This comprehensive guide on how to design your kitchen provides an excellent point of departure for those immersed in the technical aspects of kitchen design. Within the spectrum of residential spaces, the kitchen frequently functions as the central nucleus, catering to an array of domestic activities, spanning meal preparation to entertaining guests. This article explores a sequence of fundamental design principles meticulously crafted to set you on the precise course toward manifesting your envisioned kitchen.
We strongly recommend the utilization of readily available design software accessible on the internet or the manual generation of blueprints with pencil and paper. Precision assumes paramount importance in this endeavour; hence, it is imperative to construct your kitchen design to scale and ensure an exacting degree of measurement accuracy.
Step 1. Kitchen Location
Let’s embark on a thrilling kitchen adventure! To kickstart your culinary dreams, first, scout your house for the perfect kitchen spot. We recommend aiming for that magical southeast or east orientation, where the morning sun will shower your kitchen with golden rays. Imagine sipping your coffee while basking in that lovely glow!
And if you’re feeling a bit restless, why not consider a kitchen relocation? Picture this: a kitchen with a window view of a lush garden, turning your cooking sessions into garden picnics! Or, go for the convenience game-changer by placing your kitchen closer to the front or back door, making trash and grocery transport a breeze. Let’s make your kitchen a place of culinary delight and homey convenience!
Step 2. Kitchen Theme
When contemplating the art of kitchen design, your foremost consideration should be the theme. The theme you opt for will wield its influence over your choice of lighting, flooring, kitchen units, and various other aspects. Kitchens can easily be deemed the heart of a home, which is precisely why it’s vital to contemplate designs that create a seamless connection between the kitchen and its neighbouring rooms, fostering a sense of harmony. In your pursuit of the perfect kitchen design, there are a multitude of other factors to ponder.
The following list isn’t exhaustive but will certainly set you on the right path to achieving your envisioned kitchen design:
For a modern theme:
- Stainless steel fixtures.
- Sleek, curved glossy units.
- Granite countertops.
- Contemporary down lighting and cabinet illumination.
- Polished granite floor tiles.
For a wooden theme:
- Warm and inviting wooden kitchen units.
- Wooden countertops that exude natural charm.
- Interior doors crafted from wood.
- Classic wooden flooring that adds timeless elegance.
- Wooden picture frames to complete the cosy aesthetic.
Step 3. Kitchen Traffic
Kitchens, the bustling hubs of the house where culinary magic and midnight snacks collide! Now, it’s crucial that your kitchen resembles the traffic flow on a smooth highway, especially if you fancy throwing parties that rival the wildest disco nights. Here are some ideas to help you navigate through the kitchen chaos – with a side of humour!
Kitchens that rival airport terminals:
If your kitchen is as big as an airport, consider dividing it to create a utility room. It’s like having a secret lair for washing machines and tumble dryers. Plus, you’ll have a great space to stash your boots, coats, and hats. It’s the superhero of kitchen spaces, diverting activity away from your cooking realm, so you have more room for culinary capers and the occasional dance-off.
Kitchen-a-doodle-doo!
Before you start redesigning, ponder this: will your new kitchen have enough space for a cha-cha or perhaps a conga line? To be certain, mark out an imaginary dance floor in advance, maybe with kitchen utensils or a pair of rubber chickens. It’s like a rehearsal for your kitchen’s next Top Chef season.
Step 4. Kitchen Practicality
In days of yore, kitchen design was like a puzzle cantered around a trio of essential elements: the sink, refrigerator, and oven. These three culinary comrades held the key to a well-orchestrated kitchen, where efficiency reigned supreme. A smart kitchen design should ensure that the distance between these three amigos is just right because, let’s face it, most of the kitchen action happens around them. Too much distance, and the cook’s marathon between tasks could lead to exhaustion. Too little space, and you’re in for a cramped cooking catastrophe.
Now, when it comes to crafting this culinary trifecta, there are three major layouts to consider: the galley, the i-shape, and the u-shape. In the u-shaped layout, these essential appliances take up residence on three different walls. For the i-shaped layout, one appliance is stationed on one wall, while the other two cosy up on another. And for those dealing with space so tight you can barely swing a spatula, the galley layout squeezes all the appliances onto a single wall – just like a streamlined kitchen bullet train!
Ultimately, the available space you have will determine the design of your kitchen. The reassuring news is that you have a range of standard kitchen unit sizes at your disposal to select from.
Step 5. Electrical socket locations
Strategically positioning electrical sockets holds significant importance in the realm of kitchen design, and this consideration becomes even more critical when you’re undertaking the renovation of an older kitchen. It’s imperative that the reimagined kitchen layout incorporates well-placed socket outlets, meticulously adhering to the most current safety regulations.
For substantial kitchen appliances like fridge freezers, tumble dryers, and washing machines, it’s essential to ensure the availability of dedicated sockets within the kitchen unit that stands adjacent to each appliance. This precise placement not only ensures a neat and efficient appearance but also guarantees that these appliances can be securely powered. To facilitate this, a discreet hole can be drilled toward the back of the kitchen unit, allowing seamless access for plugging in these power-hungry kitchen companions. This meticulous attention to electrical detail aligns with technical standards and safety protocols, ensuring a seamlessly functional and safe kitchen environment.
