A Kitchen that Keeps Up

DESIGN CHOICES THAT MAKE EVERYDAY LIVING EASIER

BY KIM ARMSTRONG

KITCHEN RENOVATION TIPS FOR A BEAUTIFUL, FUNCTIONAL HOME

A kitchen renovation is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your home. Whether you’re refreshing a dated space, improving functionality, or creating a warmer gathering place for family and friends, a thoughtful remodel can completely transform the way your home lives day to day.

That said, the number of decisions—layout, materials, storage, lighting, and budget—can quickly feel overwhelming. Keeping a few key priorities in mind will help you create a kitchen that is not only beautiful, but truly works for your lifestyle.

START WITH HOW YOU ACTUALLY LIVE

Your daily habits should shape your storage plan. If paper towels always end up on the counter, build in a discreet holder. If coffee is part of your morning routine, create a dedicated zone for your machine, grinder, pods, and mugs.

Many households also benefit from an appliance garage, where everyday appliances stay plugged in but hidden behind doors when not in use. Freestanding hutches or armoires can add flexible storage, while a charging drawer keeps phones, tablets, and laptops powered without cluttering countertops.

BRING IN COLOR AND TEXTURE

Warmth comes from contrast and layering. Mix materials such as wood, metal, stone, and fabric to create depth and personality. Upholstered seating, natural wood tables, and metallic accents can make even a hardworking kitchen feel welcoming and comfortable rather than purely utilitarian.

LAYER YOUR LIGHTING

A well-designed kitchen uses multiple sources of light. Combine dimmable ceiling lights, under-cabinet task lighting, and decorative fixtures for ambiance. Under-cabinet lighting is especially useful in the evening, offering a soft glow that can double as a night light without flooding the room with bright overhead light.

PRIORITIZE DEEP DRAWER STORAGE

Whenever possible, replace lower cabinets with drawers. Deep drawers make it easier to organize and access dishes, cookware, lids, and water bottles—no more digging through dark cabinet corners.

ALLOW GENEROUS WALKWAY SPACE

Clearances can make or break functionality. While minimum standards exist, wider aisles dramatically improve comfort and traffic flow—especially when multiple people are cooking, unloading the dishwasher, or moving through the space.

Aim for no less than 48 inches, and if space allows, 54 inches is even better. Wider walkways ensure the kitchen never feels cramped and provide room to open appliances while maintaining easy movement.

FUNCTION FIRST, BEAUTY FOLLOWS

Above all, design for function first and aesthetics second. A kitchen that works effortlessly will always feel more beautiful than one that simply looks good. When form follows function, the result is a space you’ll love using every single day.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Kim Armstrong is an award-winning, nationally published designer known for her signature eclectic style and colorful, layered interiors. A master of space planning, material selection, and blending traditional with modern elements, she creates functional spaces that feel both timeless and fresh.

By approaching every project with professionalism, creativity, and kindness, she knows her job is done when a space sparks joy for her clients—because joy never goes out of style.