Mainstay

Rental Update #2

Kitchen

Client Type

Multi-unit Residential Landlord

Scope

Floor tile | Backsplash tile | Countertop | Cabinet repair and refinishing | Trim | Paint

Role

  • Design Consultation | Work Execution | Procurement

Date

April 2024

Rental Renovations


Rental renovation budgets are largely established to achieve a required return on investment over a specified payback period, given the estimated additional income the renovation will generate.


This means, trade-offs are unavoidable, especially with older properties. I help my clients navigate difficult budget allocation decisions with a view to achieving the best overall result that will maximize the property’s income earning potential.


Project Brief


This kitchen remodel was part of a larger project to update a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom rental apartment.


In addition to the obvious need to update the aesthetics there were a few issues that needed addressing.


Project Commentary


The backsplash was updated with inexpensive matte grey subway tile, set in a stacked pattern. The cabinets were sprayed Benjamin Moore, White Heron (OC-57) and given new hardware for a more updated look.


The existing sink was re-used and set into a new laminate countertop with a new faucet.


New trim on the window adds polish and helps elevate the space.

The landlord had purchased a new fridge for the unit, but it did not fit in the space where the old fridge sat.

The cabinetry surrounding the fridge was modified to allow the new wider fridge to be pushed back against the wall, instead of protruding into the room.

The upper and lower cabinets were in need of a number of repairs and modifications. Additionally, the electrical panel was oddly located directly above the stove and was a bit of an eye sore.

A custom cabinet was fabricated to conceal the unsightly breaker panel above the stove, while maintaining easy access to the panel.

Floating upper cabinets that wrapped one corner of the room and a floating shelf below for a counter were awkward and not functional.

The cabinets were reconfigured to create a functional multipurpose work space with the addition of a simple base cabinet, countertop with pop-up power outlet and custom radiator cover.

The valence in front of the window was removed, to allow more natural light into the space, along with a lower cabinet to accommodate a new dishwasher.


Retrofitted LED recessed lights and LED undercabinet lighting provide additional task lighting over the sink and prep areas.

12" x 12" greige natural stone looking porcelain tile, set on the bias for an elevated look. The walls were painted with Benjamin Moore, Balboa Mist (OC-27), to add contrast to the bright white cabinetry.