Our Designers Shine: Four 2024 Regional NARI CotY (Contractor of the Year) Awards!

UPDATE: We are thrilled to announce that our designs won four 2024 Regional NARI CotY awards! Being recognized for creating beautiful homes exemplifies the commitment of our team and our enthusiasm for creating truly stunning designs. Whether it is a design we create for a client or in conjunction with a builder, we love what we do. We are incredibly grateful to the NARI judges, our dedicated team, and our collaborative partners for making this recognition possible. Visit our website to explore more award-winning designs and discover how we can help you.

Residential Architectural Design over 500 sq. ft.

Residential Bath $70,000-$100,000 with Team Member Dave Osmond Builders

Residential Exterior $50,000-$100,000 with Team Member Dave Osmond Builders

Residential Detached Structure with Team Member Dave Osmond Builders

Read on below to learn more about the CotY awards and the projects that earned them!

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 What is a CotY Award? A NARI CotY award, National Association of the Remodeling Industry of Central Ohio (NARI-CO) CotY (Contractor of the Year) is presented to members that have demonstrated outstanding design and craftsmanship through their remodeling designs and projects. We were proud to win four different awards this year. Three of these awards were a joint effort between RDS (design) and Dave Osmond Builders.

Our partnership with Dave Osmond and his team is always exciting and fulfilling. We value this partnership and look forward to many more years of “award-winning” designs.

This year our collaboration resulted in these awards for Dave Osmond Builders and RDS:

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Residential Bath $70,000 to $100,000 (regional) | Worthington, Ohio

Our clients were ready for a serious renovation of their primary bath. Typical for homes of this era, their bath had a huge platform tub and a basic shower. The only feature of the bath they wanted to maintain was a large skylight. Their wish list included a spa shower, vessel tub, new vanity space and shoe closet. Space was tight, so we created a wet room for the shower and the vessel tub under the 4x4 skylight.

• Tub located in the shower; a wet room concept.

• Installed heated tile floors with smart thermostat.

• Integrated custom-built closets with added accent lighting.

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Residential Bath $100,000 to $150,000 (local) | Powell, Ohio

This tired thirty-year-old primary bath needed to be refreshed, from the tiny glass shower to the large, unused platform tub. An unusual bath, it had four transom windows high on the outside wall, but they were not quite centered on the wall over the vanities. Our clients, however, were focused on transforming their dated bath into a luxurious home spa. The key enhancements included:

Primary Bath Before

• Replacing the platform tub and small shower with a large, sleek shower.

• Installing heated floors with a smart thermostat.

• Placing new vanities strategically beneath the existing windows to allow for correct alignment.

• Showcasing stunning design through impressive herringbone tile work.

• Introducing a convenient coffee bar.

• Incorporating smart features such as motion-activated night light, toilet, and the thermostat for the floors.

New, Oversized Shower | Photography by Kylie Osmond

New Coffee Bar | Photography by Kylie Osmond

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Photography by Kylie Osmond

Rain Chains | Photography by Kylie Osmond

Vaulted Cedar Porch Roof | Photography by Kylie Osmond

Residential Exterior $50,000 to $100,000 (local and regional) | Worthington, Ohio

We designed and Dave Osmond Builders built a wonderful new home for our clients on a spectacular piece of property in Worthington, OH. At that time, we discussed options for a covered or screened porch, but they felt a deck would be more than adequate to meet their needs. After living in their home for several years, they decided they would like to be able to relax, entertain and enjoy their outdoor living space regardless of the bugs or weather. Their request started small, just a roof over the existing deck, but evolved into an expanded, covered porch with operable screens.

• Expanded the square footage of the existing deck.

• Introduced a vaulted cedar porch roof.

• Introduced rain chains in lieu of traditional downspouts.

• Installed operable screening for bug-free enjoyment.

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Photography by Kylie Osmond

 Residential Detached Structure (local and regional) | Delaware, Ohio

Over two decades ago, we designed the Country French home on this property for our clients. We were honored to be invited back to design this addition to the property. The structure needed to have screens to keep the bugs where they belong, some form of heat to extend use of the space in the cooler months, and electrical connectivity for fans, smart speakers, etc. During the design and construction process, this structure was referred to as the gazebo, grotto and pavilion, but the name that stuck was “the room out back.”

