A Quick Guide to Kitchen Layout Do’s & Don’ts

To ensure a successful kitchen remodel, design and renovation professionals start by following best practices for creating a kitchen layout. In this post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Northwest DC lists some basic kitchen layout do’s and don’ts that will guarantee an exceptional kitchen design and a more efficient kitchen.

Do’s

Separate Foot Traffic From the Cooking Area

Foot traffic in the kitchen can be disruptive and sometimes dangerous, especially when walkways are too close to the working areas. If you have the space, you can add an island to separate the cooking zone from the walkway — which is crucial if your kitchen is located between your living area and another room.

Widen the Walkways

The space between appliances, islands and walls must be wide enough. For walkways, the width should be at least 36 inches so that people can pass through easily. Meanwhile, the aisle in your kitchen should be at least 42 inches wide if you have a single-cook setup. If you have two cooks that typically use the kitchen, the width should be at least 48 inches.

Ensure Proper Microwave Height

A microwave oven is small and convenient to place anywhere. Positioning it 15 inches above the countertop is good for adults. If children will also be using the oven, it would be better to opt for a below-countertop setup for safety and accessibility.

Don’ts

Decide on Sink Location Last

Lots of tasks are done at the sink, so a rule of thumb is to decide on the location of your sink first. Consider placing it on an island or in an area that offers a good view. In addition, make sure your sink is near the refrigerator and stove.

Disregard Your Vertical Space

Sometimes, homeowners forget that they can make good use of vertical space by adding modular cabinets and floating shelves. Just make sure the measurements of your vertical storage are similar to your bottom cabinets for a streamlined look. Consult your kitchen renovator to learn more about vertical storage options.

Put Your Stove in the Wrong Spot

It’s possible to put your stove on your kitchen island, especially if you plan on having an eat-in kitchen. In this case, make sure the cooktop is separated from the dining area. Nevertheless, experts sometimes recommend placing the cooktop on an exterior wall so that it’s easier to install a ventilation system.

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DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Northwest DC delivers only the best home remodel projects to our clients. Call us at (202) 933-7196 or fill out our contact form to start your remodeling project! We serve homeowners in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Arlington, McLean, Georgetown and other surrounding areas.

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