5 questions to ask before designing your new kitchen

It's the heart of the home. So make sure you pour your heart into reimagining what your new kitchen will look like.

It's not just about making it look fresh, new and beautiful.

It's about making sure it functions and meets your needs. 

Here are 5 questions to ask yourself before designing your new kitchen, whether you're working with an interior designer or doing it on your own.

1. what are your current pain points?

2. whAT appliances do you want in your new kitchen?

4. what are your must-haves and nice-to-haves?

3. who is using your kitchen and how?

5. what is your overall desired investment?

A new kitchen is a chance to replace old or dysfunctional appliances or add new ones to improve function or add a sense of luxury to your space.

Do you want to keep any of your existing appliances?

Before you can figure out your cabinetry or finishes, you need to know which appliances you are incorporating and decide where they will go first. This will determine the overall layout of your kitchen. 

Kitchens function best when there is a good working triangle — that is, the three main working areas. The fridge, stove and sink should form an uninterrupted triangle that allows you to easily move from one to the other without bumping into anything or anyone. 

What's not working for you in your kitchen right now?

If it's just aesthetics, take a closer look. Chances are, there are ways to improve functionality as well.

Do you lack storage space — or the right kind of functional storage?

Perhaps the layout is impeding your ability to move around and conveniently access items. 

Make a list of the things that really bother you about your kitchen and it will help you get clear on what you want. 

State-of-the-art appliances. A sink with all the bells and whistles. Appliance garage. Coffee bar. Open shelving. Oversized island.

Sure, we all want to have it all in our kitchen.

But sometimes it's just not possible.

Great really clear on what you absolutely can't do without and what is nice to have in your ideal design.

And be prepared to make some concessions if your space or budget can't accommodate them all.

A chef's paradise.

A place to do homework or work from home.

A social hub. 

A space to enjoy a morning coffee in peace. 

All of the above? 

You need to know how your space is going to be used, when and by whom.

These considerations are not only important to decide what you need in your space but also how to lay it out. What are the minimum clearances you need if you anticipate multiple chefs cooking or having to move around while kids or guests are sitting at the island? Or are you more inclined to go out and order in?

Take some time to imagine how you want to move around in the new kitchen, especially when there are multiple people trying to go about their business. 

Clients often ask us what they should budget for their kitchen. 

The truth is, unless you come with a very specific budget in mind, we really don't know until you've answered all of these questions. 

Getting everything you want will ultimately come down to a balance between how much you want to invest in your dream kitchen and what you're willing to give up if you can't get it all.

But don't worry! We would love to sit down and discuss it all to get you as much as you possibly can. 

Let us help you break it all down and plan the kitchen of your dreams.

Ready to get starteed?