NEEDS

Getting new cabinets isn’t just an opportunity to give your kitchen an updated look—it’s your chance to take the headache out of storing your dinnerware and dishes, with space for every last plate.

Answer the following questions for a head start on understanding your cabinetry needs.

1. What do I like and not like about my current cabinets?

• What don’t I like about how they look?

• Do I have enough space for storing dinnerware and flatware?

• Is the adequate storage space for dry goods?

• Are my pots and pans easily accessible?

• Do my cabinet doors open easily?

• Do I have a separate in-cabinet recycling area?

• Can I adjust my cabinet shelves?

• Is it easy to shelve dishes after they’ve been washed?

2. Who will be using the kitchen? In homes with children, polyester and stainless steel finishes may not work well because they tend to scratch and show fingerprints.

• Will young children or elderly family members need access to dishes?

3. What other activities will take place in my new kitchen that could require specialty cabinets?

• Laundry?

• Watching TV?

• Homework?

• Bill paying?

• Working on the computer?

4. What are my storage requirements? What storage improvements would I like to see in my new kitchen? Inventory your current kitchen. Looking at what you have in your kitchen now, where would you want to put it all in the new one?

• Would you like your new kitchen to have a special spot for storing trays, cookie sheets, and other flat items?

• Taller shelves for storing wine glasses and vases?

• Consider how you shop for groceries—for the week or for each meal? Do you buy in bulk and freeze? Buy nonperishables in bulk?

• Write down every idea that comes to mind—resist saying to yourself that there’s no room for that recycling center. If you need it, it’s likely that a design professional can help you find a place for it.

• Do you need an easily accessible spot to keep small appliances?

5. Is easy maintenance a must? If so, avoid intricate cabinetry detailing that doubles as a dust trap. Hardwood is less likely to show fingerprints and can be wiped clean with damp cloth. Light cabinetry hides dusk better than dark.

6. What features do I really need in my new cabinets and which could I live without?

• Tilt-down drawer for sponges

• Spice rack

• Built-in wine rack

• Appliance garage

• Bookshelf for cookbooks

• Breadbox

• Cutlery storage area

• Recycling area

• Divided tray storage

• Computer work area

• Lazy Susan storage

• Adjustable shelving

• Divided silverware drawer

• More drawer storage

• More shelf storage

• Glass door fronts

• Undercabinet lighting