Common Kitchen Mistakes
We See in Kumaon Homes
Most kitchen problems don't happen because people make bad choices. They happen because people make decisions in the wrong order.
By the time many homeowners start thinking seriously about their kitchen, important things are already fixed and options are limited.
Below are some of the most common kitchen planning mistakes we see in homes across Kumaon.
What to Avoid When Planning Your Kitchen
Starting Kitchen Planning After Civil Work Is Finished
Many homeowners begin kitchen discussions after:
- Flooring is done
- Plumbing lines are fixed
- Electrical points are already placed
At this stage, the kitchen has to fit around the house, instead of the house supporting the kitchen.
This usually leads to:
- Awkward layouts
- Limited storage
- Visible adjustments later
Planning earlier gives flexibility. Planning late creates compromises.
Deciding the Sink, Hob, and Fridge Without a Layout
The sink, cooking area, and refrigerator form the core of any kitchen. Their position decides how comfortably you move while cooking.
Often, these are decided casually without a proper layout plan.
Later, homeowners realise:
- Walking distances feel long
- Two people cannot work comfortably
- Corners become unusable
A simple layout discussion early can prevent this.
Underestimating Storage Needs
Storage always looks "enough" on drawings. The problem starts after moving in.
Common issues:
- No space for large utensils
- Too many overhead cabinets added later
- Countertops getting cluttered
Good storage planning is about how you use your kitchen, not just how it looks.
Ignoring Electrical Planning for Appliances
Modern kitchens use many appliances present and future.
If electrical points are not planned properly:
- Extension boards become permanent
- Appliances sit awkwardly
- Lighting feels insufficient
These issues are hard to fix once walls are closed.
Focusing Only on Looks, Not Usage
Finishes, colours, and shutters matter but they come later.
When appearance is prioritised before:
- Layout
- Storage
- Ventilation
- Workflow
The kitchen may look good, but feel uncomfortable to use every day.
Assuming All Modular Kitchens Are the Same
From the outside, many kitchens look similar. Inside, they are very different.
Differences in:
- Cabinet construction
- Hardware quality
- Internal fittings
These affect durability and daily experience but are rarely explained.
No Fear, Just Truth
Most of these mistakes are not expensive to avoid. They simply require the right discussion at the right time.
Good planning doesn’t increase cost. It reduces regret.
If you're curious about why materials, hardware, and construction make such a difference, the next section explains this in simple terms.
Materials & Hardware Science