Embarking on the journey of designing a kitchen is both exhilarating and daunting. My partner and I are currently knee-deep in this process, and we’ve realized there are countless decisions to be made. From choosing the perfect layout to selecting the ideal materials, every choice impacts the functionality and aesthetics of our future culinary haven. Here, I’ll share our journey and some crucial considerations for anyone diving into their own kitchen design adventure.
Layout: The Foundation of Your Kitchen Design
One of the first and most significant decisions is the layout. The layout dictates the flow and efficiency of your kitchen. We deliberated between an open concept and a more traditional closed layout. Open layouts are great for socializing and making the kitchen the heart of the home, but they also require careful consideration of noise and clutter. Because our space is not that big we ultimately chose an open layout to keep our space airy and welcoming.
Storage Solutions: Maximize Every Inch
Storage is a critical aspect of kitchen design. We spent hours discussing the best ways to maximize storage without compromising style. Here are a few ideas we found helpful:
- Pull-out pantries: These offer easy access to items and maximize vertical space.
- Corner cabinets with lazy Susans: Perfect for utilizing those tricky corner spaces.
- Deep drawers: Ideal for pots, pans, and even dishware.
- Cabinets all the way to the ceiling
Appliances: Invest in Efficiency and Style
Selecting appliances was another major decision. We wanted appliances that are not only efficient but also complement our kitchen’s style. Energy-efficient models can save on utility bills and reduce our carbon footprint. We opted for a sleek black finish to give our kitchen a modern touch while ensuring longevity and durability.
Countertops: Balancing Beauty and Functionality
Countertops are the workhorses of the kitchen. We explored various materials, weighing the pros and cons of each:
- Granite: Durable and heat-resistant but requires periodic sealing.
- Quartz: Low-maintenance and non-porous, perfect for a busy kitchen.
- Butcher block: Adds warmth and is great for food prep, though it requires regular maintenance.
After much debate, we think we will go for quartz for its combination of durability and ease of maintenance. There are also endless color combinations possible with quartz
Lighting: Setting the Mood
Good lighting is essential for both functionality and ambiance. We incorporated a mix of task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting to create a well-lit, inviting space. Under-cabinet lights illuminate work areas, pendant lights add style and character, and recessed ceiling lights ensure the entire room is well-lit.
Backsplash: A Splash of Personality
The backsplash is an opportunity to infuse personality into the kitchen. We chose a subway tile with a herringbone pattern to add texture and visual interest. It’s a classic choice that complements other areas in the house, such as the bathroom where we also chose these tiles.
Flooring: Durable and Easy to Clean
Finally, we had to decide on flooring. We needed something durable and easy to clean, especially with our busy lifestyle. We considered hardwood, tile, and vinyl. Ultimately, we selected luxury vinyl plank flooring for its durability, water resistance, and realistic wood appearance.
Personal Touches: Make It Yours
Adding personal touches to your kitchen design makes it uniquely yours. We’re planning to display some of our favorite cookbooks, add a few potted herbs for a touch of green, and hang artwork that inspires us.
Conclusion
Designing a kitchen is a complex yet rewarding process. Each decision we made brought us closer to our dream kitchen. By carefully considering the layout, storage, appliances, countertops, cabinetry, lighting, backsplash, and flooring, we’ve created a space that reflects our style and meets our needs. If you’re embarking on your kitchen design journey, take your time, explore your options, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Happy designing!
Flavoured Interiors 