DESIGNING THE PERFECT KITCHEN
- Halee Thompson
- Oct 9
- 4 min read
Balancing Flow, Function and Personal Style
Kitchen Design for Flow
How do you approach creating an efficient flow in the kitchen?
Bonnie Bagley Catlin: Establishing an efficient flow in the kitchen hinges on effective organization, thorough preparation and maximizing the space to enhance productivity. My approach focuses on these key elements to create a seamless cooking experience.
What key elements do you focus on to make sure the layout supports ease of movement and function?
BBC: To create a kitchen layout that enhances ease of movement and functionality, it’s essential to understand the unique cooking habits and preferences of our clients. Key questions include: How do they cook? Do they often have multiple cooks? Are they passionate bakers requiring specific tools and spaces?
Once we understand their culinary lifestyle, we can examine the floor plan to designate work zones tailored to their needs. This could mean an efficient prep area, a dedicated baking station, or a spacious cooking zone for multiple chefs.
How do you assess the work triangle (stove, sink and refrigerator) in your kitchen designs?
Joey Paull Yoder: The work triangle is crucial in kitchen design. During initial consultations, we walk through the space with clients, demonstrating the “why” or “why not” of different layouts. This helps them envision how the space will feel and function.
Do you ever go beyond the traditional work triangle to create a more customized flow for your clients?
JPY: Absolutely! Through the design process, we learn how families live in their kitchens. For example, some may need additional zones for baking, cooking, or specialized appliances. When there are multiple cooks or specific culinary needs, we adjust or add to the traditional triangle to ensure functionality.
How do you optimize for both cooking and entertaining areas, especially in smaller kitchens?
Dawn Avenida: In smaller kitchens, removing a wall to open the space to adjacent rooms is a great way to blend cooking and entertaining. An island or peninsula helps define the area while maintaining an open flow. For added functionality, incorporating zones like a coffee or beverage station provides charm and keeps guests out of the work triangle.
Maximizing vertical space with floor-to-ceiling cabinets and built-in appliances is critical in smaller kitchens. For clients who bake, appliance lifts in cabinets provide easy access to mixers while freeing up counter space. Proper lighting, like under-cabinet fixtures or adjustable wall sconces, enhances functionality and ambiance, making the space feel larger and more inviting.
How do you balance open and closed storage to enhance the kitchen’s overall flow and accessibility?
JPY: Open vs. closed storage is a personal choice. Open shelving can create a warm, airy feel and display treasured items, while closed cabinets keep clutter hidden. Often, we combine both—adding touches of open shelving for visual
interest and closed storage for functionality. For example, a pull-out pantry accessible from both sides streamlines organization and enhances efficiency.
Are there any storage solutions that you’ve found particularly effective for reducing clutter and improving kitchen efficiency?
JPY: Two of my favorites are multifunctional appliances, like a combination speed oven, which saves space, and tall pullout pantries that provide easy access and visibility. These features optimize storage and simplify kitchen workflows.
Are there different considerations for different lifestyles or kitchen activities?
DA: Yes, tailoring the layout to a client’s lifestyle is essential. For families, I prioritize features like wider work triangles, accessible storage and safety elements. Lower cabinets with drawers make it easier for children to reach snacks, while
induction cooktops reduce the risk of burns.
For singles or couples, smaller kitchens can benefit from compact layouts and features like indoor-outdoor dining or unique design elements that reflect their personality. For example, one client incorporated a “Tree of Life” sculpture
as a feature wall behind the cooktop, creating a striking focal point.
How do you incorporate the concept of “flow” into a kitchen design for a family versus a single individual or couple?
BBC: For families, kitchens need to accommodate multiple activities, from meal prep to socializing. This often means more counter space, strategic zoning and layouts that allow for easy movement. Safety features, like induction cooktops,
are also a priority.
For single individuals or couples, kitchens can focus on personal style and a streamlined workflow. Designs often emphasize intimacy and include features like wine refrigerators or open shelving for a modern aesthetic. The goal is to ensure the kitchen meets the specific needs of its users, whether it’s bustling with activity or a cozy retreat for two.
Mood and Atmosphere
How do you approach creating a kitchen design that fosters a positive atmosphere or mood?
BBC: The kitchen is the heart of the home, where connections are made and memories are crafted. To create a welcoming atmosphere, I prioritize open layouts that encourage interaction, such as a spacious island for conversations and teamwork. Personal touches, like family photos or a collection of cookbooks, add warmth and make the space uniquely yours.
What design elements or finishes do you use to influence the kitchen’s “vibe”?
DA: Biophilic design—incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and plants—is a powerful way to create a calming and inviting kitchen. Features like a living herb wall or wood shelves with live edges add organic charm and vitality. A chalkboard or message board for family notes enhances personalization and fosters a sense of connection.
How important is lighting in setting the mood in a kitchen?
DA: Lighting is crucial for both functionality and ambiance. Layered lighting—task, accent, and ambient—allows you to tailor the mood to different activities. Under-cabinet lighting is versatile, creating a warm glow for entertaining or bright illumination for meal prep. Thoughtfully chosen fixtures can transform the kitchen into a vibrant, welcoming space.
Ultimately, designing the perfect kitchen is about striking the right balance between flow, function, and personal style. By tailoring layouts to individual needs, incorporating smart storage solutions and embracing thoughtful design elements, a kitchen can become more than just a place to cook. Whether it’s a bustling family space or an entertainer’s dream, a well-designed kitchen fosters efficiency and connection, making everyday moments more enjoyable.
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