Remodeling your kitchen gives you the exciting opportunity to breathe new life into one of the most important spaces in your home. But with so many elements to consider—cabinets, countertops, appliances, lighting—knowing where to start can be a challenge. If you’re contemplating a kitchen remodel, you may be asking yourself, “What part of my kitchen should I update first?”
At STM Development LLC, a trusted general contractor based in Tucson, AZ, we’ve helped countless homeowners transform their kitchens into beautiful, functional spaces. Ready to jump into the wild world of home renovation? Here’s some advice on where to focus your attention first.
1. Start with the Layout
Before diving into specific updates, consider the overall layout of your kitchen—it dictates how functional your kitchen will be and impacts everything from cooking efficiency to how you move through the space. If your current layout is awkward or cramped, reconfiguring it should be your first priority.
Consider the work triangle, which connects the sink, stove, and refrigerator: the three main work areas in any kitchen. A well-designed work triangle minimizes movement and maximizes efficiency. If your kitchen’s layout isn’t serving you well, the STM team can help redesign it for better flow and functionality.
2. Focus on Cabinets and Storage
Once the layout is set, your next priority should be the cabinets. Cabinets are not only the most visually dominant feature in your kitchen—they’re also essential for storage. If you do even a moderate amount of cooking, you probably have a lot of dishware, utensils, and cooking tools that need to go somewhere! Updating your cabinets can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the space and really change how easy (or not) it is to use.
If your cabinets are outdated, STM Development LLC recommends either refinishing them for a fresh look or replacing them entirely, depending on their condition. Modern cabinetry solutions can also include clever storage options like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and built-in organizers that make your kitchen more functional while maintaining a sleek and streamlined look.
3. Upgrade Your Countertops
After cabinets, the next best feature to update is the countertops. Countertops see a lot of daily use and can start to show wear and tear very quickly. Replacing old, damaged countertops with a durable and aesthetically pleasing material like granite, quartz, or butcher block can instantly elevate your kitchen’s style.
In Tucson, AZ, STM Development LLC offers a variety of countertop options to suit any design preference. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern or warm and rustic, the right countertop can make your kitchen more beautiful and practical.
4. Enhance Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in the functionality and ambiance of your kitchen. Good lighting enhances the visibility of your workspace and can set the mood for different activities, whether it be cooking or entertaining.
Start by ensuring you have adequate task lighting over key areas like the sink, stove, and countertops. Under-cabinet lighting can also be a great addition! Then, consider adding ambient and accent lighting to brighten the space and highlight design features.
As part of our kitchen remodeling service, STM Development LLC can help you choose and install the perfect lighting solutions for your perfect kitchen in Tucson, AZ, ensuring your space is both functional and inviting.
5. Consider Appliance Upgrades
If your budget allows, updating your appliances should be on your list as well. Modern appliances offer both increased energy efficiency and access to advanced features that can make cooking and cleaning easier.
However, it’s important to choose appliances that fit your new kitchen layout and design. At STM Development LLC, we often recommend selecting appliances early in the remodel process so that the rest of the design can be tailored to accommodate them.
6. Finish with Flooring
Finally, consider updating your kitchen flooring. The right flooring material can tie the entire room together while providing durability and ease of maintenance. Popular options include tile, hardwood, and luxury vinyl, and each offers its own unique style and practicality.
Flooring is often done last to avoid damage during the installation of other elements. However, it’s still a critical part of your kitchen’s overall design, and we can guide you in choosing the best flooring option for your lifestyle and budget.
Let’s Get Started!
When remodeling your kitchen, it’s essential to start with the elements that will have the most significant impact on functionality and aesthetics. Begin with the layout, then move on to cabinets, countertops, lighting, appliances, and flooring.
At STM Development LLC in Tucson, AZ, we understand that a kitchen remodel is a significant investment, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Our expert team can guide you through each step of the remodeling process, ensuring your new kitchen is everything you’ve dreamed of.
Ready to start your kitchen remodel? Contact STM Development LLC today to schedule a consultation. Let’s get started!