Life moves fast—whether you’re juggling a full calendar, hosting friends, or simply trying to keep your space organized while tackling everything on your to-do list. A well-designed kitchen should work as hard as you do, offering both functionality and style.
In our experience, built-ins are an excellent way to make your kitchen more streamlined, organized, and enjoyable to use. These thoughtful features blend seamlessly into your design while quietly saving you time and effort. Today, let’s explore the things to include in a built-in kitchen renovation that make your life easier and your kitchen more efficient.
1. Simplify Your Routine with a Built-In Command Centre
The kitchen often doubles as a home’s central hub—a space where meals are made, social plans are coordinated, and the day begins and ends. That’s why first on my list of things to include in a built-in kitchen renovation is a built-in command center! It is SUCH a smart addition.
This feature can house your mail, grocery lists, schedules, or a sleek whiteboard for notes and reminders. It’s the perfect solution for those who like to keep their lives organized (but don’t want clutter on the counters). With dedicated hooks for keys and a discreet charging station, you’ll always know where your essentials are when you’re heading out the door.
Pro Tip: Add a corkboard or magnetized area for invitations and photos—it adds a personal touch and is the perfect place to put your mail.
2. Create a Spot for Your Furry Friends with a Built-In Pet Station
For pet owners, built-ins aren’t just for humans. A pet station tucked into your cabinetry or island is a simple way to keep your four-legged family member happy and your kitchen tidy.
Imagine bowls that slide neatly under the counter when not in use or a drawer dedicated to food storage and treats. It’s a stylish, practical solution that ensures your furr baby is always taken care of.
Pro Tip: Not a pet owner? This space could be repurposed for cleaning supplies or even a compact recycling system.
3. Make Snacking and Meal Prep Easier with an Under-Counter Microwave
Let’s be honest, counter space is precious for just about everyone. Whether you’re a meal-prep master or a snack enthusiast, an under-counter microwave is a clever addition to your kitchen renovation.
This built-in keeps your counters free while making it easy to heat up leftovers, melt butter for recipes, or quickly reheat your morning coffee. It’s especially helpful in smaller kitchens, where every inch of counter space matters.
Pro Tip: Pair this with a built-in snack station, complete with refrigerated drawers or pull-out pantry storage, for ultimate convenience.
4. Keep Devices Organized with a Charging Drawer
In a world of constant connectivity, a built-in charging drawer is an organizational lifesaver. This feature keeps cords hidden and devices powered up without cluttering your counters.
Whether it’s your phone, tablet, or a smart speaker, a charging drawer ensures everything has a home (and you always know where to find it). Plus, it’s a subtle way to keep your space looking polished.
5. Elevate Your Cooking Game with an Appliance Lift
This might be one of our favorite things to include in a kitchen design! From stand mixers to blenders, countertop appliances are both essential and bulky. An appliance lift lets you store these items out of sight while keeping them easily accessible when needed.
For avid bakers, coffee enthusiasts, or anyone who loves cooking, this built-in feature is a game-changer. It not only keeps your counters free of clutter but also spares your back from heavy lifting.
6. Streamline Recycling with a Built-In Pull-Out
Next on the list of things to include in a built0in kitchen, we have to talk about the trash. A built-in pull-out for garbage and recycling is one of those features you’ll wonder how you lived without!
Whether you’re sorting glass from paper or just trying to keep your kitchen looking sleek, this addition makes the task effortless. With options to include multiple bins, you can even sort compost or donation items right at the source.
7. Indulge Yourself with a Built-In Beverage Fridge
Last (but not least) on my list of things to include in a built-in kitchen renovation is a beverage fridge! A built-in beverage fridge might just be the most luxurious (and practical) addition to your kitchen. Whether you’re winding down with a glass of wine, stocking your favorite sodas, or chilling post-workout drinks, this feature keeps your favorites within easy reach.
It’s a fantastic addition for entertainers, offering guests a spot to grab a cold drink without interrupting the flow of meal prep. And if you’re all about wellness, it’s the perfect place for sparkling water, smoothies, or protein shakes.
FAQs About The Things To Include In a Built-In Kitchen Renovation
When planning a kitchen renovation, it’s natural to have questions—especially about built-ins and how they fit your lifestyle. Built-ins are more than just stylish; they’re problem-solvers that make your space work harder for you. Here are answers to some common questions to help guide your decisions:
How do I decide which built-in features are most important for my kitchen?
Evaluate your daily habits and pain points. Prioritize features that improve organization, save time, or enhance your cooking experience. Or, hire us to do it for you!
How can built-ins enhance a kitchen for someone who loves to entertain?
Built-ins like beverage fridges, hidden snack stations, and appliance lifts streamline prep and keep everything within reach without adding clutter, letting you focus on hosting instead of hunting for tools or supplies.
Can I incorporate built-ins into a small kitchen without making it feel cramped?
Yes! Opt for space-efficient solutions like under-counter appliances, vertical pull-outs, and multi-purpose built-ins (like a command center). They add function without sacrificing space.
How do built-in features add value to my home for resale?
When done well, built-ins create a polished, functional kitchen that buyers love. Features like hidden recycling bins, sleek storage, and modern tech integrations make your home feel updated and move-in ready.
Built-in features are a smart investment, offering both beauty and functionality tailored to your needs. Whether you’re upgrading for yourself or future buyers, these additions elevate your kitchen’s usability and appeal. Still have questions? Let’s explore the perfect solutions for your space together!
Final Thoughts: Things To Include In a Built-In Kitchen Renovation
The things to include in a built-in kitchen renovation are all about making your space more functional, stylish, and tailored to your needs. From pet-friendly stations to sleek command centers, these built-ins help you stay organized, save time, and enjoy your space to the fullest—whether you’re preparing a feast for friends or just grabbing a quick snack between Zoom calls. (And yes, a wine fridge is always a good idea. Cheers to that!)
Ready to take the plunge? Let’s work together to create a kitchen that fits your lifestyle and makes every day just a little bit easier.
If you’re considering a kitchen renovation in Cochrane, Bearspaw, Springbank, or Calgary, we’d love to chat about how we can help you bring your dream kitchen to life. Give us a call at (403) 860-5901, email us at hello@roomserviceinteriors.ca, or learn more about our team here. Let’s turn your vision into a space you’ll love—one thoughtful choice at a time!
Until next time,
Michelle xx