Determining Function
Deciding on the right layout for your kitchen is a personal decision — each individual or family uses the kitchen differently. Think about your workflow in terms of everyday function and social use.
Think about how you use your kitchen, how many people cook there at the same time, if your kitchen is also an entertaining or social space, and what your long- and short-term goals are for the kitchen.
After you've decided on your wish list, take a good look at what can actually fit into your kitchen. "Some things, like islands, require a lot of space and just don't work in narrower spaces.
Refrigerators can only fit in certain areas, and the kitchen layout's relationship to windows and doors is also a big priority.
Do you want an open or closed-off kitchen? While open kitchens have become trendy, a closed-off one can maximize wall storage and hide clutter after meals.
Counter Space
Focus on your sink when deciding on your workflow. The linchpin of the kitchen is the sink. That's where you spend the most time, and where it is most likely that you will want either a good view to the outside or a good connection to the social spaces in the house — or both.
Aim to have at least 45 cm of counter space on either side before putting in other appliances — with the exception of an under counter dishwasher, of course, which works perfectly right next to the sink.
Consider providing as long a counter as possible, generally, 90 to 105 cm of workspace is workable. Don't forget to put counters around the refrigerator too, so there's room to set down items when raiding the fridge. Elbow room on either side of a range or cooktop is important too.
Of course, the function of the counter or island space depends on how the cook uses the kitchen. Some like putting a cooktop on an island, so the cooking is integrated into socializing, others like that space to be completely clear.
Some cooks are very labour intensive and need lots of space for baking and food preparation.
Some kitchens have too much counter space, which then becomes a layout space for paperwork.
Walkway and Flow
Note your entrances and exits when determining your layout. Exits and entrances can really wreak havoc on an efficient layout. We work hard to organize circulation to give a cook some dedicated workspace out of the general circulation flow.
Consider staying between two and three exits — more than that makes things complicated and cuts into counter space and storage. Two ways in and out of the kitchen keeps a nice flow, especially during parties. It is all about looking at the big picture.
Design your kitchen to include the furniture layout in the adjacent rooms.
Consider making the walkway for a double-sided workspace a minimum of 4 feet wide — just avoid placing appliances directly across from each other to keep the pathway clear.
For a single-sided workspace, stick to 1-metre minimum.
If you have a kitchen island, aim for straight access through the kitchen so no one has to navigate around it.
There are four standard kitchen layout designs. All designs take into account the classic work triangle. The work triangle is how you move between your sink (cleaning), refrigerator (food) and cooktop (cooking).
Efficient design but counter space is limited and foot traffic can be disruptive.
No foot traffic crosses work triangle and lots of counter space.
An island can be included if the U is big enough.
Lots of counter space can link to dining area with a common counter surface.
In larger kitchens, an island can break up space. For good traffic flow, islands should have at least 3 or 4 feet of aisle on each side. Never put an island in a kitchen where 2 points of the work triangle are on opposite walls as it will get in the way.
Always remember your work triangle.
We recommend that you choose your appliances during the preliminary design phase. This is because it will allow your plans to reflect the proper sizes of your appliances and in turn confirm your cabinetry layout.
At this point you can consider the variety of alternatives that are open to you:
As the kitchen combines water, electricity, plumbing confirming your appliances early in the process will allow you to have your plans reflect wiring, drainage, and water supply.
Here you will select the appliances you desire and that reflect the living requirements of you and your family and not dictated by set plans.
One of the most important areas of the house is the kitchen. You must plan the prearrangement of the kitchen appliances well in advance while designing the kitchen. This would enable you to save a lot of space and avoid unwanted clutter in the cooking area. Every kitchen is unique and distinct on its own accord and each kitchen requirement is different.
Therefore, it is primarily essential for you to analyze your priorities in the kitchen before creating a separate place for the appliances. The kitchen should be designed in such a way so that there is an easy accessibility to the sink, stove, and refrigerator. A triangular arrangement of these appliances would help you work in the kitchen with ease.
