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Southern Maryland Kitchen, Bath, Floors & Design

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California, MD Home Remodeling

(301) 241-0702
23415 Three Notch Road #2025, California, MD 20619
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Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

April 14, 2025 by Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

modern kitchen remodel interior in black colors

Maximizing the utility of small spaces presents new challenges, even for experienced designers. Kitchen designers must use strategic choices to make the most of every square foot of floor area, maximize countertop utility, and fit more storage into a limited space.

The strategies suggested below can help kitchen designers and homeowners better understand the challenges of maximizing the utility of small spaces. With an optimized layout, smart storage solutions, and the right materials, even a limited space can become a polished and professional design.

Use a Well-Planned Layout for Maximizing Space

Planning the layout is key to fully use limited space. Kitchen designers look for opportunities to expand upward with vertical space to increase organization and storage potential while minimizing limited square footage. Vertically-built cabinets, built-in shelves, and other custom storage solutions can free up valuable counter and floor space to promote better flow. Especially in kitchens, the flow of foot traffic is important for optimizing a small space to prevent the feeling of being cramped and cluttered.

Kitchen designers typically use the “triangle” layout, which focuses on the distance between the fridge, stove, and sink to promote flow. In a limited space, this requires careful optimization of floor space, including smart placement of the kitchen island and strategic use of built-ins to get cabinets and appliances out of the way.

Incorporate Multi-Functional Fixtures

In a small space, fixtures that support multiple functions can significantly enhance usability. For example, built-in storage solutions such as recessed shelves and under-sink cabinets can provide extra storage space without consuming extra room. Working with kitchen designers, homeowners can commission pull-out countertops, deeper drawers, toe drawers, integrated seats, and more to create a more adaptable space.

interior green kitchen

These modular custom designs are focused on maximizing the utility of a kitchen’s layout. Modern designers aim for a dynamic, living space that promotes ease of use, especially in modern kitchens where socializing and working are often as common as cooking.

Use the Benefits of Light and Color to Your Advantage

Light and color can be utilized to expand the perception, if not the practical utility, of small spaces. For example, incorporating natural light sources from windows or skylights can make a room feel more open and spacious even with the same floorplan. Kitchen designers often use light-toned cabinets, floors, and walls to reflect natural light to complement and reduce the artificial lighting.

This idea carries over to the placement of artificial lighting as well. Under-cabinet or recessed lighting fixtures can maximize the perception of depth. Mirrors and glass tiles can be incorporated to further enhance the perception of light sources while adding much-needed elegance.

Discover and Maximize Storage Space

Maximizing storage is one of the most significant changes kitchen designers can make to expand the usage of a small space. Cabinets, pantries, and appliances can take up valuable floor and counter space. However, adding toe drawers, pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, drawer dividers, built-ins, and other smart storage solutions can expand on these fixtures within the same floor plan, reducing clutter while keeping everything within arm’s reach.

Custom shelves and cabinets specifically designed for a small kitchen space create more opportunities for keeping even busy kitchens functional and tidy.

Choosing the Right Materials

The right material choices can make rooms feel more spacious and inviting even if they technically don’t change the floorplan. 

  • Sleek and minimalist finishes contribute to a space that feels streamlined and accessible. 
  • Natural stone countertops, porcelain or glass tiles, and minimalistic cabinetry can balance the functionality of the space with natural warmth and texture. 
  • Reflective materials can redirect natural light to expand the space further.

Experienced kitchen designers choose the right materials to maximize small spaces while adding modern elegance to their designs. Since material choices have specific limitations and cost differences, homeowners should consult with designers on the best options to maximize the utility of their space within their budget.

Use a Professional Kitchen Designer

Professional kitchen designers are experts in planning spaces, selecting materials, and executing designs that maximize storage, floor, and counter space. Accounting for both functionality and style can be difficult without process-driven professionals, high-quality material suppliers, and customized designs for the limitations of each space.

Consult with Our Kitchen Design Experts

minimalistic kitchen interior design with wooden floors

Transforming small rooms into expansive, functional spaces requires careful planning and design. At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our expert designers work with homeowners to maximize the look and feel of their kitchen spaces. Smart design choices such as using high-quality materials and custom storage can help create spaces that are more inviting, open, and efficient.

