Split-level houses are an American original, recognized by the staggering design of the floors and the distance between living spaces. This configuration allows for both problems and opportunities for uniquely innovative design, specifically in the kitchen. Be it for added functionality or just a new look; this guide gives you some fresh ideas and insights for your split-level kitchen remodel.
What Is a Split-Level House?
The split-level home is a residential style that emerged popular in the middle of the 20th century. It is designed in an arrangement that typically includes three or four short flights of steps subdividing a house into several levels. These levels usually feature a main living area, a bedroom area on the upper floor, and a lower floor that generally has other living spaces for additional living space—usually a family room. This design maximizes liveable space and does not expand the house’s footprint, making it ideal for a smaller plot.
Design Considerations
Remodeling a kitchen in a split-level house has to be very strategic to space and flow. Since these homes will blend the kitchen with adjacent living spaces, these areas must be distinguished. Considering the kitchen layout early in the planning process is crucial for ensuring the space is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This allows for a modern spin on the current space with options for repositioning appliances and fixtures effectively.
Open Concept Floor Plan for Kitchen and Dining Area
An open-concept kitchen is a popular design choice for split-level homes, as it enhances the visual space and improves interaction between kitchen and living areas. Removing walls or even partial walls within the dining room can help achieve a more spacious feel but requires checking if these are load-bearing and planning accordingly. This trend extends to creating an open kitchen and dining area, enhancing interaction and flow between these spaces. Connecting the kitchen and living room also fosters a seamless open-concept layout, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Functionality Meets Style
The kitchen has to be not only beautiful but also highly functional. This will encompass the kitchen work triangle, the sink, stove, and refrigerator to ensure that the layout supports efficient meal preparation and movement.
Key Remodeling Ideas
When undertaking a split-level kitchen remodel, several key ideas can transform the space into a more open, modern, and functional area. Here’s a breakdown of essential remodeling concepts to consider:
Open Up the Space
Most split-level homes have disconnected kitchens from the rest of the house. Common solutions include breaking down walls to establish an open-plan concept that promotes a better relationship between the kitchen and the dining and living rooms and permits the influx of light and consequent spaciousness. You should consult with a professional to establish which walls are load-bearing. There may be a need to plan for new structural support when integrating other rooms.
Modern Appliances
An upgrade to modern appliances will improve the functionality and beauty of your kitchen. Energy-saving appliances will cut your bills, and buying the latest technology will enhance functionality. Smart appliances such as refrigerators that suggest recipes based on their contents or ovens that one can control from afar are really great additions to a contemporary kitchen in a split-level home.
Islands and Peninsulas
An island or peninsula will provide more counter and storage space, enhancing the kitchen’s functionality. Incorporating a kitchen island, in particular, can also serve as a central meeting place or a visual barrier in an open-concept layout, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen design.
A multi-level kitchen island can increase storage and prep space for split-level homes while merging the living areas with built-in entertainment spaces. This setup allows for both a place to cook and a lower dining or seating area, effectively using the island as a dining table or visual barrier between rooms.
Custom Cabinetry
To maximize every inch of space in a split level kitchen remodel, custom cabinetry is key. Tailor cabinets to fit unique kitchen dimensions and choose designs that optimize storage. Features like pull-out drawers, lazy Susans for corner cabinets, and custom heights can make the cabinets more accessible and aesthetically pleasing. Select materials and colors that complement the overall design theme, such as sleek, modern finishes or classic wood tones.
Flooring Options
The choice of floor can dramatically change the aesthetic and feel of the kitchen. When remodeling a split level, choose floor materials that can continue through into the different rooms; this will apply particularly when there is an open floor plan. A good choice for a split-level is hardwood or high-quality laminate since it is durable.
The much more modern look that can be had with large-format tiles or polished concrete is bound to appeal to anyone interested in these two strong and beautiful options. Make sure you choose a floor that serves the real purpose of a high-traffic kitchen and, at the same time, adds aesthetic value to a room.
Innovative Features and Materials
Innovative design features and materials make all the difference in a split-level kitchen remodel’s final look and function. Here are some to consider for a modern, unique, and practical split-level kitchen: Consider removing or altering upper cabinets to create a more open feel, modernizing the space with minimal construction.
Smart Kitchen Technology
- Smart Appliances: Outfit your kitchen with smart, connected appliances, such as a refrigerator that can help manage grocery lists or an oven that can be controlled through a smartphone from practically anywhere.
- Integrated Systems: Consider systems that control your lights, sound, and temperature. All can be managed from a centralized smart home hub or, in some cases, a mobile application.
Eco-Friendly Materials
- Sustainable Wood: Use cabinets made from sustainably harvested or reclaimed wood, as they are highly durable and have a low environmental impact.
- Recycled Content: Countertops and backsplashes of recycled glass, plastic, or metal would surely give your kitchen an eclectic design, all while being kind to the environment.
- Low-VOC Paints: Go for low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints to improve indoor air quality and, if possible, use them in kitchens where air quality and ventilation matter a lot.
High-Performance Surfaces
- Quartz Countertops: Quartz countertops are highly popular for their durability and reduced maintenance. The color selections are vast, and many natural stone patterns are also available.
- Large Format Porcelain Tiles: Use large-format porcelain tiles for flooring and backsplashes. They are incredibly tough, impervious to staining, and available in designs replicating natural wood, stone, or concrete finishes.
- Composite decking: A composite decking floor is tough and weatherproof, blending into providing seamless visual continuity with indoor extended kitchens.
Advanced Lighting Solutions
- LED Lighting: Under-cabinet or toe-kick LED strip lights will provide ambient lighting, making the space more functional while establishing the right mood.
- Automated Lighting Systems: For hands-free use, motion sensor lighting should be installed that automatically turns on and off, especially in a kitchen.
- Task Lighting: Make sure that pendant or track lights are included in the working area. They should be easily positionable to shed light on the most relevant parts of the space.
Customizable Components
- Modular Storage Solutions: Use modular storage solutions that can easily be adjusted to fit into any given space and, if necessary, reconfigured. This is highly workable in cases where remodeling is undertaken for homes with kitchen areas that are split-leveled because of unusual layouts.
- Pull-Out Units: Use pull-out cabinets or racks that make cramped spaces productive and enhance convenience with deep cabinets.
- Adjustable shelves: Select cabinets and shelving with adjustable heights to accommodate objects of different sizes and enable effective maximum storage.
With those additional features and materials, your kitchen can take on the identity of a split-level, tailored to your lifestyle to lend itself towards sustainable living and convenience.
Use strategic design to make the most of a smaller kitchen:
- Vertical storage: Utilize wall space with ceiling-high cabinets and open shelving.
- Built-in seating: Incorporate a breakfast nook with built-in benches with storage underneath.
- Reflective surfaces: Use glossy finishes and mirrors to make the space appear larger.
Get Help Updating Your Split Level House
Because they have specific, unique problems and because their architectural style and design make them distinctive, remodeling a split-level home can be quite a daunting task. Whether you want an open floor plan, a modernized kitchen, or a space that flows and functions better, it’s important to work with a team of professionals who understand the unique qualities that distinguish a split-level home.
Volcano Builders has over four generations of experience in construction and home maintenance. Our family business based in Washington State takes great pride in transforming houses into homes that truly express the character and personality of their owners. You can trust us to make your vision a reality, from the smallest of updates to the largest of remodels, with every attention to craft and care.
Let’s breathe new life into your split-level home in the details that can only satisfy your needs and aesthetic demands.