Create a kitchen where food prep flows as easily as the conversation.
These three areasform the classic work trianglewhere most of the kitchen activity will take place.
Use an island as a friendly barrier: Designate one side for working and the otherfor seating and conversation.
Credit: Lincoln Barbour
The larger clearance also applies to spots where two people work back-to-back or stools pull out.
More than 48 inches is generally overkill.
In a tiny kitchen, the minimum aisle width is 36 inches.
Credit: Greg Scheidemann
A pot rack or a pretty crock can besmart kitchen storage solutions.
If that’s not practical, create a separate bread-and-breakfast station by the refrigerator.
Consider All Door Swings, Including Appliances
Look for conflicts within your kitchen layout.
Credit: Jay Wilde
Will two doors routinely collide?
Can you stand comfortably beside an open appliance?
Be especially mindful of the refrigerator door swing.
Credit: Paul Dyer
Many refrigerator doors must be open more than 90 degrees for interior bins to fully extend.
Double-Check Installation Requirements for Appliances
Take a close look at all requirements for installation before you purchase appliances.
Even among same-size appliances, actual depths, required clearances for airflow, and door swings may differ.
Think Through the Electrical Plan
Codes dictate outlet placement, but you still have choices.
Switches should be intuitively placed.Consider a dimmerfor pendants and other overhead lights and a push-button for the disposal.
Avoid the Trash-Bin Traffic Jam
Think twice before installing a trash pullout below your main sink.
When you’re standing at the sink, the trash is inaccessible.
Instead, place the pullout immediately to the right or left of the sink or in your prep area.
This will make the chore of unloading clean dishes a little less wearisome.
Design a Convenient Kitchen Island
Maintain adequate clearance in surrounding aisles.
In a small kitchen, a peninsula is often a better choice.
An island unit that’s too broad also wastes space below its center.
Don’t Forget Decorative Elements
Include at least one strong focal point in the room.
For instance, center a range and set it off with a striking hood and cabinetry or open shelves.
Elevation drawings can help you visualize aestheticswhen designing your kitchen.
