Friday, February 13, 2009

Weichert Insights: News You Can Use

The kitchen has always been the focal point of a home's living area, and one of the first features buyers look at during their home search. As many people cut back on expenses by eating out less and cooking at home more, having a functional kitchen has become even more important than ever.

If you are thinking of remodeling your kitchen, take the current economic climate into account when making your choices. Last month, builders and designers gathered for the International Builders' Show and discussed the following trends for kitchens:

~Pick a layout that makes it easier for two people to be working in the kitchen at the same time, such as putting the oven under the counter to one side of the cooktop.

~Install multiple refrigerators to accommodate extra groceries.

~Good options include under-the-counter and island models as well as refrigerator drawers.

~Achieve a calm environment by choosing appliances that run quietly and using calming colors such as green and blue.

~Making the kitchen more inviting doesn't have to cost a lot. Use expensive tile only as a backsplash or accent, or splurge on designer hardware.

More kitchen design ideas can be found at the National Kitchen and Bath Association Web site at www.nkba.org.

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