The kitchen is the heart of any home. It’s where mornings begin, where families reconnect in the evenings, and the go-to gathering spot when entertaining guests. A well-maintained, inviting kitchen can brighten up the entire home, creating a fresh and welcoming atmosphere.
On the flip side, an outdated kitchen can feel discouraging. Staring at worn-out countertops or aging cabinets every day can be frustrating, and an old-fashioned kitchen can even impact your home’s resale value. Not to mention, outdated appliances might make you more likely to order takeout than cook at home.
While no kitchen design lasts forever, some features can instantly make a space feel like it’s stuck in the past. Want to ensure your kitchen in Boston, MA feels stylish and functional rather than outdated? Here are twelve design elements that can make a kitchen look behind the times.
Over-the-Range Microwaves
For compact kitchens, placing a microwave above the stove might seem like the only option, but it’s not the most modern one. Home designer Dana Tucker of Bella Tucker in Franklin, Tennessee, points out that many homes built or renovated before 2015 feature what she calls the “outdated trifecta”: an over-the-range microwave, a two-tiered bar, and busy multicolored granite.
A more contemporary alternative? Consider integrating the microwave into cabinetry or opting for a built-in drawer microwave for a sleek, updated look in Boston, MA homes.
Fluorescent Lighting
Harsh fluorescent lighting has no place in a cozy, welcoming kitchen, yet many homes still rely on these cool-toned bulbs. Julia Fain, a design blogger at Tag and Tibby in Charlotte, North Carolina, suggests opting for softer, more inviting lighting solutions. Recessed lighting remains a popular choice, while pendant lights over an island add both function and style.
If you’re looking to update your kitchen lighting in Boston, MA, consider swapping out fluorescents for warm, modern alternatives that enhance both ambiance and functionality.
Corian Countertops
Once a popular budget-friendly alternative to stone, Corian countertops have largely fallen out of favor. According to Fain, Corian often looks artificial, while today’s homeowners prefer natural surfaces like quartzite or even granite.
For those in Boston, MA seeking a durable, stylish alternative, quartz is an excellent option. While manmade, modern quartz designs closely resemble high-end materials like marble, giving kitchens an upscale feel without the high maintenance.
Centerset Faucets
When it comes to kitchen sinks, simplicity is key. Lesley Myrick, CEO and principal designer at Lesley Myrick Interior Design, explains that centerset and widespread faucets can make a kitchen feel outdated. Instead, a single-hole pull-down faucet offers a sleek, modern touch, and is far more convenient when washing dishes or prepping meals.
If you're considering a kitchen refresh in Boston, MA, upgrading to a streamlined faucet is a small change that can make a big impact.
By making a few strategic upgrades, you can transform your kitchen in Boston, MA into a timeless and functional space that feels fresh for years to come.
If you are ready to talk more about your renovation give us a call at (781) 670-3909 or visit us at 14 Charles Street, Needham, MA 02494.
