The four most important things to consider when designing a kitchen
Starting your kitchen project can seem a little daunting, but with our simple guide it really needn’t be.
Here are some key elements to get the design ball rolling:
Room Plans
Firstly, to enable the drawing up of plans, getting a rough layout of the room is essential. If you have architects plans then that is a great start, but don’t worry if not, drawing up a simple room plan is actually easier than you might think, here are some things to consider:
Start with the perimeter of the room. Indicating wall lengths, door/window positions and measurements. Include the ceiling height too.
Include existing architectural features, if you are lucky enough to have them, whether its beams, a chimney breast or original cabinetry, we need to know all the specs.
If you are happy with your present layout but just need a few tweaks and changes that is also an easy start, we can transfer the original layout onto our CAD package and make any alterations to suit your new remit
And remember this initial plan is only a starter. Before we build your kitchen, we will be conducting an in-depth site visit, where measurements and details will be double plus checked.
Layout
Once we have your room specs and measurements, we can start the fun bit. Working out where the cabinets are going to be located, making sure that every aspect of your requirements are considered carefully, and that the layout suits your needs.
If possible, we start with the sink and work the design from and around this area.
We create ‘zones’ where you can work, relax and eat, making sure the cabinets nearby are easy to access and associated.
Think storage. We will make sure that you have ample storage and that all your things are neatly stored away and always at hand.
If you have a rough idea where you would like appliances, sinks and cabinets that is a great start, but again, no worries if you are unsure, we are very happy to advise.
Consider the traffic flow. It’s important that the layout does not create congestion and confusion. If possible, the working triangle is a good principle to follow, with sink, fridge and cooker creating ‘the shape’. This concept avoids endless and unnecessary trekking.
Plumbing & Electrics
We make sure that the necessary wiring and water supply/drainage has been thoroughly considered and then we draw up a plan for the electrician/plumber to use.
Think about the electrics and drainage to suit your new needs. Do you need the electric sockets and plumbing to be altered, if so where and how?
If you are having new appliances and accessories, do you have a wish list you could provide so that these new items can be included in the plan?
Lighting. It’s good to have a simple background lighting system that can illuminate the working areas well and also sit unassumingly alongside some feature lights e.g., pendants or wall lights. The facility to dim all lights independently is we think a must.
The Finer Details
We find the plans, and finer details develop naturally together as the project progresses. If you are unsure of your colour schemes and material choices, together we can create an inspiring mood board which will incorporate a cross section of the room, from the floor to the ceiling, to include colours, materials, accessories, and anything else that you want to bring into the mix. Things to consider:
Colour schemes – we don’t just look at the kitchen cabinets but at the complete room, making sure the colours, contrasts, and the light balance work in harmony with each other.
Worktops – a vast array of choices, with granite, quartz and wood being very popular. Check out our previous blog
Cabinet style - Simple and uncluttered by nature with some choices to be made in design and look.
Handles – The jewellery of the kitchen. With varying finishes and styles available. It is good to match them up to your tap and cooker if possible.
Sinks and taps – Again, so many lovely choices, and we always make sure that the style and finish suits the kitchen you have chosen.
And of course, all of the above is available to view in our wonderful and very comprehensive Weobley showroom where our team of experienced designers can help and guide you through any queries you might have.
Why not give us a call to get things started 01544 318818
Or go to our contact page to message us