Because beauty can’t be everything.
We all want our kitchens to look good, but what use is a pretty kitchen that doesnt work?
Interior designerLisa Shaffersays that the most functional kitchen is a personalized one.
Credit: Alison Gootee; Styling: Matthew Gleason
We believe the most functionalkitchenis the one that works for the way you live, Shaffer says.
We have designed the smallest ofgalley kitchensand the largest of kitchens with back kitchens and walk-in pantries.
While a spacious open kitchen might work for some, other clients prefer a more intimate approach.
With thoughtful planning, every kitchen style can function well.
Sometimes, crafting the most functional kitchen may mean breaking the rules, she says.
Old-school rules for kitchen design arent the end-all-be-all.
So much of what we think about function in akitchen is dated, emphasizes Shaffer.
The best function will happen out of thinking through the needs of each client.
Still, you shouldnt throw all the rules out the window.
Instead, kitchens tend to be lively spaces that allow for conversation while cooking.
Often, folks these days also use their kitchens for eating and even entertaining.
Kitchens aren’t just for cookingthey’re the heart of your home, says Thomas.
When you’re thinking about a design, focus on how you’ll use the space.
Does part of your counter need to double as a workstation for kids?
Light Bright
For both style and function,kitchen lightingis of critical importance.
In fact, good lighting will increase function by expanding the possibility for multiple uses.
For example, with ample lighting, a kitchen can also serve as a homework station or home office.
Kitchens are a space for doing tasks and not just cooking tasks.
Do not forget the lighting, says interior designerMary Tobias Miller.
Put pendants or a linear fixture over the island.
Put cans in the ceiling and add under cabinets and over the sink lighting if your budget allows.
She also recommends keeping lights on a dimmer and sticking to warm lightbulbs in the kitchen.
However, designers recommend straying from this precedent.
Since modern kitchens are multi-purpose spaces, we’re often pushing beyond the triangle concept.
Shaffer and interior designerJuliAnne Kellyagree that the kitchen triangle isn’t everything.
Sometimes people get so caught up in the working triangle and having everything close together, she says.
We’ve seen increased interest from clients to create more drawer banks on the lower kitchen cabinets.
Many people find drawers more efficient and family-friendly.
To save valuable counter space, Miller also suggests carving out spots to suit needs.
This is especially true if you have a sink and dishwasher on theislandand a range directly across from them.
Small appliances should be stored away, in an appliance garage in close-to-reach cabinets, Kelly says.
For larger appliances that cant be as easily hidden, thoughtful placement is criticalto both function and safety.
I also would not put a cooktop on theedge of a counter.
Its too easy for little hands to reach the hot top.
According to Shaffer, another appliance arrangement to consider is the relationship between the refrigerator and microwave placement.
Having them right in the middle of things could be a mistake, she says.
