Changing needs and times can increase or decrease the utility of the same thing down the line. Still, certain things remain at the core. For example, kitchen designs and decors have evolved in the last few decades, adapting to the new urban demands. Varieties in sinks and faucets have established that these no longer serve functional requirements only. They can be an integral part of the kitchen interiors due to their character and finishing.
Similarly, lifestyle choices dictate the selection of kitchen layouts from storage to larger appliances. But how do you know that this is the correct type of kitchen for you? Well, like everything else, the features of this place speak for it.
Storage
A functional kitchen cannot be anything without ample storage space. You might have hundreds of small and bulky items to store in this place. The size and layout of the kitchen have to be forgiving to provide enough room for everything. Experts believe that creating an inventory of what you would use in the kitchen can help you determine the proper storage solutions. For instance, cabinets make a great option. Although they can be available in many styles, streamlined designs offer more relief to a modern soul for their neat look. These don’t need much embellishment. So, maintenance becomes easy.
Counters
Like storage, you wouldn’t want to skimp on the worktop. The larger, the better. When you think of countertops, you think about the use and looks as they remain the focal point. A kitchen with a stylish and robust countertop can be an instant hit with homeowners and guests. The right type of countertop would be able to retain its beauty despite heavy use. Earlier, people preferred to have white countertops. Today, the trend is darker marble countertops. From earthy walnut to midnight green to black, the colors can vary.
Appliances
Of course, your kitchen habits influence your choices even in this area. But the fact is what you choose can impact the practicality and beauty of your space. In this context, the function and energy efficiency of the big-ticket items would be most critical. For example, you would hesitate to host large gatherings without a large oven, dishwasher, and other such units. They become a priority for you if you love playing a host. The Energy Star label of the products can reveal how suitable they are.
The secondary element can be the look. Many kitchens use stainless steel appliances. However, in recent times, people are showing interest in other colors. A white fridge, for example, gets attention for its ability to mingle with the white kitchen background. At the same time, a retro kitchen ditches everything else to welcome advanced appliances with a retro feel.
Hence, you can say that an ideal kitchen would have an oven, fridge, dishwasher, and other expensive items that promise modern functions with stunning exteriors to satisfy the ultimate décor look.
Lighting
Another most relevant feature is the lighting and deservingly so. In the absence of adequate light, you can struggle to do even the simple kitchen chore. From prepping to cooking to cleaning, you need this element in the right proportion to allow you to finish your job smoothly. It shouldn’t be too dim or loud as both can hamper productivity. In this, the selection of lighting solutions and their positioning tend to have a huge say. For example, you can look at the role of:
- Flush mount ceiling lights
- Recessed lights
- Track lights
- Under-cabinet lights
- Wall-mounted lights /wall sconces
- Pendant lights
As per the general kitchen design rules, ambient or general lighting should go in the center of this space. You can achieve this either through flush mounts or recessed lighting solutions. The pendant lighting can be appropriate for a kitchen island or breakfast nook. The addition of the number of task lights can depend on the kitchen’s size and natural lighting condition. Windows can also be a critical part of this. You can decide on the task lights based on the shadow problem on the counter.
So, as you can see, lighting is another kitchen essential that defines its performance. Since a well-illuminated place already looks attractive, you don’t have to doubt the contribution of the light in this area too.
Fixtures and hardware
A kitchen can be replete with expensive fixtures and fittings. Yet, it can fail to satisfy its user. Hence, it is not always about the budget. Within a smaller budget also, a kitchen can get its most efficient design. Still, a well-equipped kitchen can go for a commercial-style faucet considering the benefits of a pot filler. The choice of sink and hardware for cabinets can also have the same type of aura. However, it is not about looks or the feel-good factor. An average kitchen goes through lots of wear and tear due to fluctuating temperature and cooking conditions. So it relies only on something solid and durable.
Flooring
Again, the floor will have to tolerate heavy traffic almost throughout the day, especially in a large family. Plus, it has to deal with hot water, acidic food, and other materials regularly. Hence, the choice of surface can be the other critical factor. In a hardwearing kitchen, the floor can be natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, or concrete. Some can even have wood, but it would need an efficient sealing job to sustain itself against water damage.
To be precise, an ideal kitchen will take care of all these elements, regardless of shape and size. Whether you plan to rebuild or upgrade your place, you can remember these primary factors. Without them, it can be challenging to have a smooth experience in this space. The choices can bother you even more, when you have to hurry. So, before doing anything, chalk down your requirements and see how you can incorporate these components in their best form and shape. If you cannot decide everything on your own, talk to an interior designer or consultant for suggestions. They can be the best companions in these matters.
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