Designing a kitchen can be both thrilling and time-consuming.
At first, it’s essential to establish the basics. Consult a kitchen company or use graph paper to draw out a floorplan and get accurate measurements – then come the fun stuff!
Layout
An effective kitchen layout is one of the primary elements necessary to creating a functional cooking space. It should be structured so that ingredients and dishes move efficiently from food prep, to cooking and service areas.
The well-known work triangle can serve as an effective guide when designing a kitchen layout, yet can easily be modified to meet individual design preferences. For maximum efficiency in any given space, appliances like the stove, sink and refrigerator should all be within easy reach to promote efficient movement around the room.
A U-shaped kitchen (also referred to as a horseshoe layout) provides plenty of workspace for efficient cooking and is an excellent option for larger homes that can accommodate it. The design features countertops on three connecting sides for ample food preparation space as well as dual work stations so mealtime becomes a team effort.
Cabinetry
Once the kitchen layout has been established, the fun begins when planning cabinetry. The aim is to maximize storage capacity while still creating an aesthetically pleasing environment in which to work.
Building cabinets is an enjoyable DIY project. Cabinets are typically constructed out of wood and plywood and then stained or painted to suit their surroundings. If you don’t consider yourself skilled carpenter, there are kits designed specifically to make installation simpler.
Kitchen cabinetry that won’t date quickly is also essential. Avoid trendy woods that may not withstand wear and tear; look instead for timeless classics, such as Shaker cabinets in neutral finishes that complement any decor scheme; it would also be wise to choose shelves with adjustable depth for greater storage flexibility when accommodating shorter items, such as juice glasses.
Appliances
Nothing sets back a kitchen installation more than having to make changes midway through. To avoid this hassle, map out your kitchen zones and major appliances (ovens, fridges and dishwashers) ahead of time using tools provided on platforms like Foyr Neo.
Prosumer appliances blend professional equipment with consumer appliances to achieve an elegant appearance and enhanced functionality. According to HGTV, prosumer kitchen appliances include specialty cooktops, dual fuel ranges and increased capacity fridges.
Once you’ve decided the layout and size of your appliances, choose a countertop material that complements them aesthetically and the rest of the room. A natural material like marble, quartz or granite may provide easy cleanup without water damage concerns – ideal examples being quartz.
Lighting
Homeowners frequently cite a lack of natural light as one of the factors in their dim kitchens, while adding appropriate lighting will not only brighten cooking and dining areas but also increase safety, convenience and comfort.
A basic lighting setup involves using recessed lights strategically arranged around the room with their light output centered under each cabinet door. If insulating is present, make sure that IC housings are used.
Flush-mount or semi-flush fixtures should be added as ambient lighting for dining areas, kitchen zones and walk-in pantries to provide ambient illumination. Make sure they can all be controlled using three- or four-way wall switches as necessary for optimal results.
Flooring
At the core of your kitchen’s style lies its flooring – which should look beautiful, be sturdy, and resist moisture.
Tile flooring is one of the most popular choices for kitchens because of its range of visual effects, high durability, and easy maintenance requirements. However, be mindful that some tiles may require regular resealing due to being porous.
Wood floors add warmth to a kitchen, yet are susceptible to warping when exposed to too much moisture. Engineered wood flooring may offer an economical solution – its tougher top layer provides better water resistance. Waterproof hardwood is another attractive option and looks stunning in any setting.
