The kitchen can easily be considered a multi-functional room; from preparing meals and cleaning to socializing and completing homework, everyone uses this space.
Unfortunately, sometimes the space is not designed efficiently, and errors are made.
During the planning of your kitchen makeover, be sure you avoid these common mistakes.
#1 Insufficient Counter Space
Lack of counter space in the kitchen is a frequent complaint, especially with the permanently installed appliances causing limitations.
However, by adding a kitchen island or even a breakfast bar, counter space can easily be increased while gaining extra storage space underneath as well.
#2 Underutilized Storage Space
Storage in the kitchen is a commodity and there never seems to be enough of it, but with careful planning, every inch of space in your kitchen can be designed for efficient storage of food, small appliances, seasonal items and cookware.
#3 Clearing the Kitchen Triangle
Experts have dubbed the path between your stove, refrigerator and sink as the kitchen triangle.
With the sink being the most used of the three, a well-designed kitchen layout will guarantee a path that flows well regardless of kitchen size, so meal preparation is efficient and convenient, even with multiple people involved.
#4 Sacrificing a Backsplash
Oftentimes backsplashes are dismissed during a kitchen remodel, but their purpose is one of preservation.
Consider the amount of liquids, splashes and temperature variations that take place in the sink and stove areas and you’ll probably rethink the importance of a backsplash.
Choosing a material such as metal or tile is much easier to clean than wallpaper or paint, so avoid the temptation to sacrifice a backsplash.
#5 Inadequate Lighting
The lighting in your kitchen should be wisely assessed with focus given to main work areas for safety, convenience and even for atmosphere, if you prefer. Inadequate lighting, when carrying out tasks in the kitchen, can quickly lead to frustration and safety issues.
Plan carefully and use a variety of lighting elements for functionality and beauty.
#6 Poor Ventilation
An adequate ventilation system in the kitchen makes the entire home more inviting.
Regardless of how beautiful and well designed your house is, if food odors linger, that is what you and anyone visiting will notice.
Forego the makeshift range hoods that send the smells floating through the air and install a ventilation system that actually cleans the air and helps protect your appliances from grease buildup.
#7 Choosing the Wrong Island Style
Kitchen islands are a great way to add extra workspace and storage, but choosing one that doesn’t fit or installing it in an area that impedes workflow is a mistake that can be avoided. Choose carefully and consult a specialist.
#8 Décor and Design Mistake
Trendy décor may be just what you’re looking for and high-end appliances can certainly add convenience.
If the remodel is for you then by all means go for it, but if the plan is to sale the house with hopes of recouping your investment, the safer choice would be opting for classic style and functionality.
#9 No Recycling Accommodations
Recycling becomes more important all the time, and storage bins that support the cause can be easily installed right in the kitchen, without compromising design.
#10 Trying to Do-It-Yourself
Kitchen remodels involve multiple moving parts and require precise planning and implementation.
From using the space adequately to addressing matters of electrical and plumbing, working with a design expert will help ensure you get the results you want.
Here’s Your Next Step…
At Post & Beam Design/Build, we will help you customize the design of your kitchen to fit your desires and keep you on budget.
With more than 25 years of experience and being knowledgeable of all the latest innovations, we are experts at what we do and we aim to please.
Give us a call today at 410-683-2020 or click here to request a free estimate online.
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