Life, Styled
Today’s kitchen is so much more than just a place where you cook. It’s where homework is being done, friends and family are hosted for dinners, and where memories are made. It truly deserves to be called the heart of the home! Therefore, whether you’re redesigning your old kitchen or moving into a new home, it’s essential to consider both the style and accessibility of your kitchen, especially if one of your loved ones has special needs. However, without experience or professional guidance, this could be easier said than done. That’s why we’ve asked experts from the renowned kitchen & bath home center for advice, and here are pro tips for designing a stylish, accessible kitchen. Trust us; it will be the envy of your friends and family and everyone’s favorite place to spend time in.
Let’s make designing a stylish, accessible kitchen fun and easy
When you think about kitchen design, you probably imagine stylish countertops, one-of-a-kind backsplashes, and accessories that tie the whole concept together, making your kitchen truly leave everyone in awe. However, even though there’s no denying the importance of style, accessibility and functionality are even more critical factors to consider.
In fact, designing a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional can improve the overall quality of life and increase the value of a home. It also promotes inclusivity and can make a space more enjoyable for everyone. However, it can be challenging to strike a balance without compromising function for the sake of style, especially when designing your own home. That’s why we’ve asked experts for help, and here are seven tips for designing a stylish, accessible kitchen.
Plan for a wide aisle
Creating a functional and accessible kitchen starts with considering the layout and plan. A wide aisle is crucial for easy access for people using wheelchairs, walkers, or canes, with a minimum of 36 inches recommended for a clear aisle; however, 42 inches is even better if possible. This aisle should be clear of any obstacles, such as furniture or appliances, to facilitate easy movement.
When it comes to kitchen layouts, the one you choose will largely depend on the size of your kitchen. For example, galley kitchens with two parallel countertops and a walkway in between can be very efficient because everything is within reach. Alternatively, L-shaped kitchens with two parts of the countertop that form an L shape provide ample countertop space and can be a good option as well.
Opt for lower countertops
Standard countertops are typically 36 inches high, which can be difficult for people in wheelchairs to use. Therefore, make sure to opt for lower countertops that are around 34 inches high. This will make it easier for people to reach the countertops and will also make it easier to transfer from a wheelchair to a countertop. Plus, if you add pull-out drawers, not only will you make your kitchen more accessible, but you’ll also be able to organize like a pro.
Choose appliances that are easy to use
When selecting appliances for your kitchen, it’s essential to consider the needs of everyone who will be using the space. For individuals with disabilities, choose appliances that are easy to use and navigate. Look for models with large buttons, knobs, or handles that are easy to grip and turn. Additionally, consider appliances with a front-mounted control panel, as this allows the controls to be easily reached and used, even from a seated position.
Additionally, consider appliances with voice-activated controls. This can be especially helpful for those with limited mobility or dexterity. Another important feature to look for is the ability to adjust the height of the appliance, such as a stove or oven, making it more accessible for individuals who use wheelchairs. With a little extra attention to detail, you can create a kitchen that is not only functional and efficient but also inclusive and accommodating to all users.
Think about lighting
Lighting is a crucial aspect of any kitchen, but it is especially important in accessible kitchens. Good lighting will make it easier for people with visual impairments to navigate the space. Consider installing under-cabinet lighting to help illuminate the countertops and task areas. Additionally, consider installing dimmable lights, allowing the lighting to be adjusted to suit various tasks and preferences.
Select easy-to-clean materials
When designing a stylish and accessible kitchen, selecting materials that are easy to clean and maintain is crucial. This will make it much more manageable for people with disabilities to maintain their kitchens’ appearance without added effort. Let’s take flooring as an example. When considering flooring options for your new kitchen, consider using materials like laminate, which is easy to wipe down and maintain, or tile, which is also straightforward to clean and maintain. Both options are durable and can withstand heavy use, making them perfect for a kitchen.