Contact our team of designers today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help maximize a space of any size using modern design strategies and high-quality materials.

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    Filed Under: Remodeling

    April 7, 2025 by Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

    modern bathroom remodel with natural stone flooring

    Choosing the right materials for a bathroom remodel is one of the most important decisions that homeowners can make for this project. The materials have the ability to enhance the appeal of the room while increasing its durability. This is significant for bathroom remodeling beyond functionality as the high-humidity environment can damage certain materials, leading to costly repairs.

    This blog explains the pros and cons of various materials for a stylish and long-lasting bathroom design. For homeowners, designers, and more, take advantage of the step-by-step process included for choosing the right materials for the job.

    The Benefits of Choosing the Right Materials

    Bathrooms are harsh environments for certain materials due to rapid temperature changes, high moisture and humidity, and daily use. The wrong materials can experience excessive wear and tear that reduces longevity and leads to undesirable results, including:

    • Mold growth due to excess moisture
    • Warping due to exposure to water and heat
    • Staining due to chemical products, spills, and temperature changes
    • Deterioration due to daily wear and tear

    The right material choice can avoid these results by providing a long-lasting, low-maintenance bathroom design. Designers and homeowners investing in high-quality materials will reduce the need for costly repairs and remodels later. However, this requires knowing the difference between material types and the advantages they present to a modern bathroom design.

    Key Material Types to Consider

    These material types are the primary choices available to homeowners and designers as they plan their bathroom remodels. Choosing how each is implemented warrants careful consideration to avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary repairs.

    Stone

    Natural stone is a popular choice for bathroom floors because it is non-porous, water-resistant, and easy to maintain. Popular choices for bathrooms include granite, quartz, and other earth-toned stone. Stone provides a truly long-lasting construction to create bathroom floors that will last decades or even generations.

    The applications of stone are not limited to floors, and can be used to commission high-end fixtures, counters, vanities, and more. Natural stone accents can bring out the charm and sophistication of a bathroom wall while maximizing its durability. For homeowners with the budget to spare, natural stone is a premier choice for long-lasting designs. 

    Hardwood

    Since bathroom floors and walls need to be moisture-resistant, most designers decide against hardwood. However, wood has a place in bathroom designs in potential cabinet or storage arrangement, using a moisture-resistant wood (such as teak) or a moisture-resistant finish. High-quality laminate can provide the look and feel of wooden flooring with added water resistance.

    Glass

    modern contemporary bathroom 3d render

    With high-quality glass tile, homeowners and designers can prioritize durability without sacrificing style. Glass tile can be used in several bathroom installations, including floors, shower walls, and accents. However, since glass tile will crack when drilled, designers must think ahead when implementing it.

    For enclosures like showers, the materials used for edging make a key difference in determining the viability of glass. Versatile designs can incorporate it creatively, provided they have expert guidance to account for its limitations.

    Tile

    Non-glass tile, usually made from ceramic or porcelain, is a common bathroom design choice for good reason. As both bathroom flooring and wall material, tile is easy to maintain and difficult to break. It resists moisture and temperature changes while providing a classic bathroom feel perfectly suited to everyday foot traffic.

    Steps to Choosing the Right Materials for Your Bathroom

    Homeowners can use these simple steps to choose the right materials for their bathroom remodels:

    1. Learn What You Like

    Bathroom designs should be durable, but they should also be appealing, fulfilling the vision that homeowners have for their space. Use online and real-world inspiration to determine the architectural look you want to help your designer match the vision to the right materials.

    2. Create a Plan

    A plan for a bathroom remodel should factor in the project’s limitations, goals, and budget. Different materials present different limits and costs that homeowners should understand before planning further.

    3. Itemize Different Fixtures

    Bathrooms are not remodeled in a single material; walls, floors, vanities, showers, and other fixtures should mix and match materials to deliver a balance between style, longevity, and cost. Experienced designers can help contextualize your vision for your space to determine which materials will work best for each aspect.