• Created a design for both entertainment and relaxation.

• Equipped the gazebo with operable screens and heating elements to extend outdoor enjoyment.

• Seamlessly designed the space to ensure it integrated with the existing home.

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

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And this one was a design we completed for our clients in Upper Arlington!

Residential Architectural Design Over 500 sq ft (local and regional) | Upper Arlington, Ohio

Originally a modest ranch home built in 1938, this home underwent many transformations over the years. The result was a sprawling home with lack of cohesiveness and a less than ideal floor plan. Our objective was to take the home back to a few core elements and reconstruct a modern home so the family could enjoy the beautiful lot in a highly desirable location.

• The left wing was reconfigured to create a beautiful owners’ suite.

• A brand-new entry and living area were created featuring lofty 13’ ceilings and an impressive staircase to the new second floor.

• A second floor was added to include space for three suites, two of which included balconies overlooking the rear yard.

 We take immense pride in the achievements of the RDS team over this past year. Delivering exceptional services to all our clients is always our top priority. We thank you for the trust and the opportunity to work to transform your home. 

If you are ready to reimagine your home, please reach out to us at 614.430.0027.

Move to a New Home or Remodel Your Existing Home?

A significant dilemma that some homeowners face is whether to move to a new home or remodel your existing home. Both options have positives and negatives. When our RDS designers meet with clients, some are not sure what they are going to do until we talk through viable options for a remodel design.  

This decision relies on several factors that depend on your specific circumstances, preferences, finances, and more.

Factors to Consider for Moving or Remodeling:

• Neighborhood and Location: Where your home is currently can play a big part in your decision to remodel or move. If it is in the neighborhood you love with the schools you want your kids to attend, you might not want to move. Your commute to work, nearby shopping, and access to school events may be important for your plans. Is your overall lifestyle what you want it to be? Researching potential new neighborhoods can help you decide if a move will align with your family’s preferences or if you want to stay in your existing home.

• Emotional Attachment: The sentimental value you have or don’t have for your home is an important consideration. If leaving too many memories behind is an issue, remodeling can keep the emotional connections you desire.

• Budget: Is it cheaper to renovate or move? Compare the costs of remodeling (renovation costs, design fees, permits, relocation costs (if you must be out of your home)) with those of moving (closing costs, down payment, moving expenses. Compare these costs to decide what aligns with your financial situation.

• The Market: What is the current real estate market in your area? If it is here in Columbus, this is still a seller’s market. With a low available inventory, selling will be advantageous, but buying could be an issue.

• Your Family’s Needs Now and in the Future: Do you need space for a home office, more bedrooms, or a play area for the kids? Does your kitchen function for your family? Anticipating your family’s needs could lead you to your decision.

The Ideal Home Size:

• Meeting your needs now and in the future is the cornerstone for the ideal home size. The future growth of your family could sway you from your current home if adding square footage won’t be enough.

• Prioritizing functional spaces over sheer square footage is important. A remodel with a nod to focusing on creating functional spaces that serve specific purposes could keep you in your home. On the flip side, a larger home or more square footage might be your ideal size.

• Smaller homes are generally more energy-efficient, with lower utility bills and a reduced environmental footprint. Where does your ideal home size fall in this scenario?

• A larger home is more maintenance and more upkeep.

Reasons to Upgrade Square Footage:

• Lifestyle Changes: A growing family, separate spaces for teenagers, or room for aging parents are all changing family dynamics and are valuable reasons to add square footage to your existing home.

• Increased livability: More space equals more comfort, flexibility, better function, and more room.  

• Home Office or Gym: Work from home is here to stay for many people. As is the home gym. Highlighting the importance of these spaces has brought them back into the home is a big way. Adding square footage can accommodate a well-designed workspace or a home gym.

• Resale Value: If done well, adding square footage will add to the resale value of your home. The return on investment is worth considering.

