12 rules to follow for designing a functional kitchen

Kitchen Design
© istock

Optimize the ergonomics and layout of your kitchen

Focus on the ergonomics of your kitchen

Optimizing the ergonomics and layout of your kitchen is essential for creating a functional and practical space. To do this, simply first draw the plan of your workflow, that is to say, the way you will move around your kitchen. This way, you have a clearer view of the space you need to prepare your meals, cook them comfortably, and wash the dishes safely.

Organize preparation, cooking and washing areas

After analyzing your workflow, you can more easily plan the placement of preparation, cooking and washing areas in a logical manner, reducing unnecessary trips and saving valuable time. For example, it’s a good idea to place the sink close to the prep area to make it easier to rinse vegetables and cooking utensils.

Maximize storage spaces by using suitable solutions

Professional kitchen designers advocate incorporating cabinets and drawers into your equipped kitchen. These pieces of furniture make it easy to store your utensils, pots, pans and other accessories. Sliding shelves, cabinet dividers and drawer organizers are also practical options to keep your kitchen tidy.

Also think about use vertical space. For example, you can install wall shelves or hooks to hang pots and pans, freeing up more work space.

Choosing sustainable materials and coverings for your fitted kitchen

Ixina Equipped KitchenIxina Equipped Kitchen
© ixina

When you arrange your kitchen, make sure to choose appropriate materials and coatings. Opt for durable, easy-to-clean and wear-resistant materials to ensure the longevity of your kitchen. For example, sturdy surfaces such as granite, quartz or stainless steel are ideal for a worktop, offering both strength and ease of maintenance. Also make sure that these coverings are easy to clean.

THE laminate worktops, for their part, offer an aesthetic and practical solution for kitchen layout. Their main strength lies in their durability and resistance to daily wear and tear. Able to resist scratches, heat and humidity, they will stay looking new for longer. And as they come in a multitude of designs and finishes, this allows you to personalize them according to the decorative style chosen in the kitchen.

Their maintenance is another major advantage: A simple wipe with a sponge is enough to clean them, making them ideal for a kitchen environment where hygiene is paramount. Economical, laminate worktops offer excellent value for money. Last but not least, their installation is also simpler and faster compared to other materials!

Lighting a fitted kitchen comfortably

Use general lighting for uniform brightness

The lighting plays a essential role in the design of a comfortable kitchen. In order to create a homogeneous lighting atmosphere throughout the room, it is recommended to use general lighting. That is to say, a ceiling light or a central pendant light which diffuses soft and uniform light.

Integrate specific lighting above work areas

Provide specific lighting above work areas in your kitchen, such as the countertop and stove. This optimizes visibility when preparing meals and reduces the risk of accidents. For this, many solutions are very aesthetic in a kitchen: recessed lighting, light strips or hanging lamps.

Add Accent Lighting to Highlight Features in Your Kitchen

To highlight certain elements of your kitchen such as shelves or islands, it is interesting toadd accent lighting. Adjustable recessed spotlights or LED lighting can be used to create focused points of light and add an aesthetic touch to the space.

Choosing functional household appliances

Select devices suited to your needs and available space

When designing a kitchen, choosing functional appliances that meet your specific needs and fit harmoniously into the available space is crucial. To find the perfect balance between your needs, your budget and the layout of your kitchen, you can contact a kitchen designer or an expert in household appliances.

Look for energy-efficient equipment

IF you want to save energy, energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your energy costs, but also the environmental impact of your kitchen. Thus, modern devices equipped with energy efficient functions can contribute to greater control of your electricity consumption.

Opt for kitchen appliances that are easy to use and maintain

Finally, opt for devices that are easy to use and maintain. Look for convenient features that simplify everyday tasks, like intuitive controls, pre-set programs, and convenient cleaning options. This will allow you to fully enjoy your kitchen without worrying about the complexity of your appliances.

Call on a professional kitchen designer to arrange your kitchen

Kitchen LayoutKitchen Layout
© ixina

Calling on a professional kitchen designer like ixina offers many advantages. Experts support you throughout your project with personalized advice, during remote or in-store meetings. You will receive a free detailed estimate and a 3D plan of your future kitchen in order to visualize the result. In addition, the kitchen furniture offered by this kitchen designer suits all budgets. And, thanks to dedicated design tools, you can personalize the smallest details of your future fitted kitchen!


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