1. DETERIORATION OF FITTINGS
Even hardwearing kitchen materials and fittings eventually show their age. ‘When surfaces are cracked, it’s time to make things better,’ says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. The way to ensure new features last? ‘Pick hard materials like quartz or granite for counters,’ Artem suggests. ‘These will last for a long time.’
2. LIFESTYLE CHANGES
How we live changes over time, leaving unmet needs. ‘One of the biggest signs that it’s time for a new kitchen is when you notice a lack in functionality,’ says interior designer Hilary Matt on behalf of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.
3. SAGGING CABINETS
Worse than kitchen cabinet doors that no longer hang correctly are those that sag. ‘If your wall cabinets are sagging and trying to become base cabinets, it’s probably time to remodel,’ says Thomas Borcherding, lead designer and owner of Homestar Design Remodel.
4. POOR LAYOUT
Battling against a bad layout? It’s a clear sign it’s time for a change. The cooking zone’s design is crucial so the room works well, but also for safety.
5. GOLDEN OAK
Style is personal, but a kitchen with golden oak might be one worth refreshing. ‘The presence of golden oak in a kitchen increases the likelihood that you need to remodel exponentially,’ says Thomas Borcherding.
6. DIM OR OVERBRIGHT LIGHTING
There’s a ‘just right’ when it comes to kitchen lighting, and if yours isn’t, it’s one of the reasons why you need to remodel. ‘A kitchen can feel bad if it’s too dark or very bright,’ explains Artem Kropovinsky. ‘Modern kitchens use different types of light like task, general and focused. They often use LED lights to save energy and manage brightness better.’
7. CRACKED GROUT LINES
Inspect grout – it could reveal that a new kitchen is a great idea. ‘Something I commonly see prior to remodeling a client’s kitchen is cracked grout lines,’ says Thomas Borcherding.
8. TIRED APPLIANCES
Previous generations of appliances were energy-hungry compared to the latest designs, so a kitchen that’s still relying on them is one in need of a revamp.
9. WRONG CABINET TO CONTENT RATIO
Effective kitchen storage is crucial to the room, so take an objective look at how it’s working. ‘Filled or empty cupboards show a difference with current storage needs,’ says Artem Kropovinsky.
10. LACK OF INDUCTION COOKTOP
There’s one appliance that’s a must-have for the room, according to Steve Pallrand, founder of Home Front Build and CarbonShack. ‘If your kitchen does not have an electric induction cooktop, it is definitely time for an update in 2024,’ he says.