What does your kitchen say about your style of cooking? Are you an-on-the-go eater or an aspiring Top Chef?
If you fancy yourself as the latter, then your kitchen is the stage and you are the star. Like any star, you need a good backdrop and props to be most creative. A chef’s kitchen requires thoughtful planning to reflect the cooking style and organizational needs of its star. If you’re considering a San Diego kitchen remodel, here are a few essentials to consider when designing a chef’s kitchen:
Space. While the kitchen doesn’t have to be large, good organization that affords plenty of counter space is a must. Whether your forte is baking or sauté, prep space is imperative. The ideal lay-out will have a wide dedicated work area where the chef can gather ingredients and tools, along with additional prep space near appliances.
Quality appliances. Anyone that enjoys cooking will gladly tell you how much more they would enjoy it if only they had… (insert wish list here). The top chef’s must-haves include a double oven, warming drawer, a high-end stove, a quality hood, well organized refrigeration and freezer, dual sinks, and pot filler. Notice that a microwave is not on that list. Most good cooks insist that they can live without it, but even the best chefs enjoy the occasional microwave popcorn! Definitely, make space (preferably off the countertop) for a microwave.
Organization. Functionality is the most crucial part of the kitchen. The structure of the kitchen should include a practical work triangle between the refrigerator, stove and sink that allows for easy movement within the space. However the real organization is in the personal details. Easy access to pots, tools and spices can be achieved through creative storage or clever arrangement, with many options now available. Consider the differences between the kitchen of America’s original Top Chef, Julia Child and that of the new sweetheart Chef, Giada De Laurentiis: One person’s mess is another’s masterpiece.
The kitchen of America’s original Top Chef, Julia Child
The kitchen of new sweetheart Chef, Giada De Laurentiis
Storage. If you like to cook, you can guarantee you’re going to amass a collection of gadgets. Ample storage makes the kitchen. No one has ever uttered the words, “I only wish I had less storage…” Drawers are preferred over doors in base cabinetry for their ease of use and better ergonomics. Spice pull-outs near the stove are wonderful for organization and quick access. Open shelves on the wall are a modern way to keep important items within reach, and a pot rack is a convenient means to hang pots while adding a bit of character to the kitchen.
Lighting. A combination of spot lighting, task lighting and ambient lighting can provide both safety and ambience for your kitchen. Fluorescent and low-efficacy LED lighting are energy savers and offer bright solutions for task lights. Artistic pendants add flair and a softer glow. Combining layers of lighting in the kitchen provide a fantastic design opportunity to let your personality shine!
Seems like a lot to think about? Well, consider this… it all comes down to feeling. We are at our best when things just feel right and that is where individuality in design comes in. When you are ready to plan your San Diego kitchen remodel, a certain amount of instinct will kick in; the Top Chef in you will come alive. Armed with a great design and a touch of expertise, a newly remodeled kitchen is the perfect setting for creativity. And when the curtains open, the star takes the stage, and Bam! Its show time.
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