You could place the dishwasher next to the sink, as it would help you load the dishes and rinse them with ease. The counter under the sink can hold the trash bins. This would not only save space but also keep the area covered and allow easy cleaning of the dishes after meals. The wine coolers should be placed in the corner of the counters so that they can be picked up easily.
The wall-mounted ovens should be placed in such a strategic place where there are no hindrances to open or close the oven doors. There should also be sufficient space below the oven to place the hot dishes immediately after drawing them out.
Other smaller appliances, which you would use only occasionally, can be placed in the cupboards and can be retrieved when easily. This way the counter would be clutter free and spacious, which would enable you to work with ease.
The kitchen should be designed strategically so that the appliances are tucked away in easily accessible areas. The appliances when arranged in an equidistant manner would help you use the appliances and still leave the kitchen neat and clean
Granite
Pros: Granite's beautiful mottling and the host of colors and patterns found in nature make each piece one of a kind. It stands up well to splashes, knife nicks, heat and other wear and tear.
Cons: Like most stone, granite must be sealed every so often to avoid stains. And its heaviness means you'll need very sturdy cabinet boxes to support the weight.
Solid Surfacing
Made primarily from acrylic and polyester, solid surfacing first was sold under the brand name Corian, which is often (erroneously) used as a generic term for it. Today, it's made by a host of manufacturers and has enjoyed steady popularity over the years.
Pros: Because solid surfacing is nonporous, it's virtually maintenance free — no sealing or special cleaning required. Although it can be susceptible to scratches and burns, those are easy to sand out. Color and pattern options are extensive, and because you're not trying for the look of a natural material, you can experiment with vibrant hues such as turquoise or tomato red. Seamless installation means there are no cracks to trap dirt and debris.
Cons: Solid surfacing can have a patently artificial look and feel, yet can approach the price of natural stone. As mentioned above, it doesn't stand up to hot pans or sharp knives as well as other materials.
Quartz Surfacing
Crafted of resin and quartz chips tinted with color, quartz surfacing (also called engineered quartz or engineered stone) is a good compromise between the beauty of stone and the easy care of solid surfacing.
Pros: Quartz surfacing has the same advantages as solid surfacing with regard to maintenance. As an engineered product, it's available in a far greater range of colors and patterns than natural stone.
Cons: This material doesn't have the natural variegation of granite, so it may be evident that it's an engineered product. It's relatively pricey, although its durability can make it a worthwhile investment.
Marble
Is there anything that looks and feels more glamorous than a marble countertop? Peerless in terms of its luminescence and distinctive veining, it's an ultratraditional choice.
Pros: Nothing beats marble for sheer elegance. It stands up to heat well, and because it remains perennially cool, it's a traditional choice for pastry and baking stations (read: Dough won't get too soft).
Cons: Marble is very susceptible to stains even with sealing. For that reason, it's not often used throughout an entire kitchen — most homeowners limit it to one or two small areas. It can also scratch and chip.
Tile
Modular and inexpensive, ceramic and porcelain tile offers nearly limitless options for colours and designs. Tile works with almost any kitchen style, from country to majestic Old World.
Pros: It holds its own against heat and sharp blades, and resists stains. If one or two tiles chip or crack, they're fairly easy to replace.
Cons: Tile's uneven surface can make it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out a pie crust. Unsealed grout is prone to staining; standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacterial growth.
Laminate
Made of paper blended with resins and fused to particle board, laminate has been a kitchen mainstay for decades. In the past, it hasn't always had a reputation as stylish, but that's changing: The latest designs on the market mimic stone, butcher block and other pricier surfaces.
Pros: Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, so it's a good choice if your budget is tight. It's low maintenance and easy to clean. Its light weight doesn't require the support of a thick cabinet base.
Cons: Laminate is prone to scratching, burns and, in some cases, staining. With wear and moisture exposure, the layers can peel. Because of the raw particle board core, you can't use laminate with under-mount sinks, and it's also difficult to repair if it gets damaged.
Soapstone
Although it's in no danger of overtaking granite, soapstone has come into its own as a countertop material. It offers subtle, nuanced beauty yet feels humbler than granite or marble.
