Tips For Larger Kitchen Remodeling Projects

Derek Obringer • October 15, 2024

A large kitchen remodeling project is both exciting and overwhelming. With so many choices to make, from design to functionality, it’s easy to overlook some key elements that could elevate your kitchen from good to great. Whether you're aiming for a modern, open-concept kitchen or a traditional, cozy space, careful planning is crucial. Here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your kitchen renovation project, ensuring that your new kitchen is both beautiful and practical.

If you have a smaller kitchen, be sure to check out our tips on maximizing smaller kitchens during a kitchen remodel!

At Obringer's Painting & Remodeling, we specialize in turning Pittsburgh homes into functional and stylish spaces. Call us at (412) 335-5581 for a consultation or fill out a contact form on our website!

1. Incorporate More Windows, Less Upper Cabinets

One popular trend in kitchen remodeling is to reduce upper cabinets in favor of windows. This design strategy not only opens up the space and makes it feel larger, but it also allows more natural light to flood the room. Bright, airy kitchens tend to feel more inviting and create a connection with the outdoors, which is especially beneficial in homes that might otherwise feel a bit closed off.

Without upper cabinets, you may be concerned about storage space. To counterbalance this, consider adding larger lower cabinets or extending your kitchen island for more drawers and hidden storage solutions. You could also incorporate open shelving for frequently used items like plates and glassware, combining practicality with an on-trend look.

2. Add a Mixer Cabinet for Convenience

If you love baking or cooking, having a mixer cabinet can be a game-changer. Instead of storing your heavy stand mixer on the counter or in a low cabinet where it's difficult to access, a pull-out mixer cabinet with a spring-loaded shelf brings the mixer right to countertop height when you need it.

This clever addition helps you maintain clean counters while still keeping your favorite appliances within reach. The spring-loaded mechanism also saves your back from lifting heavy kitchen tools repeatedly, making your kitchen not only beautiful but also functional for serious home chefs.

3. Consider a Large Sink with Two Faucets

For larger kitchens, a big sink with two faucets can be a highly practical feature. Whether you live in a bustling household or simply love hosting parties, having a large sink allows for multiple tasks to be carried out at the same time. Two faucets mean one person can be washing dishes while someone else is prepping food or filling a pot, enhancing the workflow in a busy kitchen.

Another great option is adding a deep sink with built-in accessories like cutting boards, drying racks, or colanders. This keeps your counters clear and maximizes workspace efficiency.

4. Utilize Toe-Kick Drawers for Extra Storage

When you're working with a large kitchen remodel, you want to ensure that every inch of space is utilized effectively, especially for storage. One often overlooked area is the toe-kick space, the small gap between your lower cabinets and the floor. By installing flat drawers in the toe-kick area, you can create additional storage for items that aren't used as often, such as baking sheets, placemats, or special-occasion dishware.

These hidden drawers offer a great solution for those looking to maximize storage without compromising the design or aesthetic of the kitchen. They blend seamlessly with the cabinetry and offer practical, out-of-the-way storage for those low-profile items.

5. Invest in Durable Countertops

In a high-use space like the kitchen, durability is key, especially when it comes to your countertops. While granite and marble countertops have long been popular choices, more homeowners are turning to quartz for its resilience and low maintenance. Quartz is non-porous, making it resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria, making it a great option for busy kitchens.

Another option is butcher block countertops, which are ideal for those who love to cook. While they do require regular maintenance to prevent wear, butcher block countertops bring warmth and a natural aesthetic that can balance modern kitchen designs.

6. Install a Walk-In Pantry

If you have the space, a walk-in pantry can transform your kitchen’s functionality. Not only does a pantry free up space in your main kitchen for cooking and entertaining, but it also provides ample storage for bulk items, small appliances, and everyday essentials. With well-organized shelving and containers, a pantry ensures that your kitchen remains clutter-free while keeping everything within easy reach.

You can also design your pantry to include features like pull-out drawers, baskets for produce, or even a countertop area for small appliances like microwaves or coffee machines.

7. Design with an Open Floor Plan in Mind

An open floor plan is a common request for larger kitchen remodels, as it allows for better flow between the kitchen and adjacent living areas. This layout is perfect for homeowners who love to entertain, as it allows for easy interaction with guests while preparing meals.

To maintain a cohesive look across the open space, choose a consistent color scheme and complementary materials that tie the kitchen together with the living or dining area. Additionally, consider installing a large kitchen island that can double as a dining or serving space, adding both functionality and style.

8. Plan for Proper Lighting

Lighting can make or break a kitchen design, especially in larger kitchens. To ensure your new kitchen feels warm and welcoming, incorporate a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting.

Task lighting: Focus on areas where you need bright light, such as over countertops, the stove, or the sink.
Ambient lighting: Use overhead lighting, like recessed lights or chandeliers, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Accent lighting: Highlight specific design features, such as a backsplash, open shelving, or an island, with under-cabinet or pendant lighting.

A layered lighting approach ensures that your kitchen is both functional and visually appealing.

9. Maximize Kitchen Island Functionality

In a large kitchen, an oversized island can serve multiple purposes. Not only does it provide additional countertop space for meal prep, but it can also include built-in storage, seating, and even a second sink. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel with an open floor plan, the island can become the focal point of your kitchen, serving as both a work area and a social hub.

You can also add custom features like a wine fridge, built-in microwave, or a pop-up outlet for easy access to appliances, further increasing the island's functionality.

