Designing a Kitchen? Start Here—Not with the Cabinets

By Ester White Gherea | WBN News | May 5, 2025

We all love a gorgeous kitchen reveal—but behind every polished countertop and curated shelf lies a hundred smart decisions. Whether you're renovating or starting from scratch, great kitchen design isn't just about how it looks—it's about how it works for you.

Before you fall for that perfect slab of quartz or start pinning dreamy islands, take a step back. Ask: What do I really need from this space? Because the best kitchens aren’t just beautiful. They’re built around real life.

Let’s talk about what actually matters—before the backsplash, before the budget blowout, and yes, even before the cabinet color.

Lifestyle First—Design Second

The most important design decision? Understanding how you use your kitchen.

Are you cooking every night or mostly ordering in? Do you host, bake, meal prep, or just need space for the espresso machine and cereal bowls?

Your daily rhythm should drive every design choice—from the size of your fridge to the depth of your drawers. Skip this step, and no amount of pretty finishes will make up for a layout that doesn’t work.

Think in Zones, Not Just Triangles

Yes, the work triangle (sink, stove, fridge) is a classic principle—but today’s kitchens are more dynamic. You might have a smoothie station, a baking zone, or even a tech drawer for charging devices.

Think beyond three points. Think in layers and zones that serve your routine—cooking, cleaning, storage, and connection.

Storage is Your Secret Weapon

Forget generic cabinet plans. Start with an audit:

What do you actually own?
What’s annoying to store right now?
Which items need to be within reach—and which don’t?

Custom storage—like spice pullouts, tray dividers, drawer inserts, and deep lower drawers—transforms your kitchen from cluttered to calm. Remember: If you don't plan for it, it will live on your counters.

Lighting = Mood + Function

Lighting is the unsung hero of kitchen design. Plan for three types:

Task lighting under cabinets for prep work
Ambient lighting for general visibility
Accent lighting to add warmth and personality

And don’t forget dimmers! Good lighting adapts with your day—from early-morning coffee to late-night wine.

Surfaces Should Match Your Life

Quartz? Beautiful and durable. But maybe you’re drawn to wood, terrazzo, or even stainless steel. Each surface tells a story—just make sure it fits your lifestyle.

Ask:

Do I want low-maintenance or natural aging?
Will I be bothered by stains or love the patina?

The same goes for floors, cabinet finishes, and even hardware. Choose what lasts—and what you’ll still love in five years.

Appliances Should Serve You—Not the Other Way Around

One of the biggest kitchen mistakes? Designing around appliances you don’t need.

That giant double oven might look great—but do you bake for a crowd or mostly reheat leftovers? Choose appliances that reflect your reality—not someone else’s dream kitchen.

Make it Yours—Intentionally

Don’t be afraid to show your personality. A playful tile, a statement light, open shelves styled with love—these details bring soul to your kitchen.

The trick? Be intentional. A well-designed kitchen blends style with substance.

Let’s Talk About Your Kitchen

Are you planning a renovation—or just dreaming for now? What’s the biggest thing you want your kitchen to do for you?

Let’s start the conversation. Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out for a consult. Because the best kitchen designs start before the drawings—with your story.

Ester White Gherea is an Interior Designer and the founder of Gherea Studios.
She can be reached at 236-339-6644 or estergherea@gmail.com. Connect with Ester on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-white-gherea-6b339a2b5/. Connect with Ester at https://www.ghereastudio.com/.

TAGS: #InteriorDesign #TimelessStyle #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #ModernLiving #StyleSpaces # KitchenDesign #GhereaStudio