Do you want your kitchen to be ergonomic and functional? Even small spaces can be comfortable to use if they are divided into zones and properly lit. Find out what an interior designer says about kitchen arrangements - both those separated from other rooms and open ones. What kitchen design principles must be followed to ensure it is both ergonomic and functional?
What will you learn from this article?
- What a professional kitchen design should include.
- Characteristics of modern kitchen arrangements.
- What principles to follow when preparing a kitchen for use.
Kitchen Design Principles – Where to Start?
The basic principle when designing a kitchen is to divide it into 5 zones arranged clockwise. A functional kitchen, whether open or closed, should be a place adapted for cooking and eating meals. Every kitchen design must have space for individual work zones.
The first of these is the supply area, which includes a fridge and a cabinet for groceries and kitchen accessories. The storage zone should be equipped with upper cabinets for tableware and pots. It's a good idea to place all the items you use daily in the upper part of the kitchen cabinetry to avoid unnecessary bending. The washing area includes:
- sink
- dishwasher
- waste bins.
If you want to maintain high aesthetics, forgo freestanding bins in favour of containers you can place in a cabinet with a pull-out drawer. You can also store cleaning accessories and garbage bags in this cabinet.
Meal Preparation – The Basis of Interior Organization
The key areas of every kitchen are the places for meal preparation and cooking. A great idea for a modern interior arrangement is to introduce an island or peninsula. If you have a bit more space to manage, it is worth introducing freestanding cabinets adapted for stove and sink installations. Modern kitchen furniture in the form of an island is also a great choice for kitchenettes as they form a natural boundary between the living room and the kitchen.
What Other Kitchen Furniture Can You Choose?
Small kitchens require special attention during design. It is worth choosing compact furniture that doesn't take up much space but is still functional. Built-in cabinets are a good solution that allows for maximum use of space. In small kitchens, it's also worth considering multifunctional furniture like tables that can serve as a work surface.
Kitchen Arrangement – Dimensions and Distances
Wondering how to arrange your kitchen functionally and comfortably? If you want a space conducive to quick and efficient work, remember to apply the work triangle principle.
- The upper cabinetry should have between 40 to 100 cm in height and about 30 cm in depth.
- Regarding the placement of lower cabinets, it depends on the height of the work surface (about 82 cm).
- Remember that cabinet depth depends on the countertop specifications. For example, a 50 cm deep cabinetry is adapted to 60 cm countertops.
Kitchen Design – Kitchen Countertops
A good practice when outfitting a kitchen is to install an auxiliary countertop next to the fridge to facilitate storing groceries. Assuming that the main work surface is about 60-120 cm long, the auxiliary countertop should not exceed 40 cm in size. To find the ideal countertop height, measure the height from your bent elbow to the floor and subtract 15 cm. Don't forget to consider the size of appliances, especially important for built-in kitchen devices.
What Materials to Choose for Kitchen Countertops?
Kitchen countertops are one of the most critical components of kitchen furnishings. They should be not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and easy to maintain. Popular materials include granite, marble, conglomerate, and laminate. Granite and marble are resistant to high temperatures and mechanical damage, but they require regular maintenance. Laminate is a cheaper alternative that offers a wide range of patterns and colours.
Kitchen Design – Or Perhaps a Kitchen with an Island?
If you want to commission a kitchen arrangement with a kitchen island, consider whether this solution will be suitable for a smaller area. Designing an open kitchen offers a vast scope, so it's worth checking modern designs and considering the layout. On the other hand, a closed kitchen requires optical opening and illumination, so a minimalist build is better. In this case, investing in transparent storage cabinets is a good idea. Glass elements fit both small kitchens and spacious kitchenettes. It's a convenient and functional solution that allows quick location of needed items.
How to Arrange a Kitchen with an Island?
A kitchen with an island is a dream for many, but arranging it requires proper planning. A kitchen island can serve various functions – from a work surface to a place for eating meals. However, remember that it takes significant space, so in small kitchens, a peninsula might be better. A kitchen island is an ideal solution for those who enjoy cooking in company, serving as the kitchen centre and enabling free communication.
What are the Latest Trends in Kitchen Design?
Kitchen design is an ever-evolving field. Currently, one of the biggest trends is the use of smart technologies, such as touch-screen fridges or ovens controlled by apps. Increasingly, people opt for industrial-style kitchens, characterized by raw materials like concrete or metal. Another popular trend is using natural materials like wood or stone, which give the kitchen a cosy feel.
