Kitchen Design by Heidi Powell As we approach the holidays, our thoughts turn to home and time with family and friends. This season brings with it images of children, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, and cousins all pitching in to make the holidays memorable and festive. And where do families gather for hugs, conversation, and of course cooking, but in the kitchen.
The goal of a well designed kitchen is to create natural zones for cooking, gathering and, if desired, eating. Ingredients and cooking utensils should all be within easy reach. If you enjoy entertaining, then the layout can be arranged in a way that guests are invited to feel comfortable to snack and visit during meal preparation.
Everyone wants a great kitchen. It’s the hub of the home, the place where guests congregate, the nucleus of the family. But how do you achieve that wonderful kitchen? And what if you are starting with a dated, dark, or dysfunctional space? Can it really be transformed?
A good designer puts your individual needs at the forefront of the design process, creating your own unique signature kitchen. He/she will look at such things as placement of the work triangle for accommodating single or multiple cooks, traffic flow, creative storage solutions, eliminating traffic bottle necks, allowing for eating space if desired, and the effective placement of lighting over workspaces. The designer can also help you to evaluate the possibility of any structural changes such as moving doors, walls, or windows or even adding on space. As the designer walks you through the different options you will be able to determine whether the existing space can be modified adequately or if structural modifications are necessary.
For starters, I recommend having your kitchen designed professionally. A new kitchen is one of the best investments you can make in your home, and a professional design can make all the difference. When it comes to kitchen design, it’s all about the layout and function of the space. All the beautiful finishes and high end appliances in the world can’t make up for a poor design, no matter how beautiful the granite or how amazing the convection oven. The layout of the space especially comes into focus at times when larger groups are gathering in your kitchen. Which of us who live in older homes hasn’t had to ask a guest to move so we can reach a spice or pan?
Some remodelers have a designer on staff while others can usually recommend a reputable one that they have worked with in the past. Taking time for this important step will put you well on your way toward the kitchen of your dreams. The holidays are just around the corner, maybe it’s time to start planning for that kitchen that you’ve always wanted.
BEFORE
COFFEE BAR Happy Holidays
Heidi Powell Powell Construction, Corvallis 541-752-0805 37