Functional Kitchen Space
Are you a victim of the below-mentioned mistakes when it comes to your kitchen? If yes, change things around and turn your kitchen into the ultimate functional space.
These kitchen design mistakes are common and often overlooked. From ignoring the work triangle to misjudging the kitchen size, the list is long and eye-opening.
Ignoring Work Triangle
The kitchen is by far the busiest area in a house. And you should avoid making the mistake of not setting up a work triangle.
A work triangle is made up of a sink, stove, and fridge in a triangular shape. This layout allows for easy movement when you’re cooking while reducing unnecessary steps and making the whole process of cooking easier.
Inadequate Storage
Your kitchen’s livelihood is based on storage. If you don’t have a proper storage system with enough pantry space, drawers, and clear boxes, your kitchen system will eventually collapse.
If you want to avoid cooking in a clutter-filled kitchen make sure to invest in adequate storage resources. When designing your kitchen, note down all your utensils, appliances, and pantry goods and plan storage areas accordingly.
Wrong Counter Height
For an optimal and functional kitchen space, you need to install counters with the right height. If you don’t discomfort and constant strain pain will be your best buddy during cooking a meal.
Standard kitchen countertops come with a height of 36 inches which works perfectly for almost everyone. However, it’s important to consider your height and cooking style.
Cluttered Countertops
Everyone is all about embracing maximalism, whether it’s in the living rooms, bathrooms, or kitchens. If you’re someone who’s a follower of this theme, beware, for countertops that are decorated with a variety of things are bound to get cluttered over time.
And nothing is worse than a messy countertop while you’re cooking. Your goal should be to set up a functional space, with only essential items in reach.
Poor Lighting
Lighting can make or break your kitchen aesthetics. And nobody wants to set up a bland kitchen with no character whatsoever.
Therefore, don’t forget the lighting aspects of your kitchen and invest in layering your lighting fixtures for a warm and inviting atmosphere. The layering technique will make use of ambient, task, and overhead lighting fixtures.
Lack of Ventilation
Nobody likes to cook in a stuffy kitchen. Invest in adequate ventilation systems throughout your kitchen space for a fresh and healthy kitchen environment.
A hood that matches your kitchen aesthetic should be installed along with windows and vents that make sure there is a sufficient flow of air in and out of the room. Besides keeping the kitchen fresh, a good ventilation system fights against mold and bacteria.
Overlooking Electrical Needs
You’ll probably be using tons of appliances and machines to cook and bake throughout the year. Hence, it makes sense to install the necessary outlets.
However, several people overlook this aspect of kitchen design which leads to frustration and inconvenience. When planning or renovating your kitchen, take note of all the appliances and machines you’ll be using, their placement, etc for an effective electrical system.
Following Trends
If you blindly follow color trends for your kitchen design, you’re in for a stark surprise. Trendy colors go out of style as quickly as they come in.
After some time, your kitchen will end up looking outdated and nobody wants that. Always go for timeless colors such as white, gray, and soft earthy tones for a sophisticated and durable look.
Choosing Hard-to-Clean Materials
Kitchens are difficult to keep clean and tidy all the time. And you don’t want to make this job more difficult by investing in hard-to-clean materials.
Your busy kitchen is going to be a victim of endless stains, greases, and splashes. Go for granite, stainless, or quartz as they are easy to maintain and durable. Finishes that aren’t sensitive to smudges and fingerprints should be chosen.
Misjudging Kitchen Size
We often overestimate how much kitchens can do for us. No doubt they’ve got great capacity but you don’t want to misjudge the kitchen size and end up overcrowding it.
Aim for clear pathways so that you and your family members can navigate the kitchen space comfortably. Similarly, incorporating open-shelving and light-hued cabinets creates an illusion of a larger space.
Poor Furniture Choices
If your dining area is situated right in the kitchen, it’s worthwhile to spend some money on high-quality seating options. You want to avoid investing in tacky uncomfortable chairs that ruin the aesthetics of your kitchen and don’t even serve a proper functional purpose.
When selecting seating, don’t forget the height and style of your dining table for optimal convenience. Make sure to choose seating options that go well with the overall design of your kitchen.
Overlooking Safety Features
This one’s for all those who have toddlers. Neglecting the safety needs of your children is a dangerous move.
Make smart decisions when it comes to countertops, utensils, and overall accessibility. Minimize the risks of injuries by going for rounded edges on the table and installing safety locks for cabinets and drawers.
Skipping Customization
The kitchen is a place where you make food for your loved ones, and where you and your family get together every night to eat hearty meals. Don’t make the mistake of skipping customization when it comes to kitchen design.
Installing customized cabinetry that reflects your tastes, dedicated baking stations for your love for cookies, and an open layout that enables social interactions are some of the many additions you can make to a kitchen design.
Failing to Prioritize Seasonal Tweaks
A kitchen that’s out of touch from the changing seasons is going to be a boring place. Your kitchen aesthetics need to embrace seasonal tweaks throughout the year.
By adding pumpkin accents in the fall to floral table runners in the summer, you’re able to set up a place that resonates with each time of the year.
The same principle applies to everywhere in your home, and if you’re interested in finding out how you can give your place seasonal tweaks, read this piece on “Seasonal Decor Tips for Spring to Winter”.
Skipping a Backsplash
If there’s one tip you need to follow, it’s this: Don’t skip installing a backsplash. A backsplash serves a dual purpose, it will protect your wall from unwanted stains, splashes, and grease while also adding an aesthetic touch to the kitchen.
It’s important to choose the right material whether it’s glass, tile, or stainless steel. Once the material is decided, create a focal point by opting for bold colors and intricate patterns.
Are you ready to give your kitchen a makeover after finding out about these mistakes? If the answer is yes, check out these “Best Prime Day Kitchen Makeover Picks Under $50” for affordable decor options.