Space, storage, safety: there are many reasons that an Atlanta homeowner might want a new kitchen, and just as many tips on how to incorporate them in a kitchen remodel. But if you happen to be eyeing such a project for a more fundamental reason – you love to cook – what exactly should you keep in mind?
Here are three pointers for transforming your kitchen into a gourmet chef’s delight.
Zones and layers
You may not be the hottest five-star chef in Atlanta (yet!), but any cook will benefit from a kitchen structured around work zones and layered storage. These help ensure you can move around the room with ease, switching between tasks and completing them efficiently.
Work zones are the particular “stations” you’ll be using through the cooking process, like the counter, fridge, stove, and sink. Layered storage refers to the cabinets, shelves, drawers, and hooks around these workstations that can completely and accessibly keep all the tools and ingredients you need.
How should you design these work zones? Ask yourself:
- What kinds of food do you like making?
- What are your cooking habits and preferences?
- What special equipment do you need?
- Will you be cooking alone?
Your answers will determine how you allot space, configure workflow, and choose appliances.
Double, double, toil no trouble
Space is a luxury in any kitchen: if you have it, make it count. One way to do so is to consider fitting tandem fixtures. Rather than extravagances, these are necessities if you’re hosting large parties with broad menus:
- Double islands. Not only will these delineate work zones and provide extra space for you and your helpers; they can also serve as an additional table for serving or eating.
- Double ranges/ovens. These synchronize and speed up cooking times, ensuring your meals are made to the letter and served on the dot.
- Double refrigerators/freezers. This tandem fixture will keep your ingredients fresh and organized before the party.
- Double sinks and dishwashers. Two sinks are better than one when you’re washing vegetables and whipping up broth and when you’re trying to wipe off the grime before loading your dishwasher(s).
The strength of steel
Stain-resistant surfaces are a must-have for the busy kitchen. But unless you’re going for the professional/industrial restaurant look, there are various materials you may use other than stainless steel.
Consider using composite granite, fireclay, and quartz for your countertops and even your sink. These materials all have stain resistance and strength comparable to that of steel. Easy to clean, resistant to scratches and watermarks as well as stains, they also come in a variety of colors, enabling you to be more creative with your designs.
Start thinking about these pointers, then contact your trusted Atlanta kitchen remodel contractor to build your ideas into reality.
Sources:
Creating a Gourmet Kitchen, HGTV.com
23 Stunning Gourmet Kitchen Ideas, DesignIdea.com
