Month: December 2020

Have you ever wondered what kitchen feature has the greatest impact on its functionality? Forget about the sink, faucet, and cabinetry: your kitchen layout is THE thing to obsess over. Only after you’ve settled on the layout should you start thinking about other details. 

If done right, the organization of your kitchen can make your life much easier by reducing food preparation time and making cooking a breeze. Make sure you pick the best layout for your kitchen by reading our simple guide. Reputable kitchen addition services operating across San Diego will also assist you in making the best decision.

What is the best layout for a kitchen?

Assessing the limitations and strong suits of your space is crucial in determining the right kitchen layout. The best pick for you is the one that works for your specific space. However, there is a rule of thumb that you should follow to facilitate meal prep and cooking. 

The kitchen work triangle is the path between the refrigerator, sink, and cooktop. The space between these kitchen areas must be just right, so that you can easily reach each without moving too much. 

What are the 6 types of kitchen layouts?

When you start thinking about how to expand your kitchen and how to increase its value, assess the size and shape of the space you’re dealing with and consider which layout fits it best. Take a look at some of these homeowners’ favorites:

• One-wall kitchen: As the name suggests, all cabinets in this type of kitchen are against one wall. It is most commonly found in small spaces. It is typically handy, simple, and contains the essential appliances and storage one needs. You can increase storage space with ceiling-height cabinets.
• Galley kitchen: This kind of kitchen has two rows of cabinets that are placed opposite each other. Storage and appliances are available on both sides of a walkway. Although it has lost some of its appeal due to the popularity of the open-plan concept, which this type of layout isn’t suited for, it can work very well in certain spaces. 
• U-shaped kitchen: Excellent for larger families and cooking enthusiasts, this kitchen layout, which extends along three walls, provides ample space and easy movement. To avoid feeling shut in from all sides, avoid fitting upper cabinets on all three walls.
• L-shaped kitchen: AS the name suggests, these kitchens go along two walls, forming an L-shape. The question of how to maximize the use of corner space can pose a challenge. Design the corner cabinet carefully with the advice from your contractor.
• Island kitchen: Probably the most popular kitchen layout out there, this kind of kitchen has a row of cabinets and an island opposite it. An island significantly expands your work surface and storage space. It provides a sleek and modern look, too.
• Peninsula kitchen: If you’re in love with kitchen islands but don’t have enough room to install one, you can opt for a peninsula kitchen. The peninsula is a surface that attaches to the countertops on one side.  It takes up less space than an island while still providing an added work surface. 

Where do I find reliable kitchen addition services in San Diego?

If you select trustworthy contractors, you can count on getting exactly the kitchen you want, starting from the layout and all the way down to the finishing touches. When you’d like to make an addition to your residence in Clairemont or elsewhere in San Diego, get in touch with Lars Architecture. 

For over 30 years, we’ve been putting our vast knowledge and complete dedication to good use, providing San Diego residents with outstanding customer care. Our qualified team has successfully performed many room additions, second-story additions, ADU projects, and more. Why wait when you can start designing your dream kitchen right now?

Finding a house with a functional fitted kitchen is one of the top priorities of most prospective home buyers, which reflects the importance of the kitchen in everyone’s daily life. Buyers are willing to pay extra for a home with a well-made and expertly designed kitchen space. 

If you’re planning to put your current home up for sale somewhere down the line, investing in a kitchen remodel is one of the best moves you can make. You can add value to your kitchen by reaching out to experienced contractors who perform kitchen additions across San Diego. 

Not only will you get a better house price once you decide to sell, but you will also get to enjoy the benefits of a brand new kitchen yourself.

How much value does a kitchen add?

Let’s get straight to the point: a kitchen remodel is costly. However, the advantages of such a project clearly outweigh the drawbacks. 

Firstly, granite countertops, luxurious fittings, and quality appliances impress potential house buyers greatly. Having an upscale kitchen space means your house will probably sell quicker and for more. Although the boost in your house price probably won’t cover the entire cost of the project, the ROI of kitchen remodels is typically high.

