A well-thought-out, detailed plan is a must for any kitchen project. Whether you design the kitchen yourself, work with a cabinet distributor or home center, or go to a kitchen designer, formulating a plan is the first step.

There are three basic kitchen functions to consider and arrange to create an ideal kitchen: storage, preparation and clean-up. And the following points will help you sort through those issues.

• Typical Kitchen Layouts
  
• Tracking Modern Trends
  
• Multiple Work Centers
  
• Finish Material:
  
  • Cabinets
    
  • Countertops
    
  • Flooring
    
  • Kitchen Sinks
    
  • Appliances