As the new year begins, determine if there are any obvious signs that you'll need a new kitchen in 2024. If you look at your room objectively, you may find that renovating your kitchen is your top priority this year.
It's easy to get so used to a room that you overlook problems, but an unbiased assessment will highlight any inconveniences, wear, or age. This is when ideas for changing your kitchen come in handy.
But what are the signs that a new kitchen is a must? We asked interior designers and kitchen experts to reveal the charm of a room in need of a refresh. And this is what they told us.
What are the signs you need a new kitchen?
Knowing what to look out for will make it clear that it's time to make your kitchen renovation a top priority in 2024. This can include kitchen layout issues that are inconvenient at best, but at worst can put you at risk of harm while working. with a hot pan and a sharp knife. Alternatively, your kitchen countertops may be damaged or unsanitary, or your kitchen cabinets may be inadequate for storage.
To help you decide if you need a new kitchen, check out this list of interior experts to show you it's time for a remodel.
1. Deterioration of fittings
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Even durable kitchen materials and fittings will eventually deteriorate over time. “When cracks appear on the surface, it's time to improve them,” says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. How to ensure your new features last? “Choose a hard material like quartz or granite for your countertops,” suggests Artem. “This is going to last a long time.”
Be careful if your cabinet doors no longer hang properly either. “Invest in well-constructed cabinets with soft-close hinges, and opt for modern styles like shaker or flat panel for a timeless look,” says Lassan Grant, director of Norstone USA. Please consider it,” he advises. Also, keep an eye out for cracked tiles or leaky faucets as signs you should consider a new kitchen, he says.
Based in New York, Artem Kropovinsky boasts a decade of extensive global design experience. With his commitment to sustainability and authenticity, Artem works on projects in the United States and internationally with a dedicated team and has been recognized through prestigious design awards. Artem is the founder of Arsight, a globally acclaimed design firm known for his design expertise in residential and commercial interiors.
2. Lifestyle changes
(Image credit: Marie Flannigan, photography Julie Sofer)
Our lives change over time, leaving us with unmet needs. “One of the biggest signs that it's time for a new kitchen is when you notice a lack of functionality,” says interior designer Hilary Matt, who represents Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove.
“Kitchens should be designed to suit our lifestyle and allow us to work as efficiently as possible. Perhaps your lifestyle has changed since you last renovated your kitchen.
“For example, you might want a double-wall oven for more cooking space and host far more meals than you used to. Or maybe you've gotten into wine collecting and really enjoy a wine storage unit. Special purpose appliances are a great way to invest in space and specifically cater to your needs.”
3. Cabinet deflection
(Image credit: St. Charles New York)
Even worse than kitchen cabinet doors that no longer hang properly are doors that sag. “If your wall cabinets are sagging or are trying to become base cabinets, it's probably time for a remodel,” says Thomas Borcherding, lead designer and owner of Homestar Design Remodels. .
“Wall cabinet sag often occurs when the cabinet is made of medium density fiberboard (MDF),” he says. “A higher quality option is plywood construction, where sag is virtually non-existent.”
4. Bad layout
(Image credit: Ema Peter)
Are you struggling with a bad layout? It's a clear sign that it's time for a change. The design of the cooking zone is important not only for the well functioning of the room, but also for its safety.
“The golden triangle (sink, stove, refrigerator) resembles a trapezoid,” explains Lassan Grant. “Poorly organized cooking zones can frustrate even the most experienced chef.” For the future? “Choose an efficient layout that prioritizes traffic flow and ease of movement,” he says.
Layouts with unused corners and wasted space also suggest it's time for a renovation. “Make the most of every nook and cranny,” Lassan says. “Built-in cabinets, corner shelves, and pull-out drawers can help you regain lost space and make your kitchen feel larger and more functional.”
5. Golden Oak
(Image credit: Future / Mary Wadsworth / HÁM Interiors)
Everyone's style is different, but a Golden Oak kitchen might be worth a refresh. “If you have golden oak in your kitchen, the chances of needing a remodel increase exponentially,” says Thomas Borcherding.
“The once iconic, now infamous golden oak color has long gone out of fashion. There's nothing wrong with oak, but it's better to choose a stain that doesn't have that yellow tint. maybe.”
6. Dim or too bright lighting
(Image credit: deVOL)
There's no such thing as “just right” lighting in your kitchen, and if it's not, that's one reason why you might need a remodel.
“If the kitchen is too dark or too bright, it can make you feel unwell,” explains Artem Kropovinsky. “In modern kitchens, different types of lighting are used: task, general, and central. They use LED lights to save energy and better manage brightness. I often do.”
7. Cracked grout lines
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
Inspect the grout – A new kitchen may prove to be a great idea. “Cracked grout lines are something we often see before remodeling our clients' kitchens,” says Thomas Borcherding.
“Cracked grout lines indicate that the subfloor and kitchen tile are misaligned, whether due to foundation settlement or plywood sagging. To prevent this problem, future tile installations should , we need to utilize what are known as separator membranes. Nonconjugated membranes provide relaxation between two hard surfaces, allowing energy to be transferred without forming cracks.”
8. Worn out home appliances
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Previous generation appliances use more energy than modern designs, so kitchens that still rely on them need refurbishment.
“Broken and old machines not only increase energy costs, but also affect the functionality of the kitchen,” says Artem Kropovinsky. “In 2024, choose the best kitchen appliances – energy-saving smart devices to improve your work and reduce your negative impact on the environment.”
9. Wrong cabinet to content ratio
(Image credit: Tom Howley)
Efficient storage in the kitchen is very important for the room, so let's take an objective look at how it is working. “Whether your cupboards are full or empty can tell the difference between your current storage needs,” says Artem Kropovinsky.
A new kitchen is an opportunity to adapt the available space to your requirements when planning the cabinetry for your new room. Also consider our versatile options for renovated rooms. “Future-proof your kitchen by adding changeable storage options like movable shelves and drawers,” suggests Artem.
10. No IH cooker
(Image credit: GettyImages)
According to Steve Pallland, founder of Home Front Build and CarbonShack, there's one appliance you can't live without in your room. “If you don't have an induction cooktop in your kitchen, it's definitely time for an update in 2024,” he says.
“Induction cooktops are both the present and the future. Not only are they precise, versatile cooking machines – the Teslas of the culinary world – they also eliminate indoor air pollution.”
FAQ
How can I tell if my kitchen is outdated?
There are some kitchen looks whose moment has long since passed. Honey oak cabinets and floral wallpaper are among his timeless kitchen trends. Go for sleek, handleless cabinets in muted tones or natural wood textures. 2024 trends lean toward minimalism and warm, inviting spaces,” advises Rassan Grant, director of Norstone USA. And you might want to say goodbye to avocado appliances and harvest gold hardware, he says. “It's time to ditch old-fashioned appliances in favor of sleek stainless steel or a statement black matte finish,” he added.
A new kitchen is a big investment, so be sure to invest time in planning and designing your kitchen to ensure it meets all your demands for style and functionality. Also check out different kitchen styles. Traditional, transitional, Scandinavian, farmhouse, etc. may suit you and your home. Get inspired with expert kitchen styling tips and get professional-looking results.
