7 "Delicious" Renovation Tips from HGTV's Kitchen Cousins

Kitchen Cousins

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Jersey-based remodeling duo Anthony Carrino (left) and John Colaneri, of HGTV's Kitchen Cousins, know more than most how daunting a kitchen makeover can be. Anthony explains, "There is an order of operations, and planning is absolutely paramount to having a successful renovation." Here, the cousins share some tips, tricks, and advice on how to get the most out of a remodel.

Kitchen Cousins

Inspiration

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Figure out the basics of what you want to achieve. Keep an inspiration file of magazine tear sheets and design-blog printouts to share with your contractor. A small detail like this Moroccan tile can be a point of departure for a design project.

Kitchen Cousins

Estimate

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Understand the way an estimate works. The first estimate is based on everything the contractor can see. Once the walls are open, expect a minimum 10% contingency fee. Balance the budget by pairing luxury with practicality, like choosing reasonably priced cabinets while springing for granite countertops.

Kitchen Cousins

Backsplash!

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Splurge on the backsplash! The eye is drawn to it, making it a great area to step up the quality of materials. Here, a black grout is used to accentuate the modern geometric pattern of these Heath Ceramic tiles.

Kitchen Cousins

Pendant Lighting

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Hang pendants over a breakfast bar or island. They provide a lot of mood, shape, and light. And they don’t have to be expensive. (The Cousins are keen on recycled cardboard pendants from graypants.)

Kitchen Cousins

Multipurpose Furniture

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Invest in multipurpose furniture, such as a stainless steel table on casters that can be wheeled into position—as a prep station, dining table, etc.—as needed. A piece like this is especially useful in a small kitchen or rental apartment.

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Balance

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Balance the new with the old, industrial, and organic. Juxtaposing grainy old lumber with industrial steel makes an open kitchen feel harmonious and inviting. This beautiful free-form wood slab is the ultimate in rustic luxury.

Kitchen Cousins