    Schedule Your Bathroom Remodel Design Consultation

    small modern bathroom with a dark vanity, mirror frame, and hardware

    At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our experienced design team helps homeowners choose the right materials for their bathrooms to achieve their dream remodel. Our goal is to find a balance of materials that matches your stylistic vision and financial limitations while providing long-lasting functionality for years to come. For homeowners in Maryland, we make bathroom remodeling simple and reliable.

    Contact our team today to learn how we can help you choose durable materials for your bathroom to maximize style, balance, and longevity in your next bathroom remodel.

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      Filed Under: Bath

      March 24, 2025 by Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

      new hotel bathroom remodel interior design

      The perfect bathroom may be slightly different for every homeowner; but most would agree that everyday spaces like bathrooms should be comfortable, functional, and above all, luxurious. With the help of experienced designers, you can elevate your bathroom remodeling project to new heights. From the choice of materials and designs to the colors and fixtures that create the impression of a spa-like retreat, every detail is important.

      If you are considering a bathroom remodel in Maryland, continue reading our list of luxury design ideas to turn a simple bathroom into a permanent spa vacation.

      1. Use an Open Layout

      Leisure spas don’t feel or look cramped and enclosed; they are airy, elegant, and luxurious. Consider an open floor plan to emulate this ambiance in your bathroom remodel. With the right design choices, your space can become more open and spacious without sacrificing privacy. Glass partitions or island vanities can define the space where needed, promoting flow and enhancing relaxation.

      2. Incorporate Natural Materials

      People tend to relax when they experience nature, which is why spa designers incorporate organic elements to promote a sense of grounded calm and comfort. Natural stone and wood can transform a bathroom into a warm and indulgent experience through custom fixtures, floors, or accent walls designed for sustainability, naturality, and quality. These elements can guide the overall design of your bathroom as well.

      3. Consider a Freestanding Tub

      The humble bathtub can become a striking focal point when crafted for luxury rather than simple functionality. Freestanding tubs, not attached to floors or walls, are symbols of pure indulgence. They can be oval, round, or rectangular depending on the limitations of the space.

      They can also be made from a variety of materials. Acrylic tubs are budget-friendly, light, and easy to install, as are fiberglass tubs. However, these materials scratch and crack easily, which can reduce the spa-like atmosphere.

      Solid surface tubs can provide the clean, elegant look that homeowners are searching for. Copper tubs can be finished with a beautiful patina, allowing them to resist rust and mildew. Stone resin tubs can have a more naturalistic look, and resist cracks and scratches. When combined with an open layout, these natural, freestanding tubs promote an unparalleled sense of freedom and relaxation.

      4. Use the Vanity to Make a Statement

      Vanities are available in all shapes and sizes to promote relaxation. They can be minimalistic to make the space more open or centralized as an island to create a functional focal point for the entire room. To elevate your vanity into a spa-like experience, use natural materials as accents and take advantage of natural light whenever possible.

      Vanities can also be customized with built-in storage space, another key aspect of spa-like bathroom design. The relaxing atmosphere of a spa depends on a spacious environment free of clutter. Homeowners can move their personal care items from their sinks and shelves into this dedicated storage space to create a cleaner and more inviting environment.

      5. Upgrade to Heated Flooring

      underfloor heating system installation in a modern house

      Spas often install heating mats under the stone or tile flooring, allowing guests to step out of their bath, shower, or sauna onto heated stone. This seemingly small luxury makes a big impact on their experience and can be easily integrated into a residential bathroom remodel by experienced designers. Smart thermostat technology allows you to adjust the heating systems remotely so they are always set with your preferences in mind.

      6. Utilize Natural Light

      Natural lighting is a key element in spa-like bathroom designs. When properly utilized, natural light enhances the feeling of openness and comfort while drawing attention to the natural fixtures and accents throughout the room. Even in smaller bathrooms, natural light can make spaces feel more expansive. By incorporating skylights, windows, and mirrors, designers can bring natural light into the room to create a more inviting, less artificial space.

      7. Pick Neutral Colors

      Spas are known for neutral, calming colors such as beige, slate, and white. This palette encourages a more peaceful atmosphere. Soft matte finishes and natural textures further enhance the relaxation. While bright colors may seem attractive, they can also be visually stimulating, which should be avoided when creating spa-like spaces.

