As the “head chef” for your family, you want your kitchen to be functional as well as attractive and trendy. When planning a kitchen remodel, it’s easy to get swept up in selecting colors, cabinetry, countertops, and flooring. While aesthetics is important, a truly practical and lasting kitchen design requires thinking beyond surface details. Before starting your remodel, here are some important points to consider:
1. Daily Functionality
Tell us about your kitchen’s daily life. Who are the primary cooks, and what’s their cooking style? Whether it’s one person handling all the meals or several family members taking turns, knowing how people move through and use the space will help create an efficient layout.
What kinds of meals do you typically prepare? From quick family dinners to elaborate weekend cooking sessions or baking projects, understanding your cooking habits will help determine the best appliances and work areas for your needs.
2. Space Planning and Layout
What is the “traffic flow” like in your kitchen? Consider how people move through the kitchen on a daily basis. Will there be room for kids to do homework or pets to access their food, if necessary? Decisions like where to place your appliances, how accessible the counterspace will be, can be influenced by your expected workflow in the kitchen.
Do you entertain often and do your guests/family gather in the kitchen? If your kitchen often doubles as a social hub, you may want additional seating or a larger island to accommodate guests without interrupting the prepping and cooking process.
3. Appliance Needs and Storage
What appliances do you need? Not everyone needs the same appliances. When thinking about your kitchen remodel, be sure to select appliances that match your personal needs and cooking style. For example, if you entertain often, a double oven or a larger refrigerator would be helpful. Consider small appliances too—where will the coffee maker or stand mixer go? Are these things you use often, and will you want them positioned for easy access?
What are your storage needs? Evaluate your existing storage and decide if it will accommodate your new kitchen plan. Think about how best to set up your storage areas. Do you have easy access to the essentials? You may want to consider adding additional cabinetry and features or expanding your pantry.
4. Multifunctional Space
What other activities happen in your kitchen beyond cooking? Whether your kitchen doubles as a homework spot, home office, or favorite gathering place for family and friends, plan for these activities with designated zones or flexible areas if space allows.
5. Long-Term Considerations
How may your needs change in the future? Let’s look down the road a bit. Your kitchen will be part of your life for 15-20 years—what changes might those years bring? Maybe you’re planning on a growing family, expecting visits from grandchildren, or thinking about aging parents joining your household. Plan to incorporate some smart features now, like pull-out shelves and easily accessible storage, to ensure your kitchen grows and adapts with you
By planning ahead and considering these various aspects of your remodel, you can create a kitchen that’s not only beautiful but also a practical, enjoyable space for years to come!
