Five Common Kitchen Design Mistakes

When designing a kitchen, aesthetic appeal and functional design are equally important. Since the kitchen is the center of the home, paying attention to basic kitchen design is crucial. Here are five common kitchen design mistakes to avoid when remodeling.

Ignoring the kitchen triangle

Creating a work triangle in the kitchen consists of designing the layout so that the sink, stove, and refrigerator are all within close proximity. A rule of thumb is the area should be no less than four feet and no larger than nine feet. In larger kitchens, prep sinks can be part of the work triangle, closer to the stove, with a second prep area by the main sink farther away. A good idea is to place the fridge between the eating space and the kitchen because you are moving items, such as condiments and beverages, to the table.

Forgetting function

It is easy for people to get too focused on finishes without making sure everything functions the way it should. If you have two cabinets that can’t both open at the same time, then you have made a mistake. The same goes for the fridge that opens away from the center of the kitchen or a dishwasher that prevents you from being able to stand at the sink.

Designing for others

Resist the urge to meet the expectations of others. For example, marble may look stunning in some applications, but quartz, which is no less beautiful, may be a better option for a busy kitchen. If cooking is not your thing, you probably don’t need a professional gas range; a four-burner stove or cooktop will suffice. Rather than focusing on other people’s designs, make sure you are able to communicate with your Sales Design Consultant a kitchen that fits your specific needs and lifestyle.

Not having enough lighting

For optimal function, kitchens should have three types of lighting: recessed overhead (for general illumination), spot (for lighting up specific tasks), and accent (for drawing attention to design elements). When kitchens miss the latter two, they typically look sterile and overly fluorescent. In addition to overhead lighting, illuminate prep areas with pendant or track lighting. Another layer of light can be achieved through undercabinet lighting. Ambient lighting for atmosphere can be added through rope lighting above the cabinets or under toe kicks.

Not using a professional

TV shows make it look easy to gut and restore a kitchen, but there are so many variables that go into a successful design plan. Plumbing pipes, HVAC runs, and overall space available can present many challenges to what you imagine your dream kitchen to be. A professional designer is attuned to the nuances of balance and flow and can help you reach your goals with a realistic plan within your budget.

If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, the experts at Callen can help. Whether your project includes simple replacement of countertops, sink, and backsplash or more comprehensive remodeling involving moving walls, installing new plumbing or relocating windows, Callen’s designers and craftsmen will walk you through the entire process to ensure a truly stunning kitchen makeover.

Call us today at 414-765-2585 or to schedule a no-obligation consultation with the best Milwaukee kitchen remodeling company.