From traditionally elegant to sleek sophistication, kitchens get a makeover

"It's the room where a family prepares a meal together," she said, inside the business' 844 Gordon Drive showroom. "It's also where we can have fun and talk about everything that happened during the day."

This is one of the reasons Anderson loves designing kitchens for her clients.

"Whether they want something practical or something spectacular, we always strive to meet our client's needs," she said.

Still, Anderson acknowledges kitchens are often the most expensive rooms to renovate.

Expect the unexpected

"A major kitchen renovation can cost anywhere from $5,500 to more than $35,000," she said. "And that's not including labor."

In addition, kitchen construction can easily take months to complete.

"Customizing cabinetry and countertops are usually the things that take the most time to finish," Anderson noted.

She advises clients to have a cushion -- approximately 25 percent of a budget -- to accommodate unforeseen "surprises."

"Sioux City has its fair share of older homes," Anderson allowed. "That means some houses may have water damage or unexpected electrical issues that must be addressed."

Beyond that, she said kitchens can be a perfect way to add value and personality to a home.

'More choices than there are stars in the sky'

When designing kitchens, Anderson strives for a classic "triangle."

A kitchen triangle regulates flow, she explained. A cook should be able to move unimpeded between three points -- the sink, the stove and the fridge. The distance between these points shouldn't be far.

Once the basics have been accomplished, Anderson said, the fun can begin.

"Everybody has different tastes and needs," she said. "With kitchens, there are literally more choices than there are stars in the sky."

Anderson said clients are often influenced by designs they see on TV networks like HGTV as well as social media website like Pinterest.

"The Midwest used to be behind on some trends," she said. "Now, we're beginning to catch up with the rest of the country."

Quartz and concrete countertops are both trendy and durable while two-tone cabinetry provide a sleek and urban pop.

"Gray seems to be a popular color for tile and paints," Anderson observed. "They can give a kitchen a very luxurious look."

Quirkier looks can be achieved with unique corner drawers which comes in fun triangle or kidney-shapes.

Everything plus the kitchen sink

From farmhouse stainless steel sinks to ones shaped like martini glasses, Anderson said a kitchen can be made personal with a distinctive sink.

"A martini glass-shaped sink may not be practical for a kitchen, but it would be lots of fun for a wet bar," she reasoned.

This is why Anderson enjoys designing kitchens so much. There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all model.

"Everyone has different expectations," she said. "This makes design fun and challenging."

A little bling will do a world of good

Anderson said you can still make a big statement on a limited budget.

For instance, she recommended a colorful backsplash to add a bit of sparkle to a kitchen or new hardware to re-energize cabinetry.

"I know of some really bling-y hardware that costs between $20 - $30 a piece," Anderson said. "That will add up if you have a lot of doors."

It's all worthwhile in the end

A newly renovated kitchen will usually increase the value of your home, Anderson said.

"Though I don't think your home's resale value should be the only reason to renovate," she said. "After all, you want to be able to enjoy your dream kitchen for a little while."

Which is exactly what Anderson is doing with her own recently renovated kitchen.

"There's nothing better than having the kitchen you always wanted," she said, smiling. "It's wonderful."