5 Common Kitchen Layout Mistakes

Your kitchen is your culinary playground, so it's important to make sure it's set up for success. Here are five common kitchen layout mistakes to avoid:

1. Poor circulation. No one wants to feel like they're playing bumper cars in their own kitchen. Make sure there's enough space for people to move around comfortably, without bumping into each other or the appliances.

2. Ignoring the work triangle. The work triangle is the area in your kitchen formed by the sink, stove, and refrigerator. This is the most important area in your kitchen, so it's important to make sure it's well-designed. The ideal distance between each point in the work triangle is 4 to 9 feet.

3. Ordering wrong size appliances & cabinets. It's important to measure your kitchen carefully before you order any appliances or cabinets. If you order the wrong size, you'll end up with a cramped and inefficient space. Check out RTA Cabinets for a great selection of high-quality kitchen cabinets.

4. Inadequate lighting. Good lighting is essential in any kitchen. Make sure there's enough light over your work surfaces, so you can see what you're doing. You may also want to consider adding task lighting to specific areas of your kitchen, such as the stovetop or the sink.

5. Not utilizing vertical space. Vertical space is often wasted in kitchens. Make sure to take advantage of the space above your cabinets by installing shelves or hanging baskets. This will give you extra storage space without taking up any floor space.

Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll have created a functional and stylish space.

Here are some additional tips for designing a functional and stylish kitchen:

• Choose a layout that suits your lifestyle. If you cook a lot, you'll need a well-organized kitchen with plenty of counter space. If you entertain frequently, a kitchen that is large enough to accommodate guests will be a must.

• Vary the type of materials and finishes. This will add visual interest to your kitchen and make it feel more inviting.

• Don't forget the details. The little things, like the placement of outlets and the type of hardware you choose, can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen.

Don’t get caught skimping on one of the most important rooms in your home! With a little bit of time spent planning, you will be able to avoid what so many others fall victim to. Make your kitchen yours–in both functionality and style. For an assortment of various types of kitchen layout ideas from HGTV, click here, or visit our Pinterest board.