Designing a Kitchen

featured: kitchen design by New Zealand Designer, Mal Corboy

©architectureanddesign.com.au

Whether renovating an old kitchen or designing a kitchen for a new build, the process can be daunting. There are so many things you need to consider and it can feel overwhelming. Having input into the drafting of the kitchen layout plans as well as choosing appliances, handles and finishes, are all important tasks, but where do you start?

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tips:

1. When redesigning a kitchen, put function first, says interior designer Jacqui Hargrove. "There's no ideal kitchen shape," she says. "Whether it's a galley or U- or L-shaped, plan for the sink, fridge and cooktop to form a triangle, with no more than 6 feet between each for ease of movement."
   
   
   • Get the layout right first
     Regardless of the materials and colours that you choose for your new kitchen, the layout remains the most important aspect and I always recommend that it be the starting point in the design process.
     
     At this stage, your designer will already have a feel for the look that you would like to achieve, and will keep this in mind when working out the best layout for your space.
     
     Depending on the shape and size of your room, there may be one layout that works best or there may be a couple of layouts that can be considered. Either way, take the time to discuss all options with your designer.
     
     You don’t need to make any final decisions or lock anything in at this stage. Deciding to spend your hard-earned cash on a new kitchen is a big deal and it’s a process that should not be rushed.
   
   
   • Evaluate your options
     Go home and consider all the layout options available to you and consider the different ideas discussed with your designer. Now is the time to think about how you will work in the space and how you will move around the kitchen.
     
     This is also a good time to assess the contents of your kitchen cabinets and ensure that your new kitchen layout has adequate storage to accommodate everything you need, particularly if you’d like storage for bigger, more awkward items such as blenders, food processors and other small appliances.
   
   
   • Visualise your new kitchen layout
     Sit in the space and try to see how the layout will work and flow through surrounding areas, particularly in an open-plan home. Will you be able to move easily from the dining and living areas into the kitchen without too many obstacles? Will you be able to grab a cool drink from the fridge without walking through the work zones of the kitchen and getting under the cook’s feet?
     
     If you have any questions, concerns or other ideas, don’t be afraid to discuss them with your designer, no matter how trivial you think it may be. It’s important that you get the kitchen that works best for you and your family.
     
     Sometimes your designer may presume you know certain things (although a designer should never presume anything!). Don’t be afraid to tell your designer you are not familiar with how the whole process works and that you would like them to carefully discuss every aspect with you.


2. Make room for storage.
   The biggest mistake people make at the planning stage is not allowing for enough storage," Jacqui says. "Use every nook and cranny. Put overhead cabinets right up to the ceiling, rather than leaving a gap on top that collects dust." Consider deep drawers for easier access to pots and pans, and include enough storage for appliances that otherwise would clutter up countertops.


3. See the light.
   Unlike in other rooms of the house, overhead lighting is insufficient in kitchens, says electrician Richard Terode. "In the kitchen, you don't want the light behind you, casting a shadow on the workspace. You need it positioned to fall in front of you." He likes under-cabinet lights because they shine directly on countertops.


4. Power play.
   Be sure there are appropriate power sources for relocated or new appliances. Many people realize too late that they don't have the right gas or electric lines. suggestion: measuring appliances to ensure that they fit comfortably into allocated spaces. "If a dishwasher is crammed in, it could push up against the hose and won't drain properly," Stuart says.


5. Space and surface.
   There's no such thing as too much counter space. Choose a surface that's easy to work on and care for. But keep in mind that grout between tiles is hard to maintain and that stainless steel will scratch very easily.


6. Start fresh.
   Don't reuse appliances or items from the old kitchen. It may seem as if you're saving money, but an old appliance will stick out like a sore thumb in a new environment, says Jacqui. Find other ways to economize. "You don't have to spend $100 on a drawer handle when cheaper ones still look fantastic," she says. "The same goes for countertops."


7. Clear the air.
   A range hood helps ventilate cooking odors, says appliance consultant James Moore. "Buy one that's efficient, quiet and vented outside," he advises.


8. Trash talk.
   Don't forget to plan for garbage and recycling bins. Do you want built-in bins cleverly disguised behind a cabinet door, or a sleek, stainless-steel garbage container that's positioned out of the way?


9. Safety first.
   Make your kitchen as safe and family-friendly as possible by planning for good visibility to backyard and indoor play areas from the cooking area, suggests Dorothy Bell, a home safety expert. Also consider such safety-conscious elements as rounded countertops, slip-resistant flooring and ovens located at adult height to minimize the chances of accidental burns.


10. Look out below
    When it comes to flooring, consider slip-resistance, ease of maintenance and porosity, suggests consultant Craig Verdon. Stone floors, which are somewhat porous, for instance, may need periodic resealing. If so, ask how often, and think about whether you want to deal with that process. "Hardwood floors are beautiful, but be aware that they wear out faster by the fridge, stove and sink than other areas," he notes. "Hard, natural stone works wonderfully, and the earthy look and feel of it is very popular."