12 steps to a successful kitchen design

A kitchen needs to function well around your family’s requirements and ideally represents your personal style. If your kitchen is in need of a major makeover, have a look at our 12 steps to a successful kitchen design. A printable pdf version is also available.

1. Examine your kitchen

Critically examine your current kitchen. List all the things you like, list all the things you dislike.

2. Assess your kitchen layout

Does your current layout work, if it does, this can be a cost-effective advantage as it reduces costs on moving plumbing and electricals. However, if it doesn’t, change it to ensure it meets your needs, otherwise the entire exercise will be a waste of money.

3. Kitchen design wants and needs

List all your needs and wants in order of importance

a. Identify non-negotiable items, for example an engineered stone bench top.

b. However, you may be able to compromise on the colour and select from the standard range which can save thousands in a large kitchen.

c. Consider the type of cooking you do as this will influence finishes and colours.

4. Use drawers in your kitchen

Use drawers wherever possible rather than cupboards, even under the sink. They are more expensive but worth every cent.

5. Stocktake kitchen items

Stocktake items that need to be stored. Don’t miss out on this step as it is vital that drawers are deep enough to accommodate your appliances/cooking items.

6. Decide on your kitchen style

Decide on a style you like as this influences profiles of cupboards, drawers and end panels.

For example, if you want a Hamptons look you will nominate a “shaker” profile with handles, subway tile splashback and in a satin finish.

On the other hand, if you desire an ultra-modern contemporary kitchen you will select a flat profile, no handles, in a gloss finish with a glass splashback.

For inspirations on your next kitchen style, have a look at our kitchen design ideas.

7. Kickboards in kitchen

Make your kickboards the same as the corresponding cupboards and drawers.

8. Select the Splashback

Finalise splashback colour once cabinetry and benchtop are installed.

If you are using a glass splashback always insist on a colour glass sample before signing off.

Ensure glass splashback is made of starphire glass otherwise there will be a green tinge to your final colour.

Don’t be scared to mix materials. Laminates are not the poor cousin anymore and come in some wonderful textures. You can mix finishes and have some of the cabinetry in polyurethane and others in wood grain laminates.

10. Placing the fridge

Always place refrigerator on the outer edge of the kitchen layout to prevent congestion within the workspace.

11. Double-check the kitchen plans

Double check all details before signing off with cabinet maker as if it is your responsibility and cost if it is incorrect. This is especially important if you are using different colours throughout the kitchen.

If you’re uncertain about the bench height, have a look at the typical measurements used in Australian kitchens.

12. Compare kitchen quotes

When comparing quotes ensure you are comparing apples with apples. If there is several thousand dollars discrepancy between quotes establish why. It may mean the cheaper quote does not add increased support in extra wide drawers, hinges my be inferior, sides of drawers may not be metal.

Nothing is a deal breaker, just be aware so you are not disappointed. Download our free builder’s comparison template to assist you with this process.

There’s a pdf version of the Kitchen Design Guidelines available for you to print out.

If you need help with your kitchen renovation, please contact the team of Inspired Spaces.