kitchen Designer

A great kitchen designer is one who is not just skilled and creative, but also efficient, resourceful, thoughtful and innovative. Look for these qualities while selecting a designer and hire someone who:

  1. Takes time to understand your lifestyle: Great kitchens are functional enough to reflect your personal preferences, without compromising on style and quality. An efficient kitchen designer will start by gaining an in-depth understanding of your lifestyle and requirements, such as:
    • Cooking preferences: What are the typical ingredients you use? What are your preferred cooking methods (baking, grilling, stovetop, etc.)?
    • Space requirements: How many and which gadgets and appliances do you need? What are your requirements for pots, pans and pantry size?
    • Other preferences: Do you use your kitchen exclusively for cooking, or is it an extended space for family hangouts and kids’ homework? Do you entertain friends and family in the kitchen, or in your formal dining and living spaces?
  1. Reimagines spaces: You may or may not be able to change the size of your kitchen. However, a resourceful designer will offer creative space utilization through:
    • Ideas for maximizing your current cook space
    • Exploring the possibility of an affordable and successful expansion into adjoining living or dining areas
    • Suggestions for modern, smart solutions that enhance the functionality of the available space
  1. Offers thoughtful designs: Another quality that makes for a great kitchen designer is the ability to thoughtfully match your style and preferences with the overall layout and design choices. The designer’s proposals should address every minor or major aspect within your kitchen remodeling project. For example:
    • Where to place the appliances and gadgets?
    • Should the island hold the range or the sink?
    • Is there a source of natural light, or does the kitchen need additional light fixtures?
    • What is the ideal size, shape and material for the countertops and island?
    • How many cabinets to build and with what materials? What other types of smart storage solutions to add?
    • What type of backsplash, light fixtures and drawer or door pulls to select? This will depend on your design sensibilities (contemporary, rustic, Bohemian, shabby chic, etc.)?

Stunning Kitchen Makeovers Need Santa Clara Valley’s Remodeling Experts

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we are passionate about remodeling kitchens to make them more stylish, luxurious and functional. Our skilled designers spend quality time understanding your lifestyle and needs, not just before we give you a quote, but throughout the planning phase. Probing deeper into your cooking methods, ingredient usage and storage, workspace and layout requirements, allows us to build you the kitchen of your dreams. We also recommend that you consider looking forward ten years or more, planning for aging in place through imaginative solutions that address specific mobility requirements.

Since 1994, we have transformed kitchens in homes across the Santa Clara Valley, including in San Jose, Santa Clara, Willow Glen, Almaden, Cambrian, Monte Sereno, Los Gatos, and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these client testimonials to learn more about our creative concepts, master craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service.

Call CBKR, your trusted kitchen remodeling contractors at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation with a great kitchen designer. We can discuss a range of kitchen makeover ideas that mirror your lifestyle, maximize your budget and increase the value of your home.

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Custom Kitchen Remodeling for Large Families

HOW TO GO ABOUT KITCHEN REMODELING FOR LARGER FAMILIES

EXPERT ADVICE FROM TRUSTED RENOVATION CONTRACTORS

Renovating the heart of your home? Whether you have a family with little ones, teens, adults, seniors or pets, you want a chic, modern, multifunctional space that accommodates everyone’s needs. Check out our creative kitchen remodeling tips for larger families.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS FOR DESIGNING A FAMILY KITCHEN

List your needs: Before browsing through designs, determine how you will use the space. Think about whether your kids do homework in the kitchen. Is this where the family has dinner together? Are you planning to entertain here? Do your pets sleep in the kitchen? The answers to these questions will help you come up with a suitable renovation plan. If you have older family members or a loved one with disabilities, selecting an accessible design is critical to their comfort and safety.

  • Choose a simple layout: Having many people in the kitchen at the same time means they need plenty of room to get around, especially the little ones, seniors and any family members with disabilities. Ensure that your kitchen has a simple layout and plenty of walking space so that family members will not be bumping into each other or the furniture. If you have the square footage and need to accommodate multiple cooks, consider two work triangles.
  • Include an island: It gives you more work space and can double up as an eating area too. Consider extending one section like a table (with chairs or stools) to accommodate family meals or kids’ homework and crafts rather than the traditional model with storage. This eliminates the need for a separate dining table, saves space and looks more stylish.
  • Plan for plenty of storage: You can never have enough storage in a kitchen. Appliances, gadgets and utensils aside, you should also plan for drawers or open shelving for knickknacks like homework items, a few books, craft basket and the daily mail. A combination of pull-out drawers, cabinets and open shelving for small appliances, plants or displaying family heirlooms and souvenirs is ideal.Consider installing hooks for hanging pans and mugs. They will take up less space than stacking them in drawers or a cabinet. Design storage for convenience so that items you use frequently are within easy reach. Put items you rarely need at the top of the pantry or upper cabinets. The idea is to keep your counters free for preparing food or working and just a few display items on top. Add a chalk or magnetic board where you can leave reminder notes for each other, a shopping list, instructions or interesting reads.
  • Select low maintenance materials: Heat, scratch and stain resistant countertops last longer and are easier to clean. Granite is popular, but Corian, quartz and stainless steel are equally good choices. These materials are suitable for the backsplash too. Choose flooring you can mop easily and has no or few grout lines. Natural stone, ceramic and laminate flooring is easier to maintain than hardwood. Ask your kitchen designer about your options. There are many budget friendly choices available, but don’t compromise on quality.
  • Open it up: Merging your kitchen with an adjacent family or dining room gives you more space. It’s also more convenient for everyone to hang out together. You can catch the news or your favorite television show while cooking

