Kitchens are not all about aesthetics, so what does make the Ideal Family Friendly Kitchen- consider some practical options. Here’s a few ideas to think about but if ever I could make a self-cleaning pyrolytic kitchen I really would!
Kitchen – Appliances
Ovens
The pyrolytic oven it is a self-cleaning oven. It works by oxidizing dirt, which then turns to ash. A simple wipe over with a damp cloth is all that is required after to finish the cleaning – something that is better for the environment than using harsh chemicals.
Consideration should be given to the position of the oven, whether it be high or low level. If high level a slide under door is a good option.
Hobs
Induction hobs are an extremely popular choice. Not only do they remain relatively cool to the touch, easy to clean but they also heat up quicker than halogen or gas and so use less energy.
Microwaves
Microwaves are a great appliance for carefully warming babies’ milk or for teenagers skipping family meals who need to reheat something quick, so careful consideration needs to be given to where it’s placed. It can be on the worktop, above the oven or built into a wall cupboard.
Fridge
Some thought should be given to the position and height of the fridge – do you want easy access or no access for vertically challenged family members?
Kitchen Worktops
Corian, Quartz, Granite, Wood or Laminate Worktops – Which Should You Choose?
My advice when designing a family kitchen is to consider what is important to you, as there’s advantages & disadvantages to certain materials for your worktops and a huge range to choose from. Two of my favourites are:
Corian Worktops
Corian is a fantastic choice because it’s nonporous and resistant to alkaline, acid, stubborn stains and it can be moulded into any shape. Should an accident happen, and the worktop becomes damaged they are easily repairable.
Laminate Worktops
Quality Laminate worktops are stain resistant and a good economical choice. Upstands and splashbacks can be made in the same material and are easily cleaned.
The choice of worktop materials is vast, and it really merits a post of its own. Keep watching this blog if you want to learn more about other materials besides Corian and Laminate.
Kitchen Safety – Cabinets
Sink cupboards usually contain all manner of chemicals and a great way to secure these cupboards is by using magnetic locks. They’re invisible when fitted but can only be unlocked using a magnet.
Practical and Safe Kitchen Flooring
There are many materials you could use as kitchen flooring, one I recommend considering is luxury vinyl tiling (LVT) because it’s suitable for all members of the family, including pets. It’s mostly non-slip and comes in a variety of patterns, colours and again is easy to keep clean.
Kitchen Seating to Suit Daddy Long Legs and Little Legs!
How do you accommodate all sizes, ages and heights when planning seating in your family kitchen? One solution is to plan into the design some low-level worktop space if there isn’t room for a dining table. This can be achieved by attaching a low-level worktop to a wall, a freestanding island or peninsular units and ensures that little people can be safely seated at table height rather than perched on high stools.
If there is room for a dining table (something which is often achieved by knocking through from the kitchen to the dining room) a dedicated children’s activity area at the dining end of the room enables adults to work in the kitchen whilst easily keeping an eye on the children.
The Kitchen Information Centre
Each home has an area in the kitchen where the post is sorted and filed, the phones are charged, calendars are hung, school letters, Bills & other notices are kept and of course your offspring’s little masterpieces are displayed. It’s best to keep this area out of the main working triangle part of the kitchen.
This is also a great place to have USB sockets for mobile phone charging.
Making your Kitchen Pet Friendly
I have created cat beds in a wicker baskets fitted into a unit next to a radiator, so that the elderly cat was warm when sleeping. Whatever your furry friends’ needs are these can be accommodated within your design. Thought should also be given to where dog and cat beds are placed and the positioning of water and food bowls. One solution is to create a feeding station with food storage.
When thinking about those muddy paws and wet coats chose a practical cabinet front such as a flat slab style in an easy clean matt finish which just needs a quick wipe down.
‘Treats’ for All Ages!
Don’t underestimate the effect a healthy snack has on hungry children returning from school. A “snack” drawer planned into the kitchen is perfect for this. Parents can put into the drawer items they are happy for the children to snack on.
Finally, what about something for mum and dad? After a long day, once the children are in bed you may appreciate something from the wine cabinet, or your own secret treat stash. Whatever your “guilty secret” may be, I can help design it over a coffee and a chat.
Contact me now for more information on planning your dream family friendly kitchen.
© Heather Johnson Home Interiors 2022