Kitchen and Dining
One of the most exciting changes you can make in a home is with kitchen design. In addition to enhancing the most important room in the house, you will be adding tremendous value to the home. Remember, kitchen design includes anything from new paint on the walls to completely gutting the room and adding all new cabinetry, countertops, lighting, flooring, and so on. To give you an idea of what all you can do in your new kitchen design, we wanted to provide you with some valuable tips for making it happen but without breaking the bank.
The most important step in a new kitchen design is determining how you use your kitchen. Every person cooks differently so the design really is a personal choice. In addition to how you cook, think about how the room is used. For example, your kitchen may be a room where people gather at a breakfast bar to eat and hang out. Therefore, consider everything so you can come up with a design that will fit your lifestyle.
Sometimes, simply painting the walls a different colour, hanging wallpaper, or changing out countertops makes a huge difference. However, keep in mind that you can always have plumbing or gas changed so if you do not like the existing location of appliances, they can be moved. Of course, never overlook lighting and flooring. Both of these can be changed out for a reasonable price and the results will be astounding.
To help you make the most of your new kitchen design, we have put together a list of questions to consider. Remember, you can answer these honestly, since there is no right or wrong. Just consider the questions and the way in which they apply to you so you create the kitchen of your dreams. A new kitchen design will make such a difference and without doubt, this room will become your favourite place to spend time, whether cooking or not.
How do you use your kitchen?
- As mentioned, this question is important. For instance, how many people live in the house? This will give you a better idea as to the configuration for traffic.
- Are you the only person cooking in the kitchen or do you often have other people that help? If so, how many people assist? - If more than one person spends time cooking at the same time, perhaps more countertop space, a second sink, or different configuration would be preferred.
- Do you enjoy entertaining family and friends? If so, do you prefer formal or information type gatherings? - Depending on your answer, you may decide to have a wall between the kitchen and dining area knocked out for better flow.
- Other than cooking, what type of other activities goes on in the kitchen? If you have small children, they may spend time doing homework at the breakfast bar or you may need or want space for a computer nearby.
- Consider any special needs for you and/or family members. For example, if there were someone extra tall or short, or perhaps someone in a wheelchair, then you would need to make adjustments.
What type of features do you want?
Features are the fun part of any new kitchen design. However, features also cost. Therefore, consider what you really need versus what you want. If you can afford to go all out, the go for it but if not, choose wisely.
- Kitchen islands are great in that they provide you with extra work and storage space
- Pantries are excellent for extra storage, which can come in handy if you entertain often
- Materials come in a wide array of choices. For example, you could upgrade to stainless steel sinks, granite countertops, and so on.
- A built-in microwave would be convenient and be aesthetically pleasing
- Cooking with gas or electricity would also be a choice to make. Gas cooks cleaner and is the preferred choice of famous cooks. However, electricity tends to cook more evenly, especially in the oven.
- Nooks and crannies are nice for storing appliances that you use daily. In this case, you can have corner cabinets installed for hiding the toaster, blender, can opener, etc.
What is your style?
Kitchen designs are available in a number of gorgeous styles. You may want something Mediterranean, which is sophisticated yet charming. Perhaps you prefer a contemporary kitchen with all stainless steel appliances and clean lines. A Queen Anne Victorian style may be more to your liking with rich cherry and heavier but ornate tones. When coming up with your kitchen design, consider the cabinets, countertops, flooring, colour, and accessories so you end up with exactly the perfect room for you and your family.