Overly Uneven Counters |
One of the most common kitchen design fails is overly uneven countertops. This could be caused by incorrect measurement or layout of the cabinets and the countertops, which can leave ugly gaps or exposed edges. In addition to this, some kitchens may also have an awkward countertop shape that can be difficult to navigate when cooking or preparing food.
Avoid this kitchen design mistake by ensuring that you take detailed measurements and plan out the countertop installation process. Also, it may be helpful to draw up diagrams that include the measurements and sizes of cabinets, appliances, and other items to ensure the countertop layout is even and symmetrical.
Choosing Bad Colors |
Another common kitchen design fail is choosing the wrong paint or color scheme. This is especially true when it comes to accent walls or the walls of an entire kitchen. Many people often choose bright colors that can be too overwhelming or busy for most kitchens, making the space look unappealing.
When picking out colors for your kitchen, it is important to choose colors that complement each other and promote a sense of balance. Neutral colors such as white, beige, and grey can create a calming atmosphere and can also be easily accessorized with more vibrant colors. Alternatively, you can also choose warm colors such as red, orange, and yellows for a cozier kitchen space.
Installing Wallpaper Near Stove |
For many kitchen renovations, installing wallpaper near the stove is a major design fail due to the high heat generated by cooking and baking. Wallpaper can become warped, discolored, and even brittle due to this heat, resulting in an ineffective and unsightly kitchen design.
To avoid this mistake, it is important to either avoid installing wallpaper near the stove or to use heat-resistant and heat-safe wallpaper. You can also opt for tiles to decorate the walls near the stove for a better, more durable solution.
Not Considering Placement |
Poor placement of the kitchen elements is another common kitchen design mistake. In some cases, cabinets, appliances, and the countertops are placed too close to each other, leaving little to no space for movement or accessing items. In other cases, elements may be placed too far away from each other, which can make cooking and other common kitchen activities difficult.
When planning or rearranging your kitchen, it is advised to measure your space and place items in an efficient manner. Consider the space available and the movements that you will need for different activities such as cooking, washing up, and storage. Also remember to leave enough room for moveable elements such as chairs and rolling carts.
Unnecessary Electrical Outlets |
For some kitchens, installing numerous electrical outlets in the wrong places is a major design fail. Too many outlets can make the kitchen look cluttered, leaving little room for appliances and other kitchen items. On the other hand, too few outlets can lead to insufficient power supply or inefficient energy use.
It is important to carefully consider where electrical outlets should be placed and determine the exact number of outlets needed in the kitchen. Additionally, consider investing in smart outlets that are able to detect power usage and turn off appliances automatically to save energy.
No Planning Space Needs |
One of the biggest kitchen design fails is lack of planning for space needs. Without proper planning, your kitchen could end up with insufficient storage space, improper lighting, and too little space for appliances, fixtures, and kitchen items. Lack of planning can also result in a kitchen that looks cluttered and overwhelmed.
To avoid this mistake, it is important to plan ahead and consider the current and future space needs of your kitchen. Estimate the size, amount, and placement of kitchen elements, and make sure that the kitchen is equipped to handle your needs as you grow.
Not Enough Lighting |
One of the most overlooked kitchen design fails is insufficient lighting. Poor lighting can make it difficult to properly see the kitchen elements and prepare food. This is especially true for tasks such as chopping, sautéing, and mixing, which require proper visibility and lighting.
When renovating your kitchen, it is important to consider the light sources and how much light is needed in the kitchen space. Consider using multiple sources of lighting, including overhead and task lighting, to properly illuminate the kitchen space. You can also opt for natural lighting if possible.
Non-Functional Storage |
Another common kitchen design mistake is optimal storage solutions. In some cases, kitchen cabinets can take up too much unnecessary space, resulting in reduced storage space for the kitchen and cluttered-looking cabinets. Opting for cabinet designs that do not fit their purpose such as shallow drawers or too deep drawers can also create inefficient storage solutions.
The key to avoiding this mistake is to choose the right storage solutions for your kitchen. Consider the size, shape, and weight of the items that need to be stored and select cabinets and drawers that can accommodate them. Additionally, you can also opt for multi-functional cabinets and drawers such as those with built-in organizers.
Oversized Island |
An oversized kitchen island can be an attractive addition to any kitchen. However, if the island is too large, it can make the kitchen feel cramped and overwhelmed. Additionally, too much space is wasted and often results in limited counter space.
When choosing an island for your kitchen, it is important to consider its size and shape wisely. Measure the size and shape of the kitchen first and compare it to the dimensions of the island. Additionally, leave enough space for other kitchen elements such as the stove and refrigerator.
Ignoring Ventilation |
Many kitchen renovation projects often overlook the importance of ventilation. Poor ventilation in the kitchen can lead to an unpleasant atmosphere due to the heat and smell of cooked food. Additionally, lack of ventilation can also result in the accumulation of moisture and the growth of mold and mildew.
To avoid this kitchen design mistake, make sure to install both an exhaust fan and window in the kitchen. Ensure that the fan and window are properly sized for the kitchen size and design, and opt for ones that are capable of properly circulating air throughout the kitchen space.
Primary-Kitchen Design Fails
Although there are many possible design fails, the primary kitchen design fails that you should try to avoid are overly uneven counters, choosing the wrong colors, installing wallpaper near the stove, not considering placement, unnecessary electrical outlets, no planning space needs, not enough lighting, non-functional storage, oversized island, and ignoring ventilation.
Be sure to carefully plan and consider the different aspects when renovating or designing your kitchen in order to avoid these major design fails. With careful planning and consideration, you can achieve a successful and beautiful kitchen.
Poor Kitchen Design as Home Renovation Fails

1. Not Understanding Measurements and Perspective

2. Not Taking into Consideration Repetition

3. Not Understanding the Color Palette of the Space

4. Not Considering Storage Solutions

5. Failing to Plan for Retaining Heat
