Planning a functional and efficient kitchen design is really important in the long run. From the layout to the placement of the countertops and lighting fixtures, a well designed kitchen will increase the value of your home.
5 Aspects Of A Well Planned Kitchen
So before you start your design process, make sure you keep these aspects in mind:
1. Proper Design Layout
While planning a kitchen the most basic step is to plan the layout. The layout of the kitchen defines its functionality and efficiency. There are different kinds of layouts:
- Galley Kitchen
- L-Shaped Kitchen
- U-Shaped Kitchen
- Island Kitchen
- Peninsula Kitchen
Any kitchen, no matter what the size should follow a proper layout to maximize functionality, space and utility.
2. Strong Countertops
Kitchen countertops are the most used places in the kitchen and will see the most action throughout the day. It is really important that you go for something which is strong and durable besides being modern and stylish.
Some of the most famous these days are Quartz, Marble, Granite and Corian. Out of which Granite and Solid Surface countertops are the most versatile and cost effective. Before you choose any, make sure that it matches with your kitchen style, is durable, and is cost effective. In case you need a little help, here’s a comparison between the cost of granite vs laminate.
So before you decide what countertop you want to use for your kitchen what you need to decide is how you will be using your kitchen. From durable materials to statement making styles, it has to be a well thought and carefully made decision, because not only are they a major style statement, but also the main workstation in the kitchen.
3. Plenty Of Storage
Imagine getting the storage all wrong and you have to put everything on the kitchen counter and island. How off putting would that be! Cabinets play the most important role in defining the storage space and once you know what you will be using the space for you can plan and consider the best options for your kitchen.
There are different types of storages that are used for a kitchen for example the cabinets, shelves, drawers and pantries. The storage has to be realistic so that it can be used in the most effective way and keep your kitchen organized.
Make sure you research all of the space saving designs before you move forward with the process!
4. Efficient Appliances
Paying attention to the appliances may not seem like an important decision at first but it also affects the functionality of your space. For example if you are a frequent entertainer, you will need a bigger fridge and oven. Which also calls for a big dishwasher. But other than that you can consider using medium or small sized appliances depending on how energy efficient they are. Try looking for tools and appliances with energy star labels and consider the size of the appliances based on how often you will be using them.
5. Adequate Lighting
Kitchen lighting does not go with a one-size-fits-all approach. This is an aspect that is often ignored while designing a kitchen and installing different types of fixtures. In a well thought kitchen design it is important to have different types of lighting fixtures that are used for fulfilling a very specific function. Depending upon the design and style of a kitchen following are the three basic types that you will need to consider:
- Ambient lighting: Ambient lighting is used for the overall illumination of the kitchen
- Task lighting: Task lighting specifically focuses on the workstation to make it easier to perform tasks around the kitchen. Task lights are mostly placed above the countertops, stove and sink.
- Accent lighting: Accent lights are 3x as bright as ambient lights and are used to highlight the features of the kitchen such as the furnishings, artwork etc. The lights used under cabinets are also accent lights. They create a beautiful focus on the design features of the space and make it stand out.
These are some of the important aspects of a well designed kitchen. Make sure you keep these in mind and get a functional and well styled kitchen!
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