Now more than ever, kitchens are being tasked with functioning as multi-use spaces. They need to work seamlessly for cooking, entertaining, family gatherings, dining, and possibly even working. Getting the functionality and design right can feel overwhelming, but with the right planning, you can create a space that is both practical and visually stunning.
Start with a Solid Kitchen Design Plan
Before starting any renovations or redecorating, it’s crucial to plan your kitchen in great detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a space that works for you and your household:
1. Define Your Essential Kitchen Needs
The essentials for most kitchens include a cooker, sink, and fridge freezer. Beyond that, consider what you specifically need—storage solutions, additional appliances like dishwashers, laundry machines, or microwaves. Be strict in identifying what is truly necessary for your space.
2. Create a Kitchen Design Wish List
Think about the features you’d love to include but aren’t absolute necessities. These could be pantry units, double ovens, built-in microwaves, pot fillers, or a kitchen island. Rank them in order of importance so you can incorporate what fits within your space and budget.
3. Measure and Plan Your Kitchen Layout
Once you have your essentials and wish list, measure your kitchen space carefully. Use these measurements to determine what can realistically fit. A key concept to keep in mind is the work triangle—positioning your sink, cooker, and fridge freezer within a triangle to create an efficient and functional layout.
4. Find Your Style
Consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. This includes your choice of cabinetry, colour schemes, and decorative elements. Creating a mood board on Canva or Pinterest can help you refine your style and visualise how everything will come together.
Key Elements to Consider for your Kitchen Design
Once you’ve established the foundation, you can start layering in the details. Here’s a checklist to guide you:
Lighting
Assess your natural light and the direction your kitchen faces (N, E, S, or W).
Plan task lighting for cooking areas and decorative lighting for ambience.
Consider dimmable options and different bulb temperatures.
Flooring
Kitchens endure heavy use, so choose durable flooring that suits your lifestyle.
Options include hardwood, LVT, vinyl, cork, rubber, tiles, or concrete.
If you have pets, children, or a high-traffic household, opt for easy-to-maintain surfaces.
Seating
Determine what seating works best: island stools, a dining table, a bistro nook, or a built-in bench.
Ensure seating is comfortable for extended use and complements your design style.
Worktops & Backsplash
Research materials that suit your needs, such as wood, tile, metal, granite, composite, or terrazzo.
Choose a backsplash that adds both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Paint Colours & Wallpaper
Use Pinterest or mood boards to identify colours and patterns that inspire you.
Incorporate bold hues or wallpaper for added character and warmth.
Storage Solutions
Consider both large and small storage needs—pantry units, shelving, pull-out drawers, racks, and baskets.
Customise cabinet interiors to fit specific appliances, jars, and tins.
Decide if you want open shelving for display or closed storage for a cleaner look.
Bringing Maximalist Personality to your Kitchen Design
A maximalist kitchen embraces colour, pattern, and texture to create an inviting and unique space. Here’s how to inject personality into your kitchen design:
Use Bold Colours
Incorporate colour through walls, cabinetry, accessories, and décor.
Look at inspiration images to see how different palettes can transform the space.
Embrace Wallpaper in your Kitchen Design
Don’t be afraid to use wallpaper in the kitchen! It adds depth, pattern, and personality.
Protective varnishes can safeguard wallpaper from heat, moisture, and grease.
Incorporate Art & Wall Decor
Display a gallery wall, sculptural pieces, wall-mounted plates, or an eclectic mix of artwork.
Open shelving can be used to showcase decorative treasures and collected pieces.
Layer in Textures
Add warmth and softness with rugs, curtains, blinds, and cushions.
Built-in seating with upholstered cushions creates an inviting space.
Be mindful of fire safety with textiles near open flames.
Feeling Overwhelmed with your Kitchen Design?
If all of this sounds like a lot to take on, don’t worry- I can help! Whether you need guidance with planning, sourcing materials, or bringing your maximalist kitchen vision to life, get in touch and let’s create something spectacular together.
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