Pros: Soapstone has a natural softness and depth that fits very well with older and cottage-style homes. Although it usually starts out light to medium gray, it darkens with time. (Most people enjoy the acquired patina, but you may consider this a con.)
Cons: Soapstone needs polishing with oil to keep it in top shape. It can crack over time, and it can't handle knife scratches and nicks as well as some other types of stone. The natural roughness of its surface can scuff glassware and china.
Stainless Steel
Once found mostly in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has slipped into vogue within the past two decades. These countertops are custom made to fit your kitchen, so you're guaranteed a tailored look.
Pros: There's a reason stainless steel is used in restaurants and other high-traffic kitchens: It's nearly indestructible, and it resists heat and bacteria.It also provides a very distinctive look that feels appropriate in contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.
Cons: Fingerprints show and must be wiped off frequently, and stainless steel can also dent. It can be loud as pots, pans and dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. Stainless steel is extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication.
Concrete
Think concrete is just for floors? Think again. Slightly edgier than other materials, concrete countertops have an industrial chic that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space.
Pros: Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast in any shape and custom tinted any shade you wish. You easily can add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks, and shells. Concrete stands up well to heavy use, although it isn't as heat resistant as some other surfaces.
Cons: Because it's porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. With time and settling, small cracks can develop. Concrete is extremely heavy and will need strong support beneath. Like stainless steel, its custom creation ups the price tag.
Butcher Block
Butcher block has a classic appeal and always looks fresh. It's especially fitting for traditional, country and cottage-style kitchens.
Pros: Many homeowners like butcher block's warm, natural appearance and variegated wood tones. Although knives scratch it, many people like the shopworn look it develops — after all, it's what chopping blocks have been made of for years. But you can also sand scratches down with ease.
Cons: Wood swells and contracts with moisture exposure and butcher block is no exception. It harbors bacteria and needs frequent disinfecting. Oiling is a must to fill in scratches and protect the surface.
Paper Composite
Paper countertops? You read it right. Created from paper fibers mixed with resin, this surface is eco-friendly and a whole lot more durable than it sounds.
Pros: Paper composite evokes the look of solid surfacing or laminate but with a warmer sensibility. It's surprisingly hardy and can withstand heat and water admirably. It's also a great deal lighter than natural stone or concrete.
Cons: The material isn't scratchproof and is susceptible to chemical damage. It needs an occasional rubdown with mineral oil and even sanding, to refresh it. Although it sounds as though it would be a lower-budget option, it isn't (unless you install it yourself).
Determine Your Kitchen’s Functions
Take advantage of every inch by working as much detail as possible into your kitchen plan from the beginning.
Deciding a cabinet's function depends on its proximity to other appliances and its size — once you've decided where major plumbing fixtures and appliances will go and know exactly how much space you have, you can determine which cabinet should hold dishes and which should hold wine.
Silverware drawers make for easy clean up when they're near the sink and dishwasher.
Spices set in a drawer close to the cooktop can make cooking easier.
Keep everyday items near the sink or prep area, where you'll be using them the most. Items used less frequently can be placed farther from the main work triangle.
Use handy cabinet organizers and inserts to make the purpose of each drawer and cabinet clear. Trash pullouts, sponge trays, and silverware organizers can be very helpful.
At the same time, keep in mind that you can mix and match items in cabinets and drawers too — there's no strict rule on dividing things up.
Cabinet or Drawer?
Although cabinets often cost less than drawers, architects all agree that deep and wide drawers tend to be more useful. They allow you to use the entire depth of a space and are easier to use.
As a rule of thumb, we always find drawers more comfortable to use than lower shelving behind doors.
Deciding whether to use a cabinet or drawer in under-counter kitchen storage is often determined by the available width. If space allows, use a wide and deep drawer. But in smaller spaces, a cabinet can work better. Don't forget to use narrow banks of drawers too — they can be great for nice silverware and table linens.
Maximizing Storage and Space
While eliminating storage — particularly upper cabinets — tends to be the best way to visually open a kitchen, it's still possible to get the storage you need and the open feel you want. In general, maximizing storage can often make a kitchen feel more open because there will be less countertop clutter.
