5 Remodeling Tips to Open Your Kitchen Layout
913-717-6325
913-717-6325
“Kitchen: (noun) – a gathering place for family and friends – a place where memories are made and seasoned with love.”
One of the first spaces to consider for a home remodel is typically the kitchen. This socially central space can become outdated as the years pass by. Many homeowners around the Overland Park area are looking to Wineteer to bring their new family dynamic needs into their kitchen. Some homeowners are finding ways to simply enlarge the doorways or knock down walls, upgrade lighting and finishes, rearrange the appliances or even upgrade the flooring and countertops/backsplash.
Keep on reading to have a deeper understanding of how to implement the ideas to make your kitchen feel open, inviting, and welcoming.
To have an open layout kitchen remodel, all you need is a trusted design and build contractor to trust with transparency. Wineteer Construction has worked with a number of Kansas City area homeowners on redesigning and building out their kitchens, and we’ve gathered a list of the 5 Proven Functional Kitchen Design Tips to Open the Kitchen Layout. Let’s begin!
A demolition wall is one of the best ways to add some functional space to your kitchen and results in an open layout. For instance, you need to remove the wall between your kitchen and the dining space.
With careful planning, an open-concept kitchen can provide you with a more efficient, spacious layout that improves both daily use and long-term value. It will be even easier to carry dishes from your kitchen to the dining room or help you socialize with family and guests while cooking.
However, without taking certain precautions and major considerations, it is no wonder, you will be left with critical and dangerous structural issues.
The kitchen island is another effective way for open-concept spaces that helps you to move around freely. It often comes with a seating setup that you can use as a social space for gathering and sharing quality time.
Either you can install a freestanding kitchen island or replace a traditional peninsula. Both offer super functionality and add extra storage. A peninsula is typically attached to a wall or a run of cabinets. It is more likely an extension of your kitchen that usually comes in either a U- or G-shaped layout.
A freestanding island, on the other hand, stands alone, from where you will get 360-degree access and more flexibility. Also, you can install cabinets, a sink, or even a cooktop on the island. Or you can keep it simple.
However, if your kitchen lacks sufficient space for a standard island that typically needs a minimum of 36–42 inches around all sides, choose a peninsula to open the kitchen layout. It offers the same benefits as the island, such as additional workspace, storage, and seating.
Vaulted ceilings are the special feature where the ceiling is curved or arched stylishly and makes a spacious kitchen. This solution idea doesn’t add square footage but dramatically adds the feel of openness to the kitchen layout.
Raising the ceiling adds a vertical openness. In many older homes, kitchen ceilings often drop to conceal ductwork or plumbing. By just restoring the ceiling line to its original joist, you can save a lot of space.
To set up the vaulted ceilings, you need to first determine if your kitchen roof is suitable. It is even easier to install this ceiling if you have a pitched roof and attic space above the kitchen. In the case of flat-roof homes or homes with truss systems, you need to modify it first.
It effectively increases the natural sunlight in the space and reduces your reliance on artificial light. As an additional storage option, you can install taller upper cabinets and make the space more functional.
Beyond just knocking down the wall or raising the ceiling, you can open your kitchen layout by just rearranging the appliances. Higher chances are the refrigerator is swinging into a narrow walkway, or the range may be too close to the sink. Simply repositioning these elements can open up your kitchen layout.
Another best approach is that you can go with the zoning plan, dividing your kitchen space into multiple spaces for cooking, prepping, and cleaning. For instance,
In some cases, oversized appliances reduce the kitchen’s functionality. Make sure to use the perfect size appliance for your kitchen layout.
Also, avoid clustering tall and bulky appliances together. Spread them out strategically or surround them with cabinetry. Leave 36 inches minimum clearance between opposing type appliances or when setting up the cabinet.
Widening doorways and entry points is another best way to create an open kitchen design. It not only makes your space look bigger but also enhances the movement in the space. Most older homes have 28 to 32-inch-wide doorways leading into the kitchen.
However, it is not the open-concept flow that modern lifestyles demand. For a widened doorway, plan for at least a 42–48-inch opening. This is even often the efficient way to allow the movement of strollers, wheelchairs, or mobility aids to the kitchen. This is a solid option to consider as many couples are deciding to age in place, requiring accessibility options.
Have a glance at some of the expert-level remodel ideas you can consider to make your kitchen space feel open:
An open kitchen layout isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about improving how your space works for daily life. Starting from adjusting ceiling heights to smart appliance placement, each upgrade creates a kitchen that’s more functional and spacious.
Ready to open up your kitchen the right way? Contact Wineteer Construction today and let our experienced remodeling professionals bring your vision to life.
Kitchen remodels have evolved over the years. From oak to all white cabinetry, trends ebb and flow. While some of the trends over the years are now considered outdated, homeowners are understanding the importance now of prioritizing functionality, sustainability, and modern aesthetics. However, many homeowners in Kansas City are leaning on top award-winning design contractors like Wineteer to bring their timeless visions to life. Let’s explore the Top 10 Kitchen Remodel Trends in 2025.
