Design Notes
Design is more than just a word describing how we reimagine a space or rearrange the layout. It involves providing a solution to any number of problems, from a lack of functionality to a frustrating area in the home. Designers resolve issues in the home; they transform a trouble spot that has caused the owners’ misery and replace it with one that works beautifully with their lifestyle and needs. At Walker Woodworking, we do custom work, which means we take the time to get to know our clients and create something that solves problems and looks great. Let’s talk about three areas in the home that often need design solutions and how we can help you solve them.
Design Solutions For The Kitchen
One of the most-used areas in the home is also among the most problematic. Some of the more common ones that our clients share with us include:
- Poor layout
- Insufficient storage
- Meager lighting
- Minimal prep space
Each of these problems can be solved with a well-planned design.
Poor layout: our designers often talk to our clients about their daily habits and what they need to accomplish in the kitchen. If beverages are part of the daily routine, we encourage the use of a beverage station. That way, everything is in one area, easy to reach and maintain. If the kids tend to hang out here after school, we make it a point to create an area where they can sit around the kitchen island, leaving you with ample room to cook. We often rely on the tried-and-true work triangle that ensures the range, fridge, and sink are within easy reach of each other. A good layout accomplishes a lot and can help a homeowner’s routine go super smoothly and eliminate stress.
Insufficient storage: This is a big problem for many of our clients because insufficient consideration is given to what will be stored in a kitchen. It’s essential to take the time to make a mental list of items used daily, regularly, and seasonally. Items used often need to be in areas that are within easy reach, while seasonal items can be tucked away. Another fact is getting creative with what you have. There is often more space available than we first realize. Our designers love to think outside the box to give clients the storage space they need.
Meager lighting: No one enjoys trying to make dinner while squinting, so we offer multiple options for additional kitchen lighting. We have under-cabinet, strip, and task lighting that will eliminate shadows and let you follow that newest recipe easily. Learn a little more about why proper lighting is essential to kitchen design.
Minimal prep space: Besides bad lighting, not having enough space to cook is another hassle when making family meals. We often encourage having a small prep sink, a pot filler over the stove, and enough counter space for two people to work comfortably without tripping over each other. Prep space is important, which is why we take the time to go over it with our clients, making sure they have exactly the room they need.
The kitchen deserves sufficient time to be designed so it looks good and functions for everyone. If things are cramped or disorganized, it can turn the heart of the home into a dreaded area for everyone. A good design can solve so many problems.
Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking