Design Tips for Remodeling Larger Kitchens and Bathrooms

Many homeowners who have purchased older, mid-century homes are delighted by the possibilities these icons from another time can hold, including larger kitchens and bathrooms just waiting to be updated. But homeowners purchasing these one-of-a-kind original houses often face significant remodeling challenges such as outdated tile, unflattering lighting, unattractive vanities and sinks, broken or inefficient faucets and shower heads, and appliances, tubs, and showers that are cracked or in need of replacement.Fortunately, homeowners who want to remodel larger kitchens and bathrooms have plenty of options to turn an outdated space into a luxurious haven. Larger rooms lend themselves to unique design possibilities, from corner showers in the bathroom to double kitchen islands, chef-quality appliances, and built-in seating in the kitchen. Here are some tips for creating luxurious spaces in larger bathrooms and kitchen areas.Custom Design for Larger Remodeled Bathrooms

• Separate water closet. A big bathroom can often be redesigned to include a separate, smaller room with its own door for the toilet. Remodeled bathrooms that ensure that the toilet and the shower are enclosed in separate areas are sure to be appreciated in a space used by more than one person.
• Corner shower or tub. A corner soaking tub is a luxurious way to take advantage of an unused corner in a larger bathroom. A walk-in corner shower can be an equally advantageous option and can provide space for dual shower heads, a bench, or recessed shelving in tile or stonework walls. A glass wall can provide a sleek, modern look while increasing the value of a home and making a bathroom appear even larger.
• Center tub. Another way to spotlight the tub area in a larger bathroom is to center the tub in the middle of the room. Claw-foot tubs provide a visual focal point and a centerpiece that can anchor the bathroom design.
• Split vanities. When space permits, “she and he” bathroom vanities provide not only two separate sinks but twice the toiletry storage space in a master bathroom used by more than one person. Split vanities also provide a dramatic effect, using symmetry to provide a pleasing visual balance for a larger room.
• Floating vanities. For a contemporary look, a floating vanity can be an attention-grabbing focal point that creates a modern appearance. Because floating vanities take up less space by not extending all the way to the floor, they create the look of a larger space and can accentuate the roominess of a larger bathroom.
• Dramatic lighting. In a larger bathroom space, dramatic lighting can be the difference between cavernous and luxurious. Wall sconces, vanity lighting, dimmable overhead fixtures, and fanlights can all help create a subdued, relaxing mood.
• Center island. In a very big bathroom, a center island can be a visual anchor, simultaneously providing a center point and a storage area for towels, linens, and personal items. A center island can match the rest of the cabinetry or can be a stand-alone accent piece.
• Creative tile work. Ceramic or glass tile can be used in a bigger bathroom to create an accent wall, a luxurious walk-in shower, or a themed design such as black and white contrast or blue and green oceanic.

Custom Design for Larger Remodeled Kitchens

• Double kitchen islands. Double islands make a bold statement in any kitchen that has the space to accommodate. Each island typically has a dedicated purpose, such as storage or cooking, and makes the most of a larger space.
• Double sinks. Double sinks make clean-up a breeze and can create the opportunity for two cooks to share kitchen duties. Designed for multi-tasking, a double sink may be a perfect solution for large families or cooks who like to clean up as they go.
• Chef-grade appliances. For a larger kitchen space, an investment in larger, high-quality appliances is a natural choice. Ovens and cooktops tend to take center stage in any kitchen; a double convection oven, whether stand-alone or installed in a wall, uses space differently than a traditional stand-alone single oven. A larger refrigerator with an attached freezer allows for more food storage and the opportunity to buy in bulk without running out of space. A kitchen remodeling professional in Livonia can recommend appliances that will serve as both focal points for a larger space and long-lasting, quality investments.
• Built-in seating. Larger kitchens allow for creative seating options that provide space for families to relax. Furniture benches are a stylish way to build in seating for family meals or more intimate dinners. Whether it’s a custom-built banquette with built-in storage or a breakfast nook installed in a corner near a picture window, furniture benches make the most of available kitchen space. Likewise, window seats can add extra storage and a unique visual design. Larger kitchen windows are perfect for built-in window seating, which can often be created in an existing space with little or no structural modification.
• Accent lighting. Designer lighting can create a unique look in a larger kitchen. Highlighting and spotlighting appliances, kitchen islands, and eating areas with pendant lighting or a dazzling overhead fixture can create a luxurious look in a larger area. Mixing and matching lighting types creates drama and has the effect of visually breaking up the space to create smaller areas within a large room.
• Custom storage. The opportunities for aesthetically-pleasing storage solutions multiply with a larger kitchen remodel. Larger kitchens can be designed to include spacious custom storage solutions such as walk-in pantries or built-in wine racks.
• Unique add-ons. With a larger kitchen, unique design features such as a wine cooler or under-counter beverage center integrated into a kitchen island create a sense of luxury and allow homeowners to design a kitchen that works uniquely for them. A large centerpiece item, such as a copper range hood, works very well in a larger kitchen that doesn’t need to conserve space and provides a focal point for those who want a unique new look.

The Possibilities Are EndlessLarger kitchens and bathrooms in mid-century homes result from the architectural style’s unified spaces. Open floor plans provide plenty of remodeling opportunities for homeowners who invest in these beautiful reminders of an earlier time. A kitchen remodeling professional in Livonia can assist homeowners in creating custom-tailored remodeling plans for every home.