Keep reading this guide to learn more about the trends and how you can incorporate them effectively into your existing kitchen. If you’re considering a kitchen in 2025 or beyond, consider reaching out to Wineteer to understand your realistic goals, budget, timeline, and design features.
Not all trends are meant for every space, so knowing what works within your budget, space, and aesthetics takes an expert. Our experts at Wineteer Construction simplify the process and help you choose the best options while working with our in-house design team. Here are Top 10 Kitchen Remodel Trends in 2025!
For any remodeling at your home, you should first prioritize sustainable materials. Using renewable or recycled resources reduces your carbon footprint, and you will likely contribute to the environment.
For kitchen remodeling, eco-friendly materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled glass for countertops, cabinets, and flooring will continue to be a highlighted trend for 2025. Plus, when choosing appliances, ensure they are energy efficient. Look for models with high Energy Star ratings to save electricity. It will even help lower your utility bills.
RELATED: Check out this list of Energy Star Energy Efficient Products.
The global smart kitchen appliances market was worth about $15.65 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to $50.37 billion by 2033. So, if you still haven’t tried the latest trends, be sure to integrate them into your kitchen remodel as much as possible.
For instance, you can start with smart refrigerators that remind you to restock groceries or ovens you can control with your phone. Voice-activated assistants that help you set timers, find recipes, or even play music are trendy now.
You can also integrate motion-sensor faucets to save water, a smart thermostat, and bright lighting that adjusts brightness. These appliances will make cooking, cleaning, and organizing easier.
Functionality is essential for whatever design and appliances you integrate into your next kitchen remodel. Ensure your kitchen is clutter-free and has more expansive space, which makes it feel bigger and helps you work better. You can adjust like:
Large-format tiles in remodeling are always popular and will last for years to come. They have even great advantages. Homeowners choose large-format tiles for their amazing minimalist aesthetic appearance. Plus, using such large-format tiles will help your kitchen feel spacious, and you can easily bring a modern vibe.
The tiles are not only stylish but super easy to clean. With fewer grout lines, there’s less dirt to get stuck, and maintenance is simple. They are even more durable and last longer, making them the perfect addition to your kitchen remodel.
It offers great advantages. Don’t assume it will take up space; even you can save space. Here, you will get extra space for storing food, small appliances, and kitchen essentials. It helps you keep everything organized and easy to find.
If you want to add more counter space or casual seating to your kitchen setup, try a well-laid-out kitchen island. Adding a kitchen island is a dramatic way to increase your kitchen’s storage space.
It will make your cooking space more organized and efficient. You will likely have extra room to prep meals, serve food, or even have a quick snack. You’ll find extra drawers or shelves where you can store utensils, pots, and pans easily. It not only improves the functionality of your kitchen but also adds a new style to it.
A successful remodel doesn’t just depend on design and appliances. You need to even focus on the overall color. The right color can completely transform your kitchen and give it a modern look. Here are some quick ideas of the trendy color options you can try for your next kitchen remodeling in 2025:
The kitchen backsplash is the perfect addition. It protects the walls and adds a decorative touch to the design. It also prevents water stains, damage, and stains from getting onto the countertops.
A well-designed double-duty backsplash keeps your kitchen clean and makes it easier to maintain. It helps reduce odors and bacteria build-up through dents or stains. The backsplash can be made of various materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, or stone, each adding a unique style to your space.
Photo Credit: House Beautiful
Avoid using one type of material throughout your kitchen space. Instead, mix different materials, which help you add a more dynamic and stylish look to your kitchen design. You can add wood, metal, stone, and glass to add texture and color to the style.
The combination of wooden countertops with a sleek metal backsplash is enough to stay trendy. You can also try stone floors with glass shelves. These types of mixing materials highlight different areas in your kitchen and make the design more appealing.
Maximizing natural light with natural views in the kitchen will be a top priority for kitchen designs. Make sure you have large windows, skylights, and glass to allow plenty of sunlight and create an airy atmosphere in the kitchen.
You can also add greenery, like plants or herbs, to enhance this natural connection. Bright light and fresh plants not only add style but also provide a soothing appearance that boosts your mood and well-being.
After years of sleek and minimalist designs, homeowners want more comfort and better functionality in every part of their home, including the kitchen. Layered textures, neutral color bases, smart appliances, and adjustable lighting fixtures make this important space feel lived in.
These updates even maximize your kitchen space, saving time and effort. So, if you are ready to enhance your kitchen aesthetic with modern trends, don’t hesitate to contact our experts. We will ensure the best kitchen setup for your needs!
Physically, the kitchen is located at the center of most houses. And emotionally, the kitchen is also at the center of a home. Friends and family members gather in the kitchen to relax from the stress of daily pressures, enjoy good food and good company. Basically, the kitchen is where you go for some simple love. Think about it… your child’s first bites of food are taken in there; your high-schooler and their friends gather around to eat all of your snacks, and of course your grown children come back to congregate for a family dinner. All of the memories… within your home’s kitchen.
New cabinets, counters, backsplash, flooring, appliances with all the modern amenities, recessed lighting fixtures…This long list is an overwhelming chore for a part-time handyman or independent contractor.
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