A kitchen is often considered the heart of a home. It’s a place where families gather to cook, eat, and spend quality time together. When designing a family kitchen, the goal is to create a space that is both beautiful and highly functional, able to accommodate all the needs of the entire household. From storage solutions to the latest appliances, there are many factors to consider when creating the ideal family kitchen.
Choosing the Right Layout
The layout of a kitchen has a huge impact on how well it functions for a family. Here are some popular layout options to consider:
Open Concept
An open concept kitchen seamlessly blends into the dining and living areas without walls dividing the spaces. This creates a spacious, airy atmosphere where the cook doesn’t feel isolated from family activities. Open designs are great for entertaining and allowing parents to supervise kids easily. Consider defining the kitchen zone with an island, breakfast bar or change in flooring.
Galley
Galley kitchens feature two parallel countertops with cabinets lining the walls in between. This linear layout makes for an efficient workspace, allowing multiple family members to cook together. Optimize storage with pull-out shelves and racks that go all the way to the ceiling. A galley is ideal for small spaces.
L-Shaped
An L-shaped kitchen has countertops along two adjoining walls, creating a natural workflow. There’s typically an aisle through the middle so two cooks can work without bumping into each other. One leg of the L can define a dining area. Include a sink, stove and prep space all along the counters.
U-Shaped
A U-shaped kitchen has counters wrapping around three walls, opening up to an eating area. This maximizes prep space and allows for multiple cooks. Position the sink in the middle of the U, placing the fridge on one end and the stove on the other for an efficient work triangle.
Family-Friendly Features
Once you choose a layout, incorporate features that make the kitchen tailored to your family:
Storage Galore
From pots and pans to snacks and craft supplies, a family kitchen requires ample storage. Pull-out drawers, slide-out shelves, and corner Lazy Susans maximize every inch. For upper cabinets, consider high-reach pull downs instead of fixed shelves.
Multi-Purpose Island
A kitchen island provides additional counter space, storage and seating. Opt for an extra-large island with an overhang to accommodate bar stools. Incorporate appliance garages, racks for cookbooks, and charging stations. Moveable islands with wheels or casters create flexibility.
Durable Surfaces
Choose surfaces designed to withstand scratches, stains, burns and daily wear-and-tear. Granite, quartz, solid surface, and laminate countertops are family-friendly options, as are stainless steel and laminate cabinets. Tile backsplashes also hold up well over time.
Kid-Friendly Sink
An apron-front sink at a lowered height allows kids to comfortably help with cleanup and cooking projects. Add a step stool nearby so little ones can reach. For maximum durability, choose a stainless steel or enamel sink.
Multi-Level Counters
Incorporate countertops at varying heights to accommodate family members of all sizes. A section of lowered counter is ideal for small children. Higher bar-height counters appeal to teens. Adults may prefer standard 36-inch counters.
Plenty of Seating
A kitchen table, breakfast nook or island seating provides space for family meals, homework and hanging out. Opt for sturdy, easy-to-clean chairs that can withstand sticky fingers and crumbs. Bar stools with backs keep kids comfortable.
Smart Appliances
Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances designed to make cooking easier. Convection ovens, induction cooktops, pot-scrubbing dishwashers and side-by-side fridges help families sail through meal prep. Built-in warming drawers keep food ready whenever you are.
Dual Sinks
Nothing hampers workflow like a single sink. Include his-and-her sinks in island or peninsula areas to allow multiple family members to wash dishes, prep produce and more at once. Choose similar faucets for a cohesive look.
Fabulous Flooring Options
Kitchen flooring should be able to put up with heavy foot traffic, shifting chairs, spills and pet accidents. Here are some of the best options:
- Porcelain tile – Stain-proof, water-resistant and easy to install, porcelain tile stands up beautifully to daily wear. Choose textured tiles for slip resistance. The grout may require periodic sealing.
- Quartzite – This natural stone has an elegant marbled look. Quartzite is non-porous so it won’t react to acids or etching. Opt for sealed, honed quartzite for easier maintenance.