Redoing your kitchen floors provides a great opportunity to paint the walls as well. Given that the space will be completely empty and clean, it’s much easier to have everything done in one go, even if you haven’t planned on painting in the first place. And even though it’s an extra expense, you can always find ways to save money. For example, if you’re designing a kitchen in your new home, you can think about reusing moving supplies after the move. You’ll be left with plenty of boxes, wraps, and other materials, which you can reuse during future renovations. It’s quite easy if you get creative.
Install levers and bars
Another thing to consider is the needs of those with smaller or weaker hands. Knobs can be challenging for them to grip, which is why it’s recommended to use lever- or touch-operated faucets. These types of faucets can be easily turned on and off, making them more convenient for individuals who may have difficulty gripping them.
Additionally, it’s best to choose options with bars or wider handles when it comes to cabinet hardware, making it easier to open the cabinets with the whole hand rather than relying on dexterity. These thoughtful design choices not only cater to individuals with arthritis or weaker grip strength but also enable aging in place without the need for future remodels.
Add a touch of style
Just because your kitchen is accessible doesn’t mean it has to be dull and uninspired. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to infuse your own personal style into the space. To add a touch of flair to your kitchen, consider incorporating elements such as a colorful backsplash, stylish hardware, or beautiful lighting fixtures. These little details can make a big impact on the overall aesthetic of your kitchen, giving it a unique and inviting feel.
Furthermore, you can also play with textures by combining natural materials like wood and stone, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can also add pops of color with artwork or plants, which can bring life and energy to the room. The possibilities are endless, and it’s essential to remember that an accessible kitchen doesn’t have to sacrifice style for functionality. With a bit of creativity and thought, you can easily have both!
Greenbrook Design While cabinet hardware is essential for functionality, it’s also a key element in the overall look and feel of your space. When selecting hardware, there’s more to consider than just appearance. How do you want your cabinets to open? Do you prefer knobs, pulls, or a combination of both? Should you go with cup pulls for a traditional touch or sleek bar pulls for a modern edge?
These decisions may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on both the usability and aesthetic of your cabinetry. Hardware serves as the finishing touch—bringing together the design while also making everyday tasks more comfortable and intuitive.
Walker Woodworking You are ready to begin your renovation, but you are unsure whether you want to go with custom or semi-custom cabinets. While custom cabinets will provide you with the exact fit you need for your space, they are at the higher end of the price range. Semi-custom cabinets tend to be a more budget-friendly alternative while still giving you the style and function needed for your space. Many homeowners are discovering the benefits of choosing semi-custom cabinets and are learning that they can still get the look they want while staying within their budget. Let’s talk more about what semi-custom cabinets are, the benefits they bring to your project, and some of the options we offer here at Greenbrook Design.
We use it every day but hardly pay any attention to it, yet it can impact the overall design of the home. We are, of course, referring to your flooring, and its importance should not be overlooked or underestimated. It is the largest design element in the home, which means it tends to serve as the foundation of the look and feel in the room. It has the ability to make or break your space and is subconsciously the first thing we notice in a room. Since it is used consistently, it must be durable and functional for the particular area, whether slip-resistant or waterproof. Flooring should also complement the overall design style you choose and be carefully considered before finalizing your choice. Here are some aspects to remember when making your selection.
The kitchen backsplash tends to be overlooked during the planning session for a renovation, but it has a big impact on the overall look of the design, and it should not be underestimated. To many, it may seem like such a small element, but it has the power to bring style, class, and protection to the heart of the home. When walking through a model home or flipping pages in an interior design magazine, the kitchen always has a backsplash that often draws our eye. Coming in multiple sizes, styles, and shades, the kitchen backsplash has come a long way from being a simple surface to creating a glamorous highlight that immediately draws the eye.
Walker WoodworkingThis deficiency has led to a readjustment of space, a call to renovate the home, and to provide a more functional design for everyone. There are also other reasons motivating homeowners to reevaluate their current living situation, such as greater flexibility at home, an open concept, personal space, and plenty of storage. While kitchens and bathrooms are still among the most renovated areas in the home, new emphasis is being placed on four additional sections in the home, which we want to highlight today.
Walker Woodworking
Walker Woodworking