The decision is made: your kitchen will get a new look in 2020! Before you start, here are 5 mistakes to avoid.
1. Not analyzing your needs
“What will I use my kitchen for?” It may seem obvious, but a single person won’t plan to buy the same appliances as a family with three growing teenagers! If you love cooking, a slightly larger countertop might be worth considering.
2. Ignoring the “cook, wash, store” triangle
In a kitchen, efficiency and ergonomics are key. To achieve this, the three points of the activity triangle—stove (cook), sink/dishwasher (wash), and fridge (store)—should be at equal distances. Ignoring this layout, like putting the fridge at the other end of the kitchen or placing the dishwasher far from storage, is a mistake you’ll regret every day.
3. Underestimating plumbing
During a renovation, you never know what you’ll find until you open a wall or touch the plumbing. If you change the location of the dishwasher or sink, additional work may be required with the help of a professional. Even adding a fridge with a water and ice dispenser will require modifications.
4. Neglecting storage space
Storage is one of the keys to a functional and pleasant kitchen. During planning, focus is often on materials and appliances. Take inventory of what you need to store, add a little extra for future purchases, and try to maximize what fits in your existing cabinets. To improve space, consider adding shelves, racks, or a walk-in pantry, but it’s better to plan this beforehand than after the work is done.
5. Forgetting lighting
A dark kitchen can make you feel gloomy often! To fully enjoy this central room, proper lighting is essential. Light sources should cover all angles of countertops and dining areas. By combining different types of lighting depending on the space (track lights, recessed, pendant…), the problem is easily solved. Besides making the kitchen functional, lighting will highlight the elements of your renovation you’ll be proud of.
Sources: Centris