The decision to move or remodel is a personal one, influenced by factors like your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Our designers are here to design a new home or make your existing home what you envision it could be. Whether you choose to move to a new home or invest in upgrading the square footage of your existing home, remember that the ultimate goal is to create a home that aligns with your needs and lifestyle.

5 Things Most People Don’t Know About Designing Your Home with a Residential Design Professional

A residential design professional specializes in designing single family homes, while a Certified Professional Building Designer has completed 6 years of training, has practiced building design, and passed rigorous certification exams. Knowing this, you are hiring a designer who knows and understands the needs and desires of a home owner and the ins and outs of residential design. Working with qualified home builders, The RDS team has created hundreds of home plans for our clients, and has seen these homes come to fruition.

The team here at Residential Designed Solutions has the depth and breadth you would expect to find and want for designing your home. Our team has years of experience, awards, and a dedication to creating the best home plans for our clients. Read more about our team here.

What to Know:

Home designers focus on the overall architectural and structural aspects and the layout of a home, creating your vision for the build or remodel.

(1) Permits and Regulations

• Our team intimately knows and understands local building codes, permit requirements, and regulations, and works with the builder to make sure everything is completed correctly.

• Knowing that your home design complies with all legal and safety standards will save you time and avoid any potential complications. This is peace of mind for you!

(2) Understanding the Plan of the Home

• Home designers focus on the foundational elements of a home’s structure and the desired layout.

• Floor plans and room placements are analyzed, and the overall architectural flow is optimized to reflect the correct spatial utilization for each room.

• Using the planned orientation of the home, a home designer will work to maximize the natural light, energy efficiency, and ventilation needs for the home.

(3) Create a Customized Vision

• Working closely with you to understand your family’s needs and wants, lifestyle, and preferences, we create a customized plan. This collaboration ensures functionality and a design that will work for you.

• We work within your budget while maintaining the quality and integrity of your design.

(4) Thinking and Planning

• As home designers, we always consider future needs and possible trends when planning a home. Are you going to have children, age in place, or have a multi-generational family living in the home? What are timeless trends and what is relevant for both now and the future?

• Features including sustainability, green home building, integration of technology, and accessibility are all important considerations for a home.

(5) Functionality and Aesthetics

• Any home is only as good as the layout, and a qualified home designer will always have the optimization of space, furniture layouts, and storage solutions top of mind when creating a home design.

• A quality plan will look visually appealing and consider your family’s daily activities and enhance the quality of everyone’s lives.

Collaborating with a home designer, like our team at Residential Designed Solutions, will elevate your home design experience. Whether it is a remodeling design or a new home design, we tailor the design to your needs. Turn your dream home into reality. Contact us here or give us a call at 614-430-0027.

What We Know and are Learning About Intel and its Impact on the Surrounding Communities

We are learning a great deal these days about the impact of Intel (an American manufacturer of semiconductor computer circuits) and what it means for development. As home designers at Residential Designed Solutions, we have a vested interest in understanding development needs so that we are able to service the incoming teams from Intel, Amazon, Facebook, and Google. While we can’t see into the future, we’ve been reading, listening, and paying attention. In some way, most of us will be impacted by Intel.

Projections as to where Intel will impact the central Ohio landscape are wide reaching, but we do feel certain communities will be the ones that will feel the most impact. As you can see from this map, we placed Intel and foresee impacts to these communities at least 45 miles away from that development.

While many people here in Ohio will be talking in terms of job opportunities—at RDS we are looking at the impact on housing. How many new employees will move to the area? What type of relocation incentives will be offered? How much development will be needed?

What we know:

1. Executives relocating here are going to be accustomed to long commutes

2. School systems and the quality of life are critical to the decisions of where people want to live

3. Every person/family will have a distinct set of goals and a unique perspective on what their idea of home will mean

What we need to address as a region to sustain and deal with the growth:

• Planning

• Zoning—where can new houses be built

• Economic development

• Transportation and road infrastructure needs

• Water and sewer issues

• Understanding the communities’ values and how these can be maintained and understood

Who we are learning from:

1.      Columbus Business First

Per a recent article from Columbus Business First, at a recent presentation hosted by MA Design, an interesting stat was presented. “The Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) project is the largest economic development win ever in Ohio and comes with an initial $20 billion investment, 3,000 direct jobs, a7,000 construction jobs and an estimated $405 million in annual payroll.” In addition, it states in the article that Intel may grow to over eight facilities.

