When it comes to designing a kitchen, there are many considerations: cabinetry, backsplashes, countertops, plumbing fixtures and lighting, not to mention appliances and layout.
As one of the most important rooms in your home, the kitchen is a complex space with many options for designing. It's important to design a kitchen that fits your needs and that functionally works for your family. Because of that, a significant amount of time should be spent on making kitchen-related decisions. Here are a few tips for how to design the perfect kitchen for your family.
Create a budget and plan ahead. Before you make any decisions, you first must create a budget for your overall kitchen project. How much are you willing to spend for the entire kitchen renovation or put towards designing the kitchen in your custom build? Take that overall amount and divide it among the various elements {cabinetry, lighting, countertops, appliances, etc.}. Knowing what you have to work with will help narrow down options and make decisions easier. You also need to plan ahead for additional costs associated with the project. Kitchen renovations can involve every aspect of construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, flooring, sheetrock, millwork, tile, possible roof alterations for venting and possible structural alterations if you enlarge or remove walls. Try and think ahead about what you may run into and account for that in your overall timeline and budget.
Do some space planning ahead of time. Are you looking to maximize storage in your kitchen with cabinetry? Do you want to move your kitchen sink under a window or center your range and hood along one wall? Those are all things to consider when creating the layout of your kitchen. These will also factor into future decisions such as cabinet placement and appliance selection so it's important to determine what you want your ideal kitchen to look like before moving forward. Also, remember that your kitchen footprint may not be the same as the kitchen you love in your favorite publication. Keep an open mind and don't force elements together that may not translate well in your own home and for your specific needs.
Determine appliance needs. When it comes to appliances, there are countless options, styles and prices. After determining the brands and options within your budget, look at your cooking and your lifestyle to determine the types of appliances that will work best for you and your family. If you don't do a lot of cooking and will primarily use your kitchen to reheat food or prepare basic meals, then consider more basic cooking appliances like an induction cook top with a wall oven and a convection microwave that can double as a second oven. If you love to cook and entertain often, consider higher performing appliances like a professional-level range with an oversized hood.
Choose the appropriate lighting. Lighting is crucial in kitchens. Not only do you need to ensure you have the proper lighting to illuminate your work surfaces, when done right, lighting can make a huge impact and a dramatic statement in a kitchen. Lighting placement and quantity will greatly depend on the size and shape of each kitchen. Pendants typically are best to use over islands and kitchen sinks. Chandeliers work best in your dining room or over your kitchen table.
What questions do you have about the design process for your kitchen?
For additional help when it comes to selecting lighting for your kitchen, download this tip sheet from our design team.
Photos by: Rachael Boling