Kitchens are undoubtedly among the hardest-working rooms in the house, and we receive numerous questions about their design. It’s so important that they’re done well. There are some things that many people miss. Here are our five biggest {probably fail-proof} tips for planning a great kitchen. 

1. 5 tips for a well-designed kitchen: Consider the overall flow
Every space is different. A kitchen is designed around how you work: the Fridge, Oven, and Dishwasher/Sink. Don’t get too hung up on following “the rules” or that ideal”triangle”. Instead, focus on a workflow that makes sense logistically for your individual space. It’s just something you should keep in mind.

When planning your layout, the key elements should be within easy access of one another. Just focus on the overall flow before you plan out anything else, and the rest will fall into place. 

2. 5 tips for a well-designed kitchen: Research your materials. 
Know what actually goes into maintaining your space, with any materials you choose. As designers, it blows our minds that so many people listen to outside opinions without doing any research of their own. They simply default to what they’ve heard before. Isn’t that how most live their lives? Let go of preconceived notions and do your own research.

For instance, people love to come for marble, despite any first-hand experience with it. They just heard it’s bad. I was once forced to sit through a design meeting with someone’s mother-in-law who lost her mind over my suggestion of marble to the client, because it’s “high-maintenance”. When I asked her if she’d ever lived with it herself, she couldn’t answer that question. Ma’am. Respectfully, it’s not your kitchen. {#shedoesntevengohere} If marble isn’t for you, it’s just not for you. But we’ve lived with Marble for a decade with zero problems, and absolutely adore it. 

We’ve always said there are two ways to view a house. American vs. European. American: Everything’s shiny and new. Perfect and fresh. Yay granite. European: Elements tell a story. They’re authentic materials pulled from the earth. Marble is used in ancient monuments and old-school ice cream shops, and it showcases history. I could go on and on… just do your research and stop listening to your sister’s aunt’s brother-in-law. {And trust the people you hired to do their job.} 

3. 5 tips for a well-designed kitchen: Lighting 
Lighting should be a consideration that goes hand in hand with a space’s flow. I’d say it’s equally important. From natural light placement {Does the space need an additional window?} to all the other elements to bring into a space, make sure you have enough to create a well-lit room, with plenty of options. 

4. 5 tips for a well-designed kitchen: The Budget
Clients always wonder what will cost the most. Spend money on these three main elements, and be mindful when budgeting. Cabinets, countertops, and appliances – they matter for longevity. These are the places you’ll want to invest in, and save in other areas so that you don’t break the bank, but spend wisely. It’s easy to get distracted by all the options. These are the hard-working parts you’ll be living with and have a high impact on the space.

5 tips for a well-designed kitchen: Don’t forget the important details.
Consider your lifestyle, and make sure to remember the little things that play a big role, like where to place your plugs {do you want a plug on your beautiful backsplash or can you conceal it on a side wall or under a cabinet?} and space for a garbage can {do you want it out or a part of your cabinetry?} It can be easy to get caught up in the flashy things that we mentioned above, but consider the practical as well.

We hope these five main tips help if you’re planning a kitchen. If you’d like our help, we’re assisting clients in the Nashville + Franklin area, as well as online.

Just reach out here. + Check out more of our portfolio here. Hope to see you there!