Every person who cooks knows that efficiency is critical in a kitchen design but it is professional cooks who realize how critical the layout of a kitchen actually is. With people moving in many different directions, performing many different tasks, professional cooks want a kitchen that is designed to make things run smoothly. Therefore, incorporating professional ideas into your own kitchen is a great way to make sure your own kitchen runs smoothly.
Create a Work Triangle
A work triangle in a kitchen helps you function more efficiently. Everything in your kitchen should have a purpose for being there and within reach of the work triangle. A work triangle also minimizes traffic as you will not need to move around the room as much. A sink should be placed between or across from the preparation area, cooking surface or refrigerator.
The sum of the work triangle should not be more than 26 inches and each leg of the triangle between four and nine feet.
Choose Stainless Steel
If you have ever been in a professional kitchen, you have probably noticed almost everything is stainless steel. This is because stainless steel is not porous and does not harbor bacteria like other surfaces. It is also easy to clean and maintain.
If you don’t like the look of stainless steel, many manufacturers are now creating stainless appliances in colors like black and white. You can also add stainless steel counters and islands as well to your kitchen plan.
Location, Location, Location
Think about the items you use the most in your kitchen. Are the located in the most convenient place? If not, you may want to consider rearranging them to make your life easier. Put the utensils you use often where they are easy to reach. Check ingredients before you go to the store if you are planning to try a new recipe so that you don’t buy spices or ingredients you already have.
If possible, put items you use often out in the open, such as utensils in a decorative basket or knives attached to a magnet on the wall. Be sure any utensils you purchase are of high quality, especially knives. You are more likely to injure yourself using a dull knife than one that is sharpened properly. That being said, always have a first aid kit in the kitchen within easy reach.
Clean Often
No one enjoys giving their kitchen a thorough cleaning. This includes under refrigerators and stoves which are often neglected. Commercial stoves stand on legs so the area under them can be cleaned regularly. Create a cleaning schedule that allow you to tackle one big kitchen project each week to keep dirt and grime from accumulating.
Storage Options
There are several storage options that can make your kitchen more convenient. Install open shelving so items you use most are easily accessible. Turn any available space into storage using pull outs, inserts and organizational products to keep your cabinets neat, reducing the need to hunt or even empty a cabinet to find that pot you don’t use all the time.
If you are considering a kitchen remodel, these professional ideas can help make you more organized and let you work more efficiently. If you need help with your kitchen plan, contact our knowledgeable staff to learn what products we have that may help you create a more efficient kitchen. You can reach us by phone or complete the easy form online.