Design Notes
Building a new home can feel like a series of endless decisions.
Floor plans. Windows. Flooring. Appliances. Lighting. Plumbing. Cabinetry. Countertops.
With so much happening, homeowners sometimes assume kitchen and bathroom selections can wait.
In reality, these rooms should be discussed earlier than many people expect.
Why Kitchen Planning Needs to Start Early
Cabinetry isn’t simply installed into a completed room.
Its design interacts with:
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Lighting
- Appliances
- Windows
- Doors
- Walkways
- Ceiling details
- Flooring
Knowing the cabinet layout early gives your builder and trades more accurate information.
Moving an outlet on paper is easy.
Moving electrical, plumbing, or a wall after construction is underway is considerably more complicated.
Start With Function Before Finishes
You don’t need to know your backsplash tile on day one.
You do need to think about how the rooms will function.
Consider:
- Island size
- Appliance locations
- Pantry needs
- Seating
- Sink placement
- Storage
- Bathroom vanity sizes
- Linen storage
- Shower configuration
Once the foundational layout is in place, decorative selections can follow.
Kitchen Appliances Matter Earlier Than You Think
Appliances can affect cabinet dimensions and electrical, gas, and plumbing requirements.
If you’re considering a range versus a cooktop, a built-in refrigerator, wall ovens, a beverage refrigerator, or specialty appliances, communicate those plans early.
Bathrooms Need Early Planning Too
Bathrooms contain cabinetry, plumbing, lighting, tile, and numerous measurements that need to coordinate.
Questions to consider include:
- Double or single vanity?
- Freestanding or built-in tub?
- Walk-in shower?
- Storage tower?
- Makeup area?
- Linen cabinetry?
- Wall-mounted fixtures?
Don’t Forget Secondary Spaces
New construction provides an opportunity to think beyond the kitchen.
Consider cabinetry and design needs for:
- Laundry room
- Mudroom
- Pantry
- Home office
- Bar
- Closets
- Built-ins
Planning these areas together can create a more cohesive home.
Build a Selection Timeline
One of the best things you can do is ask your builder and designer for decision deadlines.
Then work backward.
If cabinetry must be installed by a certain date, it needs to be ordered well before that date. Which means the design needs to be finalized even earlier.
We are honored to share that Greenbrook Design has been featured in the January/February 2026 issue of Kitchen & Bath Design News, appearing on page 66. Being recognized in one of the industry’s most respected national publications is an incredible milestone for our team and a testament to the craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration behind every project we design and build.
Taylor Walker presented with the 30 under 30 award at KBIS – Kitchen and Bath Industry Show.
Our very own hometown talent, nationally recognized photographer Randy McNeilly, has earned multiple prestigious awards for his exceptional artwork—proudly on display in the Greenbrook Design showroom.