      8. Invest in Smart Technology

      Although spas often prioritize nature, subtly integrated smart technology can also enhance comfort to provide an improved user experience. This technology can be integrated into a home bathroom design through adaptive heated flooring, smart lighting systems, mirrors, voice-activated lights, aromatherapy diffusers, and more, engaging all of the senses in the user’s ideal bathroom experience.

      9. Incorporate Lounge Designs

      Luxury bathroom remodel designs often include lounge-inspired elements that prioritize comfort, aesthetics, and versatility. By incorporating plush seating, warm materials, and thoughtful lighting, these spaces create a spa-like retreat that encourages relaxation and functionality. Adding a seating nook with chairs or a space to store soft bathrobes, towels, scented candles, and other amenities ensures this leisure space is always stocked with desirable spa comforts.

      Start Your Bathroom Remodeling Project in Maryland Today

      luxurious bathroom with a marble bathtub, a vanity with gold accents, and a black and white checkered floor

      A luxury bathroom design extends beyond functionality to create an atmosphere of spa-like comfort. For many homeowners, the bathroom represents a focal point of potential relaxation; the right design choices can turn a daily routine into a luxury experience.

      At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our goal is to bring dream bathrooms into reality. We make bathroom remodeling stress-free with the materials, designs, and fixtures to create in-home spa relaxation. Contact our team today to learn how professional design choices can completely upgrade the atmosphere of your bathroom, no matter the size of the space or the budget you have in mind.

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        Filed Under: Bath, Remodeling

        March 17, 2025 by Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

        modern kitchen showing rustic interior design featuring wood and stone

        Modern kitchens are no longer purely functional; they have developed into stylish, and often, elaborate focal points of the home. Modern technologies combined with classic design ideas create spaces that are as inviting as they are luxurious and beautiful. In 2025, kitchen designers are adopting cutting-edge materials and concepts while bringing back some traditional elements to communicate the values of modern homeowners.

        This guide to kitchen design trends in 2025 examines the modern kitchen as an evolving, dynamic space where designers and homeowners can collaborate on their visions, using natural designs, energy-saving solutions, and minimalistic styles to create elegant, modern kitchens. Consider these factors as inspiration to bring your perfect kitchen to life in 2025.

        1. Kitchen Designers and Homeowners Want Sustainability

        Sustainability is a continuing design trend in 2025. As the heart of the house, the kitchen has a responsibility to capture this idea; modern designers are using eco-friendly materials and naturalistic designs to create kitchens that feel natural and sustainable.

        Kitchen designers flock to eco-friendly alternatives to conventional manufactured materials. Favorites include:

        • Stone and reclaimed wood give kitchens a naturalistic feel.
        • Bamboo offers a renewable alternative material for countertops and furniture.
        • Recycled glass can be used in counters, cabinets, skylights, and backsplashes to reduce industrial waste.

        Beautiful bamboo cabinets and floors, or stone backsplashes are not only sustainable material choices, they also add a sense of natural beauty and functionality to the space. The main takeaway for homeowners is that sustainability is a visual commitment to using one’s home to make the world better. The kitchen is the perfect room to turn this idea into a mission statement for the entire house.

        2. Smart Technology Adds Convenience While Saving Energy

        Modern technology is being used to transform kitchens into more functional, energy-efficient, and user-friendly spaces. The latest smart appliances are made from renewable materials using processes that value low-carbon manufacturing methods, while reducing energy consumption in the home.

        Beyond long-term environmental benefits, smart technology is trending in modern kitchens because of the conveniences it can add with features such as:

        inviting kitchen showcases light beige cabinets and white marble tiles
        • Voice-activated appliances and lighting
        • Motion-sensor faucets and lights
        • Wi-fi-enabled refrigerators and ovens with remote controls
        • Automated climate controls

        These innovations streamline everyday tasks in modern kitchens while helping homeowners reduce their overall carbon footprint. Experienced designers integrate these features without losing sight of the timeless warmth and charm of the ideal kitchen.

