Kitchen Functionality & Design
Functionality & design within your workspace is key to efficiency. There is a significant difference between a house and a home. A house is simply a collection of rooms under one roof. A home is the feeling derived from enjoying the house. Within a home, the kitchen is often the place where everyone gathers to make memories. Whether it’s everyday activities like doing homework or grabbing coffee on the way out the door or traditions like baking cookies at Christmas or toasting pumpkin seeds during the fall, the kitchen is a world of possibilities when it comes to enjoying the little things in life.
To make the most of a kitchen, one must also consider functionality. If space is disorganized, cluttered, or significantly dated, enjoying oneself may be impossible. Several components make up the comprehensive functionality of a kitchen. If you’re building a new home or updating an existing kitchen, consider these functional aspects before starting your project.
Organization: As the saying goes, outer order brings inner calm. To fully embrace the wonder and joy that is a kitchen, space must be organized. No matter the size of a kitchen, the organization is possible. An organized kitchen results in less stress for everyone in the household. It also saves time, money, and energy. When everything is where it should be, you won’t spend meaningless time looking for this or that. It also saves you money. A disorganized spice rack or pantry may cause you to buy items you already have. Perhaps most importantly, when you’re spending less time and energy looking for stuff, you’ll have more time to actually cook in the kitchen and enjoy the space.
Storage: Storage is vital in an efficient kitchen. Without storage, homeowners result to stacking items on countertops, tables, chairs, or wherever else they can find a place. If your kitchen doesn’t already have ample storage, you can add some during a renovation or install some type of storage unit. Modern manufacturers are savvy at making storage design items that are both functional and stylish. Gone are the days of clunky, ugly shelving and industrial-looking storage units. With a little cleaning and organizing and perhaps with the help of a skilled designer, you’ll kitchen will have more than enough storage it needs.
Lighting: Did you know most American kitchens do not have effective lighting? It seems like such a small thing, but lighting often gets overlooked in lieu of seemingly more important elements such as appliances, paint color and cabinetry. One must remember that a kitchen is more than merely a space to cook and eat. It also serves as the social and communication hub for the household. For that reason and others, good lighting is essential. Not only will good lighting make your kitchen more effective, but it will also make it more efficient and save you from fumbling around in a low-lit room searching for what you need. In today’s world, you can have the light you need without maxing out energy supplies. There are many automated systems and sustainable options that will not only offer efficient light but will not tax your budget.
Workstations: A variety of workstations are a must in an efficient kitchen. If you’ve ever cooked or chopped in a kitchen without ample workspace, you know how frustrating this can be. Whether it’s counter space, extended bars, islands, or some other type of element, workstations will make your life easier and your kitchen more enjoyable. There are a few tips to remember when considering workstations. Place them near respective storage areas. For instance, if you routinely chop on your island, make sure you’re chopping knives and cutting boards are nearby. Similar to storage units, if your kitchen doesn’t already include needed workstations, you can install additional space or bring in a freestanding island.
A kitchen is a wonderful component of any home, but this integral room can also be maddening if it’s not efficient. When creating efficiency in your kitchen, consider organization, storage, lighting, and workstations. The designers at Braemar are highly skilled in all these areas and look forward to working with you to create the kitchen of your dreams.
