Designing your perfect kitchen is a fun and daunting task. Kitchens are more than just a cooking space – they’re a social space, dining space, and meal prep space. But many of us make the same kitchen design mistakes that impact the functionality and look of the space. Here are the top kitchen design mistakes to avoid and how to get it right. For expert advice, visit Design Studio Cardiff.
1. Not the Kitchen Layout
A bad kitchen layout can disrupt the flow in your cooking zone. Not following the “kitchen triangle” rule – where the fridge, sink, and stove are placed for maximum movement – means inefficiency in your food prep area.
How to Avoid It:
- Work with a kitchen designer during the planning stage to get the layout right.
- Measure the space between key areas to allow for movement.
- Make sure the space can accommodate multiple users.
2. Not Considering Storage Needs
Not having enough storage space is a mistake that leads to cluttered counters and disorganisation. Misusing corner storage and not using the vertical space with upper cabinets means wasted space.
How to Avoid It:
- Add extra storage with open shelving, base units, or custom kitchen cabinets.
- Use specific storage solutions – pull-out pantry drawers or hidden bins.
- Use corner storage systems to make the most of awkward areas.
3. Style over Functionality
While looks are important, it shouldn’t come at the expense of function. For example, choosing trendy freestanding elements without storage can compromise the organisation of the space.
How to Avoid It:
- Create a clutter-free and highly functional space by balancing form and function.
- Work with kitchen specialists to make sure the whole process addresses your practical needs.
4. Not Enough Counter Space
Many of us underestimate how much counter space we need for food prep, appliance use, and storage. A kitchen island or breakfast bar can solve this problem, but they need to be designed with care.
How to Avoid It:
- Make sure your kitchen worktops have enough space for daily use.
- Have a dedicated area for appliances to clear the counters.
- If you can, add a kitchen island for more worktop space and extra functionality.
5. Wrong Lighting
Lighting is key to a visually pleasing and functional kitchen. Relying only on overhead lighting without task area and ambient lighting means the space will feel dark and impractical.
How to Avoid It:
- Use layers of lighting – under-cabinet lights and pendant lamps.
- Use bifold doors, larger windows, or light-reflecting materials to maximise natural light.
- Place electric sockets in strategic areas for portable lights.
6. Wrong Materials
Cabinet doors, flooring, and worktops must be hardwearing and easy to clean. Choosing fragile finishes or the wrong materials means your kitchen will show wear and tear quickly.
How to Avoid It:
- Choose low-maintenance materials like engineered stone or natural stone for worktops.
- Invest in durable flooring like tiles or engineered wood.
- Work with a design director or creative director to choose timeless finishes.
7. Wrong Appliance Placement
Not thinking about where new appliances will go can disrupt the flow of your kitchen and be inefficient. For example, putting the oven too close to the fridge or not leaving enough space for doors to open is a design faux pas.
How to Avoid It:
- Position appliances within the kitchen triangle for maximum workflow.
- Leave space around major appliances – fridges and ovens.
- Place electric sockets near small appliances to keep the space tidy.
8. Too Much Furniture on the Floor
Putting too much furniture in the kitchen makes the space feel cluttered. Even open-plan kitchens can suffer if the floor space isn’t used well.
How to Avoid It:
- Use compact kitchen furniture like narrow tables or slim chairs for dining areas.
- Don’t have oversized islands that take over the open-plan space.
- Make sure the kitchen layout leaves enough floor space to move around.
9. Underestimating the Cost
Underestimating the budget is another design faux pas. Accessories have a wide price range, and upgrades like custom base cabinets or premium materials can blow the budget out of the water.
How to Avoid It:
- Work with a senior designer to set a budget at the planning stage.
- Research the cost of cabinets, appliances, and installations.
- Choose designs that fit your budget and provide value.
10. Not Using Vertical Space
Unused walls or no open shelving means missed storage opportunities in the kitchen.
How to Avoid It:
- Add open shelving for items you use daily.
- Use tall kitchen cabinets to utilise existing space.
- Install hooks or racks on kitchen walls for utensils and pots.
Conclusion
Designing a kitchen is all about the details. By avoiding these design faux pas, you’ll have a functional kitchen space that’s both practical and gorgeous. Small decisions make a big difference in your dream kitchen.
Work with trusted kitchen specialists to ensure your kitchen meets your needs and remains timeless for years to come.
