5 Top Functional Kitchens Tips to Inspire Your Next Kitchen Remodel

Not only do we cook in our kitchens, but we also entertain friends, have family conversations, and simply spend much of our leisure time there. Having an organized and functional kitchen helps the space feel open and tidy while serving your needs or just relaxing in it. 

There are plenty of ideas when it comes to creating a functional kitchen. When it comes to kitchen drawers, think about what you use them for the most. If you entertain a lot or have a large family, an open floor plan may be better for you to have plenty of room to move around and prepare meals. It can make all the difference to have a space suitable for any occasion! 

Here are five top tips to make your next kitchen remodel more functional. Considering these tips will help to create a kitchen that is both functional and stylish. You will love your new kitchen for many years to come.

Functional Design Tips to Incorporate In Your Next Kitchen Remodel:

1. Drawers

If you are looking for a way to add more storage space to your kitchen, one option is to consider your layout to optimize your drawer space by including additional drawers. This can immediately make your kitchen more functional and organized. It is a simple way to increase your storage in your kitchen cabinets.

If you are not sure how many kitchen drawers you need, start by taking inventory of everything that you currently store in your kitchen cabinets as well as what you have to store elsewhere tha you wish was in the kitchen. This will give you a better idea of the storage you need and important talking points to discuss with your designer during the design consultation. 

2. Counter Space

Counter space is a critical element to creating a functional kitchen. If you are looking for a kitchen layout that provides plenty of functional counter space, here are a couple options to consider:

In larger sized kitchens, you have more ideas and options that are accessible to you. Look at your current layout. Is there open space at the end of your existing layout that might allow you to add another cabinet or do an overhang to create more functioning countertop space? Even 9” can make a difference, allowing for another cabinet in the layout or as an overhang over the side of a kitchen island in addition to the back of it. Or if you have a small but open wall, a small wall depth base cabinet can create a little more countertop landing space.

Smaller kitchens are a little tougher as the options are limited. If you cannot expand on the space, it is time to get a little more creative. What accessories can you add to your design that can take things off the counter and give you more working space? It can range from mounting a microwave to adding spice racks on backs of doors or getting more from your backsplash by using it to hang cooking utensil or other items currently taking up valuable countertop space. No matter what size kitchen you have, there are options!

3. Storage

If you are looking for kitchen storage ideas, then you have come to the right place. Functional kitchens are all about making the most of the space you have, and that includes finding clever ways to store everything from pots and pans to dishes and utensils. Planning and designing a functional kitchen with maximized storage can be simple with Reico Kitchen & Bath!

Here are some of our kitchen storage remodeling tips to help you make the most of your space:

  • Use wall-mounted shelves or racks to free up countertop space.
  • Install a pot rack to keep pots and pans within easy reach.
  • Add a kitchen island for additional storage and prep space.
  • Invest in kitchen cabinets that offer built-in accessories and organized storage.
  • Utilize vertical space by hanging things on the walls or back of doors.
  • Use bins, baskets, pull-outs and other containers to organize kitchen items.

With the help of our creative design team, you can easily find more ways to make your kitchen storage more functional and better organized. 

4. Open-Concept Kitchens

If you are looking for functional kitchen ideas, an open-concept kitchen might be where you land. Open-concept kitchens open up the kitchen to the rest of the house. Here are some things you need to think about with an open-concept kitchen:

How do you use your kitchen? Do you entertain often? Do you have a large family? Or do you just need a little extra space to move around? Answering these questions can help you determine if an open-concept kitchen is right for you.

Next, consider the layout of your kitchen. An open-concept kitchen typically features an island or peninsula, which immediately provides extra counter space and storage and can be a great way to have everything you need close by. Removing your wall is another option that can make your space feel more open. You also may already have a home design that provides you with an open-concept kitchen layout to begin with. 

Discuss both your kitchen functionality requirements and your current home setup with your designer to see if an open-concept kitchen is right for your needs.

5. Working zones

The layout of a functional kitchen is based on the work triangle principle. This principle states that the three main work zones in a kitchen - the fridge, the sink, and the stove - should be positioned in an open triangle so that you can move between them easily.

If you want to have a functional kitchen, you should consider the different work zones.

  • The fridge, sink, and stove should be positioned in proximity to each other, so you do not have to walk too far when moving between them. Ideally, there should be plenty of counter space around each of these key work areas, so you have enough room to prep food and cook meals.
  • Storage is also important in the work zones of a functional kitchen - you'll need enough space to store all of your related items, from pots and pans to spices and ingredients as well as cleaning items for the sink area. 
  • Good lighting is also essential in the work zones and throughout to create a functional kitchen - you want to be able to see what you are doing at all times.  

Ask questions when consulting with a designer about your functional kitchen remodel to ensure you create a space that makes your life easier.

Summary

These are just a few of the key things to keep in mind when you are looking to create a functional kitchen. Making sure you have enough cabinets, countertop space and cabinet accessories in your kitchen layout to accommodate all of your needs will make all the difference.  With these tips in mind, you can create a functional kitchen that meets all of your needs.

Creating a functional kitchen doesn't have to be difficult! Let Reico Kitchen & Bath answer your questions and guide you to your own beautiful and functional kitchen. 

Need help getting started? Download our Planning Guide!

Expert guidance on how to get started on a kitchen or bathroom remodel!