Roomscapes

Kitchen design today is all about organization and innovative storage
solutions. Homeowners are no longer satisfied to have cabinets that merely look good. They want them to be efficient. New features include pull out spice racks, columns to increase storage, and racks that magically come out of a blind corner.

One end of this large island is a slightly lower "baking center," a perfect height for kneading bread or rolling cookies.

Appliance manufacturers have also heeded the call and are more aware of ergonomics, from under-the-counter refrigerator drawers that bring the beverages to you, to microwaves that fit under the counter. Even coffee pots are built-in appliances designed for convenience and comfort.





Instead of just one traditional work triangle (defined by the cooking, prep, and cleanup areas), kitchens today have multiple triangles and task areas. Designers are using custom cabinetry to create different spaces, such a formal dining area, casual breakfast nook, homework area, crafts corner, or wine and bar area. It’s such creative space planning and innovative use of cabinetry components that make the open-concept kitchen work.
Although painted cabinets are still popular, especially in cream or neutral tones, wood cabinets are beginning to make a comeback. The secret is to keep the room feeling light and open, and not closing it in with a lot of dark woods. Again, accenting is the key. Homeowners are also adding more display areas into upper cabinets or custom hutches, putting clear or art glass inserts into the door fronts and gallery lighting inside the cabinets.





Not too long ago, kitchens had large desk areas with file drawers and a place to sit and pay the family bills. Now, with the advent of wireless computers, and home offices in a separate room, the trend is “message centers.” This is often a smaller area near the entrance to the kitchen, which accommodates mail, the family calendar, and party invitations. It’s common for the message center to be hidden behind folding or sliding doors. And a chalkboard or whiteboard on the door is perfect for posting family messages.