If you are not going to use an over-the-range microwave, consider a new microwave that fits the new cabinets better. Most wall cabinets built with a shelf or opening for a microwave are fairly deep cabinets that come closer to your counter—causing the loss of effective counter space. Also, these cabinets could cost more than a new, space and energy efficient microwave.

Good lighting is essential to a well designed functional kitchen. Most kitchens are grossly under lit. Recessed lighting is one of the best ways to light a kitchen because light can be spread out to all work areas. It can take 8 to 12 recessed lights to adequately light most kitchens, otherwise there can be dark spots. Undercabinet lighting is another great idea to fully light your workspace. Good kitchen planning should include a good lighting plan, not just a few lights added as an afterthought. You may want to consider the new digital dimmers and room controls to get the best use of your new lighting. Many of our clients have commented that the new lighting is one of their favorite features of the new kitchen.

If ventilation of cooking odors and grease are concerns of yours, you will need to incorporate a good hood or a downdraft cooktop or range. It seems most existing kitchens today do not have vented hoods. A good hood will have adequate air flow, a quiet motor and good lighting. A downdraft cooking appliance will usually supply very adequate ventilation. Properly venting a hood or downdraft appliance involves planning how to run the proper size ductwork to the outside with the fewest turns and finishing with a good wall cap with a damper.

What you will do with the floor needs to be considered at the time you plan your new kitchen. The cabinets should be installed in coordination with your new or future floor.

Some floors like ceramic tile or hardwood should be installed before the cabinets. If that is not possible or practical (like prefinished hardwood), the cabinets should be raised to accommodate the new floor, otherwise your counters and appliances may not be the same height.

If the new floor is to be vinyl or laminate, the flooring should be installed after the new kitchen is installed—these are not usually thick enough floors to affect the height of the cabinets/appliances. Also, since vinyl and laminate are easier to damage, it would be best not to have the construction and installation work take place over your new floor.