 CALL SANTA CLARA VALLEY’S KITCHEN EXPERTS FOR A SATISFYING REMODEL   

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we love designing and installing luxurious spaces for your family. Our creative ideas and quality craftsmanship enhance the value of your home. We are committed to securing your complete satisfaction.

Since 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in Willow Glen, San Jose, Almaden, Cambrian, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from our customers who truly appreciate the quality of our work and customer service.

Call CBKR, your bathroom remodeling design and construction contractor at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation. We can discuss more ideas for kitchen remodeling for larger families.

Planning for Aging in Place from California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in San Jose

PLAN YOUR HOME MODIFICATIONS FOR AGING-IN-PLACE

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM EXPERIENCED RENOVATION CONTRACTORS

aging in place bathroom design

Prefer to spend your golden years in your own home? Not sure how to make it safe and suitable for aging-in-place? From practical layouts to lifestyle-friendly features, even a few minor updates will hugely enhance the quality of your life. Learn what type of home renovations to consider while planning for aging-in-place.

KEY MODIFICATIONS TO HELP SENIORS STAY LONGER IN THEIR OWN HOMES

While aging in the comfort of your home has many advantages, it also comes with challenges related to access, safety and mobility. When you are planning for aging-in-place, consider your lifestyle, current health and issues that may occur in the future. This will help you decide on suitable renovations to make your home more conducive to aging-in-place.

Whether you are renovating for yourself or helping a senior loved one to continue living at home, here are some enhancements to consider:

Minor modifications in your home:

  • Replace doorknobs with lever-style knobs that are easier to grip and do not need a twisting motion.
  • Replace standard light switches with rocker-type or toggle switches.
  • Tape down or secure the loose ends of your carpets, area rugs and staircase runners.
  • Install slip-resistant flooring materials such as vinyl, linoleum, bamboo or cork.
  • Brighten up dark areas of your home. Consider adding light fixtures with motion or sound-activation features.
  • Widen narrow hallways and doorways that are less than 32 inches wide. If you ever need to use a wheelchair or walker, this modification will be required.
  • If your stairway rails and handles are not sturdy, replace them with more solid ones.

Bathroom remodeling to increase home safety for seniors:

  • Install safety grab bars in your shower stall, tub and toilet areas, where slips and falls are most likely to occur.
  • Consider replacing your existing tub with an easy-access, walk-in version, or get rid of the tub and install a walk-in shower with a seat.
  • Upgrade your vanity to ensure that the countertop is at a convenient height, and storage is easily accessible.

Kitchen renovations for seniors staying at home:

  • Replace your cabinet knobs with handles that offer a better grip.
  • Install drawers in place of cabinets, wherever possible.
  • Change the height of your countertops, if the existing ones are too tall.
  • Place microwaves and other small appliances on countertops for better accessibility.
  • If your existing kitchen faucet has a knob, replace that with a lever-handle.
  • Consider investing in an induction cooktop stove, as it will reduce the chances of accidental burns or injuries.

TRENDY AGING-IN-PLACE MAKEOVERS BY SANTA CLARA VALLEY’S RENOVATION EXPERTS

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we love designing and installing stylish spaces that increase the functionality of your home. Our skilled craftsmen are well-versed with the unique needs of aging adults and offer creative solutions to meet the challenges of aging-in-place and follow ADA compliance guidelines. With clever design ideas and quality workmanship, we make sure that your kitchen and bathroom makeovers are not just practical, but also trendy and beautiful.

Since 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in San Jose, Willow Glen, Cambrian, Almaden, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from past clients, who have experienced our commitment to timelines, budget and customer service.

Call CBKR, your bathroom and kitchen remodeling contractor at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation. We can discuss and design a variety of adaptability features that best meet your aging-in-place requirements.

