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Design Tips for Creating a Trendy and Functional Kitchen

Design Tips for Creating a Trendy and Functional Kitchen

 

Design Tips for Creating a Trendy and Functional Kitchen

It doesn’t matter if you’re a new homeowner or just looking to revamp your kitchen; you want to do it right. However, as far as interior design goes, there are a ton of different kinds of ideas about layout and design choices. So what do you choose? It can be a difficult decision, but we’re here to help. Below are some top design tips for creating a trendy and functional kitchen. 

Popular Layouts

Before we can get into design tips for creating a trendy and functional kitchen, we need to first look at layout recommendations. After that, you can outfit it exactly how you like. Learn more below.  

L-Shaped Layout

This layout is arranged in an L shape, as the name implies. It’s amazing for maximizing efficiency with a large work triangle that’s easy to move around. It’s also ideal for a smaller home since you can tuck it away into corners right next to an exit. You would typically set this layout between two walls at a 90-degree angle. Like the U-shaped angle, it’s great for entertaining guests. You’re also far less likely to bump into anyone else, making the L-shaped layout a wonderful option for chefs. 

U-Shaped Layout

True to its name as well, the U-shaped kitchen layout has a U shape. It features a wide open space that can accommodate a home with heavy traffic and a large family. It’s also perfect for entertaining guests since they don’t have to worry about an island. This layout is perfect for wider kitchens with large French doors since it doesn’t take up nearly as much space as other kitchens. You can prep many meals in multiple areas at different times, and it’s great for a “work triangle.” Most of these layouts are closed, which means they separate the kitchen from the dining room relatively well.

However, the U-shaped layout can be too narrow and deep and can feel cramped. Sometimes it can create traffic jams, but luckily, it’s easy to adapt into a space that can handle lots of traffic.

Larger Island Layout

This layout has a ton of counter space and storage, and it’s ideal if your kitchen is relatively large. It has a U shape, but rather than pushing everything against one far wall, it also incorporates a freestanding counter space in the middle of your kitchen. This island usually possesses base cabinets on one side to better store much-needed items in your kitchen. Some kitchen islands even accommodate seating. All you need are a few stools to make an island a great way to entertain! That said, it requires special plumbing if you want to install a sink. Overall, this layout can be pretty high end, making it more expensive than many entries on this list. But if you’re looking for a high-end and high-value option, the island kitchen layout is for you.

Galley Layout

With the galley layout, appliances and countertops are on opposite walls. There might be some cupboards that you could consider redundant in your kitchen. This layout usually has a large area for your dishwasher, work triangle, and sink placement. The most prominent feature of a galley kitchen is its ample walkway, which is necessary in most modern kitchens and perfect if you want to direct the traffic flow in a certain direction. You must ensure there’s enough space between cabinets and appliances on each walk. It’s a great choice for a closed-concept home.

Peninsula Layout

While smaller than the island layout, the peninsula kitchen layout is more popular than most of the other options on this list. Everything attaches to the wall, much like a U-shaped kitchen, with an island floating in the middle. You’ll find it’s the ideal choice if you’re looking for the island style but have a smaller space. You’ll save money this way and still have extra space. Consider this as a mini-island layout. There’s a ton more storage, and it’s a great way to incorporate the open-kitchen concepts you might want.

Design Tips

After you’ve figured out the layout, it’s time to fill in the lines. Below, we’ll go through the process of designing your kitchen. We’ll also show how you can implement some much-needed changes. Learn more below.

You Need a Wishlist

You should start by mind-mapping all the dream kitchen features you have in mind. Include details about cabinetry, various styles of refrigerators, etc. Look at the various sites and platforms like Pinterest if you’re having trouble coming up with design ideas. Magazines are also useful since they show you the latest kitchen trends.  

Define Your Budget

You need to define how much your kitchen will cost you as well. You can splurge on your kitchen and want for nothing, but most people need to budget. It’s important to include information about the things you can’t see, such as lighting, wiring, and even plumbing. Consider everything you need to make your kitchen function how it should. Add at least 10 percent padding for any unforeseen costs. You don’t want to paint yourself into a corner and find yourself working with less money than you originally thought regarding renovations.

Measure It

You can do a multitude of activities in a kitchen besides preparing food. This could mean entertaining, relaxing, or even remote working. To fit everything you want into this one space, you must accurately measure it. This is something you’ll need to do before you design your kitchen. Don’t overuse freestanding elements when designing your kitchen, or you’ll unnecessarily clutter the space. Precisely measure the floor and the windows just in case you want an island in your layout. You want ample space around your island to maneuver effectively around the kitchen.

Consider Proportion, Symmetry, and Style

Designing a kitchen requires you to consider both aesthetics and practicality. For instance, the bulkiness of the cabinetry is an important element you need to consider. Aim for symmetry, especially when it comes to key features in your kitchen, such as the chimney breast framing your range cooker. We know it’s small, but it’s certainly worth making these considerations in every aspect of your kitchen. Make sure you run tall units up to the ceiling as well.

The Color Pallet

Most kitchens are color neutral. This is true regardless of the kitchen’s style. That said, more and more homeowners are incorporating colors into various aspects of their kitchens. For instance, you can paint the glass-fronted cabinet one color, the handles another, and the door frames yet another color. We would recommend using no more than two relatively similar colors. Want hues that complement easily without compromising a sleek modern look? Black cabinetry with a marble island is a bold choice. Pick wisely, as you’ll need to look at these colors for a long time.

There are several different ways to design your kitchen. We haven’t even scratched the surface. If you’re ready to pick up certain appliances, such as built-in refrigerators and freezers, look at what Town Appliance offers! We’ll take care of everything you need. 

Design Tips for Creating a Trendy and Functional Kitchen

Daniel Kraftman Author

Written by

Daniel Kraftmann

Seasoned professional with a background in mechanical engineering, boasts over a decade of invaluable experience in the dynamic world of e-commerce.

For the past five years, he has dedicated his expertise to the appliance industry, becoming well-versed in the intricacies of home appliances, their cutting-edge technology, and ever-evolving features.

As a passionate mechanical engineering enthusiast, Daniel keeps a vigilant eye on emerging trends and innovations in the appliance sector. With a profound understanding of both the engineering principles and the consumer demands, he brings a unique blend of knowledge and practical insight to his blogs.

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