The kitchen is the hub of the home. Families gather for dinner, entertaining, conversing, and enjoying each other’s company and just like house plans, kitchens come in all sizes, layouts, and styles. The number of design options is endless and as you start to plan your dream home, the layout, style, and details of the kitchen are essential to help determine the overall look of the home.
Layout: Open concept or closed off – When designing your kitchen, determine whether you prefer an open floor plan that has the kitchen exposed to the living room/ family room and dining room. Or would you prefer to have the kitchen closed off as to avoid spreading food smells throughout the house?
Islands – Most homes now include an island in the kitchen. These incredibly handy additions give extra counter space, organization, and style to the kitchen. Not every kitchen needs or can fit an island, so if these square foot stealers aren’t your style, go without the island.
Style: Modern – Sophisticated, kitchens inspired by the contemporary and modern styles may feature straight lines, neutral colors, bold accents, and a clean, crisp feel. In some modern kitchens, you’ll find the use of industrial materials like metal, chrome, concrete and geometrical shapes. Modern kitchens are usually open concepts with simple forms and highly functioning spaces.
Country – The Country feel is defined by open shelving, simple Shaker-style cabinets and rustic hardware. Polished oak floors and two-toned cabinets give the kitchen a timeless charm. Cottage kitchens are a favorite choice because they are comfortable and bright. Vintage-inspired features are hallmarks of the style, including salvaged hardwood flooring, painted cabinets, and playfully patterned fabrics.
Details: Cabinets or Open Shelves – >The look of your kitchen is very much determined by your cabinets. Wood cabinets may be considered more traditional than modern but they share many common characteristics such as clean lines and subtle design elements making them a good fit for any style. Another option is open shelving that eliminates upper cabinets and keeps the kitchen airy and free from large cabinets.
Countertop materials – A mainstay of the kitchen’s style and personality, countertops continue to define the kitchen. Granite, natural stone, and quartz countertops remain popular as an ideal surface topping solid surfaces, tile, and laminates. Wood countertops are increasingly popular due to their warmth and stunning grain as well as being easily maintained and sustainable.
Flooring – Hardwoods remain the top choice in floor design because they add warmth and tons of character. Ceramic tile floors are easy to maintain and come in a wide variety of styles and colors while providing superior durability, resisting almost all dents, dings and scratches. Laminate has come a long way and comes in many beautiful styles, durability and affordable price points.
Building a home can be stressful but it’s also a ton of fun! Having the ability to choose each and every design detail allows you to create your dream home full of your favorite colors, textures, materials, and spaces. Use this guide to help you as you decide how best to design your kitchen.
