Design Wide Walkways Paths throughout a kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide. Paths within the cooking zone should be 42 inches wide for a one-cook kitchen and 48 inches wide for a two-cook configuration. When planning, adjust kitchen islands and peninsulas accordingly. Find the Right Height for the Microwave.

The best height and location for a microwave oven depends on the chef and the degree of kid-friendliness desired in the kitchen. For adults, 15 inches above countertop level is a good microwave height. For kids, a below-countertop setup might be safer and more suitable.

Determine the Island’s Function

When it comes to kitchen islands, form follows function. If you want to cook and eat on kitchen islands, plan enough space so the cooktop is safely separated from the dining area.

Plan Landing Space

When designing your kitchen, allow 15 inches of countertop on each side of a cooktop and refrigerator. Landing space is also important near the microwave.

Consider the Countertops

Those who cook frequently require more counter space — ideally between the range and sink — than those who cook infrequently or who prepare simple meals. Incorporating two countertop heights makes baking easy and helps kids who are involved in meal preparation.

Cut Cleaning Time

Careful design decisions make cleaning easy. Glass refrigerator shelves catch spills that wire shelves let through. Flush-set or under mount sinks don’t have a crumb-catching rim to worry about. Matte finishes don’t show dirt as much as glossy ones do.

Break Up Cabinetry Blocks

Avoid boring, heavy blocks of doors and drawers by adding interesting details such as glass doors and display shelving. Or try wine storage or windows.

Use Light Colors in a Small Kitchen

Dark color schemes shrink an already small space and make it less inviting. Use soft shades on kitchen cabinets and natural light to visually expand a small room.

Find a Focal Point

Splashy tile, fancy floors, sizable range hoods, bright kitchen cabinets, and busy countertop patterns give the eye too much to look at. Pick one focal point in your kitchen design and complement that area with a few other quieter, eye-pleasing details.

How Will Kitchen Remodeling Affect Your Home’s Value?

People choose kitchen remodeling for a variety of reasons. According to a 2017 Houzz study, 43% of respondents remodeled because they could “no longer stand the old kitchen.”(2) Following closely behind, 40% said they wanted to update their kitchen all along but just became financially ready.(3) It makes sense that the price tag can stop some people from a renovation project. Whether you’re planning for just a few well-chosen updates or a complete overhaul of your current space, kitchen remodels don’t come cheap. So how do you know if it’s the right investment for you and your home? Is it really worth it?

We’ll tackle all of those questions (and more) to help you update your kitchen the smart way! How much will your renovation cost? That’s up to you and your budget!