The designers at Julz Corp are always thinking about bringing to our clients the latest and greatest renovation tips. This blog is focused on the key things to remember when you’re designing your kitchen.

How are you going to use your kitchen space?

When you’re starting a kitchen renovation it’s important to think about how you’re going to use this space. We always recommend our clients jot down the key areas of function that they need as far as appliances and storage. Then we can start thinking about the design and adding some really interesting elements to the space. So it’s important to consider what appliances you really want and need in your kitchen. Do you have room for a wall oven and then the range-top or do you have to have it all integrated in one to save space? Dishwashers are an essential as well as your kitchen sink. But do you have room for a large 36 inch sink or do you have to keep it more compact at 30 inches? So once you have your wish list and your appliances figured out the next thing is to determine your layout.

Are you able to fit an island?

It’d be wonderful if you could incorporate an island into your kitchen. It adds more counter space and it’s wonderful for entertaining. Some key rules of thumb to consider when you’re laying out your kitchen is the distance: the distance from your counter to your island. We try to have it at 42 inches. It gives a nice distance for appliances to pull out, like your dishwasher and refrigerator. The key to making a functional kitchen is to take account of what you have and how you’re going to store it in your new space. It is nice when the kitchen has trays for knives, spices and cutlery. They really make it really functional and easy to access.

Choose your style.

The fun part of the design of your kitchen is to consider what style you want it to be. Do you want it to be traditional, contemporary or modern? Choose something that really speaks to you and also relates to the rest of your home style. When designing a kitchen you can splurge on hardware. The cabinet hardware makes such a difference in a statement for the overall look and feel of the kitchen! Also, consider investing in your faucet. The faucet you’re going to be using every day. It’s right there as a centerpiece. Make sure you pick a beautiful and stylish faucet.

When picking the paint color for your cabinetry of the kitchen consider color blocking. Lighting is a key item that people often overlook but it needs to be thought of really far in advance because your lighting has to be roughed in before any cabinetry is installed. Think about incorporating three layers of lighting. You have your overall pot lights, your under counter task lighting and then your decorative feature lighting which is often pendants over the island.

The key thing to consider to have a successful renovation that’s both on-time and on-budget is to do all of your homework. Contact Julz Corp at (760) 795-9697 and we’ll make sure everything is listed and itemized and don’t be afraid to talk about budget and cost.