Building Your Own Kitchen

A kitchen is the heart of any home. As such, building a kitchen requires the same amount of planning and effort as would the other rooms in the house. An ideal kitchen is one with both functionality and style.

Some kitchen design ideas

In general, there are five types of kitchen layouts, namely, the U-Shaped kitchen, L-shaped kitchen, Island kitchen, Single Line kitchen and the Galley kitchen.

1. U-Shaped Kitchen. This layout allows for maximum bench space, work counter space and storage space. The U-shaped kitchen utilizes three full walls of the room and this creates the most systematic kitchen setup because everything is within an arms reach.

2. L-Shaped Kitchen. This type is perfect for a family kitchen because it allows space for eating . The L-shaped kitchen can accommodate a table and chairs within the room. It makes use of two adjacent walls of the kitchen.

3. Island Kitchen. This layout is ideal for entertaining. With the island functioning as additional workspace, it can be strategically located in front of a dining or living area, where the cook can exchange stories with guests while engaged in food preparation.

4. Single Line Kitchen. This type of kitchen layout requires a wall with a minimum measurement of three meters. With a limited area, overhead storage and under-bench appliances are installed for maximum space utility. A single line kitchen, however, entails long "journeys" around the kitchen because you need to walk from one end to the other and vice versa to switch from one kitchen activity to the next.

5. Galley Kitchen. This layout is most preferred by professional chefs because it allows them maximum space for food preparation. With one quick turn, you can instantly shift to a different work area. In addition, cabinets are strategically installed on both sides of the galley kitchen. The galley kitchen layout, however, is not suitable for kitchens that are accessible on both ends, as it may cause traffic obstruction.

Considerations for a DIY kitchen

Where to place the sink, the refrigerator and other appliances are important considerations in a DIY kitchen. An imaginary triangle helps demonstrate the different activity areas -- preparation, cooking and storage.

* The dishwasher should be beside the sink, as well as the range top, underbench or stand alone oven, and the garbage bin.

* Ample space next to the cooking area should be allotted for food preparation.

* The microwave oven may either be situated above or below the bench.

When you have everything in place in your mind, you can then begin to avail of the DIY kitchen with its accompanying tools to give a professional touch to your kitchen at less than half the price.

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