The countertop is where most of the work is done. The material you choose for the countertop has to be durable, easy to clean, and largely maintenance-free. Premium-quality granite is a good choice for Indian kitchens as it is easy to clean (since Indian food uses plenty of oil and spices, which may spill over and stain). It is also resistant to scratches and heat, and offers protection against mildew and mould during the rainy season. Quartz is an engineered marble material. Priced higher than granite, it is also harder, more durable, and maintenance-free, requires no polishing or sealing, and is available in a variety of exotic patterns and colours. Other options include composite marble and acrylic-polyester solid surfaces.

Given the constricted spaces in flats nowadays, maximum space utilisation is important in every corner. A modular kitchen comes to your rescue here but you have to choose the right shape. Straight and parallel kitchens are perfect for smaller flats, while larger U or C shaped layout work better in bigger homes. An L-shaped kitchen takes less space than a U or C-shaped one but can be almost as efficient. If you have more space, consider adding a neat, island-style design that makes your kitchen open and inviting. 

A modular kitchen gives you ample storage space that hides clutter without compromising on aesthetics. Make good use of vertical space with overhead cabinets. Undersink units are perfect to store dustbins, cleaning utilities, and detergents. Opt for rotating shelves under the counter and use corner units for maximum storage in dead corners. Install midway systems to store regularly used items under the wall unit. Choose racks specifically designed to store cutlery, cups and saucers, and plates so your utensils have their own space.

This includes power tips for regularly used appliances and lighting. Do not forget about deep cabinets that may require additional lighting. Check if the wiring is equipped to take the load of all the kitchen appliances you will be using. 

The smallest accessories and appliances can make cooking easier for you. Choose a sink with decent depth and width so that utensils can fit in straight. Decide whether you need a sink with a drainboard. Don’t select faucet heads based only on design considerations, choose what is most convenient to use. Finalise your appliances before buying a modular kitchen so you can make sure that it all fits properly. 

If you are working on a budget, list everything that you absolutely need in your modular kitchen – a trusted vendor, in-built appliances, storage and a clutter-free layout. Your list of desires could contain specific colour combinations or fancy designs. Opt for fewer accessories instead of compromising on durable kitchen materials. Making your dream kitchen is a specialised job – get an expert to execute it.

Keep these tips in mind, and avoid making these common design mistakes in your kitchen for results that you will be happy with.