10 Common Kitchen Mistakes…

“Good design is actually a lot harder to notice than poor design, in part because good designs fit our needs so well that the design is invisible,”
 — Don Norman

1. Compromising Functions for Aesthetics:

We all want a beautiful kitchen but function has to come first and be the foundation for good design. Make sure you research, talk to professionals, learn the rules and allow proper spacing. THEN you can superimpose your style and personality onto a solid plan. This will absolutely be time well spent that you won't regret.

2. Sacrificing the Triangle:

This is a fundamental tried and true principle. As you're working in the kitchen, you will constantly be going back and forth between these main appliances. Embracing the triangle will allow your movement to be efficient, while also ensuring the zones are not encroaching on each other.

photo: sunset.com

3. Thinking You Have Plenty of Storage:

At some point we just run out of space, but if there is room and budget to add more storage, the answer is ALWAYS yes! How many times have you heard someone say they have too much storage? Exactly. It's just not a concern. This is one of those times more is more.

photo: laurabernininteriors.com

4. Not Considering How to Best Utilize Corners

For many kitchens this area becomes wasted, unutilized space. Think about what you have that needs storage and roughly where you’ll want it in the kitchen. THEN look at the many storage options that will help to make the most out of the space you have, especially in corners. There are  retrofitted options available for even existing cabinetry, but if you're starting fresh with a kitchen remodel, be sure to look at all the options available in the cabinet line you choose. Each line has similar but slightly different options available.

photo: howdens.com

5. Not Enough Counter Space Next to Large Appliances:

12" is the very minimum landing space (counter space) you need next to any appliance; any less becomes an unusable waste of space. Depending on where the landing space is adjacent to, you'll likely want more. A kitchen sink needs one side with at least 24" of counter. A prep sink will want closer to 36" counter space on one side at least. A stove top and fridge will also require 18”-24” prep space on both sides.

photo: spacetheory.com

6. Not Planning Where You’ll Keep Small Appliances:

This is often an overlooked consideration. Will you keep  the toaster and blender in a separate pantry? Pebble ice maker on the counter? Do you need a  cabinet with a lift for your stand mixer? List out what you have to make sure each item will have a home when you finish your kitchen.

photo: kitchenandbathdesign.com

7. Too Small an Overhang on The Island:

12" is the minimum amount of space needed for an overhang with stools, but I would recommend closer to 18". Just imagine the children that will love sitting up there to do homework or help make cookies. Now imagine their swinging legs constantly kicking your beautiful cabinets. Moving them to 18" will get you more longevity from your investment and probably ease your mind a bit also.

photo: theaccentpiece.com

8. Asking The Kitchen to Be And Do Too Many Things:

Of course you want to make the most out of the space you have, but generally speaking, when a room is asked to do too many things, it can't do any of those things very well. Depending on the size of your kitchen, you may be able to also include a desk... But asking it to include a desk, a large pantry, a drop zone, a coffee bar and a kid’s art station will likely feel chaotic and dysfunctional for any one of those purposes.

photo: eatwell101.com

9. Not Enough Lighting:

Much like storage, it's hard to ever have too much lighting in a kitchen. That doesn't mean it should all be overhead lighting. You want to include task lighting and accent lighting as well. And make sure the lights are on dimmer switches, ensuring you have complete control of each section. Not only will this add so much depth and visual interest, but also tons of functionality.  Another thing to keep in mind is that you want this kitchen to last a LONG time, and as our eyes age, we need more and more light to clearly see what we're doing. So whenever I’m on the fence, I lean toward adding more.

photo: chrislovesjulia.com

10. Appliances Opening into Each Other:

This is a frustrating reality to discover, especially after a remodel. Occasionally, I've found it's unavoidable in tighter kitchens. However, you generally want to avoid having two appliances open next to each other. Nothing is more frustrating than denting your beautiful fridge door because someone opened it into the wall oven. Save yourself the stress and give them some space.

And there you have it! With these in mind, you have a great head start on designing your kitchen and avoiding some of the disappointments and pitfalls. If it feels like too much and you’re wanting guidance, reach out to us about your project at info@wellcuratedinteriordesign.com.