We’ve all pinned our dream kitchen on Pinterest only to discover…

…that every single bit of it is custom and therefore, ahem, a little bit out of the budget.

The good news is that there are a handful of things you can do to improve the look (and function) of your kitchen while looking more custom…without the price tag.

5 THINGS TO MAKE YOUR KITCHEN MORE CUSTOM

1. Slide in range – making sure your range is tucked away nicely between your cabinets can add the custom feel of built-in appliances for much, much less. The big difference with a “slide-in-range” is there is no back panel for controls– which allows for better view of your backsplash and a more high-end look!

2. Under counter microwave– tucking your microwave inside the cabinetry instead of having it exposed or on a countertop is a small investment for a big impact. Generally we like to place these in the island–ideally locating on the side that faces the rest of the cabinetry to conceal it from view as much as possible. Drawer microwaves or under-counter microwaves with trim kit are both great options for this more custom look!

3. In cabinet storage – choosing built-in storage solutions for things like garbage or spice racks keeps visual clutter hidden and makes conveniences close by but unseen. Often times these storage items can be added to semi-custom cabinetry or can be purchased after market and installed. Either way the more items you can plan purposeful storage for the more custom the space will feel!

4. Panel-ready dishwasher – splurging on a panel-ready dishwasher (the cheapest panel-ready appliance), especially if all your appliances are close together, creates a more custom feel by reducing the number of appliances that are visible.

5. Floating shelves – avoid floor-to-ceiling cabinets look by adding floating shelves for decor or art in the kitchen. Great places to add shelves are above the sink, or above cabinetry that might serve has a coffee or beverage area. BUT BEWARE :: Don’t go overboard on open shelving to avoid cluttering up your kitchen!

Ready to create a more custom space in your kitchen? We work with clients locally in Marquette, MI and virtually world-wide. Let’s chat.