What is a Kitchen Work Triangle? Here's the Scoop!
If you have been considering a kitchen remodel, then you have more than likely been thinking a whole lot about the design aspect. From cabinet styles, backsplashes, flooring, new appliances, and more. However, one of the key factors to a successful remodel is a well thought out kitchen layout. There are endless kitchen layout tips but today, our cabinet company at the Lake of the Ozarks would like to take it back to the basics and share with you a simple yet useful layout tip. The kitchen work triangle has been a popular way to have an efficient kitchen since the 1940’s. What exactly is a kitchen work triangle? Continue reading to find out!
Kitchen Work Triangle Concept
The kitchen work triangle is a kitchen layout that is designed to maximize efficiency in the kitchen by reducing steps taken in the kitchen and promoting great workflow. When you are preparing a meal in the kitchen, the primary tasks take place between the stove, sink, and the refrigerator. The idea of a kitchen work triangle is to have an imaginary line that goes between the sink, refrigerator, and stovetop. In addition to forming an imaginary triangle, there should also not be too much or too little space between the stove, sink, and refrigerator. Consider these dimensions as a good rule of thumb but not an absolute:
- Your triangle legs should not be less than 4 feet or longer than 9 feet
- Minimal traffic should flow through the triangle
- The sum of all three sides of the triangle should range between 13 feet and 26 feet
A Modern Work Triangle
The kitchen work triangle has been around for many years. We all know that as time goes on, designs and ideas evolve. The same goes for the kitchen work triangle. The work triangle is still a great way to begin your kitchen layout, but depending on your lifestyle, you may want to consider adding to this concept. A fairly new idea is “work zones.” This is because the work triangle in smaller spaces can be conducive to the single person cooking. With more and more families sharing the responsibility of cooking and cleaning, creating work zones can be more efficient.
Entertaining in an open floor plan where the kitchen and the living room come together is a more modern design. Whereas in the 1940’s the kitchen was in a separate area and more behind closed doors. Today, we use the kitchen as a place to eat breakfast, do homework after school, and entertain guests. This is why the addition of Work Zones is a great evolution to the Kitchen Work Triangle.
The main idea behind kitchen work zones is that there should be zones in your kitchen based on specific tasks that you frequently complete. For example,
- The dishwasher, sink, and garbage can should be close together.
- Countertops should be right next to major appliances
- Often, small refrigerators are installed in islands for kids snacks or drinks
- Chopping and preparation zone
- Homework zone typically on the island so you can cook and help with homework at the same time
- Often home bars are installed if you plan to entertain frequently
When it comes to work zones, the main idea is that multiple people can work in the kitchen at the same time without interfering with one another. Storing kitchen gadgets and appliance should be close together so that one person can stay in one area of the kitchen without having to cross paths to get what you need.
There you have it if you are looking to maximize efficiency in the kitchen, keep both the kitchen work triangle and kitchen work zones in mind when you choose your layout. The best cabinet company at the Lake of the Ozarks can contribute to your kitchen efficiency by adding some great cabinet accessories and storage solutions. Having great storage in your kitchen is step one in creating an efficient kitchen. When you are ready to start your remodel, give Ragan Cabinets a call!
Tap Your Sense of Style With
at the Lake of the Ozarks
4075 Osage Beach Parkway - Suite 100
Osage Beach, Mo 65065
Phone: 573-693-3772
VISIT US AT: www.RaganCabinets.com
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