The poet Byron wrote, “Since Eve ate apples, much depends on dinner”. It follows naturally that much depends on the kitchen. Of all the areas you live in, the kitchen may have the biggest impact on how accommodating and comfortable your home feels. Resonant with the history of simple family meals and great feasts alike, it’s a place where memories are made.
Think for a moment about the role that food plays in our lives. It reflects our tastes, our cultures, our need for both sustenance and celebration. The kitchen reflects our lifestyles, whether that means popping a frozen pizza into the microwave between errands, or using a battery of kitchen gadgets to compose a multi-course, slow-food spectacular that takes hours to prepare. Our kitchens say much about us – not just our attitudes to food, but to life.
The kitchen can function as “command central” in the home, and as such its location and layout can help or hinder. Consider ergonomics: can it accommodate multiple cooks, both short and tall people, those with mobility issues? Is there enough light and ventilation? Is it near the food garden? Consider how much space you need for food preparation and storage (including canning and freezing). Will you serve food in the kitchen, or carry it to the dining room, living room or patio? Is it easy to clean up and to deal with food waste? Is there room for a dishwasher now or in the future?
Efficiency is critical, but the kitchen should also be a warm and attractive place where you, your family and friends enjoy spending time. Remember: home is where the hearth is.
Leave a Reply