2.      Betsy Goldstein

Betsy Goldstein, director of business development for MA Design and owner of Betsy Goldstein Consulting, is one the most knowledgeable people speaking about Intel right now. She is instrumental in helping leaders around central Ohio prepare for growth.

Her presentations, “Intel on Intel” have been providing updates and information people need to know. These are some of the takeaways we have culled from her various presentations and videos in the past few months. We encourage you to seek out her presentations to learn more. This video is thorough, interesting and worth watching.  

• One of the reasons this site was chosen is because there has never been a seismic event in the area and building microchips need to be created in a completely stable and precise area.

• There is a new airport in the planning stage, and the construction of it has moved to the forefront with the building of Intel. This should happen within the next decade.

• Commute times will be longer.

• The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) believes the central Ohio region is on track to reach 3.15 million residents by 2050. This equates to about 726,000 more people.

• Landowners are under some pressure to sell their land and their decision to sell or not, with mounting pressure, especially with the land near Intel’s site.

• Sections of roads will be widened and connected to other roads to create better access, which will impact various communities. While there is talk of an I-370, at this time, that does not appear to be in the works.

• There will be an educational investment from Intel of $100M. They want students to be future Intel employees. The arts, sciences, and math will all be impacted. They also have relationships with higher level learning.

• There are 2 FABS (Fabrication facilities) to make microchips, (which are in everything) planned for now, but that number should grow.

• The landscape in central Ohio will change.

• The site will be beautiful, filled with amenities, and pleasing to the eye.

• Housing, schools, retail, and healthcare will all grow because of Intel.

• People will want to live near the Intel site and will want amenities.

• What Columbus looks like today will be vastly different in the future.

• SR 161 will be widened between Interstate 270 and US Route 62.

• The average salary of an Intel employee is around $130K and most will be younger and tech savvy.

• There is a serious need for affordable housing in the areas we know and love.

This article might be of interest to you as well.

3.      Neighborhood Strategies

Neighborhood Strategies is helping Licking County communities impacted by Intel to understand, build, and create economic development,  planning, and zoning. This is such an evolving project that no one knows all the impacts and how far-reaching this project will go, but their goal is to provide impactful strategies for community development. This team, led by Jim Lenner, is working closely with Etna Township, Hanover Township, Hebron, Madison Township, and Perry Township, developing comprehensive plans to help them grow and understand what is coming their way. Their website might be a useful source for you as a homeowner, someone moving to the area, or a business, to check on their strategies and progress as this development unfolds.

We are excited and intrigued by all the potential possibilities Intel brings to our communities and homeowners in central Ohio. Our design professionals are ready to help you visualize your dreams for a new home, addition, or renovation. Contact us today at 614-430-0027 or via our website.

Remodel underway in Upper Arlington

This Upper Arlington home had been added onto multiple times over the years and had turned into a hodge-podge of spaces that didn’t flow. The owners wanted to open the main living spaces to the exterior living area and the incredible views. A second story was added to increase the number of total bedrooms. One additional goal: give this home a new, contemporary identity. Browse the photos below and let us know what you think!

Remodel underway in Upper Arlington

Before: Entry

Before: Entry (interior)

After: Entry (interior)

The new entryway takes FULL advantage of the light and lot views.

Before

After | Owner’s Study, Family Entrance/Mudroom (to the right)

This beautiful view is one of the reasons the owners fell in love with the property.

Before: Back Patio

In Progress: Living area, with views of the back patio and yard

In Progress: Living area with dining beyond

We can’t wait to update you on this project! Stay tuned for some posts on social and another blog post!

In the meantime, if we can help you with a project please let us know! Drop us a line on our website or give us a call at 614.430.0027. We’d love to chat.

Join Us in Welcoming our Newest Associate, Joshua!

