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Tools & Resources
:
Kitchen
FAQs :
Design
Design
We've provided the answers to some frequently asked questions about
kitchen design. If you can't find the information you need here, try
posting your question on our
Message Boards.
How can I make my kitchen reflect the architectural style of my home?
Kitchens.com offers a guide describing the characteristics of different
architectural styles and recommending complementary kitchen cabinets,
countertops, flooring, and architectural details. Visit the
overview for quick tips.
How can I get more
storage space in my kitchen without changing the floor plan?
Properly planned cabinets with the right accessories can dramatically
increase your storage space. Choosing drawers instead of base cabinets
and going for cabinets taller or deeper than the standard models will
provide more space. To make that space more usable, check out the
growing number of cabinet accessories, including:
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Mixer shelves
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Rollout shelves
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Fixed-shelf,
pullout, foldout and rollout pantries
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Narrow pull-outs
that look like posts or pilasters when they’re pushed in
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Plate racks, spice
racks and wine racks
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Lazy Susans
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Pullout wicker and
wire baskets
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Toekick drawers
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Pullout trash and
recycling bins
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Cutlery
compartments and utensil dividers
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Tiltout panels in
front of the sink
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Vertical dividers
for storing trays and baking sheets
[More]
How do I measure my
current kitchen so that I have accurate dimensions for choosing products
or purchasing materials?
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Draw an outline of the kitchen, noting openings for doors and windows
(including which way the door swings).
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Draw in any obstructions (heating, plumbing, etc.), that you cannot
or do not want to move.
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Beginning at the top left corner of your drawing measure to the first
window, door or wall. Continue clockwise around the room. Include trim
when measuring doors and windows. Measure the ceiling height and write
it in the center of your drawing. Measure from the floor to the bottom
of each window and also measure the overall window height. Write these
numbers down.
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Beginning at the top left of your drawing and moving clockwise, label
the windows and doors "Window #1," "Door #1," etc. Next to each wall,
write the name of the adjacent room or "exterior wall."
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Measure any obstructions (heating, plumbing, etc.), that you cannot
or do not want to move. Measure from the two closest walls to the edges
of the obstruction. Measure the height of the obstruction.
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Check your numbers by adding the measurements of the parallel
walls to be sure they match.
[More]
What do kitchen designers do?
Good designers can envision (and prepare for) possibilities that won't
occur to you—for instance, that the walls, floors and ceilings in older
homes are typically out of plumb—and manage technical details such as
measuring, ordering and installation. They also keep on top of the
latest trends and new products, and often have showrooms where you can
see, touch and try these looks and items. Some focus exclusively on
kitchens, baths and cabinetry, while others have been trained more
broadly as interior designers or project managers.
Be sure to clarify up front who is responsible for the contractors. Some
design firms have their own installers. Others will recommend
contractors or coordinate with your builder.
[More]
How do I find and choose a designer?
Use the Kitchens.com locator, get recommendations from friends and
family, or contact the local chapter of the National Kitchen & Bath
Association. Your screening process should include a check for
complaints with the Better Business Bureau and calling past clients for
references. Also ask what their specialties are, how they approach the
design process, what kind of training they have and what their payment
schedule is.
[More]
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