Planning a Kitchen

Good kitchen design is the most important element in planning a kitchen installation or renovation. The best way to plan a new layout is to visit showrooms. They have various set-outs built so you can experience the effects of surface materials, flooring and lighting. Also visit for inspiration, design ideas and updated products, such as benchtops and splashbacks. Some companies will design a kitchen for you but often won’t let you keep the design unless you sign on the dotted line.

Design to scale
Another option is to DIY design on graph paper. A scale of 1:20 fits on an A4 sheet. Or use the planning grid and reusable cabinet stickers provided by some manufacturers of modular units such as the Flatpax kitchen

An essential design element is the position of the sink, cooking station and fridge. A work triangle with 1.2m sides is ideal, but there are other options to suit.

When planning
• Consider the location of all the plumbing and electricals.
• Take in the sink position. Under a window is best to enjoy the view.
• Allow 300mm either side of the cooktop so there’s room to rest pots. Keep cooktop 600mm from the sink.
• Avoid placing the fridge next to cooking appliances, as it wastes energy.

Cupboards and Benches

A height advantage
If you're redesigning your kitchen, create benches of varying heights. Some tasks, such as kneading dough are done more comfortably on a lower surface. If you can't adjust the bench, elevate yourself by standing on a low stool. To raise the work-space, stack several cutting boards on the counter.

Remodelling

Traffic on trial
When planning a kitchen island, mark out the perimeter of its proposed location with strips of masking tape (but don’t leave it in place for too long). Count the number of times you step over the tape – after a couple of days, you’ll have pinpointed any traffic problems.

Safe and Smart
Measure appliances before you buy them, to make sure they’ll fit through the door and into their allocated spaces.

Stepped-up island
If you’re planning a kitchen island or peninsula, consider a two-tier design – it separates the snack bar from the workspace and also blocks the sight of mealtime clutter from other rooms or areas of the kitchen. A 1500mm step between counter surfaces is about right.

If you have limited funds,
Buy the best cupboards you can afford, and order a plastic laminate, rather than a solid timber bench top. You’ll save money, and you can upgrade the bench top at some later date. In the meantime, you’ll have the basis of a beautiful kitchen.