We Welcome Joshua Brashear, Project Detail

We are excited to welcome Joshua Brashear to the RDS family! Josh just recently graduated with his Master of Architecture degree from Kent State University and hails from the Pittsburgh area. He is very detail-oriented and a true asset to our design team. As he is someone you might work with, we thought you would like the opportunity to get to know him a bit.

Josh is responsible for preparing construction documents and architectural visualizations for our residential design projects. His willingness to learn and adapt in order to solve each unique problem is the perfect skill set we love here at RDS. Working in design, unique problems can and do happen with every new project.

Josh will tell you he is driven, analytic, and creative. He is always willing to learn something new and enjoys finding creative solutions to any given problems. We’ve already seen this in action and are excited for his journey here with us!

He has wanted to be an architect since he was in elementary school. His favorite thing about architecture is that it combines a little bit of everything from art and history to math and science, so there is always an excuse to learn something new. And we know that with home designs, there is always something new to learn or a problem to be solved.

We are so excited to have Josh join us here at Residential Designed Solutions. We know you’ll be impressed with his work!

The Impact of Intel and New Data Centers on the Central Ohio Home Market

By now, we’ve all heard about Intel and the Google, Microsoft, and Amazon data centers coming to Licking County and Franklin County, Columbus, Ohio. We’ve known for years that the Columbus, Ohio area is a special place to live. Friendly neighborhoods, good schools, affordable living, and good old Midwestern values. And now with Intel and the various datacenters arriving, housing is at a premium.

Intel is a well-known American multi-national corporation that primarily develops and manufactures computer processors and other related technologies. Their presence in the Columbus, OH area is already changing the landscape and the housing market in the area and will continue to create waves in all surrounding communities.

As builders, designers, and remodelers, what should we be aware of and planning for over the next few years?

Regional Growth:

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) is projecting the 15-county Central Ohio region is on track to reach upwards of 3.15 million residents by 2050, a growth of nearly 30% from 2020. Companies coming to the area are a part of this projected growth.

Housing Permitting:

A recent report by the BIA of Central Ohio is forecasting that housing permitting needs to increase twice as much from recent trends to meet the projected housing demand of over 100,000 new housing units in the next 10 years. This includes a variety of attainable (see more here about the meaning of attainable (compared to affordable) housing) and affordable housing options and walkable neighborhoods.

Franklin, Licking, Madison, and Delaware counties will see the most growth. Columbus is one of the fastest growing metro areas in the country and more than any other region in the state.

Housing Desires:

• Most people want a manageable commute time to get to work—no more than 35 minutes.

• Develop a variety of housing options near jobs and companies.

• Create new developments near roads, highways, and bus lines.

• The pressure is on to keep up with the demand for housing, especially affordable and attainable housing. So far, supply has not kept up with demand.

• While many of the jobs will be filled by those living in the area, others will be moving into the area from other parts of the state and country, which could strain the available market.

• Housing developments aren’t popping up yet, as we are waiting to see what the demand will be, but in order to create them near the centers, the infrastructure—sewer and water lines, as well as electricity and telecom services, will need to be added in some Licking County areas.  
  

As industry professionals, we need to watch and see what will happen. Is it time to buy land to create communities with different housing options (prices are already on the rise)? Some of that is going on now, and land is for sale. But making sure it is buildable is an important factor to consider. What infrastructure will have to happen?

Intel and the data centers are here and the demand is going to drive the housing market, not only for those here during the construction period, but then also for those working in these companies. It is imperative that we keep an eye on the progress and not be late to the game!

As a premier home designer, our company is ready to work with you, the builders, to create house plans for you and your clients. Schedule a time to talk today; call 614.430.0027.

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Some information for this article was drawn from MORPC’s 2024-2050 County Population Forecasts spreadsheet.

Home Exterior Trends for 2023

Are you ready to boost the curb appeal of your home this year? Ready to transform it from drab to dreamy? Whether you’ve just bought a new home or are getting ready to remodel, your home’s first impression starts with the exterior!