        3. Mid-Century Modern is Back in Style

        Mid-Century Modern is experiencing a revival in 2025, blending the modern desire for eco-friendliness with simple, timeless designs. Cabinets and other furniture pieces have become less ornate and more minimalistic, favoring clean horizontal lines that exude timeless elegance. For colors, designers are favoring organic tones with splashes of bright accents.

        Kitchen designers use natural wood and stone to bring out the simplicity of Mid-Century Modern while dialing back some of its more retro stylings (think multi-colored stick-on tiles from every kitchen in the 50s). Instead, sleek, flat cabinets, open shelving, and stone counters create the classic streamlined edges while opening up the space. The result is a refined, uncluttered, and nostalgic space that remains functional and modern.

        4. Natural Light is an Asset in Modern Designs

        In a well designed kitchen, natural light is used to tie the modern look together by communicating sustainability, sculpting the areas of focus and function throughout the room, and opening up the space with its bright and welcoming atmosphere. With large windows or doors, modern designers can easily turn the kitchen into a beautiful focal point. Even without them, there are ways to bring natural light into the space to make it seem more spacious and functional than before:

        • Expansive glass doors or wall-high windows integrate indoor and outdoor spaces.
        • Skylights can make even small kitchen areas seem spacious without sacrificing any privacy.
        • Reflective surfaces such as high-gloss stone, tile, and metal materials help designers redistribute natural light to lower lit areas. 

        From the floorplan to the choice of materials, modern homeowners and designers look for ways to strategically integrate as much natural light as possible to give kitchens an organic, airy, and grounded feel.

        Book a Consultation with Maryland’s Top Kitchen Designers

        a home kitchen

        In 2025, ideal kitchens preserve a naturalistic appeal that has always been at the heart of their design. The designs have also become more sleek and minimalistic, favoring open spaces, clean lines, natural light, and sustainable materials.

        At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our goal is to adapt modern design trends to our client’s visions for their kitchen remodels. While this list of trends provides common principles of modern designs, experienced designers adapt these trends to the qualities and limitations of specific kitchen spaces. Contact our experienced team to learn how we use high-quality materials and modern designs to create modern kitchens of luxury, without losing natural beauty and charm.

        Filed Under: Kitchen, Remodeling

        March 10, 2025 by Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

        wooden tabletop in a modern kitchen remodel in Maryland

        Though everyone has a differing vision on the ultimate dream kitchen remodel, the ideal cooking space is one that strikes a perfect balance between functionality and style. High-quality designs allow homeowners to maintain efficient and organized kitchen workflows while achieving a specific aesthetic vision.

        While some homeowners envision a casual, multipurpose kitchen space perfect for daily cooking, others may hope to create a space fit for an experienced chef. Whatever the goal may be, strategic planning is necessary to get the job done right.

        Regardless of your experience level or expectations, this article can help you strategically plan your kitchen remodel in Maryland to create the ultimate cooking space. Below, we explore the materials, design elements, fixtures, and professionals you need to create the ideal space.

        1. Assess the Layout

        The first step to designing the ultimate cooking space is to assess the layout in terms of movement and workflow efficiency. For example, open-concept kitchens can provide unmatched accessibility, but they may not work in every space.

        In an open concept, a kitchen island can provide opportunities for optimization, but designers need to tailor the shape and size of the island to the available space. A common misstep is to install a highly functional island in too small of a space, negating its benefits.

        Traditionally, the ideal workflow between the fridge, stove, and sink is laid out as a triangle pattern; however, not all modern designers follow the “triangle” rule for kitchen designs. It is still a good design standard to keep in mind while arranging a kitchen layout since these features still represent the focus and flow of any great cooking space.

        2. Maximize Storage

        In order for cooking spaces to function properly, they need to maximize storage. This allows the user to retrieve any utensil or appliance they need while freeing up valuable counter space as open workspace. Designers can use overt and covert methods to customize kitchens for maximum storage space, including:

        • Vertical cabinets
        • Pull-out shelves
        • Built-in appliances
        • Toe kick drawers
        • Rollouts
        • Custom wall shelves

        Deep cabinet drawers can help you keep everything organized while custom floating shelves can help you store and display kitchen tools while saving even more counter space. The designer will coordinate with the homeowner to fully understand areas of focus and importance. With this information, their intuition, and creativity they are able to help homeowners maximize storage and maintain ease of access within their spatial limitations.

