5 Key Kitchen Design Rules You Should Stick With

While breaking some design norms can be fun, the kitchen is one place where certain rules should not be overlooked. Not only are kitchens costly to build and renovate, but they must also serve as the most practical area in the house. While it's great to experiment with visual design, mix different metals, or opt for bold stone choices, when it comes to kitchen functionality, some standards must be followed. Need help on where to start? Here are five essential kitchen design rules to never ignore.

Always Measure Carefully

When designing a kitchen, precise measurements are essential. Measure everything, then measure again, and then measure once more. Delphie Williams, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Hisense, emphasizes, 'The key to successful kitchen design is meticulous measurements, especially for your refrigerator. The size and depth must be perfect, and you need enough clearance for the doors to open smoothly, avoiding any interference with nearby walls. Accurate measurements ensure both function and aesthetic harmony.'

Ensure Proper Appliance Placement

Interior designer Orie Prince, with expertise in feng shui, advises that practicality should always lead in kitchen design. The last thing you want is a stove or dishwasher door that can’t fully open, disrupting the space’s flow. ‘Position your refrigerator, sink, and stove/cooktop within a range of four to nine feet of each other to minimize unnecessary steps and allow for smooth, unobstructed movement,’ Prince recommends.

Make Sure There's Plenty of Counter Space

Prince recommends having at least 36 inches of counter space on both sides of the cooktop and refrigerator for preparation and serving. However, this may not be possible in older homes or smaller kitchens, such as those found in condos. In these cases, Prince suggests adding a sturdy cutting board above the stove or sink for added workspace.

Illuminate Your Space

Even with a spacious kitchen window, a well-planned kitchen should incorporate various lighting layers, according to Prince. He suggests using a mix of ambient, task, and recessed lighting to create a practical, safe, and well-lit environment that enhances all areas of the kitchen.

Under-cabinet lighting has become a popular trend in recent years. If you're unable to install hardwired lighting, adhesive lighting is a discreet, affordable, and easy-to-install alternative.

Design With Organization in Mind

Prince mentions that an organized kitchen is beneficial for feng shui. He explains, "Drawer and shelf organizers are simple yet impactful additions that help improve your kitchen’s flow. While these practical elements are essential, also consider adding your personal touch, including natural materials and a unified color scheme, to blend functionality with aesthetic beauty."

When remodeling your kitchen or constructing a new home, it could be beneficial to enlist the help of a professional organizer. They can work in tandem with your designer and contractor to design spaces that are functional and perfectly suited to the needs of you and your family.