Also, smart planning many significantly reduce the price of your kitchen upgrade. If you know which parts of the kitchen you can save up on and which are worth splashing out on, you can cut your remodel expenses. Seasoned contractors will give you helpful advice on this. 

How can I add value to my kitchen?

There are many amazing kitchen expansion ideas that will enhance the value of your space. Here are some important things to keep in mind when you want to dazzle future buyers:

Design a practical layout

The layout is the starting point of every smart kitchen remodel. Take a look at 6 best kitchen layouts to find the one that works for your space. 

Buyers look for a functionally organized kitchen that saves the homeowner’s time and makes food preparation a dream. They will often scrutinize the kitchen trying to picture themselves cooking and spending time there. They will be quick to recognize how well-thought out the space is. 

Invest in quality materials

The materials for your kitchen remodel aren’t something to skimp on. Durable, sumptuous countertop materials, like marble, quartz, or granite, give your kitchen lasting quality and a polished look. Make sure that the surface is resistant to wear and tear, like the effects of heat and staining.

Get trustworthy appliances

Appliances now come in a wide range of options, styles, and finishes. Make your choice wisely by opting for reliable brands and premium features. First-rate quality stands out at a glance, especially if the appliance is on full display. Buyers will be happy to see world-famous appliance brands throughout the kitchen.

Which contractors perform expert kitchen addictions across San Diego?

Don’t know how to choose contractors for your kitchen remodel? Working with a dependable contractor may be one of the most important aspects of your project. Make sure you hire a skilled, experienced team, such as the crew of Lars Architecture. 

We’ll assist you with seamless design and professional project execution for various types of home additions in East Village or the rest of San Diego. Our trained professionals will go the extra mile to find a streamlined, customized solution that suits your every need.

Reach out to Lars Architecture today and watch your dreams become reality. The value of your house will skyrocket with some expertly done home additions!

Have you been planning to add onto your kitchen but you haven’t found a trustworthy contractor yet? Finding the best to kitchen addition contractors for your San Diego residence can be tricky, as there are several factors to consider. Of course, you’ll want a business with strong qualifications and credentials, as well as lots of experience, but how can you be sure you’ve found one that fits the bill?

Continue reading to discover how to choose contractors for your kitchen expansion. You’ll learn exactly how to seek out your ideal match. With these handy tips, you shouldn’t have any doubts about the results you’ll be getting. Soon enough, you’ll be able to enjoy a more spacious, personalized kitchen area.

How do I find a contractor to remodel my kitchen?

The kitchen is the heart of every home as the whole family gathers there to spend time together preparing delicious meals. This is why redesigning and expanding your kitchen is a huge responsibility which should only be outsourced to a dependable contractor. 

If you’re on the lookout for a skilled construction business, find out how to pinpoint one:

1. Word of mouth recommendations

It’s always helpful if your friends and family can suggest reliable options. Getting a referral from someone you trust is extremely reassuring and usually leads to a great outcome. You can even see and assess the results of the company’s work first-hand.

2. Online reviews

Another way to get to know previous clients’ experiences with the contractors is to look up comments online. If you read mostly stellar reviews, you can be fairly certain that they provide consistent quality. On the other hand, if you notice an overwhelming majority of negatives, it’s probably a no-go.

3. Check credentials 

After you’ve narrowed down your options to a couple of contractors that you like, it would be wise to browse their website or give them a call. Check that their certificates and licenses are in order. This will tell you if their team is trained and qualified. You could also take a look at their portfolio.

4. Talk to prospective contractors 

Next you should meet the contractors to discuss your kitchen addition ideas. Lay out your wishes and demands to see if they share your vision on how to add to your kitchen. If they listen to what you have to say and take note of your requirements, it’s a great sign.

5. Get everything in black & white

Once you’re sure you have found a company that deserves your trust, it’s time to enter into a written agreement.  Double-check if it includes everything you’ve discussed, such as the scope of the work, projected timeline and completion date, estimated cost and payment schedule, warranty, etc. Examine your construction contract carefully before signing it.

