10. Make Cut-outs of Appliances, Cabinetry and Furniture
At the minimum your kitchen will contain storage in the form of cabinets, pot racks or pantry space, appliances including stove, refrigerator, oven, sink and dishwasher, work surfaces including counters and islands and social space. The social space may include seating areas and possibly a casual relaxation area. You may want a space for a desk or computer. Placing all of these minimal elements into your design will require much experimentation. Make paper cut-outs of standard size appliances and cabinetry, furniture and any other elements, and try out various arrangements.
By now you’re deep into the very loose and seemingly disorganized beginning of the design process. Like all creative endeavors you’ll find yourself working from disorder to order as solutions work themselves out and you learn more about the options you have and how to use them. Start simple and leave lots of room for change. Don’t worry if a solution doesn’t come to mind now. All through the design process our subconscious minds are at work, digesting information and trying out solutions until the right one surfaces. If you’re stuck just put that part aside and work on something else. The solution will come.
Now is an excellent time to get outside input. You’ve gotten far enough into the process to interact with a design professional if you choose. Often even a simple consulting arrangement at the design stage can mean innovative solutions and improved functionality as the designer brings their considerable experience to the project. Stay open to ideas, while watching your budget and you’ll gain from the experience.
