(ARA) - Kitchen remodels are among the most popular home improvements because they offer a great return on investment while giving you the opportunity to enhance and simplify your daily routines.

An effective design is crucial when planning a kitchen remodel. Even the most beautiful kitchen will cause stress if it isn't designed properly. Today's kitchens are used for a multitude of activities, including cooking, eating, arts and crafts, entertaining, and gathering friends and family. Several techniques are used in creating a user-friendly kitchen design. Some involve improving the kitchen work triangle and others involve proper organization and storage.

Remodeling the Work Triangle

Designers use the kitchen work triangle to create efficient use of the kitchen. The concept focuses on the arrangement of the three basic work stations: the refrigerator, sink and stove. The idea is to make the distance from each of these areas far enough to not feel cramped and close enough to carry food and dishes without strain.

Organize and Consolidate Kitchen Contents

It is very easy to become disorganized and cluttered in the kitchen. This is especially true when several people are in the kitchen at the same time. One way to organize and consolidate the items you have stored in the kitchen is to install a walk-in pantry.

This popular modification allows a homeowner to quickly take in the kitchen's contents without having to search through cabinets and drawers. Pull-out pantries can also be used for kitchens that are tight on space. Kitchen pantries localize the kitchen traffic, providing more open space in the work triangle.

Use All your Kitchen Space

Every inch of space in your kitchen can be used to store the many items that clutter this room. Consider installing tall cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling. Also, add baskets and shelving inside to maximize storage space. For larger items such as pots and pans, consider adding a hanging rack to free up some space in your cupboards.

Extra Convenient Appliances

Think about how your appliances can simplify your daily routines. For example, a third rack on a dishwasher can cut down on the number of times you have to load your dishes. You could also invest in self-cleaning ovens. Furthermore, energy efficient appliances can save money on your monthly energy bills. Consider a dishwasher or even a refrigerator with the Energy Star rating.

Designated Areas

Remodeling your kitchen is the perfect time to sit down and think about who uses the room and in what ways. You then have the opportunity to create specially designed areas to suit those needs. For example, many children do homework or other activities in the kitchen while mom cooks dinner. Consider adding a couple of stools at the kitchen counter to create an easy, informal place for kids.

When remodeling your kitchen, remember that beauty isn't everything. Of course everyone likes to have a glamorous kitchen with granite countertops and solid wood cabinets, but beauty only goes so far. Your kitchen design still needs to accommodate how your family lives and the traffic flow, and should be energy efficient. These important aspects should not be overlooked during your next kitchen remodel.

For more kitchen remodeling advice from a professional and a free quote, visit www.UnitedHomeImprovement.com.

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