10 Must-Know Kitchen Design Tips for Minneapolis–St. Paul Homeowners
Designing your dream kitchen can be an exciting proposition. In fact, the entire process can be quite fun. However, for many homeowners in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding Twin Cities suburbs, kitchen design may seem extremely intimidating. Professional design help can help take the stress out of the process. In the Twin Cities, there is no better kitchen remodel contractor than SMC Construction, Inc. However, before deciding to hire our team, you may want to do some research to clarify your vision. These 10 must-know kitchen design tips will help you get started creating a kitchen that fits your family and lifestyle perfectly.
1. Start with a function layout.
Before getting started on the details of your kitchen remodel, you need to decide on the layout. Unless you plan to tear out and redo your kitchen completely, you will likely keep the layout pretty much as it is. However, there may still be ways to make it more functional. The best kitchen designs follow what professionals call the “work triangle”: the relationship between your sink, stove, and refrigerator. Make sure these three elements are positioned close enough for ease of use, but far enough to prevent crowding.
2. Prioritize lighting.
Another high-level decision you should make when starting your kitchen design is the lighting. Most people do not want to work in a dark, shadowy kitchen. Instead, ensure you have a mix of the following.
- Ambient lighting: general ceiling or recessed lights.
- Task lighting: Under-cabinet or pendant lights for work areas.
- Accent lighting: Fixtures that highlight design features or create ambiance.
By focusing on these lighting layers, you will ensure a kitchen that anyone can use at any time of day.
3. Invest in quality materials.
High-quality materials can significantly increase the cost of your kitchen remodel. However, they also tend to last the longest and add the most resale value to your home. Invest in as much quality material as possible, including the following.
- Cabinets: Solid wood or plywood construction will last the longest.
- Countertops: Quartz or granite allow for easy maintenance and longevity.
- Flooring: Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or engineered hardwood can provide style and durability.
4. Choose energy-efficient appliances.
Energy-efficient appliances will pay for themselves many times over. For example, Energy Star-certified models will help reduce utility costs while minimizing your carbon footprint. From induction cooktops to smart refrigerators, you can find energy-efficient appliances for almost every aspect of your kitchen. The experts at SMC Construction, Inc. are happy to provide more information about these appliances upon request.
5. Add plenty of storage.
Storage options are essential in a well-designed kitchen. No matter the size of your kitchen, you should be maximizing every inch of the space. You may consider the following popular storage solutions in Minneapolis-St. Paul Kitchens.
- Pull-out spice racks and pantry shelves.
- Deep drawers for pots and pans.
- Corner cabinet carousels.
- Hidden trash and recycling bins.
6. Consider adding an island.
Incorporating islands into kitchen designs is one of the top Twin Cities trends. If your kitchen currently has an island, you may consider upgrading it to include extra counter space, storage, and seating. The team at SMC Construction, Inc. can help you design an island that is both functional and stylish, and that fits perfectly into your space.
7. Balance trends with timelessness.
Keep an eye on the current kitchen design trends for your area. They can inspire creativity and help get you started. However, beware of designing your kitchen around these trends. For one thing, just designing with trends in mind will mean you won’t get a kitchen that reflects your values and lifestyle. For another, your kitchen will date much more quickly. Instead, make sure to also blend in timeless aesthetics, such as the following.
- Neutral palettes.
- Classic materials.
- Marble or quartz countertops.
8. Use sustainable and locally sourced materials.
Many Twin Cities homeowners are opting to use sustainable, local materials in their kitchen remodels. Local materials can be especially helpful, as they are less likely to be backordered or experience shipping delays. From bamboo flooring to recycled glass countertops and low-VOC paints, there are many sustainable and local options for your kitchen. At SMC Construction, Inc., we are proud to work with many local manufacturers and suppliers to provide Minnesota products to Twin Cities homeowners.
9. Incorporate Smart home technology.
Smart home upgrades are revolutionizing modern kitchens. As you design your new kitchen in 2025, consider adding Smart technology throughout. From app-based lighting and oven controls to voice-enabled appliances, there are many options to choose from. Popular Smart features for Twin Cities kitchens include:
- Wi-Fi-enabled appliances.
- Touchless faucets.
- Smart thermostats.
- LED lighting with motion sensors.
Smart technology is not just about convenience. When used right, it can reduce your utility bills and help your appliances last longer. Plus, it can give your kitchen a sophisticated, high-end feel.
10. Partner with a trusted local contractor.
Even the best design ideas can fall short without expert execution. That is why you should partner with a professional contractor who has proven experience in kitchen remodeling. In the Twin Cities region, SMC Construction, Inc. has the best contacts, communication, and craftsmanship. Choose us as your partner, and we will walk you through the entire design process.
Bringing It All Together
A kitchen remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home, but it can also be one of the most complex. With careful planning and partnering with a trustworthy contractor, you will create a kitchen to be proud of. Request a consultation today, and get started creating a Minneapolis-St. Paul Kitchen, which combines form, function, and timeless appeal.
