You’ll also need tomake smart design decisionsthat create a safe and accessible space.
Refer to these tips when building your dream kitchen to ensure the space is both safe and functional.
The clean slate of a new kitchen can be overwhelming.
Credit: Seth Smoot
Modern space-savingover-the-range microwaveshelp maintain these so-called golden triangle distances.
If two or more people cook at the same time, plan triangles for each cook.
These triangles might share one leg, but they should not cross each other.
Credit: Edmund Barr
Also, take a stab at avoid having major traffic walkways cross through the triangle.
In small kitchen layouts, this can be achieved with arolling kitchen counter cart.
It’s recommended to include at least a 24-inch-widespan of countertopnext to a sink for prep work.
Credit: Michael Partenio
For kitchen layouts withisland appliances, you should also extend the countertop at least 9 inches beyond the burners.
For a separate oven, include a 15-inch span of countertop on either side.
When these countertop areas overlap, take the larger of the two guidelines and add 12 inches.
Credit: Edmund Barr
Allow a 36-inchclearance behind chairsor stools, measured from counter/table edge to the wall or obstruction.
If there is a walkway behind the diner, allow 44-60 inches in the kitchen layout for comfortable passage.
A kitchen must have at least onewall-switch controlled light, with the switch placed at the entrance.
At least 8 percent of the total square footage of the kitchen must be windows or skylights.
It’s also important to havetask lightingover every work surface.
Install range hoods ormicrowave-hood combosat least 24 inches above a stove or according to manufacturer instructions.
Allow 15 inches of clear space above the refrigerator.
Protect your family by keeping a fire extinguisher visible, easily accessible, and away fromcooking equipment.
Also, choose clipped or rounded corners for countertops, which are safer than sharp edges.
Finally, place a trash can under each sink or near the primary prep area.
If possible, include a second bin in the same area for recycling.
For more information about kitchen design and to find design professionals, visitthe National Kitchen and Bath Association website.
