Kitchen Design Mistakes to Avoid

The kitchen is the heart of the home, but designing it comes with unique challenges. Whether you’re self-building or renovating, planning your kitchen layout requires careful consideration. Avoiding these common kitchen design mistakes will help you create a functional and stylish space that will stand the test of time.

Kitchen island with pendant lighting

1. Ignoring the “Work Triangle”

The work triangle refers to the placement of your sink, stove, and refrigerator—the three busiest areas in the kitchen. When designing, make sure these are positioned for easy access, with an unobstructed flow between each one. A poorly planned triangle can make cooking and food prep feel disjointed and inefficient.

2. Lack of Counter Space

A kitchen needs ample workspace for prep, cooking and serving. Skimping on counter space can make your kitchen feel cramped. When designing, consider extending counters where possible and think creatively with areas like kitchen islands or peninsulas for added surface area.

3. Overlooking Storage Needs

It’s easy to focus on the aesthetics of your kitchen, but neglecting storage can lead to a cluttered space. Think about your storage needs early on, planning for cupboards, drawers, and specialised solutions like pull-out pantry shelves and corner storage. Aim to balance open shelving (for display) with closed cabinets (for hidden storage).

4. Inadequate Lighting

Lighting impacts both the functionality and ambiance of your kitchen. Avoid relying on a single overhead light; instead, layer your lighting with task lighting (for food prep), ambient lighting, and accent lighting (under-cabinet or above shelves). Adjustable lighting will make the space more versatile for different activities.

5. Not Planning for Proper Ventilation

Ventilation might not be the first thing you think of, but it’s crucial for managing odours, steam and heat. Ensure you include a quality range hood or ventilation system in your plans to keep the kitchen fresh and prevent moisture.

6. Choosing the Wrong Materials for Surfaces

Countertops, floors and cabinets will get a lot of use in a kitchen, so it’s essential to choose materials that are durable and easy to maintain. Opt for materials that fit your lifestyle. Do your research on the best materials for you. I went for a Dekton worktop which is stain resistant, heat resistant and also looks good. We chose polished concrete flooring throughout our open plan space and whilst it is hard wearing there has been some staining.

7. Misjudging Cabinet and Appliance Placement

A common mistake is placing cabinets or appliances in spots that make them difficult to use, such as placing a dishwasher too far from the sink. Think about daily tasks and ensure there’s sufficient space to open appliance doors and access storage without obstructing other areas. This is particularly important when you have an island or peninsula. We’ve installed our island at a distance away from the cabinets so that we can have the dishwasher open on the island and cupboards open on the bank of units behind so that we can empty the dishwasher with ease.

8. Insufficient Space for Multiple Cooks

If you enjoy cooking with family or friends, plan for ample walkway space around the kitchen. A cramped layout can make it difficult for multiple people to move comfortably. Aim for at least 1 metre of clearance around main work areas and between islands or counters.

9. Choosing Style Over Functionality

While trends can be tempting, it’s essential to balance style with practicality. For example, open shelving looks great but might not be the best option if you have limited storage elsewhere. Consider which design features will truly enhance your lifestyle and prioritise function over fleeting trends.

10. Not Future-Proofing

Avoid short-term fixes and invest in features that will last. Think about how your kitchen will age, choosing timeless design elements and high-quality materials that won’t quickly feel outdated. Additionally, consider energy-efficient appliances to save on future utility costs.

By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you’ll create a kitchen that looks great and works for you, whether you’re embarking on a self-build or revamping an existing space.

If you’re thinking about replacing your kitchen download my free guide on what questions to ask before you start your kitchen renovation.