The clean, minimalist approach to kitchen decor suits a spacious loft.
The open, airy and urban design of lofts can make designing a kitchen challenging. Combine form with function to create a space that has all the kitchen necessities but still carries the open loft architecture throughout. Consider the designs of kitchens in home d cor magazines that are aesthetically pleasing when coming up with ideas. To solidify an idea on the ideal kitchen, consider space, form, layout and style. Does this Spark an idea?
Space
Evaluate the amount of square footage there is to work with. How much physical space exists for the actual kitchen footprint? Knowing the size limitations helps plan the rest of the loft's kitchen design. A smaller kitchen might benefit from a galley kitchen design with counter tops and appliances on opposite walls. A larger kitchen might be able to accommodate extras like an island or wine storage. A more modern kitchen can take up less room due to sleek appliances and pared down decor, while a traditional kitchen usually requires a bit more square footage.
Function
Experienced chefs and cooks want different features in a kitchen than those who frequently eat out. For some people, having a gas range may be non-negotiable. Others may want a built-in cook top. Environmentally conscious loft owners may opt for built-in trash compaction and recycling. Basics like a refrigerator, dishwasher, sink, oven and microwave all must be planned for within the space.
Establish an outline of the tasks and functions the kitchen should accommodate. Be sure to leave room for plenty of counter space to prepare food.
Layout
Lofts have a lot of open space and usually plenty of light, so once plumbing and electrical fixtures are designed, the layout portion should allow creative ideas to reign. With specific information on the size of the kitchen and desired kitchen functions in hand, planning the kitchen layout becomes less of a headache. Some design ideas are to place kitchens in the corner of a home, while newer design options focus on having the kitchen in the center or core of the living space. A well-designed kitchen layout can make smaller kitchens seem bigger and make larger kitchens seem more intimate.
Style
The style of the kitchen ties in all of the above elements with the interior design of the loft. Modern kitchens might choose appliances in stainless steel and an urban material like concrete or glass for counter tops. A Euro-modern approach could combine granite or quartz counter tops with glossy laminate cabinets. While loft spaces tend to lend themselves more to urban or modern design ideas, enthusiasts of a more traditional kitchen design can still use real wood cabinets and granite counter tops successfully within the space.
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