The kitchen - Part 3

The Kitchen - Part 3

Arranging your kitchen for optimum functionality is paramount, and I'll be sharing some of my tried and tested theories that I implement in every kitchen design. Worktops are also a huge consideration in a kitchen and should be chosen carefully.

The Work Triangle

You may have heard of 'the work triangle'; it is a theory as to the best flow within a kitchen. It stipulates that the fridge, sink and cooker should all be easily accessible within a triangle formation, with a preparation station that houses a bin underneath between these elements.

Key Considerations

• We always allow for a minimum of 90cm between the kitchen island and the opposite countertop, which gives a comfortable space for two people to pass.
• I would recommend two sinks if space allows for maximum practicality.
• Ensure your dishwasher is within handy reach of the drawers or cupboards you will be unloading into.
• I find drawers to be more practical and easier to use than cupboards. In drawers, everything is easy to see at first glance, whereas in cupboards you often have to bend down and empty them to find something right at the back.

Worktops

The worktops you choose can really make or break your kitchen, and they should be considered in terms of aesthetic, practicality and cost.

• Decide whether you want a light worktop such as a carrara marble or a darker one, like a black granite; they both provide an entirely different look.
• Marble is a popular choice, but it does stain if you spill anything acidic on it so requires particular care and attention. If you choose this, I would recommend a honed finish and making sure that it is very well sealed.
• Silestone is a great alternative to marble if you require something that is lower maintenance.
• For natural stones, I would go for a honed finish, but never polished, as it looks quite dated.
• It can also be nice to combine surfaces, perhaps having an oak worktop on your base units and a marble worktop on your kitchen island.
• For a more decorative finish to your worktop, you can profile the edges with mould detailing.
• In a smaller kitchen, I would recommend a 30mm thick worktop, whereas in a bigger space you could go up to 40mm.