Kitchen Planning Basics

Belinda Albo – Interior Designer and Author

Read Belinda Albo’s Bio

Every good design starts with a plan

Kitchens are no longer just an array of cabinets and fixtures. It is the centre of your home and social activities. That's why taking the time to plan out what you want from your kitchen is the key to success.

Consider layout, movement flow as well as choice, colour and number of appliances. Remember, there are all types of appliance styles - choose from top freezer, bottom freezer or side by side refrigerators to freestanding or built-in cooking products. There is also a variety of colours available on the market: white, black, stainless steel, clean steel and custom paneled - so researching the kinds and styles of appliances you want is always a good place to start.

You may also want to draw out a quick layout of where you want to put your refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave and wine chiller and then plan everything else around them. That way you're more likely to run into less surprises along the way.

There’s no doubt about it – kitchen renovations are expensive and intensive projects so becoming actively involved in the planning process is crucial to meeting your goals. Review your personal kitchen needs and layout options before you go ahead and commit to just any plan. A well-prepared and organized plan helps communicate your ideas clearly while stimulating creativity.

Even if you plan on farming out the bulk of the work to professionals, it is important at the same time to prepare with a clear picture of what you want. Finally, an efficient plan will not only improve your productivity but also enhance your overall home lifestyle for many years to come.

Think About Budget

A successful kitchen plan has nothing to do with money. Today it’s possible to create your dream kitchen at an affordable price, especially today with the large selection of cabinet materials available in all price ranges. Using factory stock cabinets and accessories are even more cost effective.

Another way to reduce cost is to do some of the work yourself – demolition work can be a great way to relieve your frustrations and reduce modeling costs.

Try To Remain Calm

Making a detailed project schedule is essential to helping you cope with stress. This timeline or diary of events breaks the project down into stages, estimates, the date of completion and itemizes the sequence of events in terms of what, who and when.

Even so, a major renovation can be very stressful, so be prepared for the unknowns and incidentals. Renovation can take longer and cost more than you think.

Always get three quotes from recommended and qualified contractors. Ask around for recommendations, check all references and always work with reputable people, with whom you can openly communicate.

 

The Look You Love

Once you have a floor plan you are happy with, you can then decide to look at the style of kitchens that you like. Start a clipping file folder of pictures. Begin researching appliances. Visit showrooms, model homes and go to home shows for inspiration and ideas. Once you have completed your research, choose the cabinetry and accessories that reflect the look you want on the budget you can afford.