How to Plan a Functional & Stylish Kitchen

by Kim Faines

Title: Transform Your Kitchen with Expert Cabinetry Tips from Samantha O’Leary

Your kitchen is more than just a place to cook—it’s the heart of your home. Whether you're looking to remodel, increase your home’s value, or simply refresh your space, the right cabinetry choices can make all the difference. On The Dream is Real Podcast, host Jason sits down with Samantha O’Leary, the founder of My Cabinet Girl, to uncover the secrets of smart kitchen design and cabinetry trends for 2024. Here’s what you need to know before taking on your next kitchen project.

The Journey to Kitchen Design Expertise

Samantha O’Leary’s passion for interior design and cabinetry started nearly a decade ago. With a degree in interior design and years of experience working in various cabinet shops and design-build firms across Long Island, she eventually launched My Cabinet Girl, a company dedicated to creating functional and stylish spaces.

Her expertise lies in helping homeowners and businesses make informed decisions about cabinetry, countertops, and space planning. Samantha emphasizes the importance of not just aesthetics, but also functionality, ensuring that kitchens are both beautiful and practical.

Kitchen Trends to Watch in 2024

If you're considering a kitchen upgrade, it’s essential to stay ahead of design trends. According to Samantha, 2024 is bringing a shift toward:

Warm and Natural Tones – While gray and white have dominated kitchen designs for years, homeowners are now embracing earthier tones like taupe, beige, and green.
Defined Spaces Over Open Concepts – While open-concept kitchens have been popular, more people are opting for designated kitchen spaces that provide better functionality and organization.
Smart Storage Solutions – Maximizing cabinet space with built-in organizers, drawer dividers, and hidden trash compartments is a growing trend.
Timeless White Cabinets – If you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, white cabinets remain the safest and most appealing option for buyers.

Avoiding Common Kitchen Cabinet Mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not considering functionality when designing their kitchen layout. Samantha warns about common errors such as:

Poor Drawer Placement – Cabinets and drawers that collide when opened can create frustration and inefficiency.
Improper Appliance Spacing – A refrigerator or oven placed too close to a wall can lead to clearance issues.
Overlooking Workflow – The classic kitchen work triangle—placing the sink, stove, and refrigerator in an efficient layout—should always be a priority.

The Importance of ADA Compliance and Aging in Place

Designing with the future in mind is becoming increasingly important. Samantha highlights the concept of Aging in Place, where homeowners prepare their homes for long-term usability by integrating features like wider walkways, grab bars, and accessible cabinet heights.

For commercial spaces, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial consideration. Proper clearances, accessible storage, and thoughtful space planning can make all the difference in creating an inclusive environment.

Planning Your Remodel the Right Way

Before diving into a remodel, Samantha advises homeowners to:

Set a Budget – Know how much you’re willing to invest and be realistic about costs.
Think About Functionality – Design with everyday use in mind, not just aesthetics.
Choose the Right Cabinetry – Stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry each have different lead times and price points.
Consider Appliances First – Your kitchen design should accommodate your chosen appliances, not the other way around.

Get Expert Help for Your Next Project

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, Samantha O’Leary and My Cabinet Girl can help you navigate the process with expert design and cabinetry solutions. Check out her book, The Ultimate Remodel Guide Book, for more detailed insights into kitchen planning.

📘 Get Samantha’s Book: The Ultimate Remodel Guide Book – Available now at www.mycabinetgirl.com

📲 Follow Samantha O’Leary:
Instagram & Facebook: @mycabinetgirl
Website: www.mycabinetgirl.com

🏡 Stay Connected with Dream Select Realty:
🌐 Website: www.dreamselectrealty.com
📲 Instagram & TikTok: @dreamselectrealty
🐦 Twitter (X): @dreamselecthome
📧 Want to be featured? Email us at: hometeam@dreamselectrealty.com

A well-designed kitchen starts with the right cabinetry. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or just making a few updates, following Samantha O’Leary’s expert advice will help you create a space that is both functional and stylish. The dream is real—start designing yours today!