How to Build a Better Kitchen or Bathroom

Remember the work triangle. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends a kitchen "work triangle" in which the sink, range and refrigerator form an imaginary triangle, and that the total sum of each leg of the triangle equal no more than 26 feet. Generally, each leg of the "triangle" should be no further than 4 to 6 feet apart.

Create various workstations throughout the room, to improve work and traffic flow. For example, plan an area for baking where you will position the range, spice shelves and special cabinetry to contain baking sheets and other large kitchen implements. For the bathroom, consider building a small dressing room or placing the toilet into a small, private alcove.

Build with an eye toward the future. If you expect to be in the house as you age, consider a universal design for your kitchen or bathroom. Install lever handles instead of round doorknobs; create an area of the kitchen with a lower countertop without base cabinets to accommodate for a wheelchair; install a taller toilet and grab bars in the shower to provide safe and comfortable access.

Choose "green" or energy-efficient products and appliances. Natural materials, such as solid wood cabinetry or ceramic tile flooring, are beautiful and durable. Energy-efficient appliances will save money and often offer many convenient new features, such as refrigerators with handy compartments or shower stalls with molded seats.

Create a lighting design plan or consult with a lighting professional. Kitchens and baths demand adequate light. Compile a combination of room, task and ambient lighting schemes, such as a series of productive pendants hanging above the kitchen island or a romantic chandelier.

Obey your local building codes. Kitchens and bathrooms are usually strictly regulated by municipalities. Failure to abide by local codes may incur fines. The codes inspector may require you to remove offending structures and rebuild, increasing your costs. Should you ever sell the home, code infractions may require you to bring the kitchen or bath up to codes, or may affect the resale value of your home.