Whether you simply take pride in creating meals to wow your friends and family or have some serious culinary chops, there are some tips to consider when designing and renovating a kitchen. While a basic kitchen may be all that’s needed if you could burn a boiled egg, if you want a chef worthy kitchen, there are some elements you’ll need to include to impress any guests at your dinner parties.

The Work Triangle

When you plan your kitchen layout, you’re likely to be aware of the work triangle. This involves having your sink, refrigerator and cooking surface at the three points of a triangle. While it may be challenging to create this geometric shape in some kitchens, to maximize functionality and aid movement, you should try to incorporate the work triangle into your new kitchen.

Double Sinks

Even if you have a fantastic dishwasher, two sinks can be extremely beneficial in a chef worthy kitchen. Sinks are a crucial element of any kitchen and having a separate sink to stack used pots, leaving one free to clean fruit and vegetables or drain pasta can make preparing any meal easier. Keeping a dedicated sink for meal prep and one for clean up will aid the flow in your kitchen. Your sink should have high faucets and a deep bowl, so you can avoid water splashing as you’re doing your meal prep.

Lots of Counter Space

As a keen home chef, you’re likely to be doing a variety of food preparation tasks, so you’ll need to maximize your counter space. Ideally, you should choose countertops that are durable, such as laminates, quartz or solid surfaces that also have anti staining and antibacterial properties. Remember you’ll need surface space for peeling, chopping, cooling and operating your small appliances. So, plan for as much counter space as possible.

Integrated Appliances

Built-in appliances allow you to not only hide any unsightly electrical cords, but also free up space to create a streamlined, clean look for an inviting, sophisticated aesthetic. Remember that size can be overrated when you start to shop for kitchen appliances. Standard size, built-in dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, and coffee machines typically offer enough space to prepare deal with even large meals. However, it is worth investing in a large refrigerator, so you can keep plenty of delicious produce on hand for any culinary creation.

Good, Natural Lighting

A light, bright kitchen is not only better for your eyes, but it can boost your mood and make food prep safer. Natural lighting not only increases visibility, but it also inspires cleanliness. Try to design your kitchen around windows or if your room lacks natural light consider incorporating skylights.

To supplement the natural light received in your new kitchen, choose a variety of lighting options. Under cabinet strip lighting, accent lights, task lighting, and downlights can supplement the functionality of your room and add character.

Create Lots of Intelligent Storage

Have easy access to pots, pans, spices, cutlery, and utensils is vital in a busy kitchen when you’re trying to prepare a delicious feast. So, you’ll need lots of intelligent storage solutions. Consider systems that allow all your kitchen basics to be neatly stored away and a pantry for all your cooking essentials. You should also consider open corner shelving, and slide out spice racks to maximize your storage space and make every inch of the space work for you. Don’t forget that you’ll need ample outlets for your small appliances.

Don’t Forget Your Wine

Finally, no good meal is complete without a bottle of great wine, so be sure to plan your wine storage facilities into your new kitchen. A wine cooler can not only keep all your prized wine bottles in optimum storage conditions, but add some character to your kitchen.

If you’re planning a new kitchen, you can explore this collection of professional inspired appliances or speak to a home appliance expert for further assistance.