The kitchen is often called the heart of the home. It is typically where family and friends gather, and memories are made around food and conversation. Beyond just looks, a kitchen should be highly functional to support all the cooking, cleaning, eating, and mingling that happens there daily. The space also reflects personal style and design aesthetics. With some strategic planning, you can get the best of both form and function.
Incorporate Entertaining Areas
For many homeowners, the kitchen has become a hub for entertaining guests during parties or casual gatherings. If this rings true for you, factor dedicated entertaining areas into the new kitchen layout.
A kitchen island is one of the best ways to delineate an entertaining zone. Choose an island with seating like bar stools to provide gathering space. Include features like pendant lighting over the island, ample outlets and an integrated sink or cooktop if desired.
If space allows, consider adding a bar area for mixing drinks. Built-in wine refrigerators or beverage centers make this area even more functional. Near the bar zone, leave open floor space around a table and chairs for people to relax and interact comfortably.
Optimize Countertop Space
One of the top complaints about kitchens is the lack of countertop space. No matter the size of the kitchen, extra countertop space for food prep, appliances and tasks allows everything to operate more smoothly.
The people at Bedrock Quartz recommend looking for ways to maximize every inch of available countertop space in the new design. For example, choose countertops that run the entire length of walls with no breaks. Utilize corners for additional workspace.
Islands and peninsulas also add counterspace as well as visual interest to kitchens. Just be sure measurements allow enough walkway clearance so traffic flow isn’t obstructed.
Carefully Map Appliance Placement
Appliance placement has a big impact on kitchen functionality. Carefully consider the physical sizes of appliances as well as optimal placement for workflow.
Ranges and ovens often work best centered on a wall or on an island. This keeps them out of high traffic zones yet easily accessible. Microwaves and toaster ovens can live on countertops or be built into cabinets to conserve space.
Refrigerators ideally reside along the perimeter of the kitchen outside of main circulation paths. Leave ample space for doors to open without blocking traffic.
Dishwashers should also be positioned out of primary work circuits in close proximity to the sink. This minimizes extra steps and drips when transitioning dirty dishes to the dishwasher.
Include Plentiful Storage
You can never have too much kitchen storage space. From pots and pans to small appliances to dishware, a kitchen has to house a lot of gear. Strategically designed storage keeps everything organized and at your fingertips when cooking.
For maximum storage, make use of every possible space from floor to ceiling. Install tall pantry-style cabinets. Choose cabinets with pull-out shelves and rollout trays to fully utilize interior space. Drawers maximize storage for cooking items like utensils and pots.
Factor in Natural Lighting
Abundant natural light makes any kitchen feel more bright, airy and spacious. When designing the new space, look for ways to maximize sunlight.
Strategically place windows to draw natural light into key kitchen zones. Skylights and clerestory windows also stream sunlight into interiors.
Conclusion
Incorporating style while maximizing functionality results in a kitchen that both looks amazing and works exceptionally well. Keeping both form and function at the forefront of decision making means you can have the kitchen of your dreams designed to support your lifestyle. A few well-chosen upgrades make all the difference in creating a stellar kitchen space you’ll enjoy using every day.
