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While “visions of sugarplums” might dance in some heads, anyone who has faced the holidays with an outdated kitchen might dream of . . .
High Impact Tile
“Tile is the least expensive way of expressing yourself in your kitchen,” says Belgian-born Karin Ross, the owner of Karin Ross Designs. “It can make a big change, and yet it is easier to replace than cabinets, if you want a different look down the road. With tile, you can add color, shape, dimension, texture, and movement. One of the most popular styles we’re seeing right now is triangular tile, both glossy and matte, in super-cool patterns.”
A 45-inch Sink
The holidays have a way of exposing the flaws of our kitchen design, like a two-bowl sink that won’t fit a turkey roaster or a large sheet pan. Fitted with two faucets, this big sink allows two people to work at the same time. “You can soak at one end and rinse vegetables or dishes at the other,” says Ross. “A large sink makes life so much easier, and the stainless-steel finish is easy to maintain.”
Luxury at Your Fingertips
A countertop that looks good and feels good, too? We expect countertops to feel cold and smooth, but a new style offers a surface that is appealing to touch. “Cambria makes luxurious countertops that can be seen and felt,” says Ross. “They have texture along with cool colors and elements like silver or gold flakes and black veining. And they’re easy to clean. A Cambria countertop lasts a long time too, with a limited warranty.”
Major Statement Lighting
Instead of the usual two pendant lights over the kitchen island and a chandelier over the kitchen table, the new trend is one big statement light that does double duty. “It’s worth the money you would spend on the other three,” says Ross. “A major statement light can fit the style of your kitchen, whether you like a lot of crystals and bling or you want more streamlined, modern, or industrial.”
A Reimagined Space
Just because your kitchen footprint has been the same all these years, it doesn’t mean that’s the only way it can be, says Ross. “Your family grows and changes, and your kitchen needs to change with it. When your kids were small, maybe you needed a desk in the kitchen for them to do their homework. Now, you want an island. Maybe you entertain more now and need a space for a buffet. It takes a kitchen designer to look at your space and see the possibilities.”
An extensive questionnaire for the clients plus an onsite visit initiates the process. “We get to know our clients and their homes first, then present them with several design options and solutions,” says Ross, “after I have done all the research.” Like an antique expert or an art consultant who could point you to a piece of furniture or a painting that will hold its value, a kitchen designer can do a similar thing, says Ross.
There are no surprises, either, during the installation. Karin Ross Designs keeps products in stock, so no waiting. And Nick Ross, Karin’s husband, oversees the installation work with his team. “Our clients know we will take care of it all,” she says.
The National Home Builders Association estimates that a renovated kitchen will return to homeowners 70 to 75 percent of their investment when they sell. Ross estimates that her clients get an even bigger return—80 to 85 percent. “With the housing market still strong in Kansas City despite the interest rates, this is a perfect time to remodel your kitchen. You can then enjoy your new kitchen as the value of your home rises,” she says.
Selecting the perfect kitchen designer can be a valuable investment, saving you time and money. Give yourself and your family the ultimate Christmas gift—the kitchen of your dreams.