One our clients’ top requests is creating a social kitchen in the re-design or their homes. As life so often revolves around the kitchen, in contemporary design we are often opening them and inviting people in. At the heart of a home the social kitchen can bring many benefits to the overall functionality and aesthetic of the space. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind when designing a social kitchen:
Flow: The layout of the kitchen should be designed in a way that allows for easy movement and flow between different areas, such as the refrigerator, stove, sink, and countertops. This will make it more comfortable for multiple people to cook and prepare meals at the same time.
Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for a social kitchen. This includes both task lighting for cooking and prep work, as well as ambient lighting for meals and gatherings.
Durability: Because the kitchen is often the most heavily used room in the house, it’s important to choose durable materials and finishes that can withstand frequent use and cleaning.
Seating: A social kitchen should have ample seating for family and friends to gather and enjoy meals together. This can include a dining table, bar seating, or even a built-in banquette.
The absolute best thing about a well designed social kitchen is it quickly becomes the focal point of a home, bringing family and friends together in the same space for more time.
They are by no means limited to just cooking too! Pictured here is the kitchen and informal dining area at Lamorna House. This multifunctional space is great for cooking while monitoring the kids, or on a summer day invite friends round and open up the doors to create one large entertaining space at the heart of the garden and home.
At our project Hampstead Home For A Growing Family we were able to open up the space and fill it with light through the clever introduction of Crittal and a skylight.
The banquette seating and dining table give the whole family a space to sit, eat, and participate in whatever is going on in the kitchen. You can’t even hide in the larder as it is designed like a jewel-box for all to see.
For Chapel House, the large breakfast bar offers functional prep space, a place to eat, or have a drink while others cook. There is also a seamless transition to the mid-century dining table and chairs adjacent to the kitchen area.
A social kitchen is a great investment for any family home. With the right design and attention to detail, it can be a functional, beautiful, and inviting space for everyone to enjoy.
