Kitchen remodeling can be a huge undertaking. Even when things go according to plan, big remodels can be stressful. Avoiding these four kitchen faux pas will help minimize stress during your project. Call Authorized Construction Group, LLC, any time to discuss your kitchen remodeling ideas. We serve Essex, Maryland and the surrounding areas, and our builders enjoy a good challenge.

Forgetting About Flow

Interior designers often talk about the kitchen triangle linking the three busiest areas of the kitchen – the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator. Sometimes the focus on this particular area creates a distraction and they tend to overlook some other, more simple areas. Narrow spaces, doors opening the wrong direction, or islands in the direct path of the triangle can severely hinder the efficiency of your kitchen setup.

Consider secondary flow as well, and which areas you’ll want to be easily accessible to each other. You’ll want a clear path from the trash bay to the door to take it out, and a sensible place to put down your groceries when you come in from the store. It’s often helpful to keep a journal of your daily activities for at least a few weeks before you plan the remodel. This will help determine your daily habits and allow us to build your kitchen around your lifestyle.

Obstruction by Island

Kitchen Islands can be amazing for extra prep space, storage, and sometimes extra serving or dining space. Keep in mind that the kitchen is a work area, and that efficiency is important. Position the island with extra space around it so you don’t impede the natural flow of the kitchen. You may also choose to integrate your sink or stove into the island. This opens up the opportunity to have lots of counter top space, or a dual-sink design for even more functionality.

Air Flow is Important

Have you ever walked into your home after a long day at work and smelled this morning’s burnt toast? If so, you’ll understand the importance of ventilation in the kitchen. Inexpensive range hoods and fans can trap stale air. Good ventilation will improve your kitchen experience, help keep your kitchen clean by venting grease particles, and help extend the life of your appliances.

Choosing Fashion Over Function

Much like bell bottoms and neon hair scrunchies, design trends become outdated overtime. Colors and patterns that may be hot right now won’t necessarily stay that way for the next 10 years – the approximate length of time you’ll keep the same kitchen layout. A red stove will always be red; you can’t simply change the siding to create a new look when you’re tired of red.

When designing your kitchen space, go simple and classic with the big ticket stuff. You can use easily replaceable accessories and accents to bring in current style, and a clean base will allow you to change the look of your space as time goes by and trends change. Call us to discuss new and innovative ways to redesign your existing kitchen into something that you’ll cherish for years.