Originally a room for just preparing meals and cooking, the kitchen has come a long way from its initial purpose. Now, kitchens are designed with so much more in mind. Depending on the size of the kitchen and the available space, homeowners may wish to combine their cooking area with their dining and living zones, or they may wish to separate each room entirely.
If you are interested in a kitchen remodel, the layout of your kitchen is an important consideration that should not be overlooked. Before finalizing your kitchen design, it is important to research the most common kitchen layouts, and ensure you choose the right one for your space.
There are certain staples homeowners like to hit when it comes to kitchen remodeling, such as a gallery kitchen, island kitchen, or a variety of shapes (G, L, and U), but in the end, the kitchen layout you choose is up to you and your personal style and preferences. In this post, we’ll look at five tips to help you determine which layout is best for your kitchen remodel.
1. Consider the Kitchen Triangle
If you have been doing your research for your kitchen remodeling project, you probably have come across the term ‘kitchen triangle’ more than once. The kitchen triangle is essential in the functionality and efficiency of your space. The term basically means that the kitchen’s three main workspaces – the sink, stove, and the refrigerator are all connected. Kitchen design experts recommend that there is no more than nine feet of space between these essential appliances, making preparing meals and cooking easier.
2. Remember the Kitchen Counters
The amount of available counter space is essential when it comes to the at-home chef. Having an insufficient amount of counter space to prepare meals is a real hassle. When remodeling your kitchen, it is not only important to ensure that you add enough counter space, but also that the style complements the aesthetic of the design. Before choosing a countertop material, think about the ways in which you use your kitchen. For instance, marble countertops can make your kitchen feel luxurious, tidy, and bright, however, they are more prone to stains and scratches. Choosing granite or solid surface kitchen counters, on the other hand, offer a similar luxury to marble, but with much more durability.
3. Don’t Forget About Storage
When you are determining the right kitchen design and layout for your home, you will want to think about storage options. With kitchen remodeling projects, some examples of popular storage options include:
- Closed Cabinets. Kitchen cabinets are typically always included in kitchen remodeling projects. Closed kitchen cabinets are a great storage option for homeowners that prefer not to show the innards of their cupboards. This style of kitchen cabinets creates a clean design for any kitchen remodeling project.
- Open Shelf Cabinets. Open kitchen cabinetry is stylish and has become a large trend in kitchen remodeling. Unlike closed cabinets, this minimalist style shows what is stored inside, allowing for easy access to stored kitchen necessities.
- Built-In Pantries. Food storage is important, especially for large families and people who like to stock up on various items. Kitchen designers recommend having a pantry installed near the area where food is prepared. From reach-in, pull-out, and walk-in pantries, there are plenty of choices to make your kitchen design more convenient.
4. Choosing a Shape That Works
There are a range of layouts you can choose from to suit the shape of your kitchen, many of which are referred to as letter shapes. For instance, U-shaped kitchens are great for those who spend a lot of their time cooking. This layout is both user-friendly and efficient, plus it can make the most out of smaller spaces. G-shaped kitchens are quite similar to U-shaped, but with an additional leg of counter space.
L-shaped kitchens are another popular shape, offering an open floor plan. If space allows, tables and chairs can also be added to the area. Gallery kitchens are traditionally a long, narrow space, with both counters and appliances set up in strips. There is a narrow working space in between the two walls. This layout makes great use of smaller spaces, blending functionality with ease.
5. Think about Kitchen Islands
Adding an island is the perfect solution for homeowners who want extra counter space in their kitchen. Kitchen islands offer it all – extra storage, extra counter space, and additional seating. Some islands can even include sinks or stovetops for more functionality. These are great options for your kitchen remodel, however, they do not work for every kitchen. If an island is something you want to be added to your kitchen during a remodel, you should coordinate the design to match the rest of your countertops, or you can choose to opt for a more mix-and-match approach.
A kitchen remodeling project is no easy feat. They require a lot of thought and consideration. However, by following the tips above and working with a professional kitchen designer, you can optimize your kitchen in a way that is stylish, functional, and efficient.
If you need help with your kitchen remodel in Barbados, the specialists at Fiber Pol are available to help! Our company specializes in kitchen countertops and cabinets, and we can help you design the kitchen of your dreams. Check out some of our pre-designed kitchen options or contact us about building a custom kitchen!