Get in the Zone With Your Kitchen

The kitchen has become an increasingly important area in our homes. In fact, this one little room has a lot going on. It typically provides a gathering place where family and friends share meals and company, as well as a place to prepare those dishes. Designers are constantly striving to provide more efficient ways to use this area as well as tempting us with new styles and accessories such as granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances.

Innovations are being made not only with the accessories, but in the kitchen layouts as well. Remember the old triangle design, where a geometric connection was made between the refrigerator, the stove and the sink? Apparently now we need multiple triangles to connect all the various tasks.

Here is an example of how a simple kitchen island can be transformed into a multi-tasking machine. On one side, add a refrigerated drawer facing the cook top for quick meal preparation. Another side faces two dishwashers and counter area for clean-up. Another area has a large preparation area right across from the main refrigerator and next to a second smaller sink. An alternative to the refrigerated drawer is a small under-the-counter fridge to hold juices, other beverages, and quick snacks. It's also located across from the cappuccino maker built into the cabinetry.

Also included are optional theme zones that reflect the individual needs of the home owner. Ideas may include a baking preparation area with a double oven and extra counter space. Wine aficionados will appreciate a built in wine center with a wine refrigerator, wine rack and storage for glassware. Techies will love the electronics zone where they can charge their cell phones, digital cameras and store their laptop.

The idea of a butler's pantry is making a comeback in modern kitchens. It requires a designated area where you can drop off dishes between courses, do some quick cooking with a single burner or microwave, store dishes and glassware, have a water source for quick clean-ups, and maybe even a dishwasher.

Islands often have raised eating areas eliminating the need for a kitchen table, now you can utilize that extra floor space by adding a small couch or an over sized chair for relaxing after dinner. Occasionally these areas are being turned into additional entertainment areas to occupy guests while their host is preparing dinner, and may include a stereo or TV as well.