Quick — what’s the first ingredient that comes to mind when you think of cooking?
A lot of people will say salt. Others might name garlic or oregano. Whatever kind of meal you’re making, chances are you’ll need essential ingredients like these.
The same goes for modern kitchen design. When we’re creating a new kitchen floor plan, here are some of the must-have ingredients we recommend that combine functionality, comfort, and personal style.
1. KITCHEN STORAGE
Kitchens come in many forms. But they all call for space to store an incredible array of items and appliances. You’ve got your regular plates, special plates, and culinary gadgets used on occasion that still need a storage spot to maximize counter space when not in use.
The key isn’t simply having more square footage or cabinets. (Although that certainly goes a long way.) It’s about making the storage you have easier to use with a functional kitchen design layout.
Take lower cabinets, for instance. Traditional swing-out doors mean kneeling or bending down to find what you’re looking for, maybe even removing other items first to get to what you want. With pull-out drawers, even if the pan you need is tucked in the back corner, you don’t have to empty half of your cookware just to make dinner. The more you use your kitchen, the more you’ll appreciate the convenience.
2. PREP SPACE
Countertops are meant for one main purpose: food preparation. So making sure you have plenty of uninterrupted counter space is essential for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
This goes hand-in-hand with storage. If you’ve got space in the pantry to keep appliances when you’re not using them, they won’t take up valuable prep space on the counter when preparing meals.
In today’s open-concept homes, food prep takes on even greater importance when you have company over. With the kitchen flowing right into the dining area and gathering room, food preparation is now considered part of the entertainment.
3. ISLAND SNACK BAR
This might be the most versatile feature of modern kitchens. A kitchen island with seating serves as an informal dining area — perfect for a quick meal and favorite gathering place for family and guests.
A kitchen island is also tailor-made for entertaining. Whether you set out simple appetizers, cocktails, or a full buffet, you create an inviting space where everyone can gather to graze, nosh, and socialize.
It’s not just for food, either. Pull up a chair and the island snack bar provides a relaxed, comfortable spot to work on your laptop or for kids to do homework. No wonder it’s part of virtually every Bielinski Homes floor plan.
4. DESIGN VARIETY
Your design choices are where you truly make a kitchen your own. That’s why we offer options with a variety of materials, styles, colors, and finishes.
Stained or painted cabinets. Subtle neutrals or vibrant hues. Classic subway tile or modern style backsplashes. Complementary or contrasting tones. White or bold patterned countertops. The available options and possible combinations are virtually limitless.
When every last detail is thoughtfully selected and finished to your individual taste, our modern kitchen design ideas truly bring the primary gathering spot in your home together.
5. THE RIGHT LIGHTING MATTERS
Good kitchen lighting adds warmth and beauty to any kitchen. But it isn’t merely aesthetic. You need good light whenever you’re working in the kitchen, as well as softer lighting for ambiance when eating or relaxing. Ever try reading a recipe in the dark?
That calls for a balance of natural light, recessed task lights, and pendant lights over the island. Think about what kind of lighting you want at different times of the day.
To truly take kitchen lighting to the next level, consider upgrading to undercabinet lighting or dimmer controls so you can really set the scene.
FEELING INSPIRED?
If you’re ready to explore your kitchen ideas with us, we’d love to personalize a new home to accommodate all of your kitchen design essentials. Let’s find some time to talk.
