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How To Minimize The Look Of Your Kitchen Outlets

Under cabinet lighting and power to avoid outlets in the backsplashRift cut white oak kitchen with full height slab backsplash and black trimmed windowsIf you feel like a visible outlet will disrupt your vision of a perfect kitchen canvas, you have options!

“The outlets in your kitchen are not simply an afterthought, in fact there are several code requirements that have to be considered when determining their location,” says Normandy Remodeling Designer Jeremy Paris. “Typical wall outlets work in almost all situations, however, if you’re looking for a sleek, uncluttered appearance, particularly if you have a dramatic backsplash, there are options available to minimize their visual impact.”

The simplest option is to try to camouflage the outlet. “You can choose an outlet and cover plate with a finish that blends in with your backsplash, which can really minimize how much it stands out,” Jeremy says.

If you have opted for a slab backsplash or have a dramatic tile that you really don’t want interrupted by outlets, there are ways to conceal them even further. “Under-cabinet outlets can be planned as part of your cabinet design, and it often pairs with under-cabinet lighting,” notes Jeremy. “These are installed on the underside of your upper cabinets and can be particularly helpful if you have a large slab backsplash where you don’t want to cut holes in the slab.”

Additional locations for outlets include your kitchen island, and you can also choose a cover plate that either blends with your island finish or creates a contrast that complements your kitchen design aesthetic. You can even opt for USB outlets to make charging your devices a little bit simpler. Ultimately, your local building department’s code requirements will dictate the minimum number and placement of outlets, so be sure to check with your designer to understand what’s allowed before getting your heart set on a solution.

If you’d like to learn more about how to create your perfect kitchen, you can set up a time to talk with Jeremy. For more examples of home designs, visit our photo gallery. For regular updates on design trends and tips on home remodeling, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest!

Level Up Your Lower-Level Hosting With A Kitchenette

Two photos showing lower-level basement kitchenette and bar with dark blue cabinetry and brown bar stools at white countertop islandWhether your lower level is already primed for entertaining or you’re just starting from the ground up, the addition of a kitchenette can up the ante for both hosts and guests alike.

Normandy Designer Abby Osborn helped a Long Grove, IL family round out their basement remodel with a kitchenette decked out with beautiful navy cabinetry, an island, and quartz countertops. “They host a number of family holidays down there, it’s one space where everyone fits, even when entertaining both sides of the family,” Abby says. “The added kitchen amenities make set-up and clean-up easy, and no one has to leave the party. Everything is right on hand.”

Adding a lower-level entertaining area is a top-notch option for your own get-togethers – but can be a separate space for kids to hone their hosting chops as well, from tweens to young adults on break from college.

“It doubles as a space for their kids to hang out,” Abby says. “The couple’s high school aged daughter hosted her first event here, an appetizer exchange party with friends.” The prep sink, fridge, under-counter microwave and dishwasher were on hand for getting things ready and cleaning up after – with the movie theater, pool table and newly-remodeled bathroom just steps away.

The family’s main kitchen is primarily white, so this downstairs kitchenette was also an opportunity to experiment. “The client wanted to go with something more bold for this kitchenette. She liked blue but didn’t want to go all blue as she thought it would be overwhelming,” Abby says. “So we went with a timeless navy shade, and brought in some earth tones with the chairs. The countertops have some blue tones and gold flecks, and that pairs well with the cabinet color and finishes.”

Three photos showing a basement bar and kitchenette with under-the-counter microwave and dishwater, maple-stained island cabinetry and blue cabinetry

Since it’s still technically a basement with basement-type things, there were some structural elements that Abby craftily hid, which even helped complement the design. The exposed ceiling pipes and HVAC ducts were encased as part of the new ceiling. “While the ceiling design is functional, it actually adds some depth to the space,” Abby says. “And the recessed lighting and unique light fixture really refine the look.” Can you spot the sump pump? It’s tucked away in the bottom right cabinetry, and the top portion is built out for stylish extra storage.

Scratch “basement” – this project deserves the “lower level” accolade.

Is it time for a lower-level revamp? You can schedule a free consultation with Abby. For more home design inspiration, follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok for regular photos and tips, or check out our photo gallery of past projects. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get updates on projects, for continued inspiration.

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