09/21/2026
Dreaming of the perfect kitchen? Interior designer Lisa Mende Design says the secret isn't where most people start: function comes first, looks come last.
Her 5-step order for designing a kitchen that actually works:
1️⃣ Appliances. Range or cooktop? One dishwasher or two? These choices shape every cabinet that follows.
2️⃣ Layout. Think in work zones (prep, cooking, cleanup, storage) built around how your household really cooks.
3️⃣ Storage. List every gadget that needs a home, from the stand mixer to the coffee pods, so your counters stay clear.
4️⃣ Lighting. Layer task, accent, ambient and decorative light. Bonus: lights inside your cabinets are hard to live without once you try them.
5️⃣ Style. Traditional, transitional or sleek. Once the function is right, you can make it look however you like.
A beautiful kitchen that doesn't work is one you won't enjoy, so design it right the first time.
When you're ready for floors that can keep up with the busiest room in the house, our Modesto team is here to help. Tap the link in bio to read the full article or book your free estimate.
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