5 Practical Tips For Designing A Functional Kitchen
Looking to redesign or remodel your existing kitchen space? If so, then you'll want to make sure you end up not just with a beautiful end product, but a functional one as well. Specifically, there are a few design tips to keep in mind that can help improve functionality in your revamped kitchen space.
1. Make Sure Your Island Has a Function
Don't install an island or peninsula in your kitchen just because they're popular right now; make sure yours has a true function. Whether it will serve as a breakfast bar with convenient seating or as a prep space, keep function and purpose in mind before you work an island into your design.
2. Plan for Plenty of Door Clearance
If you're working with a smaller kitchen space, make sure there will be plenty of room for appliance and pantry doors to be open without banging into each other. The last thing you want is for your dishwasher door to slam into your pantry door if they're both opened at the same time.
3. Don't Forget About "Landing Space"
Kitchens should also be designed with lots of "landing space," specifically around refrigerators and stove tops. The main purpose of these spaces is to offer lots of room for setting down ingredients as you remove them from the fridge or take things off the stove.
4. Cut Down on Cleaning Time
Design your kitchen with ease of cleaning in mind. For example, you might want to consider an under-mount kitchen sink so that food crumbs and waste can be easily swept into and rinsed down the sink for easy cleaning. Furthermore, smudge-proof appliances (such as stainless steel) can help keep your kitchen looking sharp without the hassle of daily cleaning and polishing.
5. Don't Skimp on Electrical Outlets
Having lots of counter space doesn't do you much good if you don't also have plenty of electrical outlets in which to plug your favorite kitchen gadgets. As part of your kitchen redesign, then, make sure you incorporate lots of electrical outlets across your backsplash (and that they are properly grounded for safety). This way, you won't have to pick and choose between your favorite countertop appliances.
Functionality is just as important as beauty when it comes to your kitchen redesign. If you're looking for further help in making the most of your revamped kitchen space, be sure to consult with professional kitchen design services.