How to Build a Custom Kitchen

Decide on the decoration style and color palette for the kitchen. For a contemporary kitchen, go with stainless steel and light wood; for a more traditional look, use darker tones like mahogany for the cabinetry. Classic black and white is another color combination for a kitchen that never seems to go out of style.

Measure the space for your custom kitchen and use graph paper to draw the kitchen to scale. Make sure to include windows and doorways. Even if you are doing a total kitchen renovation, it may be more cost-effective to keep appliances and sinks in the same general area because structures like plumbing lines and electrical lines will already be in place.

Hire a professional to guide your selection of custom cabinetry and appliances. Pay attention to the color and style of the cabinet doors, as well as the configuration of the shelving inside. Some lines of cabinetry offer options such as pantries, desks and wine racks. Besides the typical appliance choices, you might want to invest in dual ovens or professional appliances. Another appliance installation option is to put in a full refrigerator and a full freezer in the kitchen.

Research countertop materials to find out about the features and benefits of each. Natural wood adds beauty to a kitchen but requires a lot of care. Granite, solid surfaces and engineered quartz are durable and easy to care for. To increase countertop space, install a kitchen island. If space allows, the island might be large enough to incorporate a cooktop or sink as well as a work area.

Ask your contractor for recommendations for flooring. Choices include laminate and vinyl, which withstand wear and tear, along with attractive wood flooring and ceramic tile. Bamboo floors have a natural look and can accommodate adhesives that are more environmentally friendly.