Six Common Remodeling Missteps

The professionally designed kitchen projects featured in this article “hit the nail on the head” when it comes to beauty and function. That’s because the experienced pros behind the designs spent time doing thoughtful planning before they lifted a single hammer. Take some cues from these well-designed kitchens along with our pro tips for avoiding some of the common kitchen design missteps as you begin to brainstorm your own kitchen projects.

1.  Overloading with Upper Cabinets

Physically and visually, too many upper cabinets can make a space feel cramped and disrupt beautiful sight lines. Consider where you can substitute some open shelving or glass panel cabinet doors to provide a sense of openness.

2.  Not Enough Storage

Be thoughtful about planning for storage. If you opt for fewer upper cabinets, then be sure to incorporate highly functional base cabinet storage. Base cabinet drawers provide tons of great storage. And if they slide out fully, you can see and reach everything. No more bending or crouching to dig to the back of deep base cabinet shelves.

Double-sided island storage can give you a place to store infrequently used or seasonal kitchen items on the back or seating side of your island. And, depending on the style of your kitchen, a hanging pot rack can free up storage in lower cabinets. But, for less visual clutter, or in more modern-style homes, a pantry is one of the best options for storing overflow kitchen essentials. 

3.  Not Enough Lighting

Have a full plan for lighting your kitchen. Add statement pendant lights over your sink and island, but don’t expect those to illuminate all of your work areas. Focus under-cabinet, wall sconce, or recessed ceiling lights on those hardworking areas that are dedicated to specific tasks.

4.  Online Orders for Critical Pieces

Don’t rely on timely shipping from companies outside the United States to deliver what you need. Stick to known and trusted sources for your critical items such as fixtures, appliances, and countertop surfaces—basically everything outside of décor. If you can’t finish your kitchen remodel without it, then it’s critical for it to arrive on time.

5.  Not Enough Counter Space

Expand your counter space wherever you can because there is NEVER enough. Whether it’s with an island that has an overhang for seating, a base cabinet that wraps around a corner with a countertop for a coffee bar or beverage station, or even a shallow quartz shelf above your backsplash for storing spices or showing off your favorite décor, every added extra inch of counter space is essential to maximizing the function and enjoyment of your kitchen.

6.  Low-Quality Materials in High-Traffic Areas

There are things that you simply need to spend money on because they get the most use: your cabinets, your countertops, plumbing pieces, and your appliances. Each will take a beating and are worth some extra investment.