Like you, everyone wants the latest upgrades for their kitchen, even though a complete remodel isn’t always an option. Remodeling or even just renovating with upgrades can be a great investment in your home. If a remodel or renovation is in your future, the kitchen is the ideal space to spend money for upgrades because kitchen remodels often recover around 70 percent of the value when your home is sold. If you’re thinking of upgrading your kitchen – a lot or a little – here are some ideas to help you design the kitchen of your dreams.

• Creating functional efficient space is the key to any kitchen remodel. If you are completely gutting your space and starting with a clean slate, optimize the traffic flow by reorganizing appliances, cabinetry, and more to increase storage, functionality, and space.
• If a full-blown remodel isn’t in the works, opt for new flooring to completely change the look of your kitchen. Hardwood flooring is a great choice though not always very budget friendly. If you like the look of hardwood, today’s engineered wood, laminates, and even tiles can provide the look and lower the costs. Concrete floors are also popular, easily customized and easy to care for, while tiles allow you the option of creating a unique design.
• Another way to refresh your kitchen without a complete remodel is with a new backsplash and/or countertop. Upgrading countertops adds value and with an abundance of styles – granite, quartz, marble, concrete, stainless steel, recycled glass, and more – you’ll can provide a completely new look in your kitchen. Incorporating a coordinating backsplash is also an excellent way to freshen up your space. Choosing popular backsplash allow you to add accents and beauty.
• If your kitchen has the space or you simply want it in your remodel – a kitchen island is a great way to expand the functionality of your kitchen. Depending on the design, a kitchen island can add storage, food prep area, seating, or all of the above. There is a kitchen island to fit virtually any size kitchen – all equipped with shelves and drawers to house all your kitchen goodies and gadgets.
• During a remodel, a pantry is a great addition for both large and small spaces. You’ll gain often needed storage for staple food items, cookbooks, and more. Even brooms, mops, and trashcans can find a home in a walk-in pantry. No place for a built-in pantry, consider adding a standalone in your available space.
• Who wouldn’t want to change out their old cabinets for more function and style? A remodel or renovation is the perfect time to go for it! The latest cabinets have all the bells and whistles to add function to your kitchen and provide all the storage you need. Not able to do a complete remodel?) Old cabinets can be upgraded with fresh paint and new knobs and pulls. And upper cabinets can be swapped for open shelving, which also serves to display your dinnerware and make your kitchen appear more spacious. 
• If your kitchen is on the older side, simply replacing your large appliances can make a big difference in the aesthetics of your space. Plus, upgrading with Energy Star appliances which are both stylish and energy efficient will save you money over the long term.
• While you’re switching old appliances for newer energy efficient models, you might also consider doing the same with light fixtures. Whether you choose pendant lights, sconces, track lighting, task lighting, or all of them, today’s lights will shine brighter, making food preparation, cooking, and cleanup easier while helping your kitchen appear more inviting.

As always, when remodeling or upgrading your kitchen, the goal is aesthetics, functionality, and comfort. These tips for upgrading your kitchen should get you well on the way to a fresh new space that is welcoming and highly efficient.