How to Arrange a Kitchen in a Minimalist Style?
Minimalist kitchens are characterized by simplicity, functionality, and muted colours. In such a kitchen, it's advisable to choose furniture with simple forms and neutral colours like white, grey, or black. It's also important to avoid unnecessary decorations and maintain tidiness. Minimalist kitchens often feature modern home appliances that are functional and decorative elements.
How to Arrange a Kitchen in a Scandinavian Style?
Kitchens in the Scandinavian style are characterized by simplicity, functionality, and light colours. In such a kitchen, it's advisable to choose furniture in white or pastel colours, which visually enlarges the space. Natural materials, such as wood or stone, which give the kitchen a cosy character, are also important. A Scandinavian kitchen should also include plants that refresh the space and add freshness.
What are the Key Ergonomics Rules in the Kitchen?
Ergonomics in the kitchen is key to creating a space that is comfortable and functional. One of the most important rules is maintaining appropriate distances between zones, to minimize unnecessary movements. It's also worth paying attention to countertop height, which should be adapted to the users' height. Another important aspect is proper lighting, which affects comfort while working in the kitchen.
What are the Common Problems in Small Kitchens?
Small kitchens are a challenge for any designer. One of the most common problems is the lack of storage space, which leads to clutter and disorder. Another issue is improper zone arrangement, which hinders kitchen work. In small kitchens, it's advisable to choose compact furniture and intelligent solutions that allow maximum space utilization.
What are the Most Important Elements in Kitchen Furnishing?
Kitchen furnishings are key to creating a space that is both functional and aesthetic. The most important elements are furniture, appliances, and lighting. Furniture should be suited to the lifestyle of the household, and appliances to their needs. It's also worth paying attention to lighting, which affects comfort while working in the kitchen.
How to Arrange a Retro-Style Kitchen?
Retro-style kitchens are a return to the past, marked by warm colours and classic patterns. In such a kitchen, pastel-coloured furniture is advisable, giving the space a cosy character. Retro appliances, which serve as decorative elements, are also important. A retro kitchen should also feature vintage-style accents, such as tiles or decorations.
How to Select Lighting for the Kitchen?
Lighting in the kitchen plays a key role – it affects not only the atmosphere but also work comfort. Spot lighting over the worktop is essential to avoid shadows while cutting or cooking. General lighting, which brightens up the entire room, is also important. In modern kitchens, LED lighting is increasingly used, which is energy-efficient and allows for a variety of visual effects.
What Mistakes are Commonly Made in Kitchen Design?
Kitchen design is a complex process that requires considering many factors. One of the most common mistakes is improper zone arrangement, which leads to inefficient space use. Another frequent mistake is incorrect lighting selection, which can hinder kitchen work. It's also worth avoiding an excess of decorations, which can overwhelm the space and make it difficult to maintain order.
Kitchen Designs – Where to Begin Small Kitchen Renovations?
By commissioning a kitchen design from professional designers, you ensure that the space will be fully functional. To design a kitchen with a small floor area that meets the household's needs, compact appliances and custom cabinetry are not enough. Renovating a kitchen is a large and costly undertaking – adhering to ergonomic principles is essential. Although the room's size is significant, it doesn't have to affect how everyday activities are carried out – functionally arranged furniture, a spacious kitchen worktop, and a kitchen divided into zones will make even a small room in an L-shape look modern.
Summary
Kitchen design projects are crucial elements that affect the functionality and ergonomics of this room. To design a kitchen well, it's necessary to consider the optimal kitchen dimensions and properly plan the zones in the kitchen. Planning should start from creating a top-view kitchen layout to visualize the placement of furniture and appliances. Remember to follow furniture design principles to ensure they meet the users' needs. How to design a kitchen well? First, ensure proper division into work zones, such as storage, washing, meal preparation, and cooking areas. Kitchen furniture design should balance aesthetics and functionality, making the space practical and pleasant to use.
The principles of kitchen design concern not only ergonomics, but also safety and convenience. When planning a kitchen, pay attention to furniture design rules, such as appropriate countertop height and shelf depth. How to design kitchen furniture to be both practical and aesthetic? The key is to match them to the household's lifestyle and available space. In small kitchens, opt for compact furniture that maximizes available space. Planning kitchen zones is another important aspect that influences convenience. Proper zone layout makes everyday tasks like cooking or washing much easier and more pleasant. Just like installing a faucet, essential in any kitchen, which we discuss on our blog.