Short on countertop space is one of the main kitchen design bloopers that can leave you struggling for space. Without adequate countertop space, food preparation can become a lot harder, and you won’t be able to make the most out of the cooking space. Without enough countertop space, you won’t be able to have certain appliances located near the main counter areas, such as a microwave or toaster. It's essential to think about how much countertop space you need and plan the kitchen design accordingly. As a general rule, you should aim to have at least 6 feet of countertop space for simple kitchens, 10 feet for a midrange kitchen, and up to 14 feet for a high-end kitchen.Inadequate Countertop Space
A common kitchen design blunder that many people overlook is the lack of adequate lighting. Although often an afterthought, proper lighting is essential for a beautiful and functional kitchen. Although natural lighting is ideal, it is not always possible. That’s why it is critical to install enough lighting fixtures in the kitchen to ensure the space is bright enough for food preparation, dining, and entertaining. When it comes to kitchen lighting, you should plan for overhead, above-counter, under-cabinet, and task lights for the best results.Poor Lighting
Older appliances can make a kitchen look dated and appear as if it hasn't been updated in decades. If you want a modern well-equipped kitchen, then you need to keep up with the latest trends in kitchen appliance offerings. Selecting modern, stainless steel or black appliances is a no-brainer, but the more important consideration is to pick practical appliances that suit your lifestyle. It is important to opt for products that are efficient, energy-saving and aesthetically-pleasing.Outdated Appliances
It is important to think carefully about where to locate your appliances in the kitchen, from ovens and dishwashers to fridges, microwaves and sinks. A great kitchen design will place heavy appliances, such as ovens, stovetops, and microwaves in one area to prevent taking up unnecessary space. Moreover, it's also important to think about the functionality of the kitchen when placing your appliances. For instance, placing the dishwasher near the sink makes it much easier to quickly and conveniently rinse plates before they can be put into the dishwasher.Poorly Placed Appliances
A good kitchen design will include an attractive backsplash that complements the overall design of the kitchen. Too often, people choose a backsplash that clashes with the countertops and cabinets, creating a visually jarring effect. For a cohesive kitchen design, consider using colors and textures that will blend well with the rest of the kitchen. Subway tiles, stone tiles, and even wallpaper are great options for creating an attractive backsplash.Unattractive Backsplash
Incorrectly chosen finishes can be a major design blunder in any kitchen. Finishes are essential to creating a cohesive design, so it's important to select finishes that will stand up to wear and tear and last for years to come. To ensure that you're selecting the right finishes for your kitchen, consider your desired kitchen style and pick finishes that work with it. Just be sure to look for finishes that are durable, easy to clean, and low-maintenance.Wrong Finishes
Without enough cabinets, your kitchen can quickly become disorganized and cluttered. Too few cabinets can also leave you scrambling for space, trying to find room for everyday items or oversized appliances. It's essential to plan for at least two wall-mounted cabinets for each linear foot of countertop space, plus floor-to-ceiling cabinets on both sides of the kitchen for maximum storage space.Inadequate Cabinets
Inadequate storage space is another common kitchen design blooper. Without enough storage, your kitchen can quickly run out of space, leaving you with cluttered countertops and floors. Additionally, without proper storage, it can be difficult to keep the kitchen organized. To make sure that your kitchen has enough storage, think beyond cabinets and drawers and look for creative storage solutions. Wall-mounted storage can be used to create additional space, while open-ended shelves can be used to keep items within easy reach.Not Enough Storage
If you want a modern, stylish kitchen, then it's important to ensure that all elements are well-coordinated. A mismatched design can make your kitchen look sloppy and unattractive. When coordinating elements, consider the size, shape, color, and texture of each item in the kitchen to ensure that everything matches. To achieve a cohesive design, opt for simple, complementary colors, and use different materials and textures to add depth and interest.Uncoordinated Style
Good ventilation is critical in the kitchen, as it helps remove unwanted odors and prevents dangerous fumes from building up. Ventilation is essential for removing odors from food, such as fish or garlic, and fumes from the cooktop. Without adequate ventilation, these odors and fumes can quickly become overwhelming, making it difficult for anyone in the kitchen to breathe. When designing the kitchen, make sure to factor in an efficient ventilation system. A range hood is the best option, as it is designed to direct odors and smoke outdoors.Inadequate Ventilation