Independent homes
Kitchen Countertop Zones for Independent homes
Reserve practical work surfaces for preparation, appliances and serving instead of treating every counter length as interchangeable.
Explore the ideas
Plan in this order
- Mark the main preparation point near the sink and frequently used ingredients.
- Group small appliances where outlets and cleaning access are practical.
- Keep serving and cooling space clear of the primary chopping route.
Worked example
A toaster and coffee maker consume the only clear surface beside the sink.
Group appliances at one end near suitable outlets and reserve a separate uninterrupted chopping and serving area.
How to test it
Set out the largest regularly used appliance and a cutting board on the proposed plan.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Separate hot cooking, wet cleanup and pantry access; keep the yard route clear of the work zone.
- Detail
- Use robust counter surfaces, task lighting and a ventilated pantry for dry goods.
- Trade-off
- An open kitchen improves connection but carries cooking noise and smells into living space.
- Trace grocery and waste routes
- Check daylight and exhaust outlet location
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