The kitchen is arguably the most used and, hence, most important room in any home. Gone are the days when it was just an isolated space relegated to the back of the house for food preparation. Modern kitchens have evolved into so much more than functional units and have become social spaces. The kitchen design, too, has transformed in parallel to accommodate the different facets of the contemporary kitchen.
The very first thing to do when planning for a kitchen design is to figure out the layout and create a floor plan for space. From a traditional L-shaped kitchen to a U-shaped kitchen with a peninsula to an elaborate double L-shaped kitchen with an island, depending on the size, any layout can be selected. The layout should help the workflow and functionality of the kitchen.
Lighting is a crucial aspect of kitchen design. Natural light streaming through the windows makes the kitchen an inviting space, exuding warmth and brightness. There is also a great need for overhead lighting placed strategically to fall over countertops and not create shadows. Under cabinets, lights, and ceiling fixtures are increasingly popular choices.
Once the layout has been set, it is time to envision the aesthetics of the kitchen design. An effective way to start is by choosing a color scheme of one’s preference and subsequently selecting the flooring, countertops, back walls, and cabinets that complement it. It is advisable to stick to one or two focal points that complement the kitchen design with subtle details rather than overcrowding the space.
No matter the size of the kitchen, there are a few tricks to make it feel larger. Using light colors on cabinets and walls with dark accents and pops of bright color creates an interesting and spacious atmosphere. Using larger tiles on the floors and having open or glass-fronted cabinets also gives the illusion of a bigger kitchen.
Often, areas like corners and windowsills are ignored. Instead, adding blind corner cabinets for storage or planting a mini herb garden on the windowsill is a creative and efficient use of the space. Using wall hooks to hang mugs, cooking utensils, pots, and pans gives more storage and gives the kitchen a rustic charm.
As designing a kitchen involves creating a customized layout, flooring, and walls, as well as buying storage, lighting, appliances, and installation, it is an expensive process. It is best to set a budget and then make purchase choices accordingly.
Often, not enough storage space is accounted for, which can cause problems in setting up appliances, cabinets, and drawers later. Designating specific storage as well as garbage disposal spaces in detail is a good solution.
The countertops, cooking area, and working area should all be planned out beforehand. You must know all that you need at hand and all the space you require to do the cooking part.
The appliances, stove, and sink should be placed in line with power & gas lines and plumbing.
Make sure to keep a space for the storage of dustbins, dustpans, garbage bags, and other such items. These should be kept away from food items.
The kitchen must be equipped with proper ventilating shafts, exhaust fans, or chimneys to tackle various cooking smells and smoke and to let in fresh air.
Flooring and countertops should be sturdy, slip-resistant, and easy to clean. Rounded edges, safe electrical switchboards, and adult-height ovens are a must in households with children and pets.
Kitchens have, over the centuries, transformed into multi-purpose spaces that are the heart and soul of their homes. Kitchen design thus plays a vital role in creating kitchens that are functional, aesthetic, and innovative. A happy stomach is what everyone craves. A kitchen should give you the exact same satisfaction as the food gives to your stomach.