Kitchens are the heart of the home and should be among the most functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces in a home. Whether you are designing your new kitchen or planning a makeover of your current one, these ultimate kitchen planning ideas will help you to transform your space with creativity and style. These tips cater to all types of budgets and lifestyles so you will be sure to find something that resonates with you and your home. Let the transformation begin!
Create A Vision
The first step in planning your ideal kitchen is to create a vision for the space. Think about how you use your kitchen and what is important to you in the layout and design. Would you like your kitchen to be open and airy or cozy and intimate? Consider how much, if any, existing cabinetry or appliances you would like to keep or if you want to start from scratch. Accessories such as paint colors, flooring, backsplash, and hardware can greatly affect the overall look and feel of a kitchen so be sure to include these elements in your vision.
Set A Budget
Once you have a vision for your kitchen, it is time to set a budget. Doing so will help to prioritize your ideas and make sure that costly mistakes are avoided. It is not always necessary to hire a professional or purchase expensive items to achieve the look that you desire, however, taking these steps will help keep you on track and in line with your financial goals.
Keep Scale And Proportion In Mind
Another important key to successful kitchen design is to keep scale and proportion in mind. It is important to make sure that cabinets, appliances, and fixtures are in proportion to the size of the room. Choosing the proper sized cabinets, countertops, and other fixtures can make all the difference in how the space feels. If you need to add length or width to a room then consider adding an island or peninsula, a built-in eating area with bench seating, or a cozy eat-in nook.
Focus On Functionality
When designing a kitchen it is important to focus on functionality. The working triangle, consisting of the distance between the sink, refrigerator, and food preparation area, should be kept in mind when laying out the kitchen in order to allow for easy movement between these three areas. When designing a kitchen consider the size and shape of the refrigerator, the location of the dishwasher, size and style of the sink, and the type of range or cooktop that will best suit your needs.
Add Storage
It is often the case that no matter the size of a kitchen, there is never enough storage. Consider adding additional cabinets, a pantry, or an island with storage. When planning the layout of the kitchen include as much upper and lower cabinetry and counter space as possible. This not only provides you with plenty of storage, but also helps to maximize the functionality of your kitchen.
Lighten It Up
Adding proper lighting can transform any kitchen design. Natural light is always the best source of illumination, however, if your kitchen is lacking in this area consider adding overhead lighting or under cabinet lighting to brighten up the space. When choosing fixtures, look for something that is both functional and visually appealing. Pendant lights and chandelier styles work well in kitchens, bringing warmth and interest to the space.
Add Personal Touches
Once the construction and major details have been decided upon, it is time to add some complete your design with some personal touches. Art, collectibles, textiles, and dishes are all great ways to add elements of your personality and style to the kitchen. It is important to make sure that these added items blend well with the overall design and are kept to a minimum so as to not overwhelm the space.
Kitchen Planning Conclusion
No matter if your kitchen plans are large or small, following these ultimate kitchen planning ideas will help to ensure that your kitchen is both functional and stylish. By focusing on the elements of scale, functionality, storage, and lighting, you can cater the design to your specific needs. Make sure to include some personal touches to make the kitchen uniquely yours. With all of the great design ideas available, transforming your kitchen into the space you have always dreamed of is not only possible, but also a lot of fun.
