Before deciding on the details of your home remodeling ideas, it is important to have an overall idea in mind. If you skip this important first step, your new design may lack cohesiveness. Moreover, it may not end up reflecting your personality or matching the rest of the house. So, before you start picking out countertops and wall tiles for your kitchen remodeling and bathroom remodeling home improvement projects, take some time to step back and first decide what style suits you best.

Traditional Design

Traditional designs are the most popular for both kitchens and bathrooms. They are warm, homey, and seed to invite you, your family, and your guests to linger a while. They also have a timeless appearance so they should never really go out of style. This could potentially give you a re-sell advantage down the road. In traditional designs, cabinets are usually painted a color that matches or complements the overall theme of the room or they are just left as stained wood. The floors are generally tiled or made of a less expensive material with a titled look. The same is true for the wall around the bathtub and shower. The countertops are often granite or made from less expensive materials with mock granite appearance.

Modern

The modern design gives a contemporary first impression. Stainless steel appliances and smooth modern surfaces are usually incorporated. The geometry is kept very clean and simple. The materials chosen my have a more industrial feel than a traditional kitchen or bathroom. For example, walls and countertops may incorporate finely textured chrome, etched glass, or even concrete accented with rocks. When chrome is chosen, it often has a matte finish giving it a more contemporary feel. Likewise, tiles may be intricately machine textured to give them a more contemporary feel.

Transitional Design

For people who like the best of both worlds, a transitional design can be the best design for a kitchen remodeling project. Traditional designs are basically a cross between a traditional design and a modern design. Another way to think about a transitional design is a essentially a traditional design with a few modern elements blended in to suit your personal taste. For example, a traditional kitchen may be upgraded with a stainless steel island and stainless steel countertops but left traditional in other ways.

Cottage Design

A cottage design works well for those looking for an old world feel. It is often a bit more eclectic and fanciful with colors than the neutral colors often found in traditional and modern designs. Fun juxtaposing textures are also often incorporated. In other words, if you want to be a little on the whimsical or even “funky” side, you may want to choose a cottage design. This style also often uses salvaged wood, old restored cabinets, and vintage style appliances (although they may still be brand new and energy efficient). Of course, an old-fashioned claw foot bathtub is a very popular choice for a cottage style bathroom.

Spa Design

The spa design for a bathroom is a nice choice for a bathroom remodeling project if you want to turn your bathroom into a relaxing sanctuary. This design is Asian inspired with zen accents. You may want to fill your new bathroom with a zen rock garden, bonsai plants, and a peaceful water fountain. High end luxury spa tubs with a separate over-sized shower stall including a comfortable place to sit and meditate are popular. The lighting is particularly important in a spa design and must be adjustable for a variety of moods. There may also be a special nook for a stereo system that is safely away from water sources.

Once you have decided on your basic design style, your other home remodeling ideas should come much easier and the finished new room should have a better integrated flow about it. Above all, have fun with it and take your time. Remember, you’re going to have to live with your decisions for quite a while!