The kitchen is the most difficult space in the house to design because appliances, equipment, working surfaces, and storage spaces must be carefully organized into a visually coherent and functional whole. Fundamental to kitchen planning is the placement of three elements: the refrigerator, the sink, and the stove. These elements define the preparation zone, the washing zone, and the cooking zone. Together, the zones define the three points of the "working triangle.". In addition to mapping out a safe and efficient working triangle, you must also consider storage requirements for the countless number of kitchen gadgets, dishes, and other accessories that are found in the contemporary kitchen
The following layouts describe how the working triangle might be best arranged for the size and shape of the room:
SINGLE WALL/ STRAIGHT KITCHEN
The simplest kitchen organisation is a single row of appliances and counter space arranged against a wall. This layout is ideal for long narrow rooms or one wall of a studio apartment where the kitchen can either be screened off or made the central focus of the space. The most practical plan should include counter space on both sides of each major appliance and the refrigerator on one side of the wall since it only needs counter space to one side.
GALLEY/ PARALLEL KITCHEN
A galley or parallel kitchen has two parallel runs of counters. The sink, dish- washer, and stove should be located on the same side of the kitchen (cooking and washing zones) and the refrigerator (the preparation zone) should be located on the opposite wall. The counters should be at least 4 feet apart to provide adequate room for more than one cook. This layout is not recommended if other rooms are accessed through the kitchen
L or U-SHAPED KITCHEN
In these layouts, the counters and appliances are organized around two or three walls. This arrangement can work in either small or large spaces; however, in larger rooms, the working triangle should be kept within the optimal range of 1 2 to 22 feet. Often in these arrangements, one leg of the L or the U forms a counter, which is ideal for casual meals. In this scenario, it is best to design a higher counter to separate the cooking zone from the eating zone.
ISLAND KITCHEN
A central workstation provides extra space for performing various culinary tasks. Depending on the preferences of the cook, the island can be designed for either preparing or cooking a meal. Of all the layouts, this arrangement encourages the most socializing in the kitchen. It is best used in large rooms that allow enough space between counters and island.
Good luck designing your dream kitchen! Do not hesitate to contact us should you need any assistance. We are always happy to help.
(Credit: The Interior Design Reference and Specification Book)
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