Floor Plan

• Kitchens have different kinds of floor plans, which are often determined by the size of the room. Choose the floor plan that best suits the size of your kitchen. That may mean keeping the floor plan you already have. An L-shaped kitchen has two right-angle counters that meet in a corner. A U-shaped kitchen has counters on three sides. Often, this type of kitchen is large enough to allow for an island on the fourth side. A galley kitchen is long and narrow, typically with counters on the two long sides.
  
  

Style

• Your kitchen should be not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing. While you're planning your layout, consider the look you want it to have. This may be a continuation of the look you have in the rest of your home, be it Mediterranean or modern. Choose materials, such as tiles and flooring, that reflect that look. But also consider any future plans you have for your home. If you're planning to redo your whole house, let the kitchen lead the way, and give it the styling that you plan for your other rooms.
  
  

Countertops

• One of your most important choices is countertops. They can be made of any number of materials, including granite, engineered stone, marble, ceramic, laminate, stainless steel, soapstone, concrete or wood. Consider how you will use the countertops, as well as their cost. Granite is long-lasting but expensive. Laminate is less expensive, but not as durable.
  
  

Storage

• A kitchen isn't complete without the cabinets. Cabinets are available in many finishes and materials. They can range from inexpensive stock units that you can buy at the home-improvement store to expensive custom cabinets. To a great extent, the cabinets will influence the look of your kitchen. Choose white or oak cabinets if you want a country kitchen. If your tastes are more modern, consider sleek cabinets with frosted-glass fronts and interior illumination. If you like a warm, Mediterranean look, consider dark brown cabinets with elegant hardware. Consider any special storage needs. If your kitchen space is limited, for example, opt for cabinets that extend to the ceiling and store items you don't use often on the upper shelves. If your family is especially large and you have the space, include a walk-in pantry in your plans.