Trend 2012: The kitchen is still the heart of the home

There are many rooms that make a house a home, but the kitchen really is the epicenter of family living. If you design it right, it can grow with your family and serve you for many, many years.

I like to work with my clients to make sure their kitchen reflects how they live. A family with young children might appreciate an eat-in kitchen that keeps crumbs and “uh ohs” off expensive rugs or carpets, but since those same toddlers will grow into active kids and teenagers, a breakfast bar may also make sense for that growing family.

Empty nesters are usually happy with more work space and easy access to the dining room and entertaining spaces of the home. Putting the pantry close to the door, with eye level shelves that slide in and out for easy access is something I often recommend to older homeowners.

Families with younger children like bottom drawer refrigerators with water in the door. Young professionals often want a wet bar and liquor storage or a wine fridge. No two kitchens are alike, and when you work with a professional kitchen designer, you will end up with a kitchen that is just right for your home.

How do you make sure you get what you need?

1. Plan ahead. If you have a young family and you plan to stay in the house, build the kitchen large enough to accommodate your growing family.

2. Figure out how much space you need, then add just a little more for good measure. (It’s uncommon to hear someone complain that they made their new kitchen “too large.”)

3. Personalize your selections. Just because “everyone” wants granite countertops is no reason why you need to have them. If you prefer a different solid surface or an eco-friendly alternative, go for it.

4. Make a lighting plan. Use natural light as much as possible. Most people like a window at the sink and windows near the dining area. Consider recessed lighting (can lights) in the ceilings or under cabinets. Make sure there’s plenty of overhead light for work surfaces like the island, countertops or stove.

5. Consider access to backyard or deck access. If you don’t currently have an exterior door to your kitchen, a remodel might be a good time to add one. Outdoor living space, like patios and decks, become entertaining hot spots when they are accessible to the kitchen. If this works for your floor plan and budget, consider dialing it in to your overall plan.

By focusing on how your family lives in your kitchen, and communicating that clearly to your kitchen designer, you can end up with a custom kitchen that is just perfect for the way you live.

At Ron’s Kitchen Designs, we specialize in creating the one of a kind kitchen that homeowners love to live in. For more information, contact us today. We’ll be happy to consult with you about your dream kitchen and help you turn those dreams into a real kitchen for you and your family.