One suggestion is to devote one wall entirely to full-height storage, opening up space for a counter and getting rid of the need for upper cabinetry throughout.
Playing with drawer and counter heights can add more storage space too. Make use of the leftover space beside deep refrigerators by deepening upper cabinets and counters, and taking cabinets all the way to the ceiling.
Keep your countertop, island and cabinetry lined up and simple in design.
Linear alignments will make the room feel longer, as there are fewer visual interruptions to catch the eye.
6. Cabinet Door Styles
Shaker.
The Shaker-style cabinet door is the most common door style in kitchens today. This five-piece flat-panel style has a frame made from four pieces and a single flat centre panel for the fifth piece.
Shaker cabinetry gets its name from the distinctive Shaker furniture style, which uses simple, clean lines and emphasizes utility. Shaker-style doors became popular because their simple style lends itself to just about any decor — from contemporary to traditional — with variations in wood species, stains, paint colours and hardware.
This classic style can work with a variety of budgets, depending on the wood used.
Louvered.
Horizontal wood slats are typically used on windows, furniture pieces, and interior doors, but they add a distinct architectural style to kitchen cabinetry. However, be aware that these beauties come with a heavy price tag.
Many louvered doors have spaces between each slat, making them great for cabinets that require ventilation — like a cabinet near a radiator, dedicated clothes drying cabinet in a laundry room or cabinetry for cable boxes and DVD players.
Flat.
Simple but stylish, the flat-panel cabinet door is void of any expensive details. Its hard lines and minimalist form make it a great fit for contemporary and modern interiors.
Many flat doors come in decorative laminate or wood. Laminate tends to be more budget friendly and offers a greater variety of colours and sheens.
Inset.
Although this style tends to be one of the most expensive on the market, it's a classic look that'll last for generations. The inset door gets its name because it is set inside of the cabinet frame — typical cabinet doors rest on the outside of the frame. The door is designed and constructed with extremely precise measurements so that it nests inside the frame and opens and closes properly, even when the wood expands and contracts.
This door style usually requires exposed hinges rather than the typically concealed hinges of other door styles that are included in the cost of the cabinet box. Make sure that your budget takes this into account — two hinges per door will quickly add up.
Distressed.
If you've always dreamed of having an antique-style kitchen, then you'll love the distressed-looking cabinets available from most manufacturers. Choose any door style and opt to have the corners rubbed off or have other distressing techniques done for that age-old feeling.
Beadboard.
Love cottage style? It doesn't get more cottage chic than beadboard. The center panel of the cabinet doors in this style are made to look like traditional beadboard paneling. Beadboard was used in the past as a decorative wall treatment before plaster, drywall and paint became common.
While all-white beadboard cabinetry can give your kitchen a bright and clean feel, all the little cracks and crevasses on this door style can be a pain to keep clean.
Thermofoil.
These doors are molded out of MDF (medium-density fibreboard), wrapped in a plastic-type coating and then baked under intense heat to create an impervious seal. Durable and cost-effective, they come only in solid colours and imitation wood grain.
Often mass-produced, thermofoil cabinetry comes at very competitive price points. It's durable, but it's also extremely difficult to repair any damage to it. Some lighter colours can also yellow from sunlight and heat over time.
Ceramic Tile
The quintessential kitchen flooring surface, ceramic tile is a fail-safe bet for just about any style and budget. Your options for colour, size, shape, and pattern are virtually limitless, so you can create the look that suits you best, whether that's sleek and contemporary or lavish Old World.
Pros: Ceramic tile stands up to wear and tear, from muddy footprints to spills and splashes, like a champ and is super easy to clean. The huge variety of low-priced options makes it one of the most affordable flooring choices. And thanks to tile's modular, DIY-friendly nature, you can easily come up with a custom pattern even on a tight budget.
Cons: Tile can crack as floors settle, and a dish or glass dropped on it is virtually guaranteed to shatter. It also can be cold and hard underfoot, so use a rug or a cushioned mat to offset the discomfort. Moisture makes tile slippery; a honed or textured surface can provide slightly more traction. Grout needs periodic sealing and special cleaning to keep stains at bay.
