The kitchen work triangle is a concept that is used to design functional kitchen layouts and maximize efficiency in the kitchen. The three primary tasks carried out in the kitchen are preparation, cooking, and storage. Most of the food preparation takes place in or near the sink. Cooking is done in the oven, on the stove, or on a cooktop. And the refrigerator is the main place for storage. The three points between the sink, the stove/oven, and the refrigerator are known as the kitchen work triangle.
Basic Guidelines of the Kitchen Work Triangle:
- No leg of the triangle should be less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet. The work triangle will be cramped if the sink, stove/oven, and refrigerator are too close. If the points of the work triangle are too far apart, steps will be wasted moving from one place to another.
- The sum of all three sides of the triangle should measure between 12 feet and 16 feet.
- Base cabinets, islands, or other obstacles should not intersect any leg of the triangle by more than 12 inches.
- Full-height obstacles (such as pantries) should not come between any two points as it will block flow.
The kitchen work triangle concept originated in the early 1920s, but a specific model was not introduced until the 1940s. Things have changed, and new kitchen appliances have been invented since the work triangle concept was first developed. Microwaves, dishwashers, and small appliances now take up additional space in most kitchens. Despite this, the work triangle still works in most modern-day kitchens regardless of shape or size. The exception is for kitchens where all cabinets and appliances are placed along one wall.
In the past hundred years, kitchens have grown and become more than just areas to prepare meals. Thanks to open floorplans, kitchens are now blended with living and dining rooms. For larger kitchens, work zones (ex: prepping, baking, cooking, storage, cleaning, etc.) may work better than the kitchen work triangle.
If you are looking to remodel your kitchen, give us a call at Shakespeare Home Improvement Co. to set up a free estimate. Shakespeare Home Improvement Co. is Lancaster County’s premier kitchen remodeling company.
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