Categories Blog, Tips

Open vs. Closed Kitchen Styles – Which Is Better for you?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Thinking of remodeling your kitchen? While the majority of our clients renovating these days opt-in for an open kitchen concept, there are also benefits to having a closed kitchen design. Are you looking for a more private room or a multi-functioning space for hosting? Check out the benefits of having an open and closed kitchen to help you decide which would be better utilized in your home.

Here are the top 3 reasons why you should consider an open kitchen –

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1. Great for hosting – An open floor plan is ideal for homeowners who love to host frequent parties or gatherings. If you’re hosting Christmas Dinner and want to interact with your guests while you’re whipping up appetizers, this is a good option so you won’t miss any of the fun. An open floor plan also allows for more seating and encourages guests to move around.

2. Makes home feel larger – An open kitchen allows for more natural sunlight in turn reducing your energy bill. By having less walls, you have more open space giving off the feel of bigger rooms and higher ceilings.


3. Optimizes Multitasking – Planning on having a family soon? Open kitchens can be great for young kids as you can keep your eyes on multiple rooms at a time! Check on the kids doing homework in the living room, while you’re preparing dinner at your kitchen island.

The more individual rooms there are in your home, the more opportunity you have to get creative with paint colors and wall space to decorate. Check out the top reasons why a closed kitchen design may be better for you –

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1. Cost-Friendly – Knocking down walls can create unforeseen problems and can cost serious renovation dollars. If things like high end appliances and countertops are more important to you, you may want to leave the structure as is and allocate your budget to the priorities on your wish list.

2. More storage – The more wall space, the more room for shelving, cabinetry and hidden closets. If you’re looking for a functional, secluded room with lots of storage, this could be a good option for your home.

3. More privacy – More walls also mean more privacy. Having a closed kitchen design hides a messy room full of dirty dishes – Some hosts want to prep, cook and clean without interruption so that they can provide a more formal dining experience for their guests.

The final decision is up to you, the homeowner. It’s not all black and white and you can meet in the middle somewhere by considering a cutout in your kitchen wall (as long as it’s a non-load bearing wall). 

There’s always going to be a new trend… Don’t succumb to what’s in, but rather decide based upon which option works best for lifestyle and personal preference. Want to start the conversation? We’d love to sit and talk with you about which kitchen layout works best in your home ===> [email protected]

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We hope you found this blog post helpful when it comes to designing your next kitchen!

Thanks for reading,
– The Team at McDonald Contracting

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Categories Blog, Recent Work

Charming Kitchen Remodel

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Our team loves sharing our finished work! The process of working closely with our clients throughout their home renovation project is an important one. Whether it be adding on an addition, remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, painting the garage or installing new windows, our team takes pride in ensuring every job is done with precision, detail and care.  Check out our latest finished project at a home in Norfolk, MA.

What we did:  The homeowners wanted to open up their kitchen to create a more inviting space. They also wanted to update the appearance, appliances and add more storage space.  Along with renovating the kitchen we also added on a mudroom and a small hallway office.

Before Photos: Big thanks to the homeowners for providing us with these photos –

After Photos:

 

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Save[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Are you looking to remodel a room in your house? Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have a question or would like a quote.

Thanks,

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Categories Blog, Tips

3 Kitchen Add-ons That Are Worth The Investment

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It’s known as the heart of the home, so it’s no wonder that the kitchen is rated as one of the most important rooms in a house. A lot of time is spent in the kitchen, which is why it’s important to incorporate durable appliances and features that can keep up with your family’s everyday lifestyle. Whether it be newer appliances, cabinetry, countertops or flooring, we’re sharing 3 important investments that offer high returns.

Stainless Steel:
– Stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain
– It doesn’t absorb dirt, and can be wiped down with a damp cloth and sanitized easily. The surface can be protected with a cleaner to preserve it’s sleek and shiny surface and won’t fade or become discolored over time.
– Of course, it’s aesthetically pleasing and can complement almost any kitchen, home design and theme. The sleek, gleaming metallic finish can be balanced out with wood or plastic accents!

Additional Storage:
The more storage space you have in your kitchen, the more appealing it will be to future buyers, and well, yourself. Here a few suggestions we have on making use of your space and adding more storage:
– Islands are a great place to add additional countertop space and storage without losing any space.
– Try adding pull-out pantries in your cabinets for storing extra dry goods you can’t seem to “fit” in your regular closet pantry.
– Installing a pull-out cutting board can be incorporated with your cabinets and is one less thing you’ll have to wash in the dishwasher.
– Add a Crockery Drawer, a drawer that can store your most-used dishes!
– Installing a countertop that can double as a cutting board is also a great hack, and makes for one less kitchen item you’ll have to store.

Quartz Countertop:
Quartz is a manufactured product; known to be very durable and luxurious.

Why we love it:
– There is a wider range of colors you can choose from and it’s appearance is rich.
– The finish has a depth that can’t be produced with solid surface materials like Corian.
– Quartz has the same durability as concrete and granite, so it won’t chip or crack as easily.
– It can also withstand any spill or stain in the kitchen! Who doesn’t love a stain-free durable product?

Thanks for reading,
-The Team at McDonald Contracting | www.McDonaldContractingMA.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]