10 Tips for a Better Kitchen

A kitchen remodel is quite possibly the most important and transformative home improvement decision a homeowner can make, so plan ahead and optimize your project using our ten tips for a better kitchen design!

1. Eliminate wasted steps

​Think about how you work in a kitchen and keep in mind that it is completely yours. When planning your kitchen design, consider the placement of your appliances. Try to keep a solid work triangle by keeping appliances within 4-8 feet of each other. Store breakfast foods and bowls near the breakfast table, or keep wraps and plastic containers in one handy spot near a work surface for wrapping leftovers. Consider your personal kitchen needs and make your kitchen more functional and easy to use. ​

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2. ​Plan landing space

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When designing your kitchen, allow 15 inches of counter top on each side of a cook top and refrigerator for safety and cleanliness around appliances. You should also consider the landing space near the microwave, sink, and dishwasher. Often times bad design can cause more spills and burns, so be sure to consider the functionality of your design as well as the beauty and aesthetics of it. 

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3. ​Determine your island's function

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​​When it comes to kitchen islands, form follows function. If you want to cook and eat on kitchen islands, plan enough space so the cooktop or sink, if applicable, is safely separated from the dining area. Also consider using different heights for your dining area and work area to further separate dining and cooking areas. Utilize your island to include built in microwaves, wine coolers, and storage to maximize your space.

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4. ​Resist the urge to go too white

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Walls and cabinets can be striking when painted a vibrant, bold white, but be careful not to overdo it. White wood floors, for instance, can wash out a room, and they're difficult to maintain. Consider contrasting white cabinetry with a different colored island or dark floors. When considering white cabinetry realize that white cabinetry is tougher to keep clean compared to a dark stain. 

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5. Consider the countertops

​Those who like to cook, or have multiple cooks in the kitchen require more counter space and sometimes more appliances. You should consider how much counter space there is between work areas, particularly between the range and sinks. Also consider the texture of the counter surface you will be working on. Be careful when putting hot items down on any countertop which can lead to cracks. Also be careful when putting things that can stain on porous surfaces like granite.

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6. Plug it in

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​Install outlets along the back splash and on the island so you'll have electricity wherever you need it. You can also hide outlets on the inside of cabinets for a functional and hidden charging area. Make sure your contractor understands where your appliances and cooking tools are going to be located and have them prep your kitchen so that is as functional as possible. Also make sure to use GFI outlets around any areas with water nearby.

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7. Have one element that's fun or creavtive

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​Your kitchen is arguably the most important room in your home, but the best kitchens are those that marry function with personality. Incorporate a few fun or eccentric elements that represent your personal style to bring out the soul of the room. It's important to change things up in your kitchen so that it doesn't end up looking like every other white kitchen out there. Adding a custom hood, special hardware, or interesting light fixtures can make all the difference.

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8. Let there be light

​A window over the sink lets natural light spill in and dramatically opens the room. It also makes you feel less cramped in and gives the kitchen an overall larger feel. Consider where your windows are going to be placed. Moving windows is a relatively inexpensive job, and can really change the entire feel of a kitchen.

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9. Double up 

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A second microwave oven, sink, or mini fridge  keeps snackers out of the cook's way. Add a snack bar with stools for an after-school spot for the kids. Consider how many people are in your family and how much you entertain. A double oven is a great way to maximize your space and matched with a nice large cooktop can make cooking a simpler process for everyone.

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10. Experiment with color, wood and texture

Incorporating walnut drawers in a white kitchen is an easy way to make a bold statement. Mix and matching paints and stains is a easy way to make a unique kitchen. Use a dark floor in a white kitchen to make your cabinetry really pop. Make a statement by using colors that match well with the style of the rest of your home.

Feeling inspired? Contact us by hitting the button below, or visit one of our beautiful showrooms to start creating your perfect kitchen.

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