By J Richardson

Step #1: Plan Ahead
As with most big projects, you must plan ahead. If you're completely restructuring your kitchen, consider changing the direction the kitchen faces. If you situate the kitchen to face the southeast or east, you'll enjoy natural sunlight in the morning hours as you enjoy your daily cup of java.

Step #2: Traffic Patterns
In order to avoid a continual path of dirt, mud, shoes and clothes, add an adjoining "mud" room to your kitchen. This way, you have an area to shrug off coast in the winter, remove shoes and ideally, keep your kitchen cleaner.

Step #3: Rule of 26
Necessary appliances within the kitchen include the sink, oven or stove range and the refrigerator. Most, if not all, 20th century homes feature this "triangle" of appliances. Be sure to create enough--but not too much-space between these objects. Too little space can make anyone feel claustrophobic, and too much space can make a simple task more tiring. An ideal rule to follow is that the "legs" or each appliance's distance to each other should add up from 12-26 feet.

Step #4: Get the Gadgets
In addition, you also might want to install a new sink or dishwasher. Ideal placement for sinks is directly in front of a kitchen window; not only will you be able to enjoy the view while washing stacks of plates, but you'll also be able to keep an eye on children. Depending on whether you're left-handed or right-handed, installing a dishwasher directly next to the sink will make dish washing much easier and convenient.

Step #5: Storage is Key
Any kitchen can become cluttered without the proper storage units. Cabinets below the "triangle" should store all pots, bans and baking dishes. Silverware and other utensils should be stored below or near the drying rack and dish washer. For tableware and place settings, store above in higher cabinets. To create additional areas to store Tupperware and non-perishable food, consider adding a pantry to your kitchen or mud room.

Step #6: Table for How Many?
A kitchen table is a perfect place to enjoy a cozy breakfast, dine informally, or even finish up homework. Choose a sturdy wooden table that can endure being banged into and nicked-especially if you have children in the home

Step #7: Hardware Basics
Picking and matching your cabinet hardware and cabinet knobs is easy. It's an inexpensive way to "dress up" your kitchen design. For more elegant, modern homes, choose a dark polish with matching bronze, antiqued or dark cabinet knob finishes. For cozy Southern-style kitchens, choose lighter finishes like chrome, nickel or pewter.

Step #8: Comfort Zone
Install a ceiling fan to help control the temperature without touching the thermostat. Most ceiling fans, like Hunter ceiling fans, are equipped with a directional switch to help maximize the current temperature in the house. For cooler months, allow the fan blades to rotate in a counter-clockwise motion to create the cool breeze. In the winter, switch the direction to clockwise to help mix the warm air evenly throughout your kitchen.

Step #9: Let the Sunshine In
Let the natural light in! Not only will sunlight help heat and keep your kitchen cozy, it also will help you and your family start the day right. In stall sky lights and bay windows that provide ample direct sunlight.

Step #10: Finishing Touches
Complete your newly redesigned look by adding something unique, artistic and stylish. If you're strapped for cash, browse yard sales and "curb alerts" and you may turn someone's antique trash into your newfound kitchen treasure!