Natural Stone
Whether they're made from limestone, slate, granite or travertine, natural stone floors have one major asset: their variation. No two pieces of stone have exactly the same colour, pattern or texture, and the differences create a visual depth that's hard to replicate. Stone also creates an elegant, gracious look that instantly makes a kitchen feel more upscale.
Pros: Stone floors have been around for centuries, so it doesn't get more classic than this. Like tile and concrete, they're cool underfoot, a boon in hot climates. They're durable and require little day-to-day maintenance. And did we mention the natural beauty?
Cons: Stone is expensive and not for the DIY-minded. The tiny crannies in its surface can trap dirt. Scratches and chips can be an issue with softer stone, such as travertine; slate's layers have been known to peel over time. Porous stone will need protective sealing at regular intervals.
Solid Wood
Nature is a terrific artisan — it's tough to match the warmth and charm of solid wood. Even in a space with a lot of moisture and heavy foot traffic, wood can last indefinitely if it's properly treated and cared for. It's a perennial classic, and it develops a rich patina with time and use.
Pros: Whether you want thin strips of pale maple or wide planks of pine, there's a wood that will look just right in your kitchen. Wood never goes out of style, so you won't have to worry about updating it as your home evolves. It can be sanded and refinished to keep it looking its best.
Cons: You'll have to stay on top of spills; liquids can cause damage if they're not wiped up right away. Wood dents and scratches easily, so it will need periodic refinishing. Although it's not as unyielding as concrete or tile, it also isn't as comfortable as cork or vinyl.
Vinyl
It used to be that vinyl's main advantage was price — it wasn't exactly considered chic. But that's changed: Nowadays this material comes in a sophisticated range of designs and finishes. It's available in sheets or tiles that mimic stone, wood, ceramic tile and more, embossed with textures that look and feel surprisingly realistic.
Pros: One of the most inexpensive flooring options on the market, vinyl can approximate the look of pricier materials at a fraction of the cost. It's a snap to clean, easy to patch if a spot gets damaged, and comfortable underfoot. Plus, you can usually install it on your own, which eliminates the expense of hiring a pro.
Cons: Vinyl can dent, bubble or curl over time. Sharp objects may tear it, and grit and dirt can scratch and dull its finish. It also can fade in strong sunlight. Compared with other flooring materials, its lifespan is shorter (it will begin to show wear after five years or so).
Linoleum
People tend to confuse linoleum with vinyl, but it's a completely different substance. A staple through the first half of the 20th century, linoleum — an all-natural material made from linseed oil, resins, wood flour and more — fell out of favour as synthetic flooring came into vogue. But in recent years, its green cred and retro-cool look have caught the attention of eco-conscious consumers and style savants. It's perfect for old-fashioned cottages and midcentury interiors.
Pros: Much of linoleum's appeal lies in its versatility. Because it comes in just about every color you can imagine, you can go as subtle or as bold as you want. It can be easily cut into one-of-a-kind patterns, such as the circular motif pictured here. Plus, it's affordable, durable and easy to maintain.
Cons: Linoleum can wear and fade with time and use. Many manufacturers add a protective coating before the material is sold; without this coating, the floors may need periodic waxing and polishing. Linoleum is also tricky to work with, so even hardcore DIY-ers will likely need help from a pro.
Cork
Sustainably harvested and all natural, cork has grown in popularity in recent years. While its distinctive look isn't for everyone, people who love it appreciate its strong patterns and texture, its warm look and its ecofriendliness.
Pros: Resilient and flexible, cork provides a great deal of comfort underfoot, and it can absorb the shock from a dropped plate or cup (translation: less chance of breakage). It holds warmth and absorbs sound, lending a cozy feel. And it's rich in suberin, a natural substance that guards against mold, mildew, rot and pests.
Cons: Cork holds up well, but not without a little TLC. Because dirt and grit can scar it, you'll need to stay on top of sweeping and vacuuming, and you will also need to reseal it regularly with polyurethane or wax. Small dings, such as from a dropped knife, will "heal" on their own, but major scars are harder to fix. Cork also can fade over time.
