Premier Home Upgrades Inc. is a family owned and operated construction company, providing high-end kitchen and bathroom remodels throughout Southern Ontario since 2011. Specializing in custom carpentry and millwork, they offer expert installation, as well as quality craftmanship and attention to detail from the initial planning stages right through to the finishing touches.

Owner and Operator Airik Lenz and his team recently completed a stunning kitchen renovation in Brampton, Ontario that transformed this dated 80’s home into a beautiful, functional kitchen that the family can enjoy for years to come.

The home, originally built in 1985, had a small, cramped kitchen with little storage and inadequate countertop space. It also had a large, load bearing wall separating the kitchen area from the dining room. “It was definitely time for an upgrade”, says Airik. “The homeowner was ready to take their dysfunctional, dated kitchen and turn it into a beautiful, functional space that better suited their family and lifestyle”. Airik and his team designed a new kitchen layout that included a plan to remove the load bearing wall and turn the main floor into an open concept space that was more conducive to family gatherings and entertaining. Engineered to spec, a recessed beam was installed, and the kitchen renovation commenced. “With a totally new, open concept layout, our clients have a very large kitchen which includes an island with tons of storage and a spacious countertop for cooking and entertaining”.

While the muted white cabinetry, glass subway tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances give the space a modern appeal, the hardwood floors provide warmth and contrast and make it an inviting space to cook meals and gather with friends. In addition, there are many custom details which add to the functionality of the space and help to maximize storage solutions. The lazy Susan was replaced with 3 corner drawers for easy access and practicality, and they added a countertop that curves gracefully behind the door casing to create a coffee bar area that does not impede the door opening. To create sufficient lighting for countertop prep areas, a full panel undercabinet light valence with a recessed LED light strip was installed along with dimmable overhead pot lights. An oversized breakfast bar/island space was added that includes additional storage space and counter seating that accommodates 3 people. Finally, they included an under counter built-in wine and beverage fridge and over the range microwave to save space and for added convenience. “There are many tips and tricks that a lot of people do not consider when planning and renovating their kitchen” explains Airik. “Hiring a professional to complete the job will ensure the result of your project is a beautiful, functional space that you can enjoy for many years to come.”

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning/designing a new kitchen space:

PLAN AHEAD

Hire someone who can help you plan every detail from start to finish. Consider your lifestyle and what your space is used for. How much work surface do you require? Do you entertain frequently? How will your space flow with the rest of your home? Answering these questions and designing a space that works for you will help you to avoid having to make costly changes as your project progresses.

FIND YOUR INSPIRATION

What is your personal style? Modern, Contemporary or Traditional, your new kitchen should fit your tastes and preferences and work with the rest of your home. Installing a modern farmhouse kitchen might not work in an industrial-style condo! If you plan to move in the next 5-10 years, keep resale in mind and try to create a space that would be appealing to a wide range of potential buyers.

LIGHT IT UP

Lighting is key in kitchen areas. Add under counter task lighting over prep spaces and install beautiful pendulums over your center island. Use dimmer switches on pot lights and overhead fixtures so that you can brighten the room as needed or create a mood when dining and entertaining.

LOCATION IS KEY

Place appliances where they are the most functional. For example, the dishwasher should be under or close to the sink, wall ovens reduce the amount of bending and make it easier to lift and remove heavy dishes and installing the microwave on an island shelf saves counter space.

ON THE SURFACE

Use materials such as porcelain or quartz that require less maintenance and are easy to clean. Matte finishes are easier to maintain and do not show dirt or stains. Your kitchen counters and backsplash are exposed to heat and cold and more daily wear and tear than any other space in your home. Spending a little extra up front in these areas will help to keep your kitchen looking beautiful.

CONSIDER THE EXTRAS

Adding a pot filler above the stove reduces the need to lift heavy water-filled pots and reduces spills. In-cabinet pull out garbage, recycling and compost cabinets make separating garbage easy and convenient. Ensure you have sufficient electrical outlets for small appliances, including on center islands and coffee stations. Soft close drawers and cupboards reduce slamming and extend the life of your cabinetry.

KEEP IT GREEN

There is a growing trend towards using recycled materials to create beautiful and unique cabinetry that is sustainable and eco-friendly. They can be built with sustainably sourced materials like bamboo or even reclaimed wood, non-toxic glues and finishes, and, if possible, repurposed, or recycled hardware.

Kitchens and bathrooms add value to your home”, says Airik. “We want to make sure that every project we complete is a work of art. We take pride in what we do, and we feel confident that our level of craftsmanship is unequalled”. Suffice to say, Airik and his team of professionals made their clients’ dream kitchen an awe-inspiring reality.

Premier Home Upgrades Inc. is based in Halton Hills, Ontario and they serve clients throughout

Southern Ontario. Priding themselves on exceptional design and craftsmanship, competitive pricing and defined timelines, they offer a quality guarantee on all of their work.

Visit their website: www.premierhomeupgrades.ca or call Airik Lenz for more information: 647-965-1690

Written by: Tanya Bottomley