1. Taking Measurements
Planning the kitchen can only begin after obtaining a clear, understandable, and precise measurement of the room where the kitchen set will be located, down to the millimeter.
It is important to first design the kitchen and then proceed with the renovation based on the finalized plan. At this stage, it is crucial to accurately determine the placement of all utilities, as well as provisions for the hood, power outlet for the cooktop, and other sockets. Keep in mind that finishing materials may take up a few centimeters, so it's advisable to leave a small margin.
After all rough work is completed, walls and floors are ready, and all utilities are installed, it is necessary to take kitchen measurements again, compare them with the initial results, and make any necessary changes to the project or adjust the construction work. It is important to do this right now because any, even minor, changes later will lead to additional expenses. If the kitchen cabinet set doesn't fit, it won't be possible to change just one lower cabinet – you'll have to order a different-sized countertop and upper section as well. To ensure that this doesn't happen, entrust the measurement process to professionals. In large furniture companies, for example, in "Maria" studios, this service is provided free of charge.
2. Appliance Placement
The kitchen planning begins with the placement of major household appliances. Their sizes, with rare exceptions, are standard, so we base the layout on them. Determine where the refrigerator, oven, cooktop, dishwasher, and, of course, the sink will be placed. If there is a separate freezer or wine cabinet, be sure to include it in the project.
3. Customized Kitchen
When planning a kitchen, it's important to take into account the habits and lifestyle of those living in the house. If you enjoy eating sausage at night, consider installing subdued lighting. The light should focus directly on the area where you'll be cutting the sausage. If you don't cook much on the stove and prefer baking dishes in the oven, opt for a two-burner cooktop and complement it with a functional oven. If you frequently fry fish or meat in oil, plan for a practical apron that is easy to clean and leave a clear area around the stove to prevent oil splatters on surfaces. In this case, the ventilation hood should be powerful and large (preferably 900 mm wide).
The growth of individuals is very important. Take into account those who will use the kitchen most often – there is no need to plan everything for grandma if she doesn't cook. Furniture elements are designed for a person with a height of 165–175 cm. If you are shorter or taller, plan the height of the cabinets for yourself. Then your back won't hurt from an uncomfortable position during cooking, and kitchen chores will be a joy.
For a kitchen design project that takes into account all possible individual preferences of customers, you can turn to professional designers. In "Maria's" studios, they will assist you with this for free. It's even possible to order the project online..
4. The working triangle.
Many have heard about the working triangle rule, which is the basis for all kitchen layout planning. Its essence is simple: the main zones should be arranged so that the homemaker can quickly reach their goal. Retrieve the groceries, wash, chop – and cook! The refrigerator, sink, and stove should be within one to two steps of each other. By adhering to this rule, it is possible to significantly reduce the number of kilometers we "accumulate" throughout the day while cooking.
5. Storage Organization
Divide all kitchen utensils into two categories.
Items for daily use: plates, cups, pots. They should always be at hand, so it's best to place them within the working triangle zone.
Items for rare use, such as a duck press used once a year. They can be stored in the far corner of the kitchen. Overhead cabinets would be ideal.
The same principle applies to organizing storage spaces for pantry items and canned goods. The more frequently you use certain products, the closer they should be to you. Also, consider their shelf life – keep perishable items that spoil quickly within easy reach. It's also important for the storage space to be well-ventilated."
6. Pull-Out Drawers vs. Swinging Doors
Boxes cost more, but they are more convenient than swing-door cabinets. Especially if equipped with full-extension mechanisms, as in "Maria" kitchens. You open it – and immediately see everything inside. However, I do not recommend ordering very large pull-out drawers – they quickly become messy. The best order is maintained in standard sections with a width of 450 or 600 mm. If you still choose a larger size (900–1200 mm), then buy special hardware for functional storage. A good manufacturer always offers a selection of organizers and dividers.
Soft closers ensure a smooth, noiseless closing of cabinets. That's why I recommend everyone to furnish their furniture with them. Why endure unnecessary clatters and knocks in the kitchen? It's an avoidable irritation to the nervous system.
The Antro model - pull-out drawers
Model Antro - Swing-door cabinets
7. Security comes first!
Bruises, bumps, and cuts can occur due to improper kitchen planning. That's why the ergonomics of the space should be carefully considered. Play out various scenarios of behavior in the kitchen, and you won't constantly run into open drawers or wide-open doors. Also, think about proper lighting for the working surface so you don't cook in the dark.
8. easy to care for
For many people, cooking is a delightful chore. However, spending hours with a rag and aggressive household chemicals – the "health killer," is unlikely to bring anyone pleasure. Therefore, when choosing furniture, give preference to practical and easy-to-clean materials, as well as colors that won't show stains, fingerprints, streaks, or scratches. The most practical option is white facades and countertops with speckles. Understanding the variety of materials and decor on your own is not easy; it's better to consult with specialists. The designers at "Maria" kitchen studios will always help you find the option that suits you best.
9. Such inconspicuous but important... handles.
Don't overlook the handles of the cabinets. Sometimes, special false panels are needed to prevent them from hitting each other when opening the doors. If you choose facades without handles, you can avoid such problems. And it's much easier to clean them. This is a very popular solution now, so I recommend it! Also, keep in mind that cabinet fronts that open upwards can damage the ceiling if not planned properly.
10. Clutter as a super trend!
To maintain perfect order in your new kitchen, it's better to use white dishes and transparent glasses. When choosing a set, it's important to have the option to buy individual items separately in case something breaks. Get rid of small plates and cups that were once given to you by someone, each with its own design that doesn't fit the new interior. If you really want to keep a special item that is dear to your heart, find a separate place for it. Another piece of advice: regularly declutter by keeping only what is essential, what you truly use. Then your new kitchen will bring you nothing but joy!
Source: Cosmo.ru