Is it time for a kitchen facelift? If walking into your current kitchen gives you the urge to dive into a remodel, there’s probably a good reason for it. Just be sure, though, that a complete kitchen remodel is what you really need, or want. It could be that all your kitchen needs to bring it up to date is a facelift.
Kitchen Remodel vs Kitchen Facelift
What’s the difference between a facelift and remodel? Just like the potato/potahto debate, it depends on who you’re talking to. Kitchen renovations mean different things to different people.
There are three levels of kitchen projects that we do at J.T. McDermott Remodeling.
Facelifts
What really differentiates a facelift from other kitchen project is that the cabinets are usually left in place. They’re often refinished, either by sanding and painting or sanding and staining, but they are not removed during the project. Quite often, we bring stained cabinets back to life with a clear coat. Other times, the fronts are changed out or hardware is replaced with an updated look.
A facelift offers an a la carte menu based on the needs and desires of the client. Choices often include new countertops, a new backsplash, and maybe some built-in pantry style cabinets or a butler piece.
Facelifts can be big or small in scope depending on a client’s wish list. Sometimes a new floor and additional custom cabinetry is added. Our designers look for ways to include updates such as after-market pullouts to the cabinets so that the client can take advantage of the latest trends and technologies.
Appliances, even replacement ones, stay in the same position. The rooms color palette is usually updated. People choose a kitchen facelift over a full remodel for a variety of reasons:
- The kitchen’s existing layout works well for them.
- They are retired and would rather spend their funds on travel or the grandkids.
- The bones of the kitchen are good.
We’re currently working on a home designed by famed architect Charles King where cabinets that were installed in the 60s will be delicately refinished. They have some wear and tear, but are otherwise in good shape. We’re also installing new countertops. Nothing else needs to change to make the kitchen more functional. These midcentury modern homes are architecturally beautiful and, in truth, it would be a crime to make other alterations.
If you like your existing floorplan and layout, your kitchen is well-built but has tired looking cabinets, and you want to limit your spending, a facelift is the right choice for you.
Pull and Replace
If you enjoy your kitchen design, but want some upgrades and updating, go with a pull and replace remodel. A pull and replace is like a facelift: all furnishings may be replaced, but the functionality and floor plan remain unchanged. The big difference is that the cabinets are removed and replaced. A pull and replace might also include:
- New appliances
- New fixtures and hardware
- New cabinets and countertops
- New faucets and sinks
- New lighting
As often as not, a client decides to keep the existing flooring. No walls are removed but the backsplash is replaced.
Full or Gut Transformation
If your home is old, or the kitchen layout doesn’t work at all, you may decide to go ahead and completely gut it. A full gut renovation involves stripping all the interior finishes, the plumbing and electrical, cabinets, countertops, and so on. Depending on their condition, windows might be left in place. Sometimes, original features are preserved or repurposed.
The Role of Design Build in a Facelift
Whether your kitchen needs a facelift or a complete gutting, getting the help of an experienced and professional design build firm can be well worth the investment. Kitchen designers have access to planning tools most homeowners do not, and they can show you how to create the best layout and tie everything like cabinets, flooring, and countertops together. Our designers also have the latest insight on trends, new materials, and technical quirks.
Are you ready to give your kitchen a much-needed facelift? For over 20 years, J.T. McDermott Remodeling has been giving homeowners in the Greater St. Louis area the updated kitchens they’ve dreamed about. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more. We look forward to meeting with you!
