Do you spend a lot of time in your kitchen, whether you are cooking dinner or visiting with family and friends? The kitchen is the heart of the home, meaning it is where families spend much of their time together. You might find family members or friends in the kitchen, visiting while you cook dinner. Are you a cook who likes to entertain? Consider these ideas when you are designing or remodeling the kitchen.
Kitchen layout
The layout in your kitchen should allow for traffic flow without disrupting the cook. Keep major appliances–the range, sink and refrigerator–away from the flow of traffic if at all possible. Ideally, you should be able to move from the stove to the sink without worrying that someone will be in your way. Of course, each kitchen is unique, so you will have to consider how you typically move from one zone to another and prioritize accordingly.
Island seating
If space allows, an island will not only provide extra storage space, but it is also a great place for extra seating. Do guests stand around the kitchen and visit while you cook? Choose an island with a small overhang, where they can sit on a stool and chat without getting in the way.
Durable materials
Frequently-used kitchens should not consist of materials that easily stain or wear out quickly. Choose durable, hardy materials such as tile flooring and stone countertops. Marble and granite can stain, especially if acidic liquids spill and are not quickly cleaned. Choose barstools with wood or vinyl seats that are easy to clean, rather than cloth. Distressed cabinets have a worn, antique look already, so scrapes and dings are not as noticeable.
Adequate lighting
There should be plenty of light in a kitchen that is used often. Besides natural light, there should be general, task and possibly even accent lighting. General may be recessed cans or a ceiling fixture that provides enough light to see by. For tasks like preparing and cooking food, you might need under-cabinet fixtures and one over the cooktop. Accent lighting, such as above-cabinet fixtures, is simply there to set a particular mood or to highlight artwork.
Outdoor kitchen
Do you entertain frequently and enjoy spending time outdoors? Perhaps you have a small kitchen that you are unable to make larger with additions or layout changes. An outdoor kitchen might be the ultimate choice. They are becoming more popular, especially in regions with nice weather for most of the year. An outdoor kitchen might consist of a stove or grill, a small sink and a small refrigerator, as well as any other extra features you choose.
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