Are You Interested in Exploring Kitchen Island Design Ideas?
Keep These Key Elements In Mind When Making Plans For A Kitchen Island
If you are planning a kitchen remodeling project, you are probably interested in exploring plans for building a kitchen island. After all, kitchen islands make your kitchen look more attractive, while also making it easier to use.
FREE Information on all Aspects of Kitchen Designs
It is also important to take a look at several different kitchen island design ideas in order to make certain the design you develop is the right one for you.
The first step in creating plans for building a kitchen island is to consider the shape of your kitchen. If you have a U or L shaped kitchen that is spacious enough to accommodate an island, you should have no problem with adding an island to your design plans.
If you have a galley or peninsula kitchen, on the other hand, it may not be very conducive to adding an island to your room. With limited floor space, adding an island may only create a cramped space.
Once you have determined that your kitchen layout can accommodate an island, it is time to start exploring the various kitchen island design ideas that are available. For example, you may want to add one or more of these elements to your kitchen island…
* Breakfast Bar
Requires a countertop that is tall enough for bar stools to be seated underneath.
* Overhead Storage Space
Features space for pots and pans to be hung or for cabinetry to be added for additional storage.
* Range
Includes adding a range to the island so additional counter space can be created, or enough space is left for a double oven.
* Sink
May include a small sink that can be used for washing vegetables or completing other small tasks.
When creating plans for building a kitchen island, you should keep these elements in mind so you can create the kitchen design that is best suited to your unique lifestyle, needs and budget.
In the end, adding to your design plans is an excellent use of space, as long as your budget allows for it. Not only will it make it easier for you to work in your kitchen, it will also provide you with an extra area for friends and family to gather, while also increasing the resale value of your home.
So, if possible, include plans for building a island in your remodeling project and you will be certain to be thrilled with the final results of your kitchen remodeling.
James Mahoney is the owner of Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. He has written many articles on kitchen design and puts out an information packed newletter. Learn about kitchen design ideas and trends by visiting his site at http://www.KitchenDesignersIdeas.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_J._Mahoney
Average Return on Remodel Investment
Remodeling a current home instead of buying a new one is a popular decision among homeowners in today’s economy and housing market. It’s also a wise choice, for when the time comes to sell, the return on investment for many remodeling projectsis significant, especially in the kitchen.
According to the 2008-2009 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, the national average cost recouped from a major, mid-range kitchen remodel is 76 percent. And until you’re ready to resell, you’ll have a beautiful kitchen designed for your lifestyle.
Before you take that first step and begin demolition, here is a few vital tips to help create your dream kitchen, save precious time and increase your home’s value.
Plan, Plan, Plan — Good design begins with a great plan. It takes thoughtful preparation and while a bit complex, it’s also exciting. A kitchen remodel is a big investment, so know how much you are willing to spend and plan ahead on the layout and design features. If you do, it will be easier to manage your budget and completion date. Keep in mind that hardware, paint and wall coverings can easily be updated to reflect the latest trends, but make sure your big purchases like cabinetry, countertops and appliances are something you can live with for years.
Think About the Way You Live — Your new kitchen design should be based on the way your family lives. How many people will be in the kitchen at one time? In addition to cooking, will you use your kitchen for dining, entertaining or homework? Does anyone in your family have special needs? Do you need a lot of storage? Prepare an inspiration folder of ideas you’ve seen in magazines or digital pictures you’ve taken of elements you like. The more you share with your kitchen design specialist, the easier it will be for them to get that sense of your family’s lifestyle.
Your Personal Style — When selecting your kitchen cabinets, are you traditional, contemporary or somewhere in between?
Before you head to your local Lowe’s, it’s important to know your style so your designer can help create a unique, customized look. Think about what appeals to you — styles, finishes, colors, etc. From a practical standpoint, review your priorities — your “must haves” — against your target budget.
SOURCE: At Home Magazine.
Kitchen Remodel Design Layouts
A family cook often walks 100 miles a year. As much as one third of this kitchen pacing may be wasted motion, due to appliances placed for saving dollars in the construction or remodeling process. Sizing a kitchen is very important prior to the start of a new kitchen project. Plan ahead and understand the best kitchen layout for your family.
In an efficient kitchen there are three ” activity centers”. The kitchen activity centers consist of the refrigerator, the sink and the range. These activity centers in a kitchen should lie within easy reach of the cook – and according to a study made at Cornell University, better placement of these activity centers can eliminate as much as 40 miles a year from the kitchen marathon.
There are Four Basic Kitchen Layouts
(There also are variations to the four basic kitchen layouts
The corridor kitchen.
The L kitchen.
The U kitchen.
The one – wall kitchen.
Two variations are the Double L and the G kitchen layouts.
The 3 activity centers make up 3 points called the “work triangle”
(The refrigerator, the sink and the range)
Usually – The smaller the triangle the greater the efficiency
In an efficient kitchen – the sides of the triangle add up to no more than 23 feet.
Additional Kitchen Considerations: Each activity center must also have a minimum of counter area and storage volume. 48″ between facing base cabinets or appliances. (There is Enough space to stand at an open cabinet, refrigerator, or oven while another person edges past)
Wishing You The Best Life Can Bring And Kitchen Remodeling Success!
Source: www.articlebase.com
www.LKNcabinets.com Serves the greater Charlotte area including towns such as Kannapolis, Salisbury, Concord, Huntersville, Cornelius, Mooresville, Gastonia and more
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