Does your kitchen work for you ? Or do you work for your kitchen?
Here is a list of things to consider before investing in your kitchen:
- Don’t cut corners. You don’t need expensive contraptions for your pantry or your cabinet corners, but you do need quality materials and professional advice. I’ve worked in too many homes whose kitchens were dysfunctional because the client didn’t hire a designer or went with the cheaper carpenter.
- Don’t go container / label happy. You need the right container in the right location. And often you don’t need an organizing object at all! Kitchen organizers, bins and gadgets can also limit your space, so be careful and do your research before making any purchase.
- Design a kitchen to match your personality. You aren’t going to magically become a neater cook because everything is new and not every kitchen innovation was invented with you in mind. Your designer should guide you through the overwhelming options, making sure that your choices work for you, your family and your budget.
- Don’t forget non-food related activities! There are tens of other activities which go on in your kitchen – arts and crafts, paperwork, homework, phone recharging etc.. All these activities need appropriate homes in your kitchen which won’t interfere with meal preparation and eating.
- Compatibility. All parts of your kitchen need to be compatible with each other. The faucet you choose shouldn’t interfere with the window behind it, the dishwasher needs convenient access to the sink, the fridge needs a landing zone nearby and the open pantry door shouldn’t block traffic. Hiring an interior designer and an experienced kitchen company will save you money and aggravation by preventing many mistakes.
- Price. Pay for quality materials and pay for kitchen functionality (drawers, dividers etc.) but make sure that you are not paying a high price simply for the latest trend.You can create a stylish kitchen by accessorizing with the latest kitchen decor at a third of the price.
- Imaginary walk through. Before finalizing your kitchen design, create “walk through” situations for each activity that takes place in your kitchen and see if it works:
- Unpacking groceries
- Cooking and serving a weekday meal
- Preparing coffee/tea/chocolate milk/baby bottle
- Serving a Shabbos meal
- Setting the table
- Homework
- Arts and Crafts
Are you considering a kitchen renovation? Or do you just need an organizing appointment? Contact me to create a kitchen that works for you!
