U-Shaped Kitchen Remodeling Ideas
- Understanding work flow helps in designing a U-shaped kitchen remodel. Kitchen plans are usually based on the classic kitchen work triangle---kitchen, stove/oven and sink. The idea is to place these appliances in easy reach or steps from one another to create greater efficiency. Know what appliances will be used in the kitchen before designing. This would include ice makers, trash compactors, wine coolers and any decorative features like plate racks, pot displays and utensil racks. Rate their importance in the cooking process and locate them within the kitchen work triangle if they are used during cooking.
- Simple drawings using grid paper and pencil are easy to construct when the measurements of the room and appliances are known. Plumbing and electrical outlets may limit placement of sinks and larger features like stoves, ovens, dishwashers and refrigerators. Drawings can identify floor plan conflicts before they become serious construction problems. They can also lead to brilliant ideas. Using simple floor plan software that has a 3-D component allows for an actual walk-through before remodeling begins. HGTV and Better Homes and Gardens both offer floor plan software that includes a 3-D option.
- U-shaped kitchens can offer the opportunity for breakfast seating, open space into a dining area and lots of extra storage. Some U-shaped kitchens can be large enough to place an island in the center to provide more work surface, storage below or seating for several people. Websites like Home Furnishings and Kitchen Bath Ideas offer photographs of U-shaped kitchen ideas (see Resources). The book "Ultimate Guide To Kitchens" walks the reader through the kitchen remodeling process and addresses the U-shaped kitchen using 3-D drawings.