The most important role of design is to make sure the project meets as many functional needs as possible. Therefore, the first step in designing your kitchen should be to list the things you want this room to do for you. Then brainstorm around these central uses. Having these two steps completed before you contact your remodeling professional will get your project off to a good start.

Decide what the primary uses of the kitchen will be:

Cooking

Food Storage

Dining

Equipment/Utensil Storage

Specialized Food Preparation Areas

Waste Disposal

Laundry

Secondary Media Center

Message Station

Mini-Office

Hobby/Craft Center

Plants

Entertaining

Mudroom

Traffic Hub

Collect ideas and consider the following to enhance your kitchen remodeling project:

Brainstorm with household members.

Idea shop using model homes, showrooms, home shows, magazines, books, and catalogues.

Appliances

Cabinets

Plumbing fixtures

Ceiling treatments

Flooring

Countertop materials

Wall coverings

Lighting options

Window treatments

Select a design professional and/or contractor that suits your needs.