There are several things that you can do in your kitchen renovation to improve its overall function. For example, adding more cabinets or extending your existing cabinets to the ceiling can help provide more storage space. Or if you want to go even further, knocking down the wall between the kitchen and living space can allow you to add more counter space. Simply upgrading some of your kitchen appliances or lighting fixtures can help make the kitchen more functional as well.

Upgrade your older kitchen appliances to more energy-efficient models to reduce the amount of energy your kitchen uses. Look for refrigerators and dishwashers that have the Energy Star label, which signifies that they meet or exceed the energy efficiency standards set by the EPA (environmental protection agency). Replacing traditional lighting fixtures with LED models can be a great way to reduce your long-term energy use as well.

Upgrading your kitchen appliances to more energy-efficient models will help make your kitchen more eco-friendly, but it’s not the only thing you can do to create a more sustainable kitchen environment. Install low-flow water faucets to reduce your water use and consider materials that are sustainable – such as bamboo, salvaged wood or recycled materials – for your countertops, cabinets and flooring.

If your kitchen’s visual design is trapped in the 1970s or 1980s, then it could probably use a visual update. You can change the entire appearance of your kitchen by simply re-painting the walls and cabinets, and by upgrading all of your cabinet hardware. Of course, you can go the extra mile and install new cabinets, new countertops and new floors as well.

A kitchen renovation can improve comfort in a number of ways; for example, better ventilation can help reduce the odors and heat that cooking in the kitchen produces. Installing a kitchen island that provides seating space can be a great way to add an additional dining area to your home. Adding larger windows can help bring in more sunlight.

Upgrade outdated kitchen appliances to avoid injuries caused by improper function. You can also implement universal design, such as by installing a wall oven, to help prevent injuries caused by physical overexertion.

Depending on the extent of your kitchen renovation, you could recoup as much 70 percent of your kitchen renovation costs. Not to mention that a newly renovated kitchen often attracts homebuyers if you’re looking to sell.