Home is where the hearth is. So shouldn’t you ensure that your hearth combines form and function? In modern times, good kitchen design refers to a combination of aesthetics and operations. Layout, work zones, materials, storage options, lighting design and appliances come together to create an efficient and ergonomic kitchen.
In a modern home, a kitchen plays many roles — it could be a cooking area, dining space or a zone to hang out. The design and layout of any kitchen depends on the available area. Once that’s decided, all other elements such as furniture, lighting, storage and appliances fall into place.
So what must you consider when designing or revamping your kitchen?
The work zone
A well-planned kitchen has its roots in the core working area — the triangle. Efficiency experts state that the three most common work sites in a kitchen — the stove (cooking work site), the sink (cleaning/prep work site) and the refrigerator (cold storage) form the three points of the work triangle, and the distance between them helps measure kitchen efficiency. If they’re too close, the kitchen is cramped; if they’re too far, you waste time and energy walking around. Ensure that you don’t create collision courses by way of appliance placement.
The basics
For an efficient kitchen, the sides of the kitchen triangle need not be equal, but the distance between each point should add up to between 12 and 26 feet. The height and depth of the counters should be based on ergonomic principles to ensure efficiency, ease of work and minimum fatigue. Keep obstructions such as cabinets or islands, out of the triangle. Light colours create an airy feel; darker shades tend to make a kitchen look cramped.
The lighting
Natural lighting and ventilation is best, but don’t despair if it’s not possible at all times. Go for multilayered lighting — a set of luminaries that provide ambient light and another for task lighting. Keep in mind that lighting needs differ from room to room so your kitchen needs twice the amount of light needed in a bedroom. The Illuminating Engineering Society of North America states that the minimum light in kitchens should be equivalent to 30 foot-candles (the standard measurement of light on one square foot in the space).
The appliances
A contemporary kitchen is home to a variety of appliances. The growing use of microwaves, OTGs, electric cookers, food processors, water purifiers, blenders, toasters, steamers and dishwashers demand careful orchestration of the layout to ensure usability of all appliances. Invest in energy-saving appliances to lower electricity bills over time. Installing appliances on the wall frees up counter space.
The storage
A well-designed kitchen provides maximum storage in minimum space. Ensure you have enough space — be it shelves, cabinets or cupboards for utensils, cookware, crockery, cutlery, food staples, and other items. Fine-tune your needs by opting for a modular or carpenter-built kitchen. Tap all spaces including walls and above-door areas. Deeper counters increase workspace and allow bigger under-counter cabinets.
The bells and whistles
If you have a spacious kitchen, the options for kitting it out are massive. Choose from a side-by-side fridge, snack bar or breakfast bar, an informal dining area, more than one oven and sink, a built-in desk or computer workstation, a wine bar, a coffee station, or a small nook for cook books. A kitchen island/peninsula can expand the potential of the space.
