When it comes to designing a functional kitchen, it's crucial to consider your specific needs and activities. Each individual utilises their kitchen differently: some prioritise quick breakfast smoothies on-the-go, while others focus on preparing hearty meals. For a few, the kitchen serves primarily as an entertainment area that sees occasional use. Regardless of your routine, there are a few key workflow designs that benefit everyone. Consider the journey of dishes, starting from the sink, then to the dishwasher, and finally back to the cupboard. Imagine the inconvenience if these stations were located at opposite ends of the kitchen. Similarly, the placement of the pantry, fridge, and preparation space should be considered, minimising the need to constantly traverse the kitchen for storage items.
Revolutionising Kitchen Design: Embracing the Concept of 'Zones'
Leading kitchen experts at Blum have introduced a groundbreaking concept called 'Dynamic Space,' which redefines the way we plan and design kitchens in the modern era. Departing from the traditional and outdated triangle model, they present a more thoughtful and dynamic workflow approach. This innovative method aims to better accommodate the demands of our high-tech, contemporary lifestyles, providing a more comfortable and efficient utilisation of kitchen space.
The two most common activities in a kitchen are meal preparation and cleanup. Naturally, we strive to find the most effective and ergonomic methods to accomplish these tasks. Fundamentally, there are five essential zones to consider:
Consumables: This zone encompasses fridge and pantry storage.
Non-Consumables: Here, we organise items like plates, bowls, containers, jars, cutlery, and various kitchen utensils.
Cleaning: Think of the sink, dishwasher, cleaning supplies, and waste disposal in this zone.
Preparation: A spacious and accessible area is crucial for any kitchen, along with readily available preparation essentials such as knives and chopping boards.
Cooking: This zone encompasses the choice of cooking appliances, whether it be gas, induction, electric, oven, microwave, or a combination of these options.
Creating Seamless Workflows in Any Kitchen through Zoning
Every kitchen, regardless of its size or shape, can be divided into these five work zones. For right-handed individuals, the arrangement follows a clockwise pattern: consumables, non-consumables, cleaning, preparation, and cooking. Left-handed individuals would follow the same order in a counterclockwise manner.
By implementing these zones, you can apply them to any kitchen shape, establishing a customised workflow that suits your specific needs. Abandoning the traditional triangle model opens up more design possibilities, which is crucial for modern kitchens that serve purposes beyond mere cooking. The triangle layout often confines the space, inhibiting entertainment or accommodating multiple individuals in the kitchen. Consulting a skilled kitchen planner will allow you to explore various workflow designs and identify the one that best complements your kitchen's shape and your personal requirements.
Optimising Functionality through Thoughtful Kitchen Storage Solutions
Once you have your basic workflow designed, it's essential to consider storage options. When it comes to storage design, various ergonomic factors come into play. Frequently used items like plates, cups, cutlery, and cooking utensils should be easily accessible, ideally positioned at mid levels. However, individual preferences may differ.
Compose a list of items you frequently require and design your storage solutions around them. Less frequently used items can be stored at lower or higher levels. Additionally, consider the distance between different areas. Would you prefer to have the dishwasher and the opposite cupboard open simultaneously for effortless plate transfer? Alternatively, would you like fully extendable drawers that allow for easy visibility and accessibility of contents? With the availability of clever and modern storage spaces, you have the flexibility to create storage solutions tailored to your specific
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