Our designers at RDS have been designing home exteriors for over 20 years, and we like to think we know a thing or two. Exterior designing is one of our specialties. We’ve been reading, looking, and pondering what trends are here to stay and what we should be planning for in 2023.

Sustainability

While this isn’t new, it’s picked up steam in the last few years. Sustainable building materials that last for a long time and are made following “green” guidelines are a sought-after choice for many people.

Landscaping

Native plants have become more popular through the years and are, rightly so, having a moment. After all, what grows well in the area you live, makes the most sense for your landscaping. Are the plants suited for the climate, the weather conditions, and the change in weather patterns? There is a push to move away from manicured green grass yards and invest in more natural yards and low-maintenance plants.

Interesting Textures

Many modern homes feature a mix of wood, stone, and siding, but we are seeing this in other architectural homes styles as well. Brick is being lime washed or painted, siding styles are mixed with other features like stone or board and batten, and more. Wood accents and elements add warmth and depth to the exterior of a home, whether it’s wood posts, wood headers above windows, or wood shutters. Mixing textures creates visual interest to a home and helps it stand out on a street where most homes look the same.

the Outdoors are In

If we’ve learned anything over the past few years, we like to be outside, and we want to be able to access it easily. Creating indoor/outdoor living is surging and we don’t see that changing. Large sliding doors, covered patios, outdoor kitchens, sunrooms, and large windows are all requested by clients. Designing different zones in the backyard is another trend we see. Entertaining spaces, relaxing corners, a firepit area, outdoor seating, and places for the kids to play are all element designs that maximize outdoor living.

Paint

Natural earth tones are in, especially greens, blues, and browns. These colors are also used to color block (painting one or more sections of the exterior) homes. But white exteriors with black accents are still a big request as well and we don’t see that changing. Earth tones evoke warm, earthy, cozy feelings, while white and black are more neutral, clean, and crisp. We’re also seeing various warm, creamy shades of off-white paint make their mark in 2023. And as always, a pop of color on a front door or shutters always makes a fun statement.

Accents

Copper isn’t going anywhere. If anything, it’s making a reemerging. A copper downspout, gutters, canopy/awning over a door or portico, or even copper porch lights can make a bold and interesting statement. Just remember, a little copper goes a long way! Board and batten is another way to create some accents on the exterior of your home. Columns, arches, gables, and trellises are all showing up in many designs. While these might be small touches, they do have a significant impact on the design features of a home.

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Are you ready to build a new home, remodel an existing home, or just make some changes to your house’s exterior? Our designers would be honored to work with you. Contact us here or give us a call at 614-430-0027

Sources of Inspiration for Your Home

We all need inspiration sometimes, whether it’s for our job or our home life. As home designers, we are always looking for ways to be more inspired, whether it’s during a conversation with a client, a drive looking at homes in a new town, a beautiful day outside, or scouring the internet. Innovations, artistry, and creativity can come from so many places.

At RDS, our designers spend time searching the internet for inspired ideas. We have several favorites that have become our “go-to” when we need a fresh eye. And who doesn’t need that sometimes?  We’re sharing a few of our favorites with you as a way to help you be inspired when you sit with us to create your dream home or chat about the remodel of your home. Maybe you want some inspiration to refresh a room in your home or just want to dream a bit. Whatever your reason, we hope you find something to get your creative juices flowing below!

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES

The BUILD Show with Matt Risinger videos on YouTube has content spotlighting architect and craftsmanship work. He features videos discussing Building Science (Good for anyone to watch if they are building a home or planning on it), Craftsmanship, and Best Practices for Building & Remodeling. While this channel is mainly for builders, remodelers, and architects, we see the value for anyone building or remodeling their home, or the home DIYer. 

Hull Works is located in Fort Worth, Texas. Building period-inspired custom homes, renovating homes and manufacturing authentic architectural millwork, this website is a gorgeous representation of craftsmanship.   

Our RDS Pinterest page is teeming with saved content curated by style and room type. We are frequently adding content and often ask our clients to take a look and find ideas. We feature different types of homes, outdoor living, special details, various rooms in the home, and more. Take a look!                 

