Even a minor kitchen remodel can cost around $22,500. With this figure in mind, you’ll want to make sure you get your kitchen design right so you don’t have to splash out this kind of cash too often.
This is when it’s vital to know about the most common errors in kitchen designs. Should you accidentally make one of these mistakes, it could cost you a small fortune and leave you with a kitchen that you don’t enjoy spending time in.
Although every kitchen is different, there are 8 typical missteps you should avoid, and we’re going to take an in-depth look at what they are.
Make yourself a coffee while we learn more about designing a kitchen.
1. Not Assessing the Layout Correctly
Before you pick from your favorite kitchen layout ideas, it’s best to make sure your room has the size and shape to accommodate each one. For example, you might love the thought of having an open-plan layout with a massive kitchen island in the middle, but if your room is narrow or L-shaped, this might not be practical.
To ensure your plans for your kitchen are realistic, you can take accurate measurements and compare them to the size of the cupboards, fixtures, and any other additions that you may be thinking of putting in your room.
You’ll then be able to decide which layout options are feasible, and which ones you’ll have to discard.
2. Picking the Wrong Color Combinations
You could see a fabulous worktop with bright colors that would look amazing in your kitchen, but it might clash if you also have a shiny fridge that is a different shade.
Taking the time to consider the color of each item in your kitchen can help you determine if everything will blend together. If not, you’ll probably want to rethink your color scheme.
3. Not Installing Enough Lights
Kitchens should be well-lit to help prevent accidents, and having plenty of natural light coming into the room can be great during the day. However, if the weather is overcast, or it’s nighttime, you’ll want to have lights that can illuminate your space.
When choosing lighting for kitchens, you can install unobtrusive spotlights in the ceiling and under cabinet lights that will brighten your work surfaces. You might also want to use dimmer switches so you can change the ambiance in the room.
4. Incorrect Fixtures and Appliances Placement
Making your life in the kitchen easier should be a key part of your plan. This means you need to consider aspects such as where your sink should go, and if your oven and stove are near each other so you can easily multi-task when cooking. It can also be useful to install your dishwasher close to your cupboards so unpacking it is a breeze.
These small details matter, and you’ll appreciate the added convenience when you start using your new kitchen.
5. Not Thinking About the Social Aspect
The kitchen isn’t just for cooking, many people turn it into a superb socializing space where they can spend time talking to friends and family while preparing a meal.
You could invest in bar stools to sit around a kitchen island, have a sound system to play chilled-out music, and set the dining table nearby where people can settle back while still allowing you to be part of the conversation.
This means you’ll have interesting company while you cook, helping you to unwind after a long day.
6. Underestimating Storage Space
The last thing you want is to run out of room for all your kitchen essentials such as pots, pans, cutlery, and condiments. Don’t underestimate how much storage room you’ll need, and if possible, add a little extra in case you need to buy more items at a later date.
However, be careful not to pick kitchen cabinet designs that are so deep that it’s hard to reach everything that’s inside. Instead, opt for space-saving stylish storage options such as wooden spice racks that will look superb while keeping all your spices easily within reach.
7. Choosing the Wrong Type of Materials
Kitchens can be subject to a lot of wear and tear, and you should choose materials that can stand up to a considerable amount of punishment. Granite worktops are solid and won’t shatter easily, and stainless steel is robust while also being easy to clean.
When looking at options for kitchen flooring, tiles or laminate wood are durable and unlikely to develop cracks for many years.
8. Going Over Your Budget
If you don’t set a budget, you could end up paying significantly more than you’d planned. Instead, write down how much you can afford to pay overall, and then determine how much each individual part of the kitchen will cost.
This will give you more control when picking a kitchen island size, the types of lights you’ll install, and the kinds of appliances you’ll buy.
Avoid These Costly Errors in Kitchen Designs
When you avoid these common errors in kitchen designs, you can create a stunning room where you can cook, socialize and relax. Always measure your kitchen correctly and think carefully about how much light will reach every corner of the room. It’s also important to have plenty of storage space, and to ensure you set a budget so that you know what you can afford to spend before you begin.
You can then look forward to enjoying your beautiful kitchen.
While designing your kitchen, be sure to read more helpful posts in our Lifestyle section.
