The kitchen is not only the heart of the house, but also a comparatively large investment. Functionality and design should therefore be perfectly adapted to your needs. However, it’s often the obvious things that we don’t pay enough attention to when designing a new kitchen. So that this doesn’t happen to you, we have listed seven things that you should definitely avoid!
1. Plan too little storage space
The cutlery drawer or the cupboard for the pots is of course included, but have you also thought of all the other things? For example, do you have a pantry or do you need to store all your groceries in the kitchen? What about your spice jars, kitchen appliances or consumables such as baking paper?
Assign a place to each individual element. Having a clear plan will also help you avoid overcrowding your brand new kitchen.
Use clever storage options to get the most storage space out of your kitchen. Use a variety of cabinet systems that turn every centimeter into valuable storage space, even in the corners, use a convertible serving trolley or fix your knives on a magnetic strip on the wall. The right storage system for kitchen utensils can make a significant difference!
2. Not thinking enough about lighting
As in most rooms, it is important that lighting in the kitchen takes into account both functional and aesthetic needs. Preparing food, for example, requires more direct and brighter lighting than the integrated dining area in the kitchen.
Lights integrated under wall cabinets or in the ceiling are still the most popular and practical choice. They can be grouped according to tasks and equipped with a dimmer function to create the right atmosphere for every situation. Hanging lights, especially above a kitchen counter, create exciting accents and can also structure the room.
Pedestal lighting is very modern and ideal for a midnight snack.
3. Not planning the budget ahead
Going over budget is one of the most common mistakes that occurs in many jobs around the home. To start, make a budget plan. Whether you have a small or generous budget, if you don’t calculate well it’s all too easy to go over your planned expenses.
It helps to make a list of all the furniture and kitchen items you want. Also be aware of which elements you can save on and where quality pays off.
4. Do everything on your own
There is often a great temptation to do everything on your own. It’s easy to underestimate the specialist knowledge required when planning such a large home project.
For example, complicated wiring, plumbing and ventilation systems play a major role and you should not install these without the necessary specialist knowledge. As mentioned above, keeping an eye on the budget is important, but especially with such large projects, spending wisely can prove to be more cost-effective than trying to do everything yourself.
Of course it’s nice to be able to do some things yourself. But you should be aware of which work steps are better carried out by a specialist.
5. Neglect work surface
There are a variety of tasks in the kitchen and it can quickly become chaotic. Kitchen appliances need a place to be stored, the dishes are prepared and prepared, the dirty dishes are collected and washed.
So ask yourself which items should find a place on the work surface and how you use your kitchen. Are you usually alone in the kitchen or do you enjoy cooking with family and friends? Would you like to have all your devices immediately to hand or can some items and helpers also go into the cupboards? This all determines how much space you should plan for the work surface.
Maybe you would even like to have a bite or two directly in the kitchen? A kitchen island is particularly suitable for social cooking events with friends or family.
6. Plan too few sockets
It sounds so obvious, but carefully calculate which kitchen appliances you want to use and where you will place them. Appliances such as the microwave or coffee machine – are these integrated into the kitchenette or do they have to include storage space and a socket?
Think about your workflow and plan for everyday appliances like the kettle or toaster, but don’t forget additional sockets for occasional use, like for the hand mixer or charging your cell phone.
The half-serious, half-joking rule often applies here: Calculate the number of sockets you need and multiply the result by two.
7. Not thinking long-term enough
As tempting as it is to get involved in the latest interior design trends, for example, be aware that you cannot replace a kitchen so cheaply or quickly. A solid kitchen is usually designed to last for several decades. Keep this in mind when considering an extravagant countertop or high-gloss cabinet doors. You will most likely want to live with this decision for many years.
Instead, you can set accents with impressive wallpaper or bright colors on the wall, everyday items and decorative elements. They can then be replaced much more quickly and cost-effectively if you ever get tired of your previous favorite color.
Final word
As was already mentioned: A kitchen is a long-term purchase that you will hopefully enjoy. To help you achieve this, we have lots of useful advice articles on the subject of kitchen for you! And if you have any questions, our advisors will of course be happy to help you at any time.
Focus on “Planning the new kitchen correctly”
If you want to plan a new kitchen, you have a lot of decisions to make. The articles in this focus make it easier. You can download this focus as a free PDF! In this:
- The first steps to the new kitchen
- Kitchen planning: ergonomics don’t forget!
- 3 tips for child friendly equipped kitchens
- The Kitchen island: Pros and cons you should know
- The advantages of one closed kitchen
- The Eat-in kitchen: Cozy and perfectly integrated
- Is a open kitchen the right choice for you?
- Where can I go with my new kitchen? save (and where would you rather not)?
- 7 typical Mistake when choosing a kitchen
- Select worktops: Which material is the right one?
- Shiny or matt kitchen fronts? Advantages and disadvantages at a glance
- Electrical appliances choose the right one for your (new) kitchen