When it comes to kitchen renovations, traditional wisdom often dictates that one must consider the resale value of their home before making any major design decisions. The fear of what potential future buyers may think can lead to decision paralysis, causing homeowners to opt for safe and generic choices rather than bold and interesting designs. However, according to a seasoned professional who has renovated numerous kitchens, it only takes one person to appreciate your design choices. In the fast-paced world of kitchen design trends, there is always someone who will appreciate your unique style, even if it doesn’t cater to the masses.
Following the “it only takes one” rule, the designer has made unconventional design decisions in various kitchens, such as painting walls black before it became a trend, custom-building furniture-like islands, and choosing bold colors like Farrow & Ball’s “Scotch Blue.” Despite the initial skepticism from others, these design choices ultimately appealed to the right buyer, resulting in successful sales. The key takeaway is that as long as there is at least one person who appreciates your design vision, the resale value of your home is not as dependent on conforming to mainstream trends as commonly believed.
In a recent renovation project, the designer painted a kitchen entirely pink, including the ceiling, and installed black cabinets and pink panels on the fridge. While this bold color scheme may not appeal to everyone, the designer is confident that there will be at least one person who appreciates the unique aesthetic. This approach to design has been consistently successful in the designer’s experience of flipping and renovating homes, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one’s personal style and vision.
The “it only takes one” rule also applies in reverse, as seen in the case of the house with an original vintage pink GE wall oven that the designer is under contract to buy. While some may have been hesitant to keep the outdated appliance, it was the unique feature that attracted the designer to the house and ultimately led to a bidding war. The lesson learned is that embracing design elements that are not considered mainstream can actually be a selling point, as there is always a niche market of buyers who appreciate unconventional and quirky features in a home.
Overall, the key takeaway from the designer’s experience is that when it comes to kitchen renovations, it is important to trust your instincts and embrace your individual style, regardless of mainstream trends or concerns about resale value. By following the “it only takes one” rule and focusing on finding the one person who appreciates your design choices, you can create a kitchen that stands out and resonates with potential buyers who share your unique aesthetic preferences. Ultimately, the success of a kitchen renovation lies in creating a space that reflects your personal style and vision, rather than conforming to external expectations or market trends.
