You want to design a kitchen, tailoring every nook and cranny to suit your needs. Accomplishing this is no small feat, and there are plenty of potential mistakes[1]  to be made.

 

But it can be done. Here’s how:

 

Start with a List

Create a checklist of your wants and needs. Take a look around your existing kitchen and jot a list of items you currently like having in your kitchen, and things that can be improved. You’re in the beginning stages, so nothing’s off limits!

When you’re creating this list, keep several things top of mind, including:

●     How much storage space do you need?

●     How much counter space do you need?

●     What your kitchen workplace will look like?

 

Choose the Right Cabinets and Countertops

●     What’s your style?

●     Are you more drawn traditional or modern kitchens?

●     What do you like most about a kitchen?

●     Are there materials that you must-have or would like to have?

●     How important is sustainability and energy efficiency to you?

Consult your checklist to get an idea of materials to use for your cabinets, countertops, and more. List your top three options, so you’ll have more options when you’re putting your budget together.

 

Determine Your Budget

Kitchen remodels vary greatly in price. Your cabinets alone can be a five-figure ordeal. Look up each item on your list to get an idea of your cost of materials.

Include the cost of shipping, labor or installation, which may be included in the price. If it’s not, add 15%-25% to the price. As an added precaution, take your total budget and add 10% to cover any unforeseen costs.

If, by the end of this stage, you discover your dream kitchen is too expensive, you have an itemized list of what everything costs, so you can make adjustments as necessary (e.g. switch to more affordable cabinet materials, do away with the island, etc.).

 

Think About How You’ll Use the Space

Are you a professional chef, or do you use your microwave to warm your socks?

You should design a kitchen based on how you’ll use it. Passionate cookers will need a lot of counter space, but that may not be a priority for those who live and breathe DoorDash.

●     Are you going to be eating in your kitchen?

●     Will it be an entertainment space?

●     Do you have pets or small children?

These are just a few questions to consider when designing a kitchen.

 

Measure Everything

No matter how you’re using your kitchen, it must be measured accurately. Measure the length of each wall, moving clockwise around the number. Mark your walls, doors, and windows with numbers. Measure the width and height of your countertops, your range, the size of your appliances, etc. When you measure your window, record:

●     The vertical measurements from your floor to your windowsill,

●     From your windowsill to the top of your window,

●     From the top of your window to your ceiling, and

●     From your floor to ceiling

Here are a few more tips for measuring your kitchen.

 

Think About Colors

Your kitchen colors[2]  will have a splash of personality to your room. If you’re more of a minimalist, then going with white, beige, cream, or black may be right for you. If you’re more energetic, give a bright orange or yellow a try. Is your kitchen more of a personal sanctuary of yours? If so, think about darker blues, greens, or shades of autumn.

Picking your kitchen color(s) is one of the fun parts, so plan accordingly—and enjoy!

Design a Kitchen and Hire a Designer

These are only the beginning steps of designing your kitchen. However, it should be enough for you to take to a professional so they can bring your dreams to life. Even if you’re an avid DIYer, we strongly recommend hiring a professional kitchen designer, especially for larger remodels. You don’t want to make a mistake and have to hire a designer to fix it.

 

Contact us and get started today!