If there's one space in the home that's central to just about every occasion, it's the kitchen. It's the heart of the home where families gather to cook, eat, entertain, catch up, and even finish off homework.

It's probably the most important room for any property and when it comes time for kitchen remodeling, this is where you should spend (read, invest) real money.

Check out the rest of this blog for all tips you need to design a kitchen that's not only aesthetically pleasing but offers all the functionality you and your family need.

Deciding on Your Kitchen Layout/Floor Plan

The first port of call when remodeling a kitchen is to determine the type of kitchen layout that will work best for your family's needs. Don't make the mistake of only focusing on the bigger picture, i.e. what your kitchen should look like. When you focus on the smaller details first, this is where it all comes together.

Some of the most popular floor plans include the one-wall layout, the galley layout, the horseshoe layout, or the L-shaped layout. Your choice comes down to home much available space you have to work with and the type of functionality you want from your kitchen.

Working with a qualified designer will help you come to the right decision as they can advise on the best kitchen floor plan according to the specs you have to work with.

1. Kitchen Cabinet Style

Next to the importance of your kitchen layout is the type of cabinetry you choose. Cabinets can make or break a kitchen and play a big role in the resale value of your home and the ROI of your remodeling project, down the line.

Not only this, but kitchen cabinets define how much storage your kitchen has, which is always a top consideration for potential home buyers (if you want to sell in the future). Bear in mind that your cabinetry will most likely be one of the most expensive parts of your renovation, so this is something to really budget for.

When it comes to cabinetry style, there is a huge range to choose from in today's day and age. But it's always best to go with something classic, traditional, or minimal. If you have a smaller kitchen, opting for cabinets with glass doors, combined with open shelving, can make the space look bigger.

2. To Pantry or Not?

Now, not all kitchens have the space to allow for a pantry. If you do have the space, however, a pantry is 100 percent something you should invest in. Pantries offer unlimited convenience. They add oodles of extra storage to your kitchen and are a great way to keep your kitchen counters clutter-free.

Make your pantry extra functional by adding lighting, drawers, stacked shelving, and even a lazy Susan for tinned produce or spices. You can also maximize storage space by adding hooks for hanging pots, pans, kitchen towels, and more.

3. Worktop Surfaces

Another major consideration when it comes to both function and style is your kitchen countertops. Just like your cabinetry, your countertops help to define the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. They're also one of the most expensive aspects of a kitchen remodel, so it's important to choose wisely.

It's vital that you think about how to maximize counter space as much as possible. This includes countertop space for all of your appliances, such as a coffee station, toaster, microwave, etc. And then there's the need for workable countertop space for when you're preparing food.

You can never go wrong with an in-counter sink if you have a large kitchen, too!

4. To Kitchen Island or Not?

Again, not all kitchens have the capacity or space for an island. Much like a pantry, it all comes down to the square footage you have to work with. But if you do have the space, a kitchen island is a must-have feature.

The main reasons include added storage, and additional countertop space -- plus, they're also a great way to divide up or separate your kitchen from your main living area. If you have a tight budget, but enough space for a kitchen island, you could always opt for a rolling cart or a high-top table with added storage space, instead.

5. Designated Dining Areas

If you're planning on having an open-plan kitchen that flows into your living space, i.e. your dining room or living room, you'll need to make provision for a designated dining area. In short, this means that your kitchen will double as a dining space (if you don't have a separate formal dining room).

Consider how you'll incorporate a separate dining space that will fit your family and friends. Whether it's enough floor space for a dining table and chairs, a smaller, cozier breakfast nook, or seating at a countertop or kitchen island with bar stools.

6. Kitchen Lighting

It goes without saying that lighting can really do a lot for setting the scene and the mood for any space in your home. It's super important to not only think about aesthetic lighting but functional lighting that will help you in the kitchen.

If you want to bring everything together and tie in your decor style, a hanging light fixture is one of the best ways to do so. There's plenty to consider when it comes to functional lighting. A good place to start is to determine the types of lights you want in your kitchen -- recessed, track lighting, task lighting, etc. and how this lighting will serve you.

7. Kitchen Appliances

Finally, don't forget to consider your existing kitchen appliances and whether you need to replace them, or fit them into your new kitchen layout. If you plan on upgrading, make sure to account for the new dimensions of these appliances and base your kitchen design around that.

In fact, it's a good idea to buy your appliances first, then work on your kitchen dimensions with your designer to get everything exact.

Kitchen Remodeling Made Easy

Whether you're thinking about doing a partial or full remodel, this is not the type of project to cut corners or work with an extremely tight or limited budget. It's no secret that kitchen remodeling is an investment, so make sure you're 100 percent ready to commit to it, financially, mentally, and emotionally.

If you're looking for top-quality kitchen designers who can bring your vision to life (all within budget), our team at Cabinet Wholesalers has you covered. Get in touch with us to schedule your appointment and kick things off!

Get More Expert Tips on Home Remodeling Projects

Check out the recent Redfin article we were featured in:

Are you looking to increase the value of your home in Huntington Beach? Then look no further! Whether you’re looking to sell in the near future or simply want to improve your living space with the right upgrades and features, you can boost your property value a boost with these home upgrades.

Read the full article here: 5 Home Remodeling Projects to Boost Your Property Value in Huntington Beach