        3. Optimize Performance

        inviting kitchen showcases light beige cabinets and white marble tiles

        The ultimate cooking space demands powerful appliances and resources that match the cooking needs of the user. High-quality fixtures and appliances can be adapted to any space using custom built-ins. Depending on your budget, your ideal cooking space may include smart kitchen solutions such as smart ovens and touchless faucets.

        Additionally, homeowners should not neglect a quality range hood when designing their cooking spaces. They not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the space but also maintain high air quality. The ultimate cooking space should include these performance additions to enhance your cooking flow and ensure high-quality output.

        4. Focus on Countertops

        Spacious, high-quality countertops are multipurpose elements of the cooking workflow, regardless of the type of cooking or the user’s experience level. Spacious countertops can also serve as eating, cooking, and even working spaces, depending on your needs. 

        The right countertop for your cooking space should be sourced from a quality material that resists stains, scratches, heat, and spills. Quartz and granite are popular for any modern kitchen, but stone is not the only available option.

        Ask your kitchen remodelers about other material types, such as solid wood butcher block and recycled glass. These less common materials can make a unique statement while still providing the durability needed to create a successful modern cooking space.

        5. Redo the Floors

        The flooring material should be a large consideration when designing the ultimate cooking space. Similar to the countertop, it should also resist spills, heat, and scratches while matching your aesthetic vision for the kitchen as a whole. Finished wood is a popular option despite the risk of scratches; it provides the warm, homey energy that many homeowners desire for their kitchen spaces.

        Other potential flooring materials include tile, laminate, vinyl, and stone, all of which can be varied in color and design to coordinate with the cabinets and counters. Consult with your designer about the materials that are the best match for your cooking space.

        6. Utilize the Decor

        Decor is a vital aspect of bringing the ultimate kitchen space to life. Accent lighting allows designers to add and subtract space without expensive structural renovations. Strategic lighting can impact functionality by focusing on key areas in the cooking workflow.

        These focal points extend to other aspects of the decor, such as the color palette, artwork, plants, and rugs and runners. These features add aesthetic appeal to the room while creating a visual flow that can make cooking spaces easier to use.

        Schedule Your Kitchen Remodel Designer Consultation

        modern kitchen design with central island

        At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, our experienced team of designers helps homeowners create the ultimate cooking space for their kitchens. Our goal is to tailor our floors, cabinets, fixtures, and layouts to your ideal vision.

        Visit our all-in-one showroom to learn more about the brands we carry and see how they will fit into your dream kitchen. Contact our team today to learn how we can help you design your ultimate cooking space to complete your kitchen remodeling in Maryland.

        Request Consultation

        Meet with one of our skilled project specialists to get started.

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          Filed Under: Kitchen

          March 3, 2025 by Southern Maryland Kitchen Bath Floors & Design

          modern kitchen remodel with wooden cabinets and a sketch of the layout overlayed

          Kitchen remodels are detailed projects that require careful planning, including assessments of the structural constraints of the space. Structural integrity is a key factor to consider before, during, and after a kitchen remodel to ensure the project goes smoothly and safely.

          Without careful planning, your project could violate building codes, experience costly delays, or fail to structurally support its new additions. This guide addresses how Maryland homeowners can work around the structural constraints of their space when remodeling their kitchen.

          Our goal is to help homeowners complete kitchen remodeling projects safely, stay in compliance with codes, and find experienced designers to address structural concerns throughout the entire process.

          1. Assess the Foundation

          The first step in working around structural constraints is to assess the existing foundation of the kitchen to determine its condition. This will allow your contractors and designers to ensure the stability of the structure while planning the remodel. When working without expert guidance, many DIY remodelers skip this process.

          Experienced designers know that the foundation must be thoroughly vetted to ensure that it can withstand the remodel and remain compliant with building codes. This process includes noting which walls are load-bearing and how this could impact the remodel plans. Demolishing a load-bearing wall is dangerous and costly.

