When it comes to kitchen renovations, traditional wisdom dictates that one must consider the resale value of their home. The fear of what a future buyer might think can often lead to decision paralysis and a tendency to stick to safe, bland design choices. However, kitchen design trends change rapidly, leaving one questioning if it’s worth following them at all. The belief that one must appeal to a broad market when redesigning a kitchen can often stifle creativity and result in a lackluster space that lacks personality.
In the eyes of a seasoned professional who has renovated numerous kitchens, the key rule to follow is that “it only takes one.” In other words, you only need to appeal to one person with your design choices, not everyone. Despite what may be considered trendy or popular, the most striking kitchens are often those that defy traditional design rules and embrace bold, unique elements. By focusing on finding that one person who appreciates your style, you can create a space that truly reflects your personality and preferences.
The author’s personal experience with redesigning kitchens demonstrates the power of following this rule. By making bold choices such as painting walls black, using unconventional colors, and incorporating unique design elements, they have been able to create spaces that stand out and appeal to a specific buyer. Despite initial doubts from others, these kitchens have received positive feedback and multiple offers from potential buyers. By staying true to their own taste and preferences, they have been able to create kitchens that are both visually striking and functional.
In the author’s current home, which was renovated with the intention to sell, they made daring choices such as painting the entire kitchen pink and black, and adding pink panels to the fridge. While this design may not appeal to everyone, the author believes that there is at least one person who will appreciate the unique aesthetic. Through their experience flipping and renovating homes, the author has learned that finding that one buyer who shares your design preferences is all that matters when it comes to creating a space that resonates with someone.
The “it only takes one” rule also applies in reverse, as seen in the author’s experience of buying a house with a vintage pink GE wall oven. While some may have seen this as a potential deterrent for buyers, the author was drawn to the unique feature and it played a key role in their decision to purchase the house. This example further reinforces the idea that embracing personal style and unique design elements can attract the right buyer who appreciates and shares your design vision.
Ultimately, the key takeaway from the author’s experience with kitchen renovations is that personal style and creativity should take precedence over market trends and resale value considerations. By embracing bold design choices, unique elements, and personal preferences, one can create a kitchen that stands out and appeals to a specific buyer. It only takes one person who appreciates your design choices to make your renovation successful, and by staying true to your own taste, you can create a space that reflects your personality and enhances the overall aesthetic of your home.
