A kitchen can make or break a whole house and so it’s important to get it right. Many kitchens can be deemed ‘good enough’ but a great kitchen will stand out in terms of design aesthetics, superior functionality and smooth ease of use. If you are unsure how to create a wonderful kitchen, or how to identify the features that can truly elevate a kitchen space, read on.
In-built
Many factors which contribute to a great kitchen are worked into its very design and layout. To ensure your kitchen is exquisitely practical, you should consider these points right from the planning stage.
Magic triangle – an enduring tip for designing your kitchen space is to place your fridge, hob/oven and sink in a triangular configuration. This makes the main three aspects of your kitchen easily accessible from one another and promotes smooth workflow across your space.
Cabinet space – ample storage is vital throughout the home and the kitchen is no exception. Think of all the cookware, crockery, small appliances, cutlery, utensils and food you will be keeping in the kitchen and make sure you include plenty of cupboard space to accommodate it all.
Counter space – if you are a proficient chef or a budding baker, you will need a generous amount of counter space to prepare your cooking creations. Work surfaces either side of your hob and next to the sink are especially useful.
Seating – particularly if you don’t have a dining room, seating space will be a welcome addition. Whether you have a small breakfast bar or a full kitchen table, these are great for everyday functionality and for when you have guests over.
Lighting – good lighting can transform a kitchen from gloomy to inviting. Overhead lighting can be complemented by task lighting – spotlights or light strips under wall cabinets are a great way to illuminate your countertops.
Spacious walkways – cramped quarters and open cupboard doors which get in your way are preventable annoyances. Consider the layout of your counters and appliances and you will be able to create space to manoeuvre in any kitchen. For example, with a thin kitchen an L shape layout may be best, whereas for wide rooms you may be able to incorporate a useful island.
Accessories and extras
In addition to building in practicality, there are many ways to enhance your existing kitchen.
Drawer and cupboard organisers – maximise the cupboard and drawer space you currently have with internal organisers. These will help you use space efficiently and make sure everything – from cookware and small appliances to utensils – is well-organised and easily found.
Clever storage – particularly in small kitchens, using shelves and wall space is a clever way to increase storage. Pot and utensil hangers, magnetic knife strips, rails attached to the bottom of cupboards to hang cups and mugs, and wall-mounted spice racks and kitchen roll holders are just some ways to give items a place without requiring lots of cabinetry.
Easy access – simply by organising your kitchen intuitively, you can greatly increase its ease of use. Consider how you will use items in your kitchen and arrange them accordingly – for example, cleaning products near the sink, spices and oils near the hob and cookware near the hob/oven.
Flourishes – the best kitchens have character and a personal touch. By decorating the room to your tastes, kitting it out for your needs and creating somewhere you love to spend time, you will go a long way to making a fantastic kitchen.
