The kitchen is a multi-purpose room that hosts everything from family meals and breakfasts to game nights and homework help. The kitchen is the room that gets the most use in the home. It’s multi-purpose, which means kitchen design actually does matter.
According to a HomeAdvisor survey, while 71 percent would avoid wallpaper for the kitchen, shockingly, 20 percent would give up their pet in order to have the kitchen of their dream.
What do interior designers think is worth the cost of a dream kitchen? We asked experts to tell us what they thought were the must-haves.
Floor-to-ceiling Storage
James Stanley is an interior designer based in New York City. He believes that having a place for everything (even when it comes to small city kitchens) is important. This means using clever kitchen storage ideas.
He says that no one wants their cereal stored near dishwashing soap. Building a cabinet that spans from floor to ceiling is the best way to keep your kitchen functional and organized.
James Stanley, the founder and principal of James StanleyNY in Tribeca, New York, is a boutique Architectural Design Firm. JSNY specializes in High-End Residential Renovations, and James has created a bespoke customer experience. James’ attention to detail and creativity can be seen in The Plaza, Tiffany & Co., and residential homes throughout Manhattan.
A BAR WITH EVERYTHING
Designer Samantha Pappas believes that a dedicated beverage area is the key to having a functional and beautiful kitchen. She says, ‘It is a wonderful place to prepare a cup of coffee, pour wine, or set out hors-d’oeuvres.
It can serve as a useful addition to a family’s kitchen and is also a good choice for entertaining kitchens.
A drinks station allows guests to interact with the host while entertaining without having to interfere with food preparation.
Samantha Pappas, an interior designer based out of southern Maine, specializes in interior finishings from shopping to space planning. She is an expert in residential projects, from sourcing goods to commissioning custom pieces and installation.
DISPOSABLE TRASH
A sneaky trash storage solution is another must-have item for Stanley. This could be a cabinet with angled shelves or a drawer that has the bins built in.
He says that this is a must in every kitchen design he creates. I like the pullout design that is easy to use and can hold two large trash and recycling bins. Place the pullout trash can near the sink to make cleaning up easier.
A CUSTOM HOOD
Pappas believes that a customized hood can give a kitchen a unique feel without breaking the bank. There are many design options available for a custom-made hood: plaster, wood, or tile.
She says that it’s a great place to add a custom design element to the kitchen, even if you don’t have the budget for custom cabinets. It’s a great way to add another layer of texture and bring attention to the kitchen.
A POT FILLER
Pot Fillers are perched above the stove and ready to fill pots with ease. They are a luxury for those who take cooking seriously. Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchen Design Company, is a big fan.
Since we introduced pot fillers into our collection, they have appeared in many schemes. It is not only beautiful, but it’s also very practical in large family kitchens.
A LARGER WITH LIVING ROOM LOOKS
‘For those looking for ideas for walk-in pantries, I would encourage them to take a look at one of the newest (and I believe lasting) trends in kitchens, the decorated larder,’ says Lucy Searle. She is the Editor-in-Chief of Homes & Gardens.
The trend is to have pantries with glazed or partially glazed doors rather than solid ones. The upside is that it makes a small kitchen appear larger. However, the downside is traditional pantries prioritize function over design. This new trend in decorating pantries beautifully creates the best of both worlds.
THE CURVED KITCHEN ISLAND
What is the best shape for a kitchen island? The curved island is the best shape for us.
Shehryar Khan is the director of Sheraton Interiors. Curves can soften the space, particularly when combined with pastel colors. It’s more inviting and ideal for socializing. Plus, it’s safer because you won’t hit your hips or children’s heads on sharp corners.