- Luxury vinyl – Affordable, scratch-resistant and easy to clean, vinyl plank flooring mimics wood or stone. New printing techniques offer very realistic looks.
- Laminate – Durable laminate flooring resists scratches, fading and stains. The attached underlayment absorbs sound. Use water-resistant laminate in kitchens.
- Wood look tile – Achieve the warmth of wood with the durability of porcelain. Wood look tile comes in planks with varying grain patterns. The grout needs occasional sealing.
Create a Command Center
A command center or control station in the kitchen streamlines organization for the whole household. This dedicated spot could include:
- Family calendar for posting schedules, assignments and events
- Magnetic board for displaying shopping lists, reminders and invitations
- Charging station for phones and devices
- Mail sorter so each family member has a spot
- Picnic cooler for packing school lunches
- Meal planning board with menus, recipes and to-do lists
- Pin board or gallery wall showcasing kids’ artwork
- Pet feeding station with storage for food and bowls
Place the command center in a highly visible spot like near the breakfast area. Use it to coordinate everything from carpools to pet care.
Smart Lighting Makes It Shine
Proper lighting transforms any kitchen from boring to brilliant. Include a mix of lighting sources for functionality and ambiance:
Task Lighting
Bright task lighting ensures all food prep areas are well illuminated. Use puck lights under upper cabinets to direct light onto the counters. Look for ENERGY STAR models.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting provides general illumination to the whole kitchen. Recessed cans, track lighting or pendant lamps work well. Dimming capabilities allow you to set just the right mood.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting adds drama by highlighting specific architectural or design features. Try mini-pendants over a kitchen island or sleek undercabinet lighting. Wall sconces flanking a backsplash provide lovely illumination.
Natural Light
Maximize sunlight by having windows over the sink and strategically placed skylights. North-facing windows prevent harsh direct sunlight. Consider frosted windows for privacy and soft, even daylight.
Ventilation Protects Air Quality
Proper ventilation is a must for clearing away steam, grease, odors and humidity from cooking. Here are some kitchen ventilation options:
- Wall-mounted range hood – Standard range hoods mount above the cooktop to whisk away airborne grease. Look for a CFM of 100 or higher and duct the hood outside whenever possible.
- Island range hood – These taller hoods hang from the kitchen ceiling to ventilate an island cooktop. The greater height helps capture more rising smoke and odors.
- Downdraft ventilation – Downdraft vents are built into the kitchen countertop behind the cooktop. They pull in cooking fumes then ventilate through ductwork below.
- Undercabinet ventilation – For electric cooking only, these fan systems mount under wall cabinets to quietly clear the air. They recirculate indoor air through charcoal filters.
Proper ventilation preserves indoor air quality and prevents grease buildup and moisture damage. As a bonus, it keeps the kitchen smelling fresh.
Safety Essentials for Family Kitchens
Kitchen safety is a top concern when little ones are underfoot. Keep these tips in mind:
- Mount a sturdy safety gate at kitchen entrances to contain wandering toddlers during cooking times. Look for gates with an adjustable width.
- Use rounded corners on islands and peninsulas to prevent forehead injuries. Softer corners also make cleaning easier.
- Install an anti-tip bracket on freestanding ranges to prevent tipping. Mount at the back of the stove and into the floor for stability.
- Keep appliances away from the sink area and store all electric appliances unplugged. This prevents possible shocks from mixing water and electricity.
- Choose knobs or handles on cabinets instead of protruding pulls. Flush hardware prevents painful injuries.
- Keep cooking pots tilted so handles don’t extend over countertops. Choose lightweight pans with short handles for increased stability.
- Store cleaning supplies and other toxic items locked away or up high in latched cabinets. Secure dishwashing detergent and cover unused soap dispenser holes.
- Install a fire extinguisher near the exit and check it regularly to ensure it’s charged. Make sure adults know how to properly operate it in an emergency.
Fabulous Touches for Family Kitchens
Special touches transform a kitchen into the favorite spot in the home. Some fun additions include:
A Message Board or Chalkboard Wall
Designate a full wall or just a section as a writing surface for sharing recipes, leaving notes and making announcements. