Kitchen ideas are a dime a dozen, but how do you know which will work best in your own home? With thousands of different ideas out there today, it can be difficult to find the perfect kitchen design. But it doesn’t have to be. Instead, take some time to brainstorm kitchen ideas that appeal to you personally, as well as what you can afford. There is no need to overspend, but rather than spending extravagantly, do some research and planning first.
Before jumping into purchasing kitchen ideas for small kitchens, consider where they will be used. How many people will use them? Do you entertain frequently, or are you planning to simply use it for family meals? Consider what activities will take place in the kitchen, such as cooking, eating, and cleaning. A well-designed lighting system will have the ability to transform typically small kitchen ideas into something very spectacular.
Themes for small kitchens can range from contemporary and modern to country and traditional. A classic kitchen idea is typically either very sleek and simple, or alternatively, classic and simple with subtle character. If your decorating plan is to be primarily used for family meals, then a contemporary theme may be more appropriate. Alternatively, if your primary focus is on creating an environment that will be inviting for eating, consider a more rustic look. Country kitchens lend themselves to softer, natural lighting, while contemporary themes require a very sharp and bright lighting.
As previously mentioned, there are numerous types of finishes available for kitchens these days, including distressed finishes, faux finishes, painted finishes, solid finishes and cabinetry. If you are considering remodeling or building from scratch, you’ll definitely want to pay special attention to the cabinets. Although they may be on the smaller side, cabinet surfaces come in a variety of sizes, colors, shapes and textures. These choices help create a multitude of possibilities, allowing you to find the perfect finish to complement your kitchen ideas.
When it comes to the simplest kitchen ideas, the two most common choices include freestanding units and built-in cabinetry. Freestanding units are usually constructed out of stainless steel and include one or more cabinet doors, providing easy access to all items within. Built-in cabinets, on the other hand, are simply placed into the walls adjacent to the stove or refrigerator. The cabinet doors are then covered with cabinetry material that matches the rest of the kitchen design, such as laminate veneer, butcher block or even wood. Whether you choose a freestanding unit or built-in cabinet, your choice will ultimately be determined by your budget and personal preference.
Lighting is also a key component of many kitchen ideas. Typically, you’ll find three basic lighting options; flush mounts, semi-flush and high-hanging. With flush mounts, the kitchen design has overhead lighting installed at eye level; often times via concealed wall sconces. Semi-flush mounts have higher ceilings, typically between three and five feet above the countertop. High-hanging units are typically found in traditional kitchens or over top of islands, cooking centers or cook-tops.
