ELEMENTS OF  “D.E.S.I.G.N”

Does the thought of “Kitchen Renovation” ring of headache or holiday to you? Whether you are contemplating a renovation of $5,000 or $150,000, you can do it in comfort and with style if you plan properly. Great kitchen design ideas are easy to implement when they are focused and planned. With proper planning, even the most complex job can be fun.

The first order of business in planning is reviewing your kitchen design. Whether you are a “do-it-yourselfer” or working with a kitchen design professional, make sure that the following elements are included in your design project.

DIRECTION

Give careful thought to the direction of objects when placed in the kitchen. Window and door locations, placement of cabinetry, i.e. setting the island in the length or width of the kitchen, will give the personality of the kitchen a different outlook.

EMPHASIS

There should be one area or item in the kitchen that stands out and draws one’s attention when you enter. This is known as the “Focal point.” This magnetic quality will provide excitement, and solidify the direction that the space takes. 

STYLE

Whether building from scratch or refurbishing a kitchen space, acquaint yourself with the historical or contemporary style of your choice and follow that throughout the kitchen design project. This will give the space a sense of harmony and balance and will make your project a winner. For example, heavily traditional cabinetry would be incongruous with a contemporary or modern structure.

IDLE SPACE

Space is an entity in and of itself. Some empty space supports the utility of the other areas – hence the term “lebensraum.” Hallways, Dining, family and sitting areas – in addition to facilitating proper traffic flow - give us an opportunity to pause, reflect and enjoy the overall space. It is important to allow ample room for these spaces.

GRID

A properly designed plan has an orderly structure to it. When architectural elements relate to each other in an organized fashion, a sense of peace and stability is accomplished. Well-designed kitchen space must conform to the existing grid created by the architectural elements of the room.

NUANCES

The design is in the details. It is these nuances that transform the main concept into a design statement. These details can be various textures, materials, and accessories, etc.

You might use certain materials in a new and creative way.