What Award-Winning Kitchen Designers Know That You Don't

Award-winning kitchen designers don't just have good taste—they understand principles that make kitchens both beautiful and highly functional. Here are the secrets they use.

The Work Triangle Still Matters

Modern Interpretation

The classic kitchen work triangle (sink, stove, refrigerator) has evolved but remains relevant:

• Keep primary work zones within easy reach
• Avoid traffic patterns crossing work areas
• Create efficient workflow between zones
• Consider multiple work triangles for large kitchens

Zone Planning

Modern designers think in zones:
• Prep zone with sink and counter space
• Cooking zone around range and oven
• Storage zone for pantry and refrigerator
• Cleanup zone near dishwasher
• Social zone for seating and entertaining

Storage Secrets

Every Inch Counts

Professional designers maximize every inch:
• Corner cabinet solutions (lazy susans, pull-outs)
• Drawer organizers for every drawer
• Vertical dividers for baking sheets
• Toe-kick drawers for extra storage
• Ceiling-height cabinets with pull-down shelves

Store Where You Use

• Pot storage near the stove
• Dish storage near the dishwasher
• Food wrap near the prep area
• Coffee station supplies together
• Spices within reach of cooking

Lighting Layering

Three Essential Layers

Award-winning kitchens always have:

Ambient Lighting: Overall illumination from recessed lights or central fixtures

Task Lighting: Focused light for work areas—under-cabinet lights, pendant lights over islands

Accent Lighting: In-cabinet lights, above-cabinet lighting, decorative fixtures

Natural Light Maximization

• Larger windows where possible
• Light tubes for interior spaces
• Reflective surfaces to bounce light
• Light cabinet colors

Counter Space Planning

The 36-Inch Rule

Always ensure 36 inches of clear counter space on at least one side of the sink and stove for food prep.

Landing Areas

Plan landing zones near:
• Refrigerator for grocery unloading
• Oven for hot dish placement
• Microwave for quick access

Material Selection Wisdom

Durability First

Beautiful materials must also perform:
• Counter materials matched to use
• Flooring that withstands traffic
• Backsplash that cleans easily
• Hardware that holds up daily

Timeless Over Trendy

Award-winning designs age well:
• Classic cabinet styles
• Neutral base colors
• Natural materials
• Quality over fashion

Island Design Principles

Size Matters

• Minimum 42 inches of clearance on all sides
• Proportional to kitchen size
• Functional, not just for show

Multi-Function Planning

Great islands serve multiple purposes:
• Prep space
• Seating area
• Storage
• Appliance integration

Appliance Integration

Seamless Design

Professional designers hide appliances:
• Panel-ready refrigerators
• Integrated dishwashers
• Built-in microwaves
• Appliance garages

Right-Sized Selection

Appliances matched to actual use:
• Don't overbuy capacity you won't use
• Consider cooking habits
• Plan for ventilation needs
• Match to family size

The Details That Matter

Hardware Selection

• Comfortable grip
• Easy to clean
• Consistent finishes
• Appropriate scale

Outlet Planning

• Hidden but accessible
• Adequate for modern kitchens
• USB charging integration
• Pop-up options for islands

Americas Best Contractor works with experienced designers to create award-worthy kitchens. Contact us to bring professional design to your kitchen remodel.