Using too many different colors is a surefire way to create an unpleasant and overwhelming kitchen aesthetic. Too much color will also make it difficult to coordinate tasks such as cabinetry, flooring and countertops. Choose two or three coordinating colors to avoid a chaotic result. Instead of overwhelming your kitchen with too many colors, create a beautiful focal point by using one or two hues.Overwhelming Color Palette
Overwhelming Color Palette
An ideal kitchen layout makes it easy to move between areas. It should also provide space for meal preparation, appliances, cookware, storage and meals. Ensure your kitchen plan is well thought out to maximize efficiency and functionality.Poorly Planned Layout
Poorly Planned Layout
A kitchen should be well lit to facilitate a pleasant environment. Use multiple light sources such as natural light, pendant lights and spotlights to create ambiance. And be sure to factor energy efficiency when choosing bulbs. Combine layers of lighting to create a well-lit and inviting kitchen.Incorrect Lighting
Incorrect Lighting
Whether you’re doing it yourself or having a professional do it, it's important to plan where appliances will be before you start. Consider how tall your tallest family member is so that reaching to the back of countertops and cupboards is easy. Plus, all openings should be at least 48 inches above the floor. Make sure to plan ahead to position your kitchen appliances properly.Improperly Positioned Appliances
Improperly Positioned Appliances
Your kitchen should be spacious and well-organized, not cluttered and cramped. Clear countertops, even when appliances are present, will make your kitchen more inviting. Opt for countertop organizers and draw dividers to increase efficiency and create a clean façade. A neat and organized countertop makes meal preparation more efficient.Cluttered Countertops
Cluttered Countertops
Countertops are instead for prepping meals, coffee makers, toasters, microwaves and more, so they need to be large enough. The go-to measurement for countertop depths is 25 inches, but a kitchen needs to be designed according to the needs of the user. When designing your kitchen, plan accordingly to provide ample and comfortable countertop space.Lack of Counter Space
Lack of Counter Space
Natural light is necessary in any home, especially the kitchen. Good natural light also provides health benefits, from reducing stress to improving your mood. Try to maximize natural light with larger windows, fewer blackout curtains or no curtains at all. Bring natural light into your kitchen when possible to minimize stress and improve mood.Inadequate Natural Light
Inadequate Natural Light
Open kitchens are all the rage now, but too much space with too few walls can be a problem. Try to break it up with an island or peninsula. Other ideas include adding shelves for storage, a built-in wine rack or an accent back splash. Break up the open space and add coziness to your kitchen with accent elements or an island.Too Much Open Space
Too Much Open Space
Unless you plan to eat exclusively off of paper plates, odds are you need to plan for your kitchen items. You should include both open and closed storage to maintain an elegant look. Don't forget to factor in items that are bulky but necessary. Plus, drawers should be organized to prevent clutter. Use efficient storage to keep your kitchen organized and beautiful.Inefficient Storage
Inefficient Storage
When building or remodeling a kitchen, don’t forget the small details. Affordable features like trash cans, pegboards, pot shelves and spice racks can ensure you don't run into any issues when you’re cooking. These should all be integrated to provide maximum convenience and organization. Don't forget the small details when building or remodeling your kitchen to improve convenience and organization.Neglecting Important Details
Neglecting Important Details
Biggest Design Disasters in the Kitchen
From small, everyday blunders to major
design disasters
, the mistakes we make in the kitchen have implications for our lives. From too much clutter to a lack of imagination, there are a few common kitchen design faux pas that can have a dramatic impact on both the look and function of your kitchen. Let's explore some of the biggest
kitchen design disasters
and how you can avoid them.
Bad Lighting
One of the most common design disasters in the kitchen is bad
lighting
. Not only is it frustrating to be cooking in a dimly-lit room, but the effect of the wrong lighting can be very unflattering, disguising the beauty of your kitchen. Good lighting is all about versatility, from subtle task lighting to bright overhead
lighting
that can be adjusted to suit your needs.
Inadequate Storage Space
Many a kitchen has been thwarted by insufficient
storage
. Kitchens are a hub for activity so it's essential that all essential kitchen items – from dishware to utensils – have their own place. Many designers recommend building more cupboard space into your kitchen, whether it be through adding extra shelves or floor-to-ceiling cupboards.
Incompatible Finishes
An incohesive look can be achieved by using a variety of clashing
finishes
. It can be easy to be drawn to the unique allure of different fixtures and finishes but try to ensure that each part of your kitchen plays together harmoniously, from the choice of countertop to the colour of your cupboard knobs. Aim for a common theme throughout your design, such as a material carry-through or light shade palette.
Ugly Sinks and Faucets
Poor
sink and faucet
choices can be a real eyesore in the kitchen. Not only do they detract from the overall look of your kitchen, but they can also be a major source of inconvenience – meaning you'll have to reach up for things, instead of being able to access them comfortably from the countertop. Opt for fixtures that are both aesthetically pleasing and effective, such as modern designs and easy-to-use handles.
