Choosing the Right Kitchen Layout Design for Your Home
It is no surprise or secret that the kitchen is one of the busiest places of the home. You start and end your day with this before going to bed. But to make sure both ends of the long day culminate into a peaceful experience, you have to keep it organized and comfortable to work. As it is, you do multiple tiring and exhausting activities in this space. So you have to think through its design to make it successful. Attention to detail can play a critical role in this. For example, let’s focus on the layout, the most basic design part.
Various kitchen construction styles
Tiny or studio homes can benefit from a straight or one-wall kitchen format. It includes one counter and base cabinets running linearly along the single wall. In this design, the stove or hob has to sit strategically from the sink and fridge, keeping up with the triangle theme. The workstation cannot be more than 12 to 15 feet. Do you live in a large family with many people? Sometimes, even multiple cooks have to adjust in a small space due to the limited flooring. For them, an L-shaped design can be significant. It will allow you to keep the sink, fridge, and hob within accessible and acceptable range without creating any clash of movement. For more information on home renovations in Melbourne please visit Supa Group.
If you live with your partner and have a medium-sized kitchen, you can use a parallel layout theme for enhanced productivity. The two countertops give you room for plenty of storage. Or, you can opt for U-shape if you require even more storage scope. In this, you can add base cabinets on three sides and wall cabinets too. Since these designs usually feature independent work zones, it is common to find these kitchens with a big sink. The sink will be on one side and the fridge on the other, while the stove enjoys its dedicated corner.
Kitchen islands are also one of the other options. These usually work for families with kids and spacious kitchens. The island can serve as the multi-purpose counter, which you can access for food prep, breakfast, and cooking. Still, it is better to think about freedom of movement before getting it. Another design is the breakfast counters, which can remain attached to a wall extending as additional counter space. You can optimize it with seats. The hob occupies the center space in this theme, with the fridge and sink standing on either side. Some people get creative by adding bar cabinets and lighting in this area.
So, straight layouts are suitable for small families and small spaces. L-shape can cater to large families, regardless of the small or medium area. Parallel designs work for medium kitchens and small families. U-shape tends to be suitable for a spacious kitchen where many family members work together. Of all the options, peninsula or breakfast counters can go with any square footage – small, medium, and large.
Modular vs. carpenter-made kitchens
The layout is one thing. The other part includes the planning of the elements. You often hear about modular and carpenter-style kitchens. After deciding on the structure, it can be the next plan on your list. But how do you know what to choose between two different styles? Well, modular kitchens feature modules, or independent units joined together in a complex structure for better functionality. It will have separate cabinets, drawers, etc. Since urban kitchens suffer from space crunch, modular designs can be the right solution.
One of the main highlights of these designs tends to be the storage facilities, which allow your kitchen to look clutter-free and streamlined. You can get skirting drawers, peg drawers, dish organizers, tall shelving units, built-in racks, and much more. With this, you can adapt to any interior theme to match the overall mood. However, there are some downsides. First, it is expensive and needs proper maintenance. Then, you cannot get it done by just about anyone unless you hire trained professionals to achieve this.
On the other hand, carpenter-made kitchens don’t require special skills. You can call local carpenters for help. Since these designs have been in use for a long time, you again don’t have to worry about implementation. You can go after this project if you don’t have much budget to spare. It gives you more flexibility with design. But the main challenge with this is that you have to supervise the project from end to end. If you are not sure about your expectations, it can soon become a headache and disrupt the whole thing.
If you still opt for this design, make sure to select an expert carpenter. Otherwise, it can be challenging to get the desired impact. Also, you may end up spending more. Some people avoid this to give their kitchen a more efficient touch. They know factory-manufactured furniture items can be any day better in terms of finish, look, and standardization. At the same time, you cannot expect much variety with carpenter-made kitchen designs. These will be primarily basic and most essential designs only.
How to take a call between the two?
Modular kitchens come in handy in space-saving, storage, variety, etc. With locally made kitchen furniture, you can expect essential storage solutions. But you cannot expect many options in this. Also, it doesn’t focus on space-saving.
Designing or renovating a kitchen doesn’t have to be cumbersome if you set your expectations right from the beginning. It would be best to analyze the kitchen space, your family’s cooking habits, and others. Next will be the budget. Once you identify essential characteristics, you can allocate an adequate sum to take care of your demands.
In this process, taking the suggestion of your contractor or designer will also be crucial. Let them know your requirements without holding back. Communicate what you are ready to spend to fulfill your needs. If they offer options as per your choice but for a slightly more price, don’t hesitate to inquire about the increased rate. Only if you feel satisfied should you proceed with the idea. Else, look for alternatives.