          Additionally, many walls support plumbing and electrical systems and are difficult or even dangerous to alter. If your plans can not work around the load bearing wall and removal is necessary, an experienced designer will know to enlist a structural engineer for a safe and compliant support beam system.

          2. Account for Load-Bearing Structures

          In addition to load-bearing walls, your remodel plans should account for other load-bearing structures, such as floor joists. The frame and joists of the kitchen must be strong enough to bear the load of the furniture, counters, and appliances that will be added during the remodel.

          This step should include repairing or replacing any joists damaged by rot, water, pests, or age. These repairs must be built into the remodel schedule and budget to ensure safety and compliance before proceeding with the full project.

          3. Design for Efficiency

          assembly of kitchen furniture during kitchen remodeling in new home

          When working within structural constraints, the efficiency of the remodel is just as important as the aesthetics. Designing functional spaces requires careful attention to the intended workflow; in the kitchen this includes the distance between the refrigerator, stove, and sink. The goal of a remodel is to improve the functionality of the space rather than restrict it.

          For example, many homeowners add islands to their kitchen designs to create more counter space without changing the walls. However, islands are not ideal for every kitchen and in some cases, they can take up so much floor space that they detract from the intended workflow.

          Efficiency should be considered an art rather than a science when kitchen remodeling. This requires the designers and homeowners to collaborate to determine the optimal solution for the dream kitchen and budget.

          4. Optimize Storage Space

          The structure of the kitchen may restrict its storage capacity, but designers can work around these limitations. Using custom cabinets, islands, and built-in appliances, they can expand storage space and declutter the counters without expensive structural renovations.

          Examples of space-saving designs include floor-to-ceiling vertical cabinets, pull-out shelves, toe drawers, built-in appliances, kitchen islands, floating shelves, and lazy Susans. These features can be incorporated into cabinets or built into the walls to save floor and counter space while creating an aesthetically pleasing display.

          5. Use Aesthetics to Your Advantage

          Strategic stylistic choices can help you achieve your ideal kitchen, even with structural limitations of the space. For example, strategically placed lighting can make a small kitchen feel more spacious while adding functionality by highlighting important workspaces.

          Natural light is another important resource for kitchen remodels because it also impacts how large or small the room feels. An experienced designer will know how to utilize natural light to create inviting spaces within your structural limits.

          They may employ glazed glass or mirrors to control light or strategically place metal surfaces to distribute it throughout the space. Explore materials like white birch which reflects more light than dark materials; these types of options can make your kitchen feel more spacious.

          6. Follow Building Regulations

          preparing kitchen for installation of custom new features in modern home improvement

          Everything in your kitchen remodeling project is negotiable except for building regulations and permits, which are needed to guarantee that the project is completed safely. If you plan on changing the structure of the home, including changes to its plumbing and electrical systems, you will need to follow the relevant building codes in your area to ensure compliance.

          The permit process is different in each location; find a design company familiar with the permit process in your area to make sure you stay safe and compliant throughout your kitchen remodel.

          Book Our Trusted Maryland Kitchen Remodel Experts

          At Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath, we prioritize the needs of each kitchen remodel, including its structural constraints, to deliver dream kitchen designs for our clients. Our experienced team will never employ a one-size-fits-all solution to safety and regulatory compliance. Contact our experienced team today to learn more about the structural constraints in your kitchen and how our designers can help you work around them.

          Filed Under: Kitchen, Remodeling

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          Popup Modal: Pain + Trust Approach

          Bad Design Wasting Your Time?

          Too many options, bad contractors, poor communication — we’ve heard it all. Our professional designers help you visualize your new remodel with a clear plan and confidence. No guesswork, no surprises — just beautiful results, backed by a straightforward process.

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          Light. Texture. Space. Everything You Imagined.

          Our curated interiors balance form and function — with custom details, premium materials, and timeless craftsmanship tailored to Maryland homes. Enjoy 20% off your personalized design plan as part of our commitment to inspired, luxury living.

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          Country house kitchen cabinets with English frames in a dark kitchen decor in a california, maryland home.