The Local Project is a YouTube page highlighting homes from around the world. We guarantee you’ll see extraordinary homes, beautiful features, stunning landscapes, and hear amazing stories about the homes. It’s worth a look just to dream!                   

Our RDS Houzz page (as well as the Houzz website) is a useful source for pondering design ideas, project information, and more.

The Scout Guide is a website steeped in community, collections, and lifestyles. So much inspiration for your home, your travels, and gifts. They focus on small businesses in many towns, (with guides to 74 cities), as well as sharing tips for design and décor, travel, style and beauty, entertaining, living, and events. It’s a beautiful website and their weekly newsletter is filled with interesting information.

ViewRail is a contemporary floating stair manufacturer and a source for beautiful ideas for stairs, railings and treads. We could spend a good deal of time perusing their ViewRail Gallery.   

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Where do you look to be inspired for your job or for your personal life? Our designers would love to sit and talk with you about your thoughts and ideas for your new build or remodel, share our inspiration, and help you create your dream. Contact us at 614-430-0027 or Contact us here.

The L-Shaped Kitchen Design

What is an L-shaped kitchen?

An L-shaped kitchen consists of two countertops (usually with one of them longer than the other) joining together along one or two walls. If only one wall is used, then the other countertop will be placed perpendicular and is freestanding in the room. Many times, this becomes a peninsula with seating on the outside edge. Alternatively, if the L-shape runs along two walls, an island is often added to the interior area. This works well within an open concept layout as it doesn’t need more than one to two walls to make it work. This is a simple and effective way to lay out appliances and cabinets.

Typically, the longer wall will be the area with the most counter space and lower and upper cupboards. The shorter wall is usually where the stove, sink or dishwasher resides. But, this is also determined by the size of the room itself, which dictates where major appliances will be placed.

Designed by Residential Designed Solutions | Interior Design by Anne Rogers Interiors

Photo by K Miller Photography

Why you should consider it… 

When creating a kitchen design for our clients, we spend a good deal of time discussing how they want to utilize the kitchen. Do they entertain, have kids that need an island to do homework, what sight lines are needed, how many people are in the kitchen at one times, and the list goes on. This, in turn, helps dictate what our RDS designers create for the kitchen. Within this discussion is the shape of the space and the benefits and a few challenges with an L-shaped kitchen.

Photo by Mia Rao Design - Discover kitchen design inspiration

 Benefits

• An L-shaped kitchen allows for flexibility, efficiency, and multi-purpose areas.

• As part of the functionality, many times a natural work triangle (sink, stove & refrigerator) is created, providing the easy flow of cooking and cleaning.

• It provides a large surface area as well as structure to the space, but is still open to other rooms, with unobstructed sight lines (parents we’re looking at you—this is a big request when creating the design).

• At the joining corner of the two countertops, the area beneath can become an area to store pots and large pans, or create a rotating tray with needed storage.

• Bar stools along the side facing out (if only one wall is used as the anchor), provides a place for people to hang out, a perfect breakfast area for kids, or a homework area while you’re in the kitchen.

• This shape works well in both a large or small kitchen. In a large kitchen, adding an island is a desirable choice. Moving the sink or stove to the center island really creates the perfect work triangle.

• Traffic flows easily through the space since there are multiple points of entry.

• Prep, cleaning, and cooking zones are separated but within easy reach of each other.

Designed by Residential Designed Solutions | Remodeled by Dave Osmond Builders

Challenges

• The larger the kitchen space, can create more space between large appliances. Design is key here to keep that from occurring.

• If used in a smaller kitchen, it can cut down the storage area if one side reaches into the room instead of continuing along a second wall.

• The larger the length of the countertops, the more there is to clean.

• In an older home, working around windows can be a challenge.

• Multiple cooks in the kitchen might find it hard to maneuver.

• It’s hard to add an island if the kitchen is small.

Designing a kitchen is a personal choice and our designers are well-versed in aiding you to create the best use of the space. Even with the challenges, our designers at Residential Designed Solutions will listen to your needs and requests to create what is going to work for you and your family. We listen, create, and work together to build your dreams. Call us or drop us a line to get more information and to begin your new build or remodel.