When it comes to selecting the right kitchen design, it can be hard to know where to start. From selecting spacious cabinetry to picking out statement lighting, there are many components to think about. A good place to begin is deciding on the design style of your kitchen. Will you opt for modern minimalism or opt for traditional techniques? It’s important to narrow down your preferences as they’ll inform decisions in the rest of your kitchen design. Think about how you use your kitchen verus how you’d like to use it. Do you love being surrounded by family and friends or do you prefer working alone? Do you entertain often or do you have a more casual approach to cooking? It’s important to think not only about your current habits, but those that may change over time to ensure the longevity of your kitchen design. Taking the time to consider these questions will help create a comprehensive picture of your ideal kitchen design style. Answering them can help you decide what elements are necessary — like multiple ovens or more counter space — and identify any potential areas where your kitchen’s appeal could be enhanced. Deciding on a Kitchen Design Style
Once you have your style chosen, taking measurements of your kitchen is a great place to start. Measure the size of each wall, taking note of windows, doorways or any other obstructions. Having an accurate understanding of the dimensions of your kitchen is essential when deciding how to divide and utilize the space. Remember to think about seating, storage, and appliances. Identifying key elements before mapping out your kitchen will help you plan effectively and create a space that works best for you. In addition, you’ll need to consider the layout of your kitchen design. Do you need an island with a sink? Can you incorporate an open shelving unit? Or is a long countertop with stools all you need for seating? Knowing what type of furniture and appliances you need can help create the look you desire. Measuring and Planning Your Kitchen
Completing your kitchen design includes selecting the right appliances for not only how you cook but also how you entertain. It’s important to select appliances that have the right fit for your counter and fit your lifestyle. For instance, if you like to entertain when you cook, you may choose more spacious ovens or a range with added elements like a griddle for making breakfast. If you’re in need of storage and countertop space, maybe you should consider a microwave drawer or a double convection oven — both are sleek options and help maximize your kitchen space. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more contemporary touch, why not consider planning for a kitchen design with a range hood or a hood with a sleek, stainless steel finish. It can be a great way to give your kitchen a more modern feel.Choosing Kitchen Appliances
One of the main components of any kitchen design is choosing kitchen cabinets and countertops for both form and function. There is an immense variety of cabinets to choose from with different materials, finishes, colors, and sizes. It's best to use measurements to determine what kind of cabinets can fit and what type of finish will look best in your kitchen before purchasing. When it comes to selecting countertops, it’s all about personal preference. Granite and marble are both classic and popular choices, and more affordable alternatives like concrete, quartz, or laminate are also becoming more common. Try to think about what type of countertop you might want and what type of material might fit your lifestyle.Selecting Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops
The flooring type you choose for your kitchen design has a significant impact on the room's overall look and feel. Whether you prefer tile, hardwood, or laminate, it's important to pick a material that is durable, comfortable, and easy to clean. Depending on how much use you anticipate your kitchen having, you'll need to think about which option will be the longest-lasting and provide the best return on your investment. When selecting a material, consider the pros and cons of each type should be considered. Hardwoods are beautiful but do need regular refinishing to maintain their original beauty while tile can look beautiful but comes with a higher price tag depending on the style and type of tile you choose. Considering Kitchen Flooring Options
Once you have chosen the appliances, flooring, and other elements of your kitchen design, it's important to also focus on how to adequately light the space. Kitchen lighting should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. You could opt for under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, wall sconces, or a combination of all three. Lights that are more focused can be used over kitchen desks and work areas, while more decorative lighting can bring out the beauty of your cabinets and countertops. When selecting lighting for your kitchen, you want to be sure the lighting is bright enough. The space should be free of shadows as you’ll be working with knives and other sharp items in the area. It's also a good idea to think ahead about whether you’d like a dimmable switch or a switch that will turn all lights on and off. Showroom visits are great to help you understand how to effectively use lighting in your kitchen design, so it’s recommended to take advantage of those.Planning Kitchen Lighting
Having adequate storage in a kitchen design is essential for day-to-day functionality. You’ll need to think about storage for all of your pantry items, kitchen necessities, and any other items you might have. From a chic armoire for bulky items like stand mixers and blenders to adjustable shelving for multiple dishes and spices, smart storage solutions are the key to making your kitchen truly work for you. You may even want to look into getting custom-made cabinets. Installing custom cabinets can be a great way to maximize space while getting the types of storage and placement you desire. They can be built to fit any style or space, from contemporary to classic. Taking the time to plan where you want cabinets and drawers to be installed ensures you can use your space efficiently. Maximizing Storage in a Kitchen Design
When designing a kitchen, many people overlook one important aspect: the kitchen faucet. This small piece plays a major role in the overall feel and function of your kitchen, so take a bit of time to properly select the right one for you. From the kind of sprayer to the type of handle, selecting the right faucet needs to be done with care. Do you want a single-handle pull-down model with added convenience? Or do you prefer the classic two-handle kitchen faucet? Regardless of the type you choose, be sure to read reviews and ask questions before purchasing to ensure you’re getting the best quality and most suitable faucet for your needs. Finding the Right Kitchen Faucet
The backsplash of your kitchen is an ideal way to add interest and personality to your kitchen design. From marble to glass, there’s endless choices and styles to choose from. If you’re not sure where to start, plan out the look you want with a few design elements. Consider if you want the backsplash behind the sink to match the countertop. Do you want a bold geometric pattern for the backsplash or a long tiled design? It’s important to select a backsplash tile that ties in with the overall kitchen design before having it installed. Since tile can be a pricey purchase, take the time to make sure it’s the right one for you. Picking Kitchen Backsplashes
Choosing a color palette for your kitchen design is an easy, but often overlooked, way to make a big impact. It’s important to consider the color scheme when shopping for new kitchen cabinets and countertops. When selecting a color palette, think about what colors complement each other (rather than clashing) and which colors will match the overall design style of your kitchen. If you are in need of an injection of color, consider adding a statement wall. Choose an accent color that reflects the overall design style of your kitchen. Perhaps you can opt for a bold monochromatic shade or a playful accent wall for some added color. Choosing Color for Your Kitchen Design
When planning out your kitchen design, it’s important to consider the focal point of your kitchen. A focal point is a main attraction that stands out in the room and creates an inviting ambiance. It could be anything from an interesting piece of artwork to a unique combination of colors or a bold statement countertop. The focal point should be considered when selecting materials, how and where things will be placed, and when selecting furniture and appliances. You want the focal point to draw the eye in and help create the ideal atmosphere in your kitchen. Creating a Focal Point in Your Kitchen Design