Designing a Custom Kitchen for Smaller Homes

PROVEN TIPS TO DESIGN KITCHENS FOR SMALLER HOMES

SMART SOLUTIONS FROM EXPERIENCED REMODELING CONTRACTORS

You might have a small, cozy kitchen, but you can make the most of it. Knowing how to maximize your counter space and storage area with a stylish, space-saving design can be useful. With smart planning and a few creative ideas, the heart of your home can be attractive and functional. Before you begin remodeling, read these expert tips on designing a kitchen for smaller homes.

SMALL KITCHEN DESIGN IDEAS

Creating the right layout with stylish features and fixtures requires a fine balance of function and aesthetics. Here are some ideas to make your small kitchen feel big, bright and beautiful.

  • Prioritize your wish list: With space at a premium, it may not be possible to have everything you desire in your kitchen. It helps to prioritize what you really want now, over the bells and whistles you can upgrade to in the future.
  • Revise the floor plan: Knocking down a wall or two can give you more room. Consider an open-concept kitchen that expands into the dining area or even your living room. Do you really need that laundry room? How about installing a stacked washer and dryer into an unused corner? Tightening up the kitchen triangle. (the space between the stove, sink and refrigerator) can also add space. If possible, install a corner sink and expand counter space on either side. Check your doors; replacing a swing out door with a pocket door might allow you to reclaim some square footage.
  • Ditch the island: It takes up a lot of room and is not always as useful as we think it is. To use your counters as working and eating areas, extend the countertop outward a little and be creative with seating. Use folding stools or chairs that can be stacked away when not in use.
  • Consider floor to ceiling cabinetry: It will give you more shelving and storage space. Add glass doors to give the room an open feel. Make use of cabinet doors by installing hooks or racks to store pans, lids, cooking and measuring spoons, foil, plastic wrap, etc. Store utensils by type so that they are easy to find. Mugs and cups take up a lot of space; use hooks under open shelving to hang them.
  • Use smaller appliances: They save space and will also not seem out of proportion. Combination appliances like a convection microwave oven can eliminate the need for separate appliances. An induction cook top is also a good idea as it functions as both a stove and counter area.
  • Choose light colors: Dark walls and cabinets make a space look smaller, but lighter tones will make it appear bigger. Greys and whites are popular wall color choices. If you want to add a pop of color, choose a single wall or ceiling for a bold shade. If you simply love dark cabinets, balance them with a lighter backsplash. Use under cabinet lighting to brighten up the work space.
  • Invest in different types of lighting: This will make your kitchen look spacious. Pendant lights on a track system, LED strip lights for shelving and a chandelier scaled to your space can transform the look of your kitchen. If you have a low ceiling, decorative flushmount fixtures can give it a stylish appearance.
  • Opt for larger floor tiles: Small tiles add more grout lines and tend to make the room look crowded.

HIRE SANTA CLARA VALLEY’S KITCHEN SPECIALISTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL REMODEL   

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we offer comprehensive design and installation services to create attractive, functional spaces. Our creative ideas and outstanding craftsmanship enhance the appeal and value of your home. Committed to quality and your complete satisfaction, we work hard to complete your small kitchen redesign within the agreed timeline and budget.

ince 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in Willow Glen, San Jose, Almaden, Cambrian, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from our happy customers.

Call CBKR, your bathroom remodeling design and construction contractor at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation. We can discuss more ideas for designing a kitchen for smaller homes.

5 Problems to Avoid in a Kitchen Remodel

MONEY-SAVING ADVICE FROM TRUSTED RENOVATION CONTRACTORS

Renovating the heart of your Santa Clara home is a big project. It’s important to plan properly and hire a trustworthy contractor for the job. If you choose your contractor based solely on price, poor quality and ill-fitting materials,delayed deliveries and shoddy workmanship can push their price way beyond the initial estimate. Here are 5 common issues you can avoid in your kitchen remodel.

DON’T MAKE THESE MISTAKES WHEN REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN

  1. Hiring the cheapest contractor: Never choose are modeling company based on the lowest price. A really low estimate can mean poor quality and shortcuts which will cost more to fix. There may be hidden charges that will surprise you as the work progresses. Understand the type of services each contractor is offering as you compare different bids. Get a detailed scope of work and pricing to stay within your budget and avoid any nasty surprises.
  2. Not having a remodeling plan: Having a collection of ideas that you simply string together can inflate your renovation budget and worse still, leave you with a kitchen you don’t like. Hiring a remodeling specialist spares you the pain of spending your money on the wrong upgrades.
  3. Indecisiveness: Changing your mind about the flooring, backsplash, countertop and other fixtures once work has already begun is a costly mistake. With 3-D renderings, we can help you visualize what your kitchen design will look like and make any necessary changes at this stage. 
  4. Cutting corners on infrastructure, materials and appliances: Sacrificing quality for price is likely to cost you more in the long run. Aesthetics aside,cheap fixtures, appliances and materials are also harder to maintain and have a shorter lifespan. Also remember that your kitchen makeover is only as good as the plumbing and electrical infrastructure that support it. You may need to upgrade these first.
  5. Underestimating project timeframe: Renovating your kitchen can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month or more, depending on the scope of work. This means you will not be able to use it during that period. Make sure you have an alternative space or plan for preparing your meals.

