Kitchen design is considered to be most important area of home design. Careful planning and measurements are needed to design a kitchen as it may save you lots of money. While designing kitchen you need to be aware of common mistakes made by contractors and homeowners. You will find here a list of common mistakes to avoid.
Kitchen Layout
Kitchen layout is a big mistake which is made by homeowners. In kitchen activity areas such as gas stove and sink should have unobstructed access to both of the locations. Wrong placed kitchen island may cut off direct access to these areas. That makes kitchen less efficient and convenient. Narrow door ways and large islands can cut off the direct access to activity areas. Convenient countertops are also much important when planning a kitchen layout. Adequate kitchen storage will also make kitchen convenient and easily accessible.
Measurement
Inaccurate measurement is an unavoidable mistake of kitchen design. Not taking right measurement of kitchen cabinets and countertop may cost you a lot. If you do not measure it correctly that may be a big problem for you. It may be possible that cabinets, kitchen appliances or even sink will not fit right. Countertop height and width is also equally important because after completion of work it is hard to correct the things. Before signing contract with contractor make sure that the contractors work is satisfactory. Check contractors work which he has completed in last few months. That may help you to design a perfect kitchen according to your specifications.
Material
Wrong material selection can be another big mistake of kitchen design. Keep in mind that cheap counter top may chip off after some time. When purchasing a countertop material keep in mind durability and maintenance of countertop. Laminated countertop needs more maintenance than a granite countertop. Ceiling and flooring material is also equally important, skid proof floor material should be installed in kitchen. Ceiling of kitchen needs more maintenance than other rooms so choose a ceiling that requires less maintenance.
Countertop
One of the common mistakes about the kitchen is lack of countertop. Functional and durable countertop is the need of a good kitchen. When designing your kitchen evaluate that you have enough workspace for specific task. An expensive countertop can be your choice but make sure that this is functional. You will also need some kitchen appliances located on countertop that requires sufficient countertop. Plan kitchen layout and decide which area is used for specific task. That may help you to design a functional kitchen.
Lighting
Kitchen generally requires illuminated light, task lights and accent lighting. Most kitchens have general lighting that is not sufficient for particular task. Evaluate the each work station in kitchen and highlight each area that is used for specific task. Natural lighting is equally important for kitchen. Good lighting can be provided with combination of general light, task light and ambient light. Kitchen sink and gas stove area should also have dedicated lighting. To make this room functional, sufficient lighting is necessary.
Ventilation
Ventilation is also as important as other aspects of kitchen designs. Proper ventilation is necessary to remove the odor and heat from the home which will help you to improve indoor air quality. Adequate ventilation can help you to extend the life of kitchen appliances. Access heat can shorten the life of refrigerator and microwave oven.
Too Big Island
Improper sized island is also a big mistake that will be non functional. Kitchen is a work area and a wrong placed island in the way of that area may be a big problem. Island that obstructs the flow of work to or from kitchen sink, gas stove or refrigerator will create big hassle. Island size should be considered before designing a kitchen. To make Island functional, use it for gas stove or for kitchen sink. That island can be used for taking meal, size and placement of island should be considered for a good kitchen.
Storage
Another big problem of kitchen design is not utilizing storage space in kitchen. While planning a kitchen design, kitchen storage should be planned according to the need of kitchen storage. Sufficient storage cabinets should be installed in kitchen for storage. There can be cabinets for kitchen appliances; proper dimensions are necessary for that. Evaluate what you really want in your kitchen and how do you want to access this storage area. This will help you to utilize space of your kitchen.
Kitchen is the heart of your home and design of kitchen may make it functional. Just make sure that do not make these mistakes while designing your kitchen.