7 Things to Consider When Designing a Modular Kitchen

Introduction : 

Homeowners in urban India have embraced the new-age modular kitchen because they can customize it according to their needs. Modular kitchens stand out when compared to conventional carpenter-made ones because they are ergonomic, they maximise storage and are convenient to use. Since modular kitchens are factory-manufactured, they have to be planned in detail because no changes can be incorporated when the modular kitchen is under production.

1. Plan Layout of Modular Kitchen: 

Depending on the size of the kitchen, choose a straight, L-shaped or U-shaped layout which ensures good work flow. Follow the golden triangle rule so that the hob, the refrigerator and the sink become the focal point of the kitchen and the distance between each point ranges between 4 to 9 feet.

2. Choose Modular Kitchen Appliances

Select the kitchen appliances during the design-phase of the modular kitchen so that you can integrate them within the layout according to their exact sizes. Introduce adequate plug points for all the appliances. Finalise the position of the cooktop-cum-chimney unit and choose a chimney with a high suction power so that it can eliminate the odours and create a smoke-free space.

3. Optimise Storage

Analyse the storage requirements of the home and consider different-sized drawers and cabinets for storing spices, pots, cutlery, utensils, electronic appliances and so on. Opt for a dedicated pantry unit to store all the dry kitchen ingredients. Optimise vertical storage by increasing the height of the overhead cabinets to ceiling level. Note that if there is a gap between the overhead cabinets and the ceiling, then the cabinet top accumulates a lot of dust.

4. Select the Materials

Choosing BWR (boiling water resistant) plywood over less durable materials like MDF, HDF, or particle board is advisable as they may get damaged in moisture-laden conditions. One has to choose between acrylic, laminate, membrane finish and duco paint finish for the exterior finish of the kitchen cabinetry. Materials like granite and quartz are the most preferred countertop materials. Avoid using marble because it is a porous material which makes it prone to staining.

5. Color Combination

Choose a single color or go for a two-tone color scheme with contrasting colors. Consider a matte finish for the kitchen cabinets because a glossy finish shows finger prints and smudges easily.

6. Introduction to Under-cabinet Lighting

The kitchen’s general lighting is provided by the ceiling lighting, however, the overhead cabinets create shadows and dark areas on the countertop.

7. Modular Kitchen Accessories

Integrate a variety of accessories like bottle pull-outs, pull-out baskets, and cutlery organizers into your kitchen design.