A good kitchen design should strike a good balance between several elements, all of which should be considered before setting your remodeling plans in stone. In today’s post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Northwest DC discusses the elements that make up good kitchen design.
Storage Space
Storage is one of the most important features of a kitchen. Given the number of things that need to be stored — food, utensils and appliances, to name a few — you have to carefully plan how you utilize the storage space in your kitchen. One of the advantages of having custom cabinets built for your kitchen is you can integrate space-saving storage features like pull-outs and tall cabinets into your design while keeping the look that you intended for your kitchen.
Countertops
You need a countertop that looks great and is durable. When planning your kitchen remodel, take the time to carefully choose your countertop material. For work surfaces, you need a countertop that won’t get easily nicked or scratched by knives and utensils, and isn’t marred by heat or acidic substances like fruit juices. You also have to consider the maintenance requirements; some materials wear out faster than others.
Appliances
Your kitchen appliance selections depend on the kitchen layout and how you use your kitchen. You might not need a large six-burner stovetop if you typically cook for only two or three. On the other hand, if you often host large family gatherings, you may need a large-capacity oven and dishwasher. When comparing kitchen appliances, consider their energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR® certifications make it easy for homeowners to choose energy-efficient models.
Lighting
Kitchen lighting needs a good balance between form and function. Ambient lighting should be balanced with task lighting to create an environment that’s not overwhelming. More importantly, it shouldn’t be overdone — not only will the kitchen look overly bright, it might consume more electricity than needed.
Fixtures
Never skimp on kitchen fixtures and hardware. They don’t just put the finishing touch on the kitchen sink and cabinets and give them a high-end look, you’ll be using them everyday. Also, consider the features that are not commonly found in every kitchen that may cater to your needs, such as child-proof cabinet hardware.
Flooring
The kitchen is the busiest part of the house, so it only makes sense to choose flooring that can withstand constant foot traffic. Fortunately, there are many types of flooring material that fit the bill, both natural and manufactured. In addition to durability and aesthetics, you should also consider flooring that’s not too smooth to minimize the likelihood of slips and falls.
Backsplash
The backsplash is an important kitchen design element that’s often overlooked. The right kind of material can transform a plain-looking kitchen into a gorgeous one. The same criteria for choosing material for your countertop can be applied to your backsplash: it needs to be durable, moisture- and acid-resistant, and able to withstand daily use.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Northwest DC offers a wide range of professional remodeling services, including bath, shower and kitchen renovation. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (202) 933-7196 or contact us online! We serve homeowners in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Arlington, McLean and Georgetown.