Remodeling and Space Planning
If entertaining is a big part of your social scene, you’ll want to plan your remodeling accordingly. When considering a home improvement project, people sometimes focus on interior design issues rather than space flow factors. When the big party occurs, they then are faced with an island that is too small, hallways that are too narrow and other traffic flow problems.
The kitchen is one area that is critical to the space flow discussion. This is true whether you are doing a minor kitchen design update – new appliances, countertops, etc. – or a full remodeling. Look around and ask yourself if there is enough room to walk around the island? Can the refrigerator open easily when someone is standing nearby? All these issues should be considered during a remodeling project.
Remodeling Tips
Think about what type of entertaining you do – how many people at a time and their ages. You’ll want a more casual setting if the gatherings are informal and with lots of small children versus dressy adult functions where space for a buffet line or appetizer station is preferred.
Many kitchen design experts say you need at least 36 inches of space around an island, for example, but what’s wrong with 48 inches? As long as the space is proportional, you’ll offer guests a little more grazing room.
Space flow is an important home improvement topic, particularly if you entertain. Look around at your next party and see how people move through the space. Don’t leave space planning to chance or you might regret it after your next remodeling project.