No other part of a home defines functionality better than the kitchen. This is why planning a kitchen renovation often requires a different approach when compared to other parts of the house. Factors like the homeowner’s habits and established workflows have the same weight as materials and finishes. In today’s post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Larimer County takes a look at the elements that define a truly functional kitchen.
Storage
Whether you often keep up with the latest kitchen trends or take the “essentials-only” approach to kitchen equipment, you can always use extra storage space in your kitchen. It’s not just for utensils and equipment, of course. Available pantry space is always a good thing, especially if you find some good deals in the supermarket and come home with more groceries than you intended to buy.
This makes a kitchen remodel the perfect opportunity to create a storage system that fully utilizes the available space in the kitchen. Take the moment to assess how you currently use your kitchen, and try to pinpoint what works for you, and what doesn’t in terms of convenience, capacity and accessibility.
Layout
The layout is the starting point of what eventually becomes the floor plan. Most kitchens begin with a well-known layout like a galley kitchen or a U-shaped layout, then the designer or homeowner would swap things around and see which arrangement works best. This is where large pieces like appliances, cabinetry, perhaps a kitchen island are tested until the layout is deemed satisfactory.
Today’s homeowners are fortunate in that the tools used for planning are far more sophisticated than blueprints and paper models. For example, virtualization software makes it possible to create virtual layouts of projects, from small bathrooms to a complete home home remodel, and turn them into detailed floor plans without lifting a single brick.
Lighting
Effective indoor lighting consists of three main types. Ambient lighting softens dark areas and serves as the general lighting in the room. Accent lighting highlights certain areas and draws the eyes towards them. Task lighting is direct lighting used for specific tasks. Most areas in the house can be lit with just two lights, but in the kitchen, you need all three; imagine prepping or cooking, or even washing dishes, with only ambient light.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Ready to give your kitchen a remodel? DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Larimer County is a locally-owned and operated family business that offers a wide range of professional remodeling services. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (970) 695-1320 or contact us online!
