The kitchen is the heart of the home - the place where food is prepared, family and friends gather, and where furniture must withstand intensive daily use. Choosing kitchen furniture is a big investment that will affect both the look and functionality of your home for years to come. Therefore, it is a decision worth considering carefully.
Here are the main things to look out for when you are planning to buy or order kitchen furniture.
1. Think about your needs and habits
Before you swing by the furniture store or interior designer, ask yourself: how will I use my kitchen?
- If you're a keen cook, you'll definitely need more workspace, quality worktops and smart storage.
- If the kitchen is more of a place for morning coffee and simple dishes, the emphasis can be on a minimalist and easy-to-maintain solution.
- For a large family, ample storage space and durable materials are important, while for a single person, functionality and compactness are essential.
2. Measure the space accurately
One of the most common mistakes is buying kitchen furniture without accurate measurements. Every centimetre counts - especially in smaller apartments. Measure:
- the length, width and height of the room;
- window and door locations;
- electrical outlets and water connections.
This way, you can be sure to avoid a situation where the cupboard doesn't fit against the wall or the fridge doesn't open because of the door.
3. Style and design
Kitchen furniture should match the rest of the home interior. Popular choices include:
- Modern kitchen - straight lines, glossy surfaces, built-in technology.
- Scandinavian style - light tones, natural materials and minimalism.
- Rustic kitchen - warm wood, rustic details, traditional look.
When choosing a style, remember that trends change quickly, but kitchen furniture will last at least 10-15 years. Neutral design is more durable over time.
4. Materials and durability
The choice of materials has a direct impact on both the price and durability of furniture.
- Wood and spoon give a natural and warm look.
- Laminate is more economical and very durable, perfect for work surfaces.
- MDF and melamine allow for different finishes and are easy to maintain.
- Stone or quartz worktops are more expensive, but extremely strong and heat-resistant.
It's important to choose a material that suits your budget and usage habits.
5. Ergonomics and layout
A good kitchen is not just about looking good, it's also about moving comfortably. Kitchen furniture is often planned using the so-called "kitchen furniture". the working triangle principle - the fridge, cooker and sink should be in a logical triangle to make cooking as smooth as possible.
It is also worth thinking about:
- Is the working surface at a sufficient height?
- Do you have enough light, both in general and above work surfaces?
- Are everyday utensils and foodstuffs easily accessible?
6. Parking spaces and smart solutions
When it comes to kitchen furniture, one of the biggest concerns is lack of space. Today, there are many smart solutions:
- retractable corner cupboards;
- drawer systems with organisers;
- integrated bins;
- high cupboards that reach to the ceiling.
Solutions like these help you make the most of every centimetre and keep your kitchen tidy.
7. Budget and quality
Kitchen furniture can be a significant investment. It's worth considering how much you're willing to spend and which parts you can save on. For example, the cupboard cabinets might be made of cheaper materials, but the worktop and hinges could be more durable.
It often makes more sense to invest in durability and quality - so your kitchen will last longer and you'll save on future repairs or replacements.
8. Made-to-measure vs off-the-shelf solutions
You have two main choices:
- Ready-made kitchens - faster, cheaper and easier to access. Well suited to standard-sized spaces.
- Custom-made furniture - made exactly to your space and wishes. More expensive, but allowing you to create a kitchen that fully meets your needs and style.
If the space is non-standard or you want a unique solution, a bespoke solution is a practical option.
9. Consult a specialist
Even if you know exactly what you want, the advice of an interior designer or furniture manufacturer can be invaluable. A professional will be able to consider details you might not think of yourself, such as ventilation, lighting, worktop height or the positioning of sockets.
Summary
Choosing kitchen furniture is a big decision that needs careful consideration. Think through your habits, measure the space accurately, choose durable materials and don't forget ergonomics. A high-quality, well-planned kitchen makes everyday cooking easy and enjoyable, and is also an investment that adds value to the whole home.
If you approach your choice of kitchen furniture in a conscious and thoughtful way, you'll get a result that will delight for years to come.