The Kitchen Space

The Kitchen Space

• The Kitchen 'Work Triangle' - "the basis of an efficiency model based on the three work centres: refrigerator, sink/dishwasher and cooker or oven (Baden-Powell, 2005)" 

"The idea is to place these three centres which form a triangle shape at the most efficient distances apart to achieve the best configuration for the space available and to minimise traffic through the work zone." 

Although, people will have their own routines as well therefore it may differ from person to person, however, in general this triangle will benefit people in their everyday navigation in the kitchen. There are also different types of kitchen space layouts, however upon reading on some research I though that I'd only highlight the layout which I think are the most effective and relevant to my research.

• One Wall Kitchen (In Kitchen) - kitchen is on  a straight line; most practical especially for small spaces, however the space between the sink and the stove may be restricted which isn't ideal as they're the most important part of food preparation. 
• L- shaped Kitchen - ideal if you want a small dining table or kitchen island, can also integrate the dining room and make use of kitchen with different activities as well. More than one person can use the kitchen at a time. (multiple work zones with additional dining options). However, the kitchen triangle may be too far apart and corner spaces can be wasted spaces as they can be hard to reach.
• U- shaped Kitchen - ideal for larger rooms, (perhaps for a multigenerational household?), maximum storage options and space. however, because it's large the kitchen triangle shouldn't be too far apart so that they are efficient and easy to reach quickly.
• Two side (Parallel Kitchen) - A big space isn't relatively needed for this layout. It's good for food preparation and can shorten the distance of the kitchen triangle, and can allow ease of movement in the space. However, it may cause traffic congestion if too many people are in the same space at the same time, and if both sides are open. Also, needs enough room for both drawers to open at the same time.

Kitchen plans with Kitchen triangle highlighted