Many of you would argue that your household kitchen is the most important room in your home. It is often the place where your family and friends gather to prepare, taste test and feast on great meals. Even when you throw potluck-styled parties, everyone seems to just naturally gravitate towards the kitchen. That is why you want that space to be as functional and inviting as possible. Here are some of the top tips from expert designers for creating your ultimate dream kitchen.
Cabinetry and Storage Solutions
Besides highlighting your unique style, you want a kitchen that looks polished, tidy and organized even when you’ve just finished fixing your signature pasta dish from scratch. Hardworking cabinetry and storage solutions can help you to achieve all of these goals when your kitchen’s space and layout are considered. Some innovative ideas from the experts include organization systems for walk in pantries, appliance garages and corner drawers.
Custom pantry systems are usually equipped with an assortment of drawers and shelves that allow you to easily inventory your supplies. Kitchens that do not have the space for walk in pantries can utilize cabinet units that feature shelving and racks behind cabinet doors. Kitchen gadgets are great, but they are often space hogs that make kitchens look cluttered. Placing these gadgets behind custom made doors that are integrated into cabinets and countertops can hide them and make the area look more organized. Professional interior designers like Jacqui Hargrove also stress the use of every inch of space by installing pull out corner drawers and ceiling high cabinetry.
Intricately carved cabinets that are hard to clean should typically be avoided, and many design experts like Kate Watson-Smyth only recommend open shelving that is situated away from the main cooking space to avoid having collectibles and dishes that are constantly covered with grease and grime. While some kitchen design experts encourage home owners to express their personal style with richly hued cabinetry, most agree that classic neutrals stand the test of time best.
Countertops and Workspaces
Kitchen countertops and other workspaces take quite a beating so their materials must be durable and of high quality. Granite, marble and Corian clad workspaces top the list when it comes to choosing countertops that are as functional as they are beautiful. These materials work well for utilizing ingeniously designed drop in sinks that virtually hide dishes that are placed there and give kitchen workspaces a seamless appearance. Also, your kitchen worktops should ideally face the seating area to create a more intimate space that accommodates conversations and cooking.
Lighting
One of the most important aspects of kitchen renovations is lighting layout. Most kitchen design experts agree that you should lay out your kitchen space to take advantage of natural light if you are starting from scratch, but this tip is not always feasible for many kitchen remodel projects. However, you can always substitute with overhead lighting fixtures that are placed strategically around the kitchen. These lighting fixtures should be placed so that light falls directly in front of main cooking, food preparation and seating areas. Under cabinet, recessed lights are also welcomed additions.
Appliances
Many of us have the impression that major kitchen appliances are fairly brand neutral and that bargains are to be had when you mix and match pieces. However, this is not always the case according to designer Ben Huckerby from Britain’s Best Home. A set of name brand appliances gives the space an air of quality, and this is especially important if you are thinking of reselling your home in the near future. Utilizing appliances that are built into the kitchen cabinetry is also a great idea that can lend your space the custom and polished look that you are after.
Flooring
While you have many options for kitchen flooring, you should consider materials that are easy to maintain, durable and fairly slip resistant. The warm hues of wood may satisfy your creative aspirations for your kitchen, but wood does not handle water and spills very well. Wood floors as well as those that are made of natural stone have to be sealed periodically to maintain their classic appearance. Common materials like ceramic tile, porcelain tile and concrete offer durability, versatility and easy care for busy home owners.
Conclusion
You don’t have to live with kitchen envy any longer as you thumb through those glossy home interior magazines. You can take charge of your cooking space by assessing your kitchen’s current use of square footage, layout and materials. With the help of these tips you can create a budget worthy, step by step plan to transform your kitchen into one that better fits your lifestyle.
Leave a Reply