Design Notes
Designing a kitchen involves various elements that come together to create a space that is not only functional for your lifestyle but also a reflection of your personal taste. That’s why elements like color, hardware, and lighting are important—but when it comes to the working parts of the kitchen, buying appliances requires a little extra thought. It’s essential to determine which appliances will work best for you, where they should be positioned within the layout, and even how many you’ll need. These decisions can significantly influence your overall design and impact the choices you make during the initial planning phase of your renovation. Remodeling your kitchen is a sizable investment, making every decision crucial so that there are no major surprises and everything you want to accomplish happens as closely as possible to your budget. Appliances require pre-planning due to their size and specific requirements, such as power plugs and drainage. Let’s talk about some things you need to know before finalizing your choices.
Kitchen layout and appliances
The kitchen layout is important because it controls the flow of traffic and determines the placement of key elements, such as the sink and appliances. The work triangle still plays a key role in designing a layout, where the sink, stove, and refrigerator are positioned within a certain distance from each other. Knowing where you want your appliances will help your designer place each one exactly where it works best in relation to your daily routine and specific needs. If you enjoy a cup of coffee before heading out the door, it’s best to have your beverage station close to the refrigerator, where milk and creamer are stored. Do you prefer to rinse your dishes right away? Then, having the dishwasher next to the sink is the prime location. Do you have young children that need access to the microwave to make their own popcorn or warm up a piece of pie? Placing your microwave on a lower level, such as in the kitchen island, makes it easy for everyone to use. Location and layout work together to provide your family with the best experience, so be sure to give them some thought before meeting with your designer. This will save time and money, both of which are valuable, during your renovation and will also streamline your results. Browsing sites like Pinterest and Houzz can also be helpful, as they provide a visual representation of what your space could look like with various options.
What appliance size is best?
To accommodate our varied lifestyles today, appliances are available in a wide range of sizes. From small refrigerators suitable for dorm life and a condo kitchen to the massive double doors with a deep freezer, the only thing you need to do is decide which one is right for you. When determining the best refrigerator size for your kitchen, consider the number of people in your household and your cooking frequency. It is recommended that there be 4 to 6 cubic feet of storage per person, and many refrigerators will list the total capacity of cubic feet on the information sheet. Another factor is the amount of cooking you will do. If you are not home often, such as if you travel frequently, then a smaller model will work better, use less energy, and leave room in the design for things that may be more important to you. If you prefer to eat at home instead of eating out, consider selecting a refrigerator that has ample room for fresh vegetables and storage for those delicious leftovers. When it comes to dishwashers, there is a traditional standard; however, some models come in smaller sizes, as homes often require space-saving solutions, particularly with the rise of the tiny house trend. This smaller choice opens up options for those who would prefer to use that square footage to save for more cabinet or storage space in their kitchen. Microwaves can also be bought in various sizes and placed on the counter, above the stove, or in the kitchen island, which clears the counter. Discuss your daily kitchen routine with your designer so they can recommend the best selections for you and your family.
What style of appliances are right for you?
Style matters, especially in the world of design, and this has also influenced the appliances. There are several options available that can seamlessly integrate your appliances into your finished design. Stainless steel has remained a top choice for many homeowners, as it complements a variety of styles and color options due to its versatile finish. Another bonus is that it is fairly easy to clean, which is a valuable feature, especially when you have kids. When deciding which option to choose for your kitchen, it’s best to take a cue from your cabinet design. Are you going with dark wood stains? A stainless steel can add visual interest and even contrast. Opting for a more minimal look? Try paneled appliances. They are custom-fit to cover your refrigerator and even dishwasher, which allows them to blend in seamlessly with the design. This is also a great choice, regardless of the style you prefer, if you’re looking to create a unified space without interruptions. You can also mix and match, such as selecting panels for your refrigerator, but leave the dishwasher without it. If you opt for an open-style refrigerator and have a stainless steel model, be sure to consider the hardware, as black matte hardware may not be the best combination with it. Of course, there are still black appliance finishes available that work well with various styles and cabinet colors, and they also look great when paired with a more modern design. It also makes for a great contrast in your kitchen. If you enjoy retro, some companies have also introduced fun colors! Take time to browse through all of your options before finalizing your choice.
What to know about appliances
Appliances play a crucial functional role in your day-to-day kitchen activities, making them an essential part of the planning stage in your renovation. Be sure to spend time considering the features that are important to you and your family, including your personal preferences for style and size, as well as where it would work best for everyone. When working with a designer, be sure to convey all of this to them so they can assist you in making the best decision possible.
Greenbrook DesignRecycling old styles with a modern twist is a phenomenal way to honor the past while creating the future. Nostalgia is a valuable part of the creative process, especially in designing homes, our little personal factory of memories. So, don’t be afraid to try out some of these forgotten interior design styles that are making a comeback. It’s nice to freshen up your whole concept and take a little walk through a time capsule. Let your creativity fly in the limbo of styles, and wonder what else will be new soon.
Walker WoodworkingWe all have an idea of what our dream home would look like, after all, that is what places like Houzz and Pinterest are for, right? You wish you could have those little personalized spaces and upscale feel in your home that makes it stand out from the ordinary. Sometimes we believe that the home we envision is far too luxurious for our budget, but that is not true. But with a little creative thinking, anything is possible! There are many ways to stretch a budget through good planning and a few helpful tricks that can give you the luxury you desire without breaking the bank. Let’s explore the various ways to achieve designing a luxury home on a budget and bring your dreams to life.
Greenbrook DesignThese products usually come in refillable, recyclable, or compostable packaging and containers. Some have no packaging at all if you buy them from your local health food stores. You can also switch to more sustainable cleaning products, such as vinegar and hot water. For toilet paper, look for options with compostable packaging. You can also switch to a bidet to achieve complete waste-free status.
Being eco-friendly is at the heart of minimalism. If you want to adopt this light, sustainable, and freeing lifestyle, making eco-minimalist changes in your bathroom is a great first step. For more tips on achieving an elevated lifestyle, visit us here at Greenbrook Design.
Walker Woodworking As one of the most used areas in the home for our intimate needs, the bathroom should be designed as a place of refuge and relaxation from the cares and stresses of life. This means that it should reflect your personality in every way, from color to pattern; everything should make it a place you enjoy using, rather than just serving a purpose. Design details matter, and with traditional rules being replaced with out-of-the-box thinking, it is easier than ever to accomplish this task. You deserve to have a well-functioning and lovely bathroom that is designed with you in mind. Designing a bathroom should be all about you!
Greenbrook Design It’s hard to believe that the farmhouse style has only recently become so popular, thanks to its warm colors and romantic charm. It was once a haven for those seeking to escape city life and return to simpler times. Nowadays, farmhouse design is about elegant simplicity in every piece of furniture. Whether you live in a bungalow or a mansion, incorporating modern farmhouse design into your home is easier than ever. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Greenbrook Design 