The kitchen is not only a place that provides a family or group of friends with nutritional sustenance, but it is a place where they can gather to co-create delicious meals, communicate the details of their day, week or month, and attentively share quality time which builds stronger relationships. It’s commonly referred to as “the heart of the home” because when designed well it beckons occupants in and encourages them to engage in activities that promote happy, healthy living.
Everyone wants to feel happier and healthier, thus it’s imperative to assure your kitchen remodel becomes a highly functional mecca for connection. As interior designers that specialize in forming functional and attractive spaces we have 3 design tips that will help revitalize “the heart of your home!”
When you think about how the room will flow with numerous people within it you can create a design that encourages people to participate in a variety of ways. Workstations will give family members somewhere to contribute, seating options offer guests a place to converse comfortably while you or you and a couple others cook, and the efficient use of cabinet space keeps the countertops free of clutter so that you can easily present appetizers or hors d'oeuvres while finishing the final meal. Another essential part is an island or countertops between the kitchen and neighboring room. It maximizes the use of space and provides a functional floor plan.
This entertainer's kitchen showcases a large sectional island between it and the dining room, multiple workstations, tons of intentional custom storage/cabinet space with roll out shelves that can hold up to 300lbs, and high quality appliances. It was designed for a chef to use with its double oven, professional range top, warming drawer, and Sub Zero refrigerator. In addition, the bar includes beverage and wine under cabinet refrigerators, an under cabinet ice maker, a bar-sink, and additional storage. The ample lighting, soft finishes, and earthy tones add to the overall design to make the overall space warm and 100% welcoming.
Regardless of how much square footage you are working with you can create a more open and spacious kitchen by incorporating clean lines, efficient cabinet space, and ample yet open countertops. Maximize your design with an L-shaped peninsula to provide more storage, more countertop, and a place for people to pull up a stool.
Within this medium sized mid-century modern kitchen the ceiling height was raised, the peninsula was moved back (toward the dining area), and cabinetry was redone to make it more efficient. The cabinet accessories include drawer dividers for dishes, cutlery dividers, trash/recycle pull outs, appliance pull outs, and pantry pull out shelves. To help create a larger feel, the countertop behind the sink to the window was extended and the entire wall behind the cooktop was tiled.
When you maximize your kitchen's functionality and provide several elements that make it more comfortable to work, clean, relax, and simply be in, family members will naturally find themselves spending more time there. Natural lighting, seating options, the efficient use of cabinet space, and incorporating an area for kids to do their homework are all ways in which you can do this.
The traditional kitchen above was designed to be functional and comfortable. The island offers a downdraft vent (instead of hood) and extra storage to keep the space more open. Whereby the bar stools and desk chair allow occupants to sit in whichever area they prefer. All in all the overall design welcomes inhabitants to eat casually, study, visit, cook, or meal plan together as a family.
Apply one or all of these tips to transform and re-establish your kitchen as “the heart of your home.” The results will not only look incredible, but they will offer you and your family results by providing an area to gather, communicate, and connect on a regular basis so that you all feel happier and healthier.
If you have more specific questions regarding products, styles, no-fuss design, or you’d like to set up a consultation to discuss your project please contact us. at Custom Kitchens. We are an award-winning design/build company that has been in business since 1950 and we would love to be your one stop shop for your custom remodeling needs.