HIRE SANTA CLARA’S KITCHEN SPECIALISTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL REMODEL  

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we offer complete design and retrofit services to renovate one of the most important rooms in your home. Our beautifully-designed spaces bring your family and friends together to create many memorable moments. With skilled craftsmanship and careful attention to detail, we complete your project within the specified budget and timeframe.

Since 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in Willow Glen, San Jose, Almaden, Cambrian, Santa Clara,Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from our customers who are happy to recommend our quality workmanship and customer service.

Call us at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation. We can discuss more problems to avoid in a kitchen remodel and how to get the best results.

Things to Consider for Living in Place & ADA Kitchen & Bath Design

ADA KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN TO ENABLE LIVING IN PLACE

EXPERT TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR HOME ACCESSIBLE

Adapting your home to accommodate disabilities or age-related physical limitations requires careful thought and planning. Rooms that are generally compact, such as the kitchen and bathroom, must be barrier-free to allow for easy wheelchair access. Appliances and other items of regular use must also be within reach. Before you start your remodeling project, learn about the key considerations that will support living in place for you or your senior family members. A contractor with experience in ADA kitchen and bath design can help ensure your home is safe and comfortable.

KEY ELEMENTS OF ACCESSIBLE KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGN

  • Space planning: Accommodating a walker or wheelchair in your kitchen and bathroom means ensuring there is enough space to maneuver these mobility devices. In the kitchen, for instance, it may involve expanding the traditional triangle placement of the stove, sink and refrigerator to include garbage disposal and the dishwasher. Ideally, you should be able to perform a range of functions from one area. Storage cabinets must also be within reach. In our experience, U-shape and L-shape layouts are the most convenient.

Being one of the smallest rooms in the house, using a wheelchair or walker in the bathroom can be challenging. As per ADA recommendations, doorways need to be at least 32 inches wide and the interior space at least 12 sq. ft. Curbless walk-in tubs, shower stalls and toilet areas with grab bars are a must. Some individuals may also require bath benches.

  • Effort: Placement of similar or related items together in your kitchen will minimize effort. Persons with mobility issues will also benefit from continuous countertops which allow sliding of pots, dishes, etc. Storage cabinets with open shelving are preferred over those with doors. Ovens and microwaves at countertop height are convenient. Hands-free faucets are ideal.

Similarly, having towels and bath supplies near the bathing area and makeup and medicine in the vanity or sink area will facilitate easy access. You can install switches and electrical outlets that are operable from a sitting position.

  • Ease of cleaning: Choose kitchen flooring, countertops and appliances that are low maintenance. For example, glass cooktops are easier to clean compared to stainless steel. Store your cleaning products in drawers that slide out and are easy to reach. Pay attention to surface finishes of bathtubs, toilets and showers. Slip-resistant flooring is a must-have but it should also be easy to clean. Ensure proper drainage and adequate ventilation in the shower area to prevent mold growth.
  • Safety: Adequate lighting in the kitchen and bathroom is very important. Avoid tripping hazards like small rugs and mats in the kitchen. Keep an easy-to-reach fire extinguisher in case of an emergency.

Falls and accidents in the bathroom are common. Install grab bars for support in the shower or tub and near the toilet seat. Avoid surfaces with sharp edges to minimize injury in the event of a fall. Consider mixing valves that limit water temperature to prevent burns.

SANTA CLARA’S KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SPECIALISTS FOR ADA DESIGN SOLUTIONS

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we offer custom design and retrofit services to meet your unique needs. Our beautifully designed, accessible bathrooms and kitchens help individuals with disabilities live an independent lifestyle. Skilled craftsmanship and quality products enhance the functionality and value of your home. Our team provides personalized attention to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget.

Since 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in Willow Glen, San Jose, Almaden, Cambrian, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from our customers who appreciate our workmanship and customer service.

If you need to remodel your home for a family member with a disability or age-related infirmity, call us at 408-360-9700 or contact us online. We can schedule an in-home consultation for ADA kitchen and bath design to support your living in place requirements.

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