A Well-Designed Kitchen: It’s Where Life Happens!
For many people the kitchen is the heart of their home. It is the place where family, friends, and guests go to relax, eat, and enjoy time creating new memories. Whether you want to completely remodel your kitchen to give it a new look or want to create a gourmet kitchen that will give you the space needed to explore your culinary interests, one thing is certain — your kitchen must be well designed.
What Are Common Layouts For A Kitchen Remodel?
Designing a kitchen remodel can be a bit of a logistical nightmare. Together, you and your builder will have to determine where everything will go. This might seem like a bit of a no-brainer, but don’t forget every kitchen will have to have plumbing, electrical, ventilation, and safety features. If you choose to have gas appliances, then you will also need to ensure that the right safety and design steps have been taken to accommodate gas lines, hook-ups, and the necessary ventilating fans. As you determine where everything will go, you will have the chance to explore at least three of the classic kitchen layouts.
- The Single or Double Galley Kitchen. — This type of kitchen often features at least one continuous line of cabinets to maximize efficiencies in a small space.
- The L-Shaped Kitchen. — This type of kitchen is built into a corner. It is often the optimal option for creating large counters; however, you will have to be careful to make sure that you still have a good “work triangle.”
- The U-Shaped Kitchen. — This type of kitchen allows you to keep everything within easy reach. However, it does have a larger footprint, which means that you might have to reduce space somewhere else in your South Florida home to accommodate this spacious design.
What Is The “Work Triangle?”
Any professional or home chef will tell you that the “work triangle” is one of the most important features of a well-designed kitchen. A good “work triangle” will not only improve a kitchen’s functionality, but it will effectively minimize the walking distance between the stove, refrigerator, and the sink. Additionally, when you have a good “work triangle,” you will reduce traffic within your kitchen, maintain a safe cooking environment, and make cooking multiple dishes at the same time a breeze. Don’t forget that if you are planning on letting more than one person cook at a time, then you will need to design a “work triangle” for each cook.
What Factors Should You Consider During A Kitchen Renovation?
All well designed kitchens feature a few similar traits.
- Doorways and walkways are well placed. — Doorways into a kitchen should be at least 32 inches wide. Additionally, swinging doors must not interfere with cabinets or appliances. Smaller kitchens should have walkways that are at least 48 inches wide for multiple cooks.
- The sink and dishwasher are near each other. — Nothing is worse than trying to transport dishes from the sink to the dishwasher, only to find that dripping water or food have spilled along the way. Instead, a well-designed kitchen will place the dishwasher within 36 inches of the sink. Nobody wants to have a dishwasher that can’t be opened fully because its door bumps into the center island. To avoid the latter dilemma, the dishwasher should have at least 21 inches of clearance space between any adjacent cabinets, obstacles, or appliances.
- Ample counters leave room for baking, cooking, and of course eating. — If you want to make memories while baking those holiday cookies or making ice cream in the summer, then your kitchen should have at least 158 inches of usable counter space. There should be at least 15 inches of clearance between hanging cabinets and the countertops to avoid bruised heads and a cramped work space. For safety and functionality, at least 12 – 15 inches of counter space should be placed on either side of the stove. If you want to create a designated eating space within your kitchen, then you will need to leave space within the interior design layout or build an island that features the height and width needed to accommodate bar stools.
Enjoy The Benefits Of A Well-Designed Kitchen
A well designed kitchen can easily transform your home. A kitchen renovation can also have the added benefit of increasing the value of your South Florida home. Whether you choose to create a center island with seating for four or fourteen, or want to add light to your galley kitchen, with the help of a reputable licensed building you can maximize space, reduce traffic, and create a space where memories are made every day.
At GAD Development, LLC, we have many years of experience helping South Florida kitchens create wonderful memories. Let us see how we can help you! Gaddev.com