Concrete
Concrete flooring has come a long way from the days when it was relegated to basements or hidden under carpeting. Its star has risen in the design world because of its edginess and industrial-chic look. No longer does a concrete floor mean a dull swath of gray; today, it can be stained, stamped, scored or acid etched for visual panache.
Pros: Concrete stays cool even in the hottest weather, so it's ideal for warm climates. It's virtually indestructible, no matter what you spill on it or drag across it. And if you get tired of the look, you'll have a ready-made subfloor for carpeting, tile or another surface.
Cons: Concrete is difficult to work with, so you'll almost certainly need professional installation. As with tile and stone, concrete can be unforgiving on feet. It's porous, so sealing is a must to ward off stains — especially in a high-traffic area such as a kitchen. And some folks find it just plain cold.
Laminate
Laminate flooring, which is composed of several layers of engineered material sandwiched together, is designed to imitate the look of wood or tile. It resists scratches and scuffs, thanks to an internal "wear layer," so it's great for homeowners whose kitchens must contend with small kids, pets or extremely heavy use.
Pros: Laminate requires very little maintenance — just sweep and damp-mop. It's easy to find in "floating," or glueless, versions that make DIY installation a breeze. Costs generally are moderate.
Cons: Although it may look like wood or tile from a distance, it won't substitute for the depth and texture of those substances. Unlike wood, laminate can't be refinished — if it starts showing its age, it will need to be replaced completely.
Bamboo
Although bamboo looks like wood, it's actually a grass. So you might be surprised at how durable bamboo flooring can be. Its density allows it to stand up to busy spaces and active lifestyles. It has become popular in recent years not only for its sturdiness but also for its affordability relative to hardwood and for its subtle, variegated appearance.
Pros: Bamboo grows so quickly that it's considered a sustainable choice for green building. It's low maintenance, requiring no special care, and springier underfoot than wood. And it lends a touch of worldly style without the expense of a tropical or other exotic hardwood.
Cons: The range of colour choices is narrower than with traditional woods. It isn't as moisture resistant as many other materials — in high-humidity climates or spaces, it can warp. Much of the bamboo on the market is imported from countries that may have less stringent quality regulations than in the United States, so it's important to research sources.
What type of lighting works best in the kitchen?
Since the kitchen is both a social atmosphere and a workspace, you want a mixture of ambient and task lighting. Ambient lights will set the mood with a soft, overhead glow, while task lights will focus stronger light over an island or countertop.
The key is balancing the two sources so the kitchen is as warm and inviting as it is functional.
What types of ambient lighting should you consider?
There are several different types to fit your style, all of which are generally ceiling-mounted.
Try recessed for a clean, flush look, or track so you can adjust each fixture accordingly.
To make a decorative statement, opt for pendants or chandeliers instead; they still spread the light but also help personalize the space.
What types of task lighting are there to choose from?
Like ambient light fixtures, many styles are available for task lighting.
Under-cabinet lights ensure that your countertop space is well lit; puck lights or fluorescent strips will both do the trick.
Pendants can also be used for tasks, as long as they are well placed in the space. In a larger kitchen, an island light covers the middle of the room and ensures safe food prep.
What other lighting considerations should I keep in mind?
Try to choose fixtures that are easy to clean, durable and can hold high-wattage bulbs for maximum light.
Kitchens are high traffic areas with fluctuating heat levels and ingredients that can affect the quality if your fixtures over time.
Your fixture must be able to withstand the elements while providing your kitchen with adequate light.
Consider your answers to the following questions to best balance cleaning and maintaining your kitchen:
How is rubbish to be collected?
Where will you store your waste?
How are you going to dispose of your waste?
Do you recycle, thus how will you separate?
Make the kitchen as maintenance free as possible
With the benchtop consider cleaning requirements
Ensure sink and appliances are easy to wipe down
Hopefully, we have answered all your questions regarding a kitchen renovation. Now you have the knowledge you need to start planning your kitchen renovation.
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