Small Galley Kitchen Remodel Update Number 3 Countertops, Backsplash, And Lighting
Hey guys! Welcome back to the third update on my small galley kitchen remodel! If you've been following along, you know I've been on a mission to transform my cramped and outdated kitchen into a functional and stylish space. It's been quite the journey, filled with both excitement and challenges, but I'm thrilled to share the progress with you. In this update, I'll be diving into the nitty-gritty details of the countertop installation, backsplash selection, and the ever-so-important lighting choices. So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea!), settle in, and let's get started!
Countertop Installation: A Major Milestone
The countertops! Oh, the countertops! This was a major milestone in the remodel, and I couldn't wait to see them installed. After weeks of deliberation, I finally decided on a beautiful quartz countertop with subtle veining. I wanted something durable, easy to clean, and that would brighten up the space. Quartz seemed like the perfect choice, offering the look of natural stone without the high maintenance.
The Installation Process
The installation process itself was pretty straightforward, but definitely not a DIY job for me! I hired a professional team to handle the install, and I'm so glad I did. They started by carefully removing the old countertops, which was a bit of a dusty and messy affair. Once the old countertops were out, they prepped the cabinets and ensured everything was level and ready for the new quartz. The slabs of quartz were incredibly heavy, and it took several people to maneuver them into place. I watched with bated breath as they carefully set the countertops onto the cabinets, making sure everything aligned perfectly. After the countertops were in place, they sealed the seams and polished the surface to a gleaming shine. The entire process took a full day, but it was worth every minute. The moment I saw the finished countertops, I knew I had made the right choice. They instantly elevated the entire kitchen, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The Impact of New Countertops
The impact of the new countertops is truly transformative. They not only look stunning but also provide so much more usable workspace. The extra counter space makes food preparation a breeze, and the durable surface can withstand all the chopping, slicing, and dicing I throw its way. I also love how easy the quartz is to clean. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep them looking sparkling clean. These countertops have completely changed the functionality and aesthetic of my kitchen, and I couldn't be happier with the result. If you're considering a kitchen remodel, investing in quality countertops is definitely a must.
Backsplash Selection: Adding Personality and Style
With the countertops in place, it was time to tackle the backsplash. This was another area where I spent a lot of time researching and considering different options. The backsplash is a great opportunity to add personality and style to the kitchen, and I wanted to choose something that would complement the countertops and cabinets while also reflecting my personal taste.
Exploring Different Backsplash Options
I explored a wide range of backsplash materials, from classic subway tiles to more contemporary glass and mosaic options. Subway tiles are always a timeless choice, and they can work well in almost any kitchen style. However, I wanted something a little more unique and eye-catching. Glass tiles were another option I considered, as they can add a sleek and modern touch. But ultimately, I decided to go with a beautiful ceramic tile with a subtle, textured pattern. The tiles have a slightly rustic feel, which I love, and the texture adds visual interest without being too overwhelming. The color is a soft, warm white, which complements the quartz countertops perfectly and helps to brighten up the space. Choosing the right backsplash is so important because it not only protects your walls from splashes and spills but also serves as a focal point in your kitchen design.
Installation Challenges and Solutions
The backsplash installation, while not as complex as the countertop install, still presented some challenges. I decided to try my hand at tiling myself, which was a bit of a learning curve. The first step was to prepare the wall surface, ensuring it was clean, smooth, and level. Then, I carefully applied the adhesive and began setting the tiles, using spacers to maintain consistent grout lines. Cutting the tiles to fit around outlets and corners was the trickiest part, and I definitely made a few mistakes along the way. Thankfully, I had purchased extra tiles, so I was able to correct my errors. After all the tiles were in place, I let the adhesive dry for 24 hours before applying the grout. Grouting is a messy process, but it's essential for sealing the tiles and creating a professional finish. Overall, the backsplash installation was a rewarding experience, and I'm proud of the results. Even though I faced some challenges, I learned a lot in the process, and the finished backsplash looks fantastic.
The Backsplash as a Focal Point
The new backsplash has completely transformed the look of my kitchen. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication while also providing a durable and easy-to-clean surface. The textured pattern of the tiles catches the light beautifully, creating a subtle shimmer that adds visual interest. I love how the warm white color of the tiles complements the quartz countertops and the light gray cabinets. The backsplash truly ties the entire kitchen design together, creating a cohesive and stylish space. When designing a kitchen, don't underestimate the impact of the backsplash. It's a relatively small area, but it can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the room.
Lighting Choices: Illuminating the Space
Lighting is often an afterthought in kitchen remodels, but it's actually one of the most important elements. Proper lighting can make a huge difference in the functionality and ambiance of the space. In my small galley kitchen, good lighting was especially crucial, as I wanted to maximize the brightness and make the space feel as open and airy as possible.
Layering Light for Functionality and Ambiance
I opted for a layered lighting approach, combining different types of fixtures to create both functional and ambient lighting. The first layer is the ambient lighting, which provides overall illumination for the kitchen. For this, I chose recessed LED lights, which are energy-efficient and provide a clean, modern look. I strategically placed the recessed lights to ensure even coverage throughout the space, eliminating any dark corners. The second layer is the task lighting, which is focused on specific work areas, such as the countertops and sink. For task lighting, I installed under-cabinet LED strip lights, which provide bright, focused light exactly where I need it. These lights are a game-changer for food preparation, as they eliminate shadows and make it much easier to see what I'm doing. The final layer is the accent lighting, which adds a touch of style and personality to the kitchen. For accent lighting, I chose a beautiful pendant light fixture to hang above the sink. The pendant light serves as a focal point in the kitchen, adding a touch of elegance and warmth.
The Importance of Light Temperature
When choosing lighting, it's also important to consider the light temperature. Light temperature is measured in Kelvin (K), and it refers to the color of the light. Warmer light temperatures (around 2700K) have a yellowish hue and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Cooler light temperatures (around 4000K) have a bluish hue and create a brighter, more energizing atmosphere. For my kitchen, I opted for a light temperature of around 3000K, which provides a balanced, natural-looking light. This light temperature is bright enough for task work but also warm enough to create a welcoming ambiance.
The Impact of Well-Planned Lighting
Proper lighting has completely transformed my small galley kitchen. The layered lighting approach ensures that the space is well-illuminated for both functional tasks and creating a pleasant atmosphere. The recessed lights provide overall brightness, the under-cabinet lights provide focused task lighting, and the pendant light adds a touch of style. The new lighting has made my kitchen feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. If you're remodeling your kitchen, don't underestimate the power of good lighting. It can truly make a difference in the way you experience your space.
Stay Tuned for the Next Update!
So, there you have it – update #3 on my small galley kitchen remodel! We've covered the countertop installation, backsplash selection, and lighting choices. It's been a busy few weeks, but I'm thrilled with the progress. The kitchen is really starting to come together, and I can't wait to share the next update with you. In the next installment, I'll be focusing on the finishing touches, including the hardware, accessories, and final styling. Stay tuned to see the completed transformation! And as always, thanks for following along on this journey. Your support means the world to me!
