Think about all the activities that take place in your kitchen. Chances are, you and your family and friends spend a great deal of quality time in the kitchen. You cook, share meals, drink, socialize, help with homework, and more.
Because the kitchen is such an important element of our homes, it’s no surprise that about half of all homeowners interested in remodeling their homes have their sights set on the kitchen.
If you’re among this percentage, you need a few tips for kitchen design layout. By using these tips, you’ll find it much easier to create the kitchen of your dreams.
1. Make a Plan Beforehand
The first step in any home renovation project is to make a plan. To get the most out of your kitchen and avoid common kitchen design mistakes, you need to have a detailed vision of your final product, as well as how you’ll get there.
Start with your total budget, how much can you spend on your design? Once you have this number in mind, write down the elements of your design in order to importance. Those at the top of the list will have priority when it comes to allocating your budget.
You’ll likely have to make sacrifices along the way. Let’s say you’ve always wanted marble countertops. This is a large investment, meaning you might have to refinish your cabinets rather than replacing them.
2. Design Around the Work Triangle
Though the style of your space is important, it’s essential that you don’t forget about function when you design a kitchen layout. Specifically, your kitchen should be designed with the work triangle in mind.
This is the keystone of kitchen design and includes the sink, refrigerator, and stove. These elements should form a triangle within which you spend the majority of your time when preparing meals.
Your triangle should be neither too small nor too large. Too small and your kitchen will feel cramped and difficult to use for more than one person at once, too large and food preparation will become a hassle. For the best results, the perimeter of your triangle should be no less than 10 feet and no larger than 25 feet.
3. Prioritize Storage and Counter Space
The number one complaint among homeowners when it comes to kitchen design is a lack of storage space. If you cook often, counter space is another crucial element. Installing enough storage space can be particularly difficult when working with a small kitchen design, but it’s not impossible.
If you have a small kitchen, using vertical space is a must. For example, installing extra-tall upper cabinets can add a wealth of storage space without eating up any of your counter or floor space. Don’t forget to add a cabinet above the refrigerator and shelves along the back of cabinets as well.
4. Don’t Overlook the Importance of Lighting
When your mind is racing with kitchen layout ideas, it’s easy to overlook the less exciting elements, such as lighting. But good lighting is key to achieving the best kitchen design possible.
There are three types of lighting, but two are necessary for kitchens: general lighting and task lighting. Your general lighting will provide overall illumination and task lighting will provide both beauty and functionality.
Common areas for task lighting include over the breakfast bar or island and underneath the cabinets for completing kitchen tasks with ease.
5. Choose the Right Kitchen Island
Islands are a desirable kitchen feature, as they provide storage, added prep space, and a serving area for your kitchen. However, there’s a right and a wrong way to choose a kitchen island, and not every kitchen is built to hold one.
Kitchen islands should only be added when they add to your space, not obstruct the flow of traffic. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 42 to 48 inches on all sides of your island. If your kitchen is smaller than 12 feet long and 8 feet deep, an island of any size isn’t a good idea.
6. Don’t Focus on Trends
One of the most common kitchen design mistakes is focusing too much on trends. Trends can be used for inspiration, but your focus should be on what you actually want and need.
For example, greyscale kitchens are in style right now. But if you would prefer a kitchen filled with bright colors and patterns, that’s the style you should choose.
If you’re unsure of which style you would like best, don’t be afraid to reach out to a professional such as those at buildbase.co.uk. They can help you design a stunning kitchen that fits your individual tastes.
The only exception is if you are renovating your kitchen before putting your home on the market. In this case, your best bet is to design with trends in mind.
Get the Most Out of Your Space With These Tips for Kitchen Design Layout
Remodeling your kitchen is an exciting experience; however, looking at the blank slate at the start of your project can be overwhelming. With these tips for kitchen design layout, you can get off on the right foot with creating the kitchen you’ve always imagined.
Remember, the two main things to keep in mind when designing your kitchen are style and function. This space should provide an excellent space for prepping food and a beautiful location to spend time with those you love most.
Looking for more tips and tricks for designing the home of your dreams? Be sure to check out our blog!
