Planning a kitchen layout is extremely important. When I envision a kitchen in my head, I see a large center island, gleaming appliances and really great lighting. What I don’t immediately see in my mind’s eye is the flow pattern that needs to be present in a good kitchen floor plan. By now, most of us have heard of the “kitchen work triangle” comprised of sink, stove ad refrigerator. But let’s be honest, how many of us think of this first when we finally get to design the kitchen of our dreams? No matter how beautiful the space, the ability for several people to move about simultaneously and efficiently is of primary importance. Otherwise, you have a great looking kitchen that doesn’t function properly.
The kitchen is the hub of nearly every family’s daily life. The room is often combined with a breakfast room or dining area. Think about how your family functions on a day to day basis. Usually the beginning and the end of the day are spent in and around this room. It’s going to play a central role in your life, so take the time to make it work for you in every aspect of your daily routine. Empty nest couples should consider if they’ll host family functions such as holiday dinners. If the answer is yes, then envision your space when your family and friends are present. “Gee, I have too much room and storage space” said no kitchen owner, ever!
The fun part of planning a kitchen is creating one that reflects your taste. Do you like clean lines or are you more retro? Like any other room in your home, the kitchen is a place to express your personal style. Have fun with it. There are so many resources now, if you can’t find just the right thing immediately, don’t settle; keep looking (the web is a wonderful tool for this type of search). I can’t tell you how many YBH clients have found their “statement piece” on the web! Above all, enjoy the process. This is your dream home. Be sure it’s a place to suit you now and for as long as you own the home. You’ll never be sorry you took the time to plan correctly.
