The Modern Kitchen: Where Inspiration Meets Functionality
People nowadays are constantly on the lookout for newer designs for their homes. From modern furniture to technology integrations, the amount of opportunities is more than vast. When it comes to modernizing your home, starting from the kitchen is likely the best path forward.
Modern kitchens today are far more than simply a place to cook and prepare meals. They are hangout spots to gather with loved ones and enjoy the company of one another. However, the definition of the modern kitchen is ever-changing. From clean lines to flush cabinetry, there is certainly a lot to consider.
One aspect that cannot be overlooked is functionality. While kitchens have evolved from their traditional usage, their main purpose still circles around cooking.
In this article, we are going to talk about modernizing your kitchen while not cutting down on functionality. We’ll explore popular contemporary kitchen designs as well as shine light on the importance of having a well-planned kitchen layout.
The Modern Kitchen Today
The primary focus of modern kitchen designs is to establish a minimalistic appeal by incorporating elegant elements that make the kitchen space feel larger than it actually is. This is typically achieved by adding in clean lines and smooth surfaces. Doing so is not necessarily easy, which is why working with a reputable kitchen remodeling company is highly recommended.
Colors and accents are also important in modern kitchen designs. Even though the minimalistic look is best accompanied by neutral tones, you can spice things up and play around with vibrant colors and backsplashes.
Another characteristic of modern kitchens is high-quality materials. Quartz countertops, hardwood flooring, and premium cabinets are all top choices found in modern kitchens today.
Worth noting is also the integration of technology in the kitchens which primarily is done to increase efficiency and ease of use. Touch controls, voice-activated and pre-programmed appliances are all among the top-notch choices when it comes to technology integration in the kitchen.
Establishing Functionality
A functional kitchen is one that makes cooking and storage easier. Overall, a general best practice for functionality in a kitchen is to establish a triangle between the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator.
Storage is also a really important aspect, which is why going for deep drawers of ceiling high cabinets is optimal. On another note, keeping your kitchen clean by not piling up appliances is also important. Keep your countertops free as you will need this space to prepare meals.
A good idea is to separate your kitchen into zones. This way you’ll know what goes where and what doesn’t. You can specify one area of your kitchen as the prep zone, another as the clean-up zone, and so on.
Lighting is also important. If your kitchen doesn’t get ample natural light, install warm lights that allow for a cozy setting to take place. Focus on illuminating the working space as well as under-cabinet lighting for easier visibility.
Adding functional accessories such as drawer organizers and utensil dividers can make navigating your kitchen easier. Knowing where everything is without having to think twice will result in being more effective and efficient.
Popular Modern Kitchen Layouts
Layouts are what can make or break a kitchen, which is why you must carefully consider your space before opting for a specific kitchen layout. The following list showcases some of the more popular choices concerning kitchen layout plans:
- Open Layout: This kind of layout is focused on spaciousness, removing any barriers between the kitchen and the rest of the home. Such kitchens usually include a large kitchen island in the center. They provide a welcoming design that entices social activities
- L-Shaped Layout: This is where the working space is focused on one corner of the kitchen, spreading out on both ends, thereby earning the L-Shaped name. Such kitchens are spacious, allow enough room to work, and are great when it comes to storage.
- U-Shaped Layout: This kitchen layout is formed by spreading out the working space over three walls in the kitchen. Overall, this layout provides a cozy and private enclosed area where the dining takes place in the middle.
- Galley Kitchen Layout: Galley Kitchens include two working spaces facing one another, creating a corridor in the middle. This kind of layout is best for smaller kitchen spaces with not a lot of room to maneuver. Try cooking on one side and leaving the cleanup and meal prep for the other side.
Takeaways
Modern kitchens are entirely different from those of a few decades ago. While modern kitchen designs focus on design and appeal, kitchens back then were more centered around ease of use and functionality. However, it is possible to have the best of both.
Modernizing your kitchen while not cutting back on functionality is achieved by establishing both simultaneously. To do so, you can explore various layout choices that maximize storage and working space while allowing for the kitchen to be modern and appealing.
When it comes to establishing functionality, focus on maximizing storage. This can be achieved by installing deep drawers or floor-to-ceiling cabinets. From a workspace perspective setting up a triangle between the sink, stove, and refrigerator will make cooking easier and more efficient.
Overall, modernizing your kitchen isn’t rocket science. Adding qualitative materials, premium appliances, and a well-planned layout is bound to result in a modern and appealing kitchen.