Kitchen Designs That Meet The Needs Of All

The kitchen is arguably one of the most vital places in your home. Your kitchen also gets the distinction of being that one room requiring more licensed artisans than any other in your entire house.

If you're doing a complete renovation or are building a brand new kitchen you might require a licensed building contractor to supervise the construction work. For instance, in South Australia, kitchen renovators, builders and installers are managed by the Consumer and Business Services (CBS). This is a department in the Office of the Attorney General.

Designing, constructing or modifying a kitchen that meets the diverse needs of a range of users could be quite challenging and may requires some degree of compromise here and there. Broad principles could be applied to assist in achieving kitchen designs that are accessible and friendly to all. However, in Australia, being familiar with Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Australian Standards (AS) as well as any current pertinent legislation might assist you during the process of designing. The three main Australian Standards which could be useful as a reference point are AS 1428.1, AS 1428.2 and AS 4299.

The Kitchen Layout

Good design starts with your main work areas: the cook top and oven, the refrigerator and sink. Focus on those fixtures which have been designed with a variety of users in mind and which are easily shifted or removed in case extra space for manoeuvring is required.

The distances between every main work zone ought to allow enough room for easy daily kitchen activities such as food making. Otherwise people might feel cramped if the spaces are too small. On the other side, if the spaces are too wide, you will need extra energy for lifting, carrying, walking and cleaning.

For your family members who may need support as they walk or stand, you could install additional handrails for extra assistance.

Doors And Windows

To maximise on the available space for movement, your kitchen doors should slide or open out. You may locate the windows over the cook top or sink while being sufficiently low for someone using a wheelchair.

Materials Selection

The materials you select for use in the kitchen ought to be easy in terms of cleaning, stain resistant and long-lasting. Colour contrasting might be important for persons who have vision impairment.

Kitchen Worktops

Think of installing numerous work surfaces at diverse heights depending on the people you have in mind. Height adjustable or pull out worktops could be very handy, operated either manually or electrically.

Kitchen Sinks

Your kitchen sinks should be centrally positioned and ideally at the same height as the work surface. Placing some sinks below a window offers natural lighting. Remember that dishwashers should be placed within easy reach from the sinks.

Your Storage

Your cooking utensils and food dishes should be within easy and quick reach. Items that are frequently used should be placed on bench tops. Your heavy pans and pots are best near the sink and the stove.

For anybody interested in upgrading their kitchens in Australia, the Kitchen & Bathroom Design website offers hints and tips on creating your dream kitchen space, plus a wealth of professional builders and designers to undertake the projects for you.


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