How to Create a Kitchen Design in Singapore?

Designing a kitchen is like preparing a signature dish—it takes careful planning, a blend of ingredients, and a dash of creativity to get it just right. In a typical HDB apartment in Singapore, the kitchen is more than just a place to whip up meals; it’s the heart of the home.

Seven Steps to Creating a Kitchen Design

A well-designed kitchen should seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetics while harmonizing with the overall interior design of the house. Here’s everything you need to consider to create a kitchen design that’s practical, beautiful, and totally Instagram-worthy!

1. Looking at the Floor Plan

Before you start dreaming of fancy countertops and high-tech appliances, take a good look at your floor plan. The floor plan is like a treasure map for your kitchen design. It gives you and your interior designer a bird’s-eye view of the space, showing where water, gas, and electrical points are located. This helps in planning the kitchen layout—whether it’s L-shaped, U-shaped, galley-style, or features a kitchen island.

A typical floor plan for your HDB apartment is as shown below, with the kitchen at the bottom of the plan. For such a unit, a kitchen island or U-shaped style isn’t feasible. A galley-style kitchen design would be most appropriate, as with many HDB units in Singapore.

Kitchen Design - Floor Plan

A key principle to keep in mind is the “kitchen triangle”: the distance between the fridge, stove, and sink. These three should form an efficient workflow, so avoid placing the fridge in the center of the kitchen or too far from the action. A good layout ensures that cooking and cleaning are smooth, stress-free processes.

2. Space in Kitchen Design

Space is precious in any Singaporean home, especially in the kitchen. To avoid bumping into cabinets or knocking doors into each other, maintain a walkway width of at least 92 cm and a working area clearance of 107 cm.

For added functionality, here are two space-saving tips:

  • Use accessories like hooks and covers: These can help you maximize vertical space, perfect for hanging pots, utensils, or even spices.
  • Opt for specialized carpentry: Pull-out drawers, corner cabinets, and kitchen carts can significantly enhance storage without taking up extra room.

The key is to create a kitchen design that’s ergonomic and avoids unnecessary clutter.

3. Carpentry and Cabinets

The cabinets and carpentry form the backbone of your kitchen design. These should cater to both your storage needs and aesthetic preferences. A mix of swing doors, pull-out drawers, sauce organizers, and pull-down racks offers versatility while keeping everything neatly stored. To find out more about how you should go about your cabinet design, check out our five-step guide here.

Don’t forget to include thoughtful features like glass cabinets or cove lighting to elevate the design. These elements can help your kitchen transition from functional workspace to chic gathering spot. Ensure your cabinetry design aligns with the essentials (refrigerator, sink, stove/hob) for a cohesive look.

4. Essentials (Sink, Stove, and Fridge)

Your kitchen essentials—sink, stove, and fridge—are the workhorses of the space. Here are a few considerations:

  • Fridge: Decide between single-door, double-door, or multiple-compartment models depending on your household size and needs.
  • Sink: Stainless steel or ceramic? Top-mounted or under-mounted? Choose based on durability and style.
  • Stove/Hob: Opt for gas or induction-powered depending on your cooking habits and preferences.

These choices should be functional yet seamlessly blend into the overall kitchen design. To learn more about how this can be done, check out our post here.

5. Appliances and Accessories

Appliances are the soul of your kitchen design, but before you start buying, consider your lifestyle. Do you really need a built-in oven, wine chiller, or air fryer? Or will a minimalist setup suffice?

Accessories like cutlery organizers, hooks, and knife holders not only enhance functionality but also add a touch of personality. Make sure your appliances and accessories align with your kitchen’s layout and don’t overcrowd the space.

6. Lighting Design

Good lighting is the unsung hero of any kitchen design. Imagine trying to slice veggies or wash dishes in dim light—a total no-no! Task lighting, like cabinet lights or strip lights, is crucial for work areas. Cove lights or pendant lights can add warmth and style without obstructing the view.

The right lighting will enhance both the practicality and ambiance of your kitchen.

Kitchen Design - Lighting

7. Interior Design

Finally, your kitchen design must harmonize with your home’s overall interior design theme. Whether you’re going for a Japandi vibe, modern luxury, or industrial chic, ensure the kitchen’s color scheme, materials, and finishes align. Think natural wood countertops for a Japandi look or sleek marble for modern luxury. Even backsplash designs can make a big impact, so choose wisely!

Conclusion

Designing your dream kitchen is no small feat, but it’s worth every ounce of effort. From analyzing the floor plan to picking the perfect appliances and lighting, every detail counts. Always consider functionality, space, and aesthetics to create a kitchen design that’s both practical and stunning.

Good luck with your kitchen design adventures—may your cooking space be as delightful as the meals you’ll create in it! Bon appétit!

Before I go, I would like to introduce myself. I’m Casey! I’ve always had a passion for interior styling. Hence the reason for creating this blog. You can learn more about me here! Till next time.