A new kitchen can be seen as an investment and you can expect it to be a substantial one. Of course, it won’t only improve the aesthetics and functionality of your newly designed area, but it will also increase the value of your property. However, there are some critical mistakes in the kitchen design that you must avoid to save money in the process. It is essential not to overlook any of the small details that might make a difference in the end.
When it comes to designing or rearranging kitchen layouts, we often forget the essential things, like where the trash cans are located and how easy access to the refrigerator is during cooking.
Since the main purpose of a kitchen is to prepare and cook food, it has to be extremely practical. Therefore it’s essential to begin the process of designing the kitchen by imagining how you’ll use the space for meal preparation and cooking. So, it’s crucial to take some time and think about what you really need.
Do you need space to set up a massive family table or an additional oven to cook your roasts every month? Do you fancy a new breakfast bar? Take a look at whether the area is functional for you or whether you’ll have to tear away a wall or create an extension in the event of a massive kitchen remodel.
1. Limiting your moves in the kitchen
Think how the layout of the kitchen will favor your activity in the area. You should consider the so-called kitchen work triangle. This concept is based on a design rule with the triangle created by the arrangement of the cooktop, sink and refrigerator. The triangle allows easy movement between the three pieces of equipment and your work in the kitchen will be easier than in the case your moves are obstructed by other furniture pieces.
It’s also true the kitchen has transformed into a multifunctional area that is continually evolving in terms of aesthetics, functionality, design, and layout. In the end, the concept can be adapted to meet your requirements while ensuring a continuous flow.
Many people tend to focus on aesthetics too early in the planning stages when the primary consideration should be functionality. If it looks great but isn’t working the way it should, it could quickly turn into frustration, causing stress instead of joy.
2. Worktops that were not measured correctly
Installing the worktops at the wrong level could hinder a kitchen’s performance. The worktops in kitchens are typically between 890-940mm, in many kitchen tasks it can be considered the ideal work height. But of course, the workstation height is subject to change according to your provider or your personal preference.
3. Choosing the wrong flooring
You must choose the flooring carefully because selecting the wrong flooring for your kitchen can turn into an expensive and costly mistake. In kitchens, there are three primary aspects to be considered, which include durability, safety, and ease of cleaning. Since kitchens are subject to a lot of foot traffic, you must choose durable, high-quality flooring that doesn’t require much maintenance and lasts for an extended period.
Vinyl flooring, also laminate flooring are durable and economical, each with distinct features and advantages. Before choosing a kitchen flooring, take into consideration the space you’re looking to transform to ensure you don’t make a mistake, and not only the area that you’ll cover but also the design of the kitchen furniture that’ll be installed. This will help you in choosing the right flooring style.
It might be helpful to get some samples from flooring providers so you can check what they offer and how they fit, doing that in your own time and home, with nobody and nothing to pressure you to make a decision that you might end up regretting.
4. Paint that is not the correct one
Color is important in the kitchen design process but don’t forget about the finish; if you make the wrong choice, the paint will not last regardless of how stunning the shade is and spills and splashes could swiftly cause damage to the paint.
The kitchen will be the most work-intensive area in your home, and you’ll need paint that is able to keep up. On the walls of your kitchen, traditional paints made of emulsion can quickly become damaged; therefore, search for one that’s been specially designed in an elegant matt finish that is hard-wearing, grease-resistant and washable. To prevent paint chipping or scratching, you should use primers designed specifically for tough surfaces.
5. The lack of ventilation
In any kitchen, good ventilation is vital. Cooking may create a lingering smell that, if not properly ventilated, could be a nuisance all over the home. Make sure you have a proper ventilation system that removes contaminants as well as circulates air and ensures that your kitchen is clean overall. Beware of low-cost equipment with not so much power to ensure proper airflow while using a lot of energy. It might be a good idea to invest in a piece of robust equipment that will reduce the amount of energy used and keep noise at a minimal level.
6. Cabinets are not the only option
In the end, there is the storage that must be considered and you must know, the kitchen cabinets aren’t your only choice, particularly in the case of a tight budget. When you’re making plans for your new kitchen, the cabinets may be a large part of your budget. So if you’re on a tight budget, you can consider open shelving at higher levels instead of wall cabinets. It will allow you to keep the same things, from glasses and mugs to cookbooks while displaying your elegant accessories and family pictures and giving your kitchen a “heart of home” vibe.
Conclusion
A well-constructed kitchen should last for at least 10 years, and it’s essential to get it right from the start. It’s also important to consider the possibility of selling your property, particularly when you’re planning or expecting to relocate in the next ten years or so. But with this list, you can start designing your new kitchen knowing that you’ve done the right thing.
