The kitchen is the heart of your house. It's the place where you spend a lot of time preparing and eating food, so it's only natural that you want to make it as comfortable and functional as possible.
But while it's important to choose appliances that suit your needs, there are some other things to consider when designing your new kitchen or renovating an existing one.
Six things you should know about a kitchen design:
1. Choose appliances based on their features, not just their looks
Choosing appliances can be a challenge. There are so many options available, and it's important to find the ones that work best for your kitchen. Here's what you should consider when choosing appliances:
Check the energy efficiency rating on each appliance
Look for models with features that help save energy, such as LED lights or a sensor that turns off the oven if left unattended
2. Make sure your appliances have energy-saving features
Appliances with energy-saving features will save you money on utility bills and help protect the environment. Here are some examples of appliances that include energy-saving features: • Refrigerators with built-in water filters
• Dishwashers with “ECO” or “EcoBoost” settings, which use less water and electricity by pre-rinsing dishes before washing them
• Washing machines with sensors that determine how much water is needed for each load of laundry
3. Plan for storage space
The more appliances you have, the less storage space you’ll have. Consider how much counter and cabinet space each appliance will take up before purchasing it.
4. Include separate dining areas in larger kitchens
A kitchen without a separate dining area is more likely to be used for entertaining and socializing. If you plan to have large gatherings in your home, consider buying a dining table that seats eight or 10 people.
5. Consider all options when choosing countertops
Your countertop is the focal point of your kitchen, so choose a material that complements your style. If you have little space for open storage, consider granite or soapstone countertops. These materials are easy to clean and won’t stain as easily as other types of stone.
6. Don't forget about lighting!
Lighting is the key to a well-lit kitchen. If you plan on cooking at night, make sure your kitchen has plenty of overhead and under-cabinet lighting. If possible, install lights that are dimmable so you can create different moods for different occasions.