Common Kitchen Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them

We talk a lot on this blog about kitchen design, appliance installation, and kitchen renovations. But as prepared as we all might think we are, it’s easy to make basic mistakes when designing a kitchen. If you are aware of some of the most common mistakes, you can learn how to avoid them.

According to HGTV.com, the four most common mistakes made even by designers are: ignoring the concept of the kitchen triangle; forgetting about function; not keeping up with the latest trends; and designing for others instead of yourself.

Although the latest kitchen designs often cast aside the “work triangle,” some designers believe it is still important to incorporate this traditional concept (placing the refrigerator, stove, and sink within easy reach of each other). Although many designers now plan by “work zones” and design kitchens in ways that accommodate more than one cook, it’s still important to avoid awkward configurations. If you are standing at the stove and have to navigate a kitchen island to grab something from the refrigerator, your space hasn’t been designed with ease of movement in mind. So step one in avoiding a major mistake is to at least consider incorporating that classic triangle into your kitchen planning.

With so many surfaces and materials available, it’s easy to forget that function is more important than appearance or style. When you order a refrigerator, for example, make sure you don’t get so caught up in choosing the right exterior that you forget which way the door should open in your space (the refrigerator door should open toward the area where you do the most work). When choosing cabinetry, consider storage capacity and convenience first. Once you have function covered, you can give more thought to style.

It’s always tempting to stay in our comfort zones, and if we’ve had the same kitchen for years, it’s easy to just stick with what works. But some designers believe that updating your kitchen at least every decade is important. With many improvements available in materials, appliances, and kitchen design it’s a solid investment to renovate your kitchen and to keep up with the latest trends.

Are you heeding our advice? Well, remember this: when you’re undergoing a renovation project, it can be easy to get so caught up in all the advice you’re getting and to forget to pay attention to your own gut feelings. What do YOU truly need in order to have a functional, stylish kitchen? A corner nook for dining might be all the rage among your friends, but if it’s not a space your family needs or will use, why add it? A close friend might insist that she loves her ceramic cooktop, but if you love cooking on a gas range, stick with what works for you. Everyone in the neighborhood might have tiled floors, but if you are interested in being eco-friendly and love the look of bamboo, follow your instincts and install a floor you’ll love. It’s your kitchen, and you’re the one who will be working in it and spending time with your family there.

Another common mistake when it comes to kitchen renovations is spending beyond your budget. Don’t let friends, a contractor, or a salesperson talk you into purchasing appliances, cabinetry, or flooring that will cost more than you can handle financially. Again, this is your kitchen. Do what’s best for you. You won’t be able to enjoy a beautiful new space if it stresses your financial life for months or years to come.

The best thing you can do to avoid making renovation mistakes is to be as informed as possible about kitchen design and appliances before you begin your project. At Atherton Appliance & Kitchens and BSC Culinary, our staff is committed to helping you learn whatever you need to know. Stop by one of our showrooms with any questions you might have. We even offer design services in the Atherton Appliance & Kitchens showroom. When you need a kitchen & custom cabinetry designer, we will provide you with our own design talent at no further charge.

We look forward to seeing you soon!