Step 6. Extraction
Kitchen environments are notorious moisture generators that require effective moisture extraction. The optimal solution is to install chimney extractor hoods that can vent the moisture to the outside, ensuring a fresh and dry kitchen space. Now, here are some interesting facts about these kitchen extractors:
- Ventilation Excellence: Chimney extractor hoods are champions of kitchen ventilation. They efficiently remove excess moisture, cooking odors, and airborne grease particles, enhancing the overall air quality in your home.
- Airflow Calculation: To determine the ideal extractor for your kitchen, consider using free online calculators that can help you figure out the required flow rate in cubic meters per hour (m³/hr). This calculation is based on your kitchen’s size and specific needs.
- Moisture Control: Extractors play a pivotal role in preventing condensation build-up in your home. By expelling moist air outside, they help maintain a dry and comfortable kitchen environment, protecting your home from potential moisture-related issues. We have another article that tells you all about the causes of humidity and condensation.
In summary, kitchen extractors are unsung heroes in the battle against kitchen humidity and airborne particles, ensuring your culinary adventures are both comfortable and hygienic.
Step 7. Kitchen Lighting
If you’ve been pondering how to craft the perfect kitchen design, lighting ranks high among the key considerations. Effective lighting in the kitchen accentuates your work surfaces, culinary creations, cabinetry, and, of course, you. Incorporating LED strip lighting into your kitchen design can transform your culinary space into a well-lit, energy-efficient, and stylish haven. Here are some illuminating design options to consider:
Recessed Lighting
To banish pesky shadows as you work, consider installing recessed lighting. Different task lights can be strategically placed on worktops, sinks, cabinets, built-in pantries, and kitchen islands for well-distributed brightness.
Over-Cabinet Lights
These lights lean more toward setting the mood than pure functionality. When positioned atop cabinets, they cast ambient glows that adorn your ceiling and walls, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
Under-Cabinet Lights
Perfect for bathing your countertops in bright, focused light. These lights are a go-to choice for providing clear visibility for your kitchen work areas.
Why use LED strip lighting in kitchens
In the realm of kitchen lighting, LED strip lighting has risen as a contemporary favourite. Its popularity can be attributed to several key advantages. First and foremost, LED strips are remarkably energy-efficient, which translates to more cost-effective energy bills. Additionally, LEDs exhibit an impressive longevity, meaning you won’t find yourself frequently replacing them. Their versatility shines through in the myriad of colours and styles available, making it a breeze to craft the perfect kitchen ambiance. Moreover, LEDs emit minimal heat, ensuring a safe and comfortable kitchen environment during their use.
Step 8. Kitchen Flooring
When it comes to selecting a flooring design for your kitchen, prioritizing factors like ease of maintenance and durability is paramount. The top contenders in this category include wood, ceramic tiles, and linoleum. These materials not only offer hassle-free cleaning but also boast impressive longevity, not to mention a wide array of design options.
Moreover, safety, especially when you have little ones around, should be a key concern. In this context, textured tiles prove to be a wise choice, as they provide a non-slip surface even when wet. On the other hand, if your kitchen witnesses a bustling flow of foot traffic, wooden floors can be an ideal choice, offering both practicality and style.
Step 9. Adding Extra’s
Once you’ve successfully navigated through steps 1 to 9 of your kitchen design journey, it’s time to consider those finishing touches that can truly perfect your culinary haven. Here are some enticing ideas to elevate your kitchen design:
Splash Backs:
Consider adding sleek and practical splash backs made from coloured glass. They not only protect your walls but are also a breeze to wipe down, adding a pop of style to your kitchen.
Soft Close Hinges:
Enhance the functionality of your cupboards with soft close hinges. They ensure a gentle and quiet closure, preventing those accidental loud bangs.
Pantry Storage Units:
Maximize your storage space with pantry storage kitchen units. They are a smart solution for keeping your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
Exotic Wall Paint:
Infuse a burst of personality into your kitchen by experimenting with exotic coloured wall paint. It’s an easy way to make a bold statement.
Window Dressing:
Opt for stylish blinds like roller or Venetian blinds to control light and privacy while adding an aesthetic touch to your kitchen.
Breakfast Bar:
Create a cozy corner in your kitchen with a breakfast bar and stools. It’s not just for dining but also a great spot for casual conversations.
Wall Decor:
Add character to your kitchen walls with canvas art or a stylish clock. It’s the little details that can make a big difference in the overall ambiance of the space.
The Bottom Line
In a nutshell, incorporating these finishing details will infuse your kitchen design with a special, personalized touch that mirrors your individual style and preferences. If you’re based in Essex, UK, feel free to reach out to us for a quote. We’re your go-to source for a wide array of home improvement services in the Essex region.
