While building a new home comes with a lot of excitement, the process also brings about a fair bit of stress. If it’s not the budget that’s causing you grey hairs, it’s the pushy contractor, the delays, the organisation or the planning. One of the most important factors of building a home is the planning phase – how you’re going to structure each area and the interior finishes. As a key area in any home, the kitchen usually takes up a lot of your planning time.
Consider the following factors when planning your kitchen.
Layout
Be sure to choose a kitchen layout that will work for your family dynamic. Whether you’re a family of two or seven, decide on a layout that provides ample space and one that will complement the rest of your home. The most common shapes for kitchens are the galley, U shape and L shape. Make sure there is enough usable workspace available as well as cupboard space. Are you having an island bench, if so do you want a breakfast bar? A depth of 300mm is a good measurement for a breakfast bar.
Distance between your benchtops
It’s probably something you don’t even think about but the distance between your benchtops can make or break your kitchen. A good distance is 1200mm+ as it’s recommended having extra space so that the area does not appeared cluttered.
Pantry Size
Think about whether you want a walk in pantry/scullery or a stand-alone pantry. Again, this has a lot to do with your family dynamic. If you have a large family, you’ll require more space for the amount of food you purchase.
Adequate lighting
Lightning in the kitchen is of utmost importance. You want the kitchen to be bright enough so that you can see what you’re doing but not so bright that it could blind you. Versatile lighting is a great option, such as dimers, so that you can adjust it according to the ambience you want to set. Also, make sure to incorporate sufficient windows for natural lighting.
Appliances
Are you going to install a dishwasher? It is recommended that you install it in close proximity to your sink. For your smaller appliances, think about whether you would like to display them on your counters or keep them hidden.
Rubbish bin & Fridge
It may seem insignificant but paying attention to detail is essential to planning your kitchen. Consider the location of your rubbish bin. Are you going to have a freestanding bin or one within a cupboard? The same goes for your fridge – think about the size and where it will be located. Depending on what type of fridge you get, if you want one that has filtered water in it or automatic ice, it will require the fridge to be connected to a water source.
Electricity
The number of power points needed and location of each one is critical to your kitchen. In this case, less is not more, especially if you have a large kitchen with lots of appliances.
Cupboards & draws
There are so many options for kitchen cupboards and draws, such as; corner drawers, a lazy Susan, or pull out shelves.