Which kitchen addition contractors to hire in San Diego?

Finding trustworthy kitchen addition builders is challenging but it pays off in the end. If you’re a resident of Mission Hills or another San Diego neighborhood, putting Lars Architecture in charge of your kitchen addition is one of the best ways to raise the value of your kitchen. We’ll be happy to advise you on what the best kitchen layout is and answer other questions about your remodel.

Apart from taking care of your kitchen expansion, our expert team can also handle second story, bedroom or bathroom additions, as well as many other types of construction work. We employ a client-centered approach to deliver customized design and implementation. Together we’ll boost the potential sale price of your home!

Investing in a kitchen addition project for your San Diego residence is a challenge well worth taking on. Not only will you get more kitchen space but you can also maximize its functionality and modify it to suit your taste. If you’ve only just started planning out your remodel, you’ll find some great ideas for your kitchen addition very useful.

It’s important to clearly outline the basics of what you’d like to achieve before you contact your builders. This way, you’ll be able to describe to the contractors what you want in broad strokes. Later on, they will help you figure out the details and finishing touches, like materials and finishes. 

How do you expand a kitchen?

Before you hire a contractor, think about what features you’d like to have added to your kitchen, as well as what look you’re going for. Identify the weak points in your current kitchen design and consider what parts of the layout could do with a change. It’s also helpful to check out some tried and tested kitchen remodel ideas. 

Here are a few popular picks for kitchen expansions:

1. Get more storage space

Have you ever heard anyone complain about how much space they’ve got? We didn’t think so. Kitchen organization is much easier with modern storage solutions, which can make use of every available nook. Discover your kitchen’s untapped storage potential with the help of qualified builders and some smart strategizing. 

2. Add a breakfast nook

Update your kitchen with a cozy area to enjoy your morning toast and a cup of coffee. Set it up in an area which gets lots of sunshine in the morning and style it so it matches the rest of your kitchen. Since they’re informal, private and comfortable, many people find themselves drawn to breakfast nooks more than their larger dining areas.

3. Put in a kitchen island

Unless your home already has an open-plan layout, opening your kitchen up towards the dining room and living area is worth considering. If you’re under the impression that kitchen islands are everywhere these days, it’s for a good reason. They offer a modern, streamlined appearance and provide the chance to spend time with the whole family while working in the kitchen.

4. Introduce glass to make it look bigger

If your kitchen is on the smaller side and there’s not enough room to play with, expand it visually by adding glass elements, like glass door cabinets and a mirror splashback. Other reflective surfaces also add to the impression of a larger space, so opt for shiny floors, shiny appliance finishes, high-gloss paint etc.

5. Brighten up the space

Adequate lighting is crucial in a kitchen since food preparation involves handling knives and taking precise measurements. It’s important to provide enough bright light above your countertops, while the island is usually adorned with low-hanging pendant lights to create an intimate atmosphere. Whatever your lighting choices, don’t forget to think them through.

6. Invest in cutting-edge tech

Smart home appliances are taking the world by storm, so get on the bandwagon by purchasing some kitchen gadgets that are wi-fi enabled and voice-controlled. From smart air fryers and microwave ovens to soap dispenser sensors, food preparation will be easier than ever with smart technology.

If you’re still unsure, skilled contractors can tell you what types of kitchen layouts there are and assist you in picking out the one that’s right for your space. You’ll be amazed with how much value a well-planned kitchen adds to your home!

Which contractor does great kitchen addition projects across San Diego?

Are you wondering how to find the right contractor for a kitchen expansion? If your home is located in Point Loma or anywhere else in San Diego, you can count on Lars Architecture for quality construction work. Apart from expanding your kitchen, we can also add onto your bedroom, bathroom or other parts of your home.

Our team will take your preferences and budget into account to provide you with tailor-made solutions. Whether you’d like a second-story extension to your home or a lovely new room, we can make it happen. Contact us and work with the leading San Diego contractors!