How to Strategically Design a Kitchen
- 1). Figure out where the kitchen sink will fit. Sketch the triangular pattern for the sink, stove and refrigerator around the sink space. Place the sink below a large exterior window, if possible, with upper wall cabinets beside the sink area. Store dishes washed in the sink and those dishes coming out of the dishwasher in these upper cabinets.
- 2). Place appliances near the sink. Plan to install the refrigerator to the far left or right of the sink, for example. Build the stovetop into an island near the sink. Install the dishwasher to the immediate right or left of the sink to make loading and unloading dishes much easier.
- 3). Go over many cabinet options before selecting design and placement. Don't just install cabinets with shelves for storage. Buy cabinets with deep drawers to store pots, for example. Use this same type of cabinets with drawers to store cereal boxes and dry goods. Add counter space and base cabinets along the sink wall.
- 4). Add an island bar if you have room. Build an island near the sink for storage. Add a drop-in cooktop and bar seating. Add drawers for knives and cooking utensils. Incorporate countertop materials for chopping and rolling out dough so you can use the island countertop to prepare meals. Include cabinet doors and shelving for large, bulky items.
- 5). Plan countertops and cabinets on additional walls of the kitchen. Install tile countertops and back splash areas to harmonize with tile flooring. Use hardwood flooring, if desired, to complement the kitchen cabinets.
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