10. Don’t Forget About Ventilation

In a large kitchen, proper ventilation is essential, especially if you do a lot of cooking. A powerful range hood helps to remove smoke, grease, and odors, keeping your kitchen fresh and your appliances free from residue buildup. When choosing a hood, make sure it complements your kitchen’s aesthetic while being strong enough to handle the size and volume of your cooking area.

A large kitchen remodeling project is the perfect opportunity to create a space that’s both beautiful and functional. By incorporating features like a mixer cabinet, large sink with two faucets, and additional storage solutions like toe-kick drawers and a walk-in pantry, you can ensure your kitchen meets all your needs. With the right planning and expert guidance from Obringer's Painting & Remodeling, your dream kitchen is within reach.

Let us help you design the perfect kitchen for your home.

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Author: Derek Obringer

Owner & Founder of Obringer's Painting and Remodeling, Derek Obringer brings attention to detail, together with experience, and superior customer service into each and every home that his company does work.

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General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors: Which One Do You Need?

By Derek Obringer • March 27, 2025

General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodelers: Key Differences When planning your kitchen renovation, choosing the right professional is crucial. Should you hire a general contractor or a kitchen remodeling contractor ? While both handle renovations, their expertise and scope of work differ significantly. General Contractors General contractors oversee large-scale remodeling projects, such as whole-home renovations or additions. They handle structural changes, electrical and plumbing work, and permit approvals. Because they manage multiple subcontractors and coordinate various trades, hiring a general contractor is typically more expensive. They are best suited for projects that go beyond just the kitchen. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors Kitchen remodelers specialize in kitchen-specific renovations, focusing on layout, design, and materials. They often work directly on the kitchen, rather than overseeing multiple subcontractors. Because their expertise is limited to one area of the home, they provide more cost-effective solutions for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchens without altering other spaces. Which One Do You Need? If your project involves multiple rooms or structural changes, a general contractor is the best choice. However, if your renovation is kitchen-focused and you want a more budget-friendly approach, a kitchen remodeling contractor is the way to go. Understanding these differences can help you make the right decision for your home renovation needs. Key Differences: General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodelers When planning a home renovation, it's essential to understand the key differences between general contractors and kitchen remodelers to ensure you hire the right professional for the job. While both play crucial roles in home improvement, their scope of work, expertise, cost, and project management styles vary significantly. 1. Scope of Work The primary difference between a general contractor and a kitchen remodeler is the scope of work they handle: General Contractors: General contractors oversee broad renovation projects that may involve multiple rooms, entire home remodels, or structural changes. Their responsibilities often include: Managing large-scale renovations, including home expansions and floor plan modifications. Overseeing structural changes such as removing walls or adding new rooms. Coordinating various subcontractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, to complete the project efficiently. Kitchen Remodelers: Kitchen remodelers, on the other hand, specialize exclusively in kitchen renovations. Their work is focused on: Optimizing kitchen layout design for better functionality and efficiency. Installing cabinetry, countertops, backsplashes, and appliances. Choosing the best materials, finishes, and storage solutions for an aesthetically pleasing and practical kitchen. If your project involves multiple rooms or structural modifications, a general contractor is necessary. However, if your focus is solely on updating or redesigning the kitchen, a kitchen remodeler is the better choice. 2. Expertise & Specialization The level of expertise required for a renovation depends on the type and complexity of the project. General Contractors: These professionals have broad knowledge across multiple trades, including: Structural modifications (e.g., knocking down walls or adding load-bearing beams). Electrical and plumbing work to support home expansions. Permitting and building code compliance for large-scale projects. Kitchen Remodelers: In contrast, kitchen remodelers focus specifically on kitchen design, materials, and functionality, which includes: Understanding the latest kitchen trends and space-saving solutions. Customizing cabinets, countertops, and islands for improved workflow. Ensuring optimal appliance placement to enhance efficiency. If your renovation requires significant structural changes, a general contractor is the right choice. However, if you want a kitchen tailored to your lifestyle and design preferences, a kitchen remodeler's specialized knowledge is more beneficial. 3. Cost Considerations Cost is a major factor when choosing between a general contractor and a kitchen remodeler. General Contractor: In most cases, they will charge a percentage of the total project cost, often ranging between 10% and 25%. Their services are more expensive due to the larger scale of work and involvement of multiple trades. Costs may include permits, labor for structural changes, and extensive material selections. Kitchen Remodeling Company: Offer a more budget-friendly option for homeowners focusing solely on the kitchen. Since they specialize in one area, their labor and material costs are often more predictable and controlled. Homeowners can choose from different levels of renovation, from minor upgrades to high-end, custom kitchen designs. If you're planning a whole-home remodel or structural work, a general contractor's higher costs are justified. However, if you need a cost-effective kitchen transformation, a kitchen remodeler is the smarter financial choice. 4. Project & Subcontractor Management Managing a renovation project requires careful coordination, and the approach differs between general contractors and kitchen remodelers. General Contractor: Act as project manager, hiring and overseeing subcontractors for various tasks such as flooring, plumbing, and HVAC installation. Ensure all trades work in sync to meet project deadlines. Handle any unexpected construction challenges, such as hidden electrical issues or outdated plumbing. Kitchen Remodeling Company: Typically, they work with a smaller, more specialized team of designers and craftsmen. Provide a hands-on approach by focusing on specific kitchen elements, ensuring quality control throughout the project. May still work with subcontractors (e.g., electricians or plumbers) but on a much smaller scale than general contractors. If your renovation involves multiple professionals across different areas, a general contractor is necessary. However, if you prefer a more direct and focused approach for your kitchen, a kitchen remodeler provides the expertise needed. Both general contractors and kitchen remodelers bring valuable skills to the table, but their expertise is suited for different types of projects.