10 Important Things to Consider
Before Designing a New Kitchen
by: Harvey Juric
Here
are 10 important guidelines for
your kitchen design project.
1.
For efficiency, the work triangle
(the space between the sink,
refrigerator, and stove) should
measure 26’ or less with no single
side longer than 9’, or less than
4’.
2. In
kitchens smaller than 150 sq. ft.,
opt for at least 13’ of base
cabinets, 12’ of wall cabinets, and
11’ of countertop. In kitchens
which are larger, go with at least
16’ of base cabinets, 15 1/2’ of
wall cabinets, and 16 1/2’ of
countertop.
3. For convenience, plan work
aisles to be at least 42” wide for one cook, and at least 48”
wide in multi-cook kitchens.
4. Specify a minimum of 24” of
counter space on one side of the sink and at least 18” on the
other.
5. To create the most accessible
landing for unloading groceries, allow at least 15” of counter
space on the handle side of a standard refrigerator; on both
sides if it’s a side-by-side model. Or include a landing area
directly across from the refrigerator, but no more than 48”
away.
6. For cleanup ease, install the
dishwasher within 36” of one edge of the sink and allow for at
least 21” of standing room next to it.
7. For microwaves and ovens,
provide at least 15 “ of counter space nearby, at least 16”
deep.
8. For optimum clearance, no
entry, appliance, or cabinet doors should interfere with
another.
9. For comfort and to help avoid
repetitive-motion injury, plan for work counters of different
heights; between 28 and 36” off the floor (easier for chopping
and seated-use access), and between 36 and 46” for general
tasks (higher counters accommodate taller cooks).
10. To install a cabinet unit
above the cook top, make sure the clearance is at least 24” for
a fireproof surface, 30” for an unprotected surface.
Designing a kitchen is as much a
science as it is an art. Knowing the recommended measurements
to use when planning the project can make all the difference in
the final outcome.
About The Author
Harvey Juric, is a veteran custom
home builder in Southern Ontario. If you like this article,
there is more at: http://www.ontario-home-builder.com,
http://www.luxury-home.ca or
http://www.repairing-building-contractor.com.
Seth Townsend, Kitchen
Design and Cabinets
Offering Kitchen Design for Marietta,
Atlanta, Kennesaw, Woodstock, Roswell, and other fine cities
in GA and the southeast.
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