The kitchen is the hub of the home and serves as a design cornerstone that helps to set the theme for the rest of your household. While you may already have an idea for the cabinetry, countertops, and appliances, you’ll want to consider a few other factors to ensure that you have the true kitchen of your dreams. Kitchens are only as good as their layout, and they also should compliment the overall tone of your home.

When you’re building or remodeling your kitchen, you want to set goals for your space. How will you be using your kitchen? Do you plan on entertaining guests often? Does someone in your home enjoy cooking? What’s your budget? And is space at a premium?

These questions will help set your goals for your kitchen choices, and they’ll create something to check your decisions against.

Galley Layout

This parallel and dual counter situation is ideal when your home is short on space. The parallel counters make it easy to cook with everything within reaching range. Consider how big you want the aisle to be, how much storage you need, and how you’ll have the space lit. The layout is an easy and simple one, but it can be too small depending on your needs.

L-Shaped Layout

An L-shaped counter in your kitchen offers plenty of options for creating a versatile kitchen. This style of kitchen allows for easy cooking as well as a possible breakfast bar. This can be a great style for entertaining, allowing guests to be nearby as you finish up meal preparations. You can also add an island.

One-Wall Layout

Placing all appliances along one wall maximizes space and efficiency. This is a great option if you are short on space, and it helps to use the space you have in a smart way. You can also adapt this style to fit your space or mix and match with other kitchen layouts.

U-Shaped Layout

Best for entertaining and for large scale cooking, the u-shaped kitchen provides a great flow for your cooking space. This layout is not only for large houses but can also be used in smaller homes as well. The kitchen style is great for productivity while also providing plenty of room for guests.

Other Kitchen Factors to Consider

• Bring light into your kitchen with big windows, pale paint colors, and matte finish counters.
• Islands work well in large kitchens but not so well in smaller kitchens.
• Be strategic about your cabinetry choices—some options will add weight to your kitchen while others will help your kitchen feel bright and spacious.
• Find ways to bring more light into the kitchen with windows, the right type of lighting, and use of other accessories.
• Consider your kitchen storage. Do you have room for a pantry or do you need to consolidate your space with pull-out units?
• Place your sink. Where your sink sits in your kitchen makes all the difference so you should consider how you’ll be using your sink most, whether to wash dishes or to face out to see the rest of the house.

At Fairfield, we know the layout of your home is crucial, especially your kitchen. That’s why we work so hard to ensure that our custom-built homes mesh into the landscape of the land while also meeting your home needs and desires. Speak to a home expert today!