When planning the layout of your new kitchen, the size and shape of your kitchen area will determine which layouts are viable. But then how do you create an efficient workspace? The kitchen work triangle and work zones are the solution for efficient kitchen design.
Efficient kitchen design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing uses the cook top, sink, and refrigerator as the focus for planning the kitchen remodel. These three appliances are the kitchen cornerstone and create what is commonly referred to as the Work Triangle. Keeping them closer together in proximity smooths out your workflow and cuts down on wasted walking.
Note: The exception for the work triangle is the one wall kitchen. Due to limitations in geometry, it is impossible to achieve a triangle unless a kitchen island is added as an addition. However, efficiency can be achieved similarly by keeping appliances closer together.
From there, cut your work space into three work zones: prep-work, cooking, and cleaning. Cabinet space, appliance location, and countertops in each zone should be designed around their job. It’s important to think about your kitchen and how you are going to use it, so plan accordingly:
The secondary kitchen zones should then be constructed around these: food storage, cleaning supplies / waste, and dishes / cutlery. While these are indeed secondary, it is important to put some time into planning.