What Is Good Kitchen Design? (with Heidi Weeda)
In this clip from The Innovative Builder, our interior designer Heidi Weeda explains what is good kitchen design—from the work triangle and prep zone to smart cabinetry and counter space—and how she works with clients to create kitchen layouts that maximize efficiency and optimal functionality.
Good kitchen design starts with clear goals for your room and house: how you cook, prepare food, share meals, and move through the space. Whether you are updating an existing kitchen or planning a new kitchen, the right design elements improve daily functionality, add visual interest, and can boost resale value.
The Work Triangle and Functional Zones
The classic work triangle (a triangular layout linking sink, stove or oven, and refrigerator or fridge) shortens steps and keeps your main kitchen efficient. Heidi layers in zones around that triangle:
- Prep zone near generous countertop space and the kitchen sink for washing produce and dishes.
- Cooking zone concentrated around the stove or oven, with key appliances in easy reach.
- Clean-up beside the dishwasher and sink so the flow from food to rest is smooth.
This zone approach keeps essentials in easy access and reduces back-and-forth.
Layouts for Small and Large Kitchens
Every floor plan and family is different, so Heidi adapts the layout:
- Small kitchen: galley or straight runs to save space, with storage that puts daily items in easy reach.
- Large kitchen: L- or U-shaped layout with a kitchen island to add surfaces and storage without blocking paths.
- Open to dining: if your walls open to a dining room, place the kitchen table so helpers can grab drinks or set plates without crossing the cooking zone.
Surfaces, Light, and Style
Durable countertops, often stone, handle daily work; touches of wood add warmth and style. Combine task light over the prep zone with natural light from windows. A view of the garden adds everyday inspiration. The goal is a finish set that looks great and supports how you actually use the kitchen.
Smart Storage and Cabinetry Details
Well-planned cabinets and cabinetry make a big difference:
- Right-sized cabinetry dimensions for your dishes and cookware.
- A mix of drawers and shelves so everyday items are in easy reach.
- Upper cabinets and cabinet doors that swing clear of walkways.
- Organizers such as spice racks and tray dividers near the cooking zone.
These choices keep the kitchen tidy and the workflow effortless.
The Kitchen Island
A well-sized kitchen island can anchor the floor plan by adding countertop space for prep, extra storage, and casual seating. In a compact plan, a slim island or a movable cart gives you the benefits without crowding the paths between sink, stove, and fridge.
Planning a Kitchen Renovation
For a smooth kitchen renovation, treat the project like a mini build:
- Project scope: document what is changing, including layouts, appliances, cabinetry, and countertops.
- Project schedule and timeline: sequence trades and deliveries so doors, oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator installs align with flooring, paint, and electrical.
- Project budgets and associated costs: select finishes early to lock pricing and lead times.
- Construction contract and project documents: keep a clear record to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.
- Change management: if proposed changes arise, use a simple change order process. Some scope changes, such as moving walls, can have a significant impact; others are minor changes, such as swapping cabinet doors. Formal change order management keeps the original contract and original plan aligned.
This is the typical process our kitchen designer follows to keep everyone on the same page.
Example: From Existing to Excellent
Example: You have an existing kitchen with tight countertop space and crowded walkways. A possible plan would:
- Re-map the kitchen work triangle for a cleaner layout.
- Add counter space with a right-sized island.
- Rework cabinetry dimensions, add deep drawers, and relocate shelves for easy access.
- Reposition appliances so the prep zone and cooking zone are compact and efficient.
- Select durable stone countertops, layer light, and tie finishes such as wood and hardware into the home’s style.
The result is a calm, efficient kitchen that supports how you cook and live.
Ready to Start Designing
Use this quick checklist to start designing:
- Confirm your kitchen layout and kitchen work triangle.
- Ensure ample countertop space at the prep zone.
- Plan storage using cabinets, drawers, shelves, and spice racks so daily items are in easy reach.
- Place appliances such as the sink, stove or oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher for smooth flow.
- Balance light, materials such as stone and wood, and style for lasting visual interest and inspiration.
- Fit in the kitchen table and dining room rituals you love.
For help tailoring these ideas to your space, our team is ready to collaborate.
