Your Kitchen & Bath Remodel Guide

As a homeowner in Wisconsin, you have likely thought about creating your dream kitchen or bathroom but may not know where to start. When it comes to renovating the heart of your home, Distinctive Design Studio focuses on blending functionality and style with your unique preferences to curate a space that is unique to you and your lifestyle. We understand renovating such important spaces can be a daunting task, which is why our Kitchen and Bath experts have created a Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel Guide so you can make informed decisions about your upcoming renovation. Dive deeper as we guide you in where to start, what to expect, and the latest trends in kitchen and bath design!

Starting Your Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel

Did you know that 4 out of 5 people who renovate their kitchen or bathroom hire a professional? Even the most skilled DIYers often bring in an expert for these spaces, considering the structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing complexities. As a full-service Architecture and Interior Design Firm, our experts across design, construction and interiors work together to ensure a seamless, safe and successful project from start to finish.

Our first recommendation for starting your renovation process is to find a certified Kitchen and Bath Designer. These designers are well educated in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of kitchen and bathroom design. They are trained to optimize the layout, select the right materials, and ensure that your project adheres to safety codes and regulations.

Hiring a Kitchen and Bath Designer ensures clear communication, timely project completion, and a thoughtfully designed kitchen or bathroom that meets your needs. With their unparalleled expertise, they will create a space that not only looks beautiful but also meets your practical needs. Search for professionals close to the proximity of your home– review their portfolio, get to know their team, and choose a designer whose style and vibe align with yours.

Should You Refresh, Reconfigure or Remodel Your Kitchen or Bathroom?

The path you take for your kitchen or bathroom renovation depends on the scope of your project. There are three key options to consider when transforming your space: a simple refresh, a reconfiguration or a full renovation. To begin with, refreshing your space involves updating cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures while keeping your existing layout. Next, reconfiguring your space involves changing the layout to improve the flow, while updating cabinetry, countertops, finishes and fixtures. Finally, a full renovation involves removing walls or adding square footage while updating all aspects of your kitchen or bathroom.

A certified kitchen and bath expert plays a vital role in guiding you to determine which approach best suits your lifestyle. During your initial consultation, our designers will take the time to understand your unique needs, lifestyle, and design preferences. These details allow us to provide recommendations that align with your vision.

Furthermore, our team will provide you with detailed 3D renderings so you can fully visualize the transformation. You’ll be able to see your dream kitchen or bathroom come to life before the project even begins. By combining our expert guidance with these immersive visuals, you’ll feel confident in making the best decision for your home. View some of our 3D renderings of Kitchen and Bath projects in Eastern Wisconsin below.

Defining Your Style

It is important to define your style so our designers are able to craft a space that’s perfectly tailored to your taste, ensuring every detail feels authentic to you. A great place to start is by creating a mood board on Pinterest—gather images that capture the colors, styles, and moods that inspire you. Another great option to gather style inspiration is to take a trip to The Kohler Design Center with your Kitchen & Bath Designer. You’ll be able to see designs, textures and materials in person to get an idea of what speaks to you. Don’t worry about narrowing down your style completely. Whether you love the clean lines of modern design or appreciate the warmth of traditional elements, our team is skilled at blending aesthetics to curate a space that feels uniquely yours.

Elevate Your Space

With our focus on functionality, longevity, and beauty, we wanted to share a few of our favorite trends to elevate your upcoming kitchen and/or bathroom remodel:

1. Custom Cabinetry: Take your cabinetry to the next level! Custom cabinetry uses every square inch of your space to create functionality and elegance, and feels more like bespoke furniture rather than boring cabinetry. Built-ins, benches, and thoughtfully designed nooks can completely transform and elevate your kitchen and or bathroom.
2. Statement Stone: Make a bold impact with statement stone. Whether it’s a colorful patterned tile, a richly textured natural stone, or a striking marble, using standout materials creates a captivating focal point that truly defines the space. We love incorporating statement stone on areas such as your backsplash, behind your range, shower walls, and even feature walls! Pro Tip: Use a smooth surfaced tile for your tub/shower to ensure easy cleaning.
3. Luxury Fixtures and Appliances: Elevate the way you experience your home with luxury features. For the ultimate relaxation experience in your bathroom, incorporate fixtures such as steam and body sprays. In the kitchen, integrate an espresso machine into your cabinetry, or a pot filler above the stove. Our clients are loving how it brings both function and sophistication to their daily routines.

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