Beyond Functionality: Elevating Your Kitchen Design with Style
Welcome to this overview in what to consider when designing a kitchen!
Whether you're embarking on a renovation, building from scratch, or simply looking to optimize your existing space, the layout of your kitchen plays a pivotal role in its functionality and overall aesthetic. In this blog post, I will outline 5 important factors to consider when planning your kitchen and how to implement them to create a beautiful harmonious space that is a pleasure to both live and work in!
AI generated image by OBNL via Midjourney
EFFICIENT LAYOUT
Optimize space and workflow with a well-planned layout, considering the work triangle and convenient placement of appliances and storage areas.
Look at the space you have to work with, can you add more workspace by adding an island or a peninsula? Is there enough space for you to move freely between workspaces?
The idea behind the work triangle is to look angles and distances between the 3 main work areas in your kitchen - fridge, cooktop/oven and sink – the idea is to create smooth and efficient movement between all 3 to streamline the preparation/cooking process to make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Also think about the placement of your dishwasher if you have one – ideally you do not want to have it too far away from the sink, as after you have rinsed off dishes, water will drip everywhere!
Image source: - Kitchen and Bath Crate
DURABLE MATERIALS
Choose durable materials for countertops, flooring and cabinetry that can withstand daily use and are easy to maintain, ensuring longevity and timeless appeal.
Kitchens are generally a high traffic space – especially so, if you have little people or animals.
It is important to choose hardwearing flooring that will stand up to the comings and goings, but also be resistant to any spills and easy to clean should any accidents happen! There are many options between tiles, engineered timber floors and vinyls which work well in this space.
Cabinet fronts tend to get unintentionally knocked and banged in the process of moving around, or end up wearing food splashes – therefore it’s a good idea to choose something that will withstand a knock and a bump and easy to wipe down. Painted surfaces will wear down overtime and require recoating to keep looking fresh, where as laminate products add a protective layer that will last.
The options for benchtops are increasing all the time – Stone, Laminate, timber, stainless steel, composites – the list goes on!
Each have their own positive attributes, and it will often come down to aesthestic preference, but advancements in production techniques are providing options to easily change out bench tops to provide a quick facelift to any kitchen!
“Storage isn’t just about tidiness; it’s the foundation of efficiency and functionality in any kitchen.”
AMPLE STORAGE
Maximize storage space with cabinets, drawers and pantry solutions tailored to your needs, utilizing vertical space and innovative organisers to keep the kitchen organized and clutter free.
Have items you only need a couple of times a year? Place these overhead or in the top of cabinets, which are less accessible, freeing up the easy to reach spaces for everyday items.
Bench corner sections are always a tricky part to design, however there are a number of new storage solutions for these areas including rotating baskets or pull out shelves.
Cookbook storage! – this is often overlooked in a kitchen design, but where do you mainly use a cookbook? In the kitchen!
So why not add in a specialized shelf or cupboard – just remember to keep them away from both the sink and the cooktop to avoid damage from steam, water or cooking splashes.
Image source - threebirdsrenovations
QUALITY APPLIANCES
Invest in high-quality, energy-efficient appliances that suit your cooking habits and needs, ensuring they enhance both functionality and style.
Refrigerator, and oven/cook top and extraction fans are likely to be the most important appliances in your kitchen followed by an array of accompanying smaller appliances such as a microwave, kettle, toaster, coffee machine, food processor, the list goes on.
However, the fridge and oven/cooktop are likely to be your biggest investments. There are so many brands and models available now that it can be hard to know what to choose – a good way to go about it is to consider the following:-
Durability:- Are they built with quality parts and by quality workmanship?
Performance:- Any advanced settings? Better energy efficiency? More precise controls?
Reliability:- Quality appliances are often more reliable and consistent in their performance. You can trust that they will function properly when you need them, reducing the risk of unexpected malfunctions or breakdowns.
Energy Efficiency:- More energy efficient appliances can lower your power bills and lessen the impact on the environment. In New Zealand, look at the Energy star rating of the appliance to get a better understanding of it’s energy efficiency. Advances are being made in this area every year.
Warranty and Support:- Quality appliances usually come with longer warranties and better customer support, providing you with peace of mind knowing that you're covered in case of any issues. This additional support can be invaluable in ensuring your appliances remain in top condition for years to come.
Aesthetics and Resale Value:- Quality appliances often have sleek designs and stylish finishes that can enhance the overall look of your kitchen. Additionally, investing in quality appliances can increase the resale value of your home, as potential buyers may be willing to pay more for a kitchen outfitted with reliable and high-performing appliances.
If you are unsure about how an appliance stacks up in regards to these points, a great tool is using www.consumer.org.nz to see ratings, and compare to similar makes and models.
Overall, while quality appliances may come with a higher upfront cost, the benefits they provide in terms of durability, performance, energy efficiency, and support make them a worthwhile investment for any kitchen.
Image source - thestables.com.au
PERSONAL TOUCHES
Add personalized elements like artwork, decorative accents, or pops of colour to infuse your kitchen with warmth and reflect your unique style, creating a space that feels inviting and welcoming.
A house isn’t a home until you have made it your own! Bring in a bit of your own vibe through colours and textures in the splashback, pendant lighting, cabinet handles and fixtures such as tapware.
Top it off with art work, or countertop displays of cooking equipment such as chopping boards, cook book displays or floral arrangements (fresh or dried) – the options are endless.
There are a lot of elements to consider when designing a kitchen - but the process should be fun, not stressful!
If you are ready to create your dream space, or just need some direction, please get in touch and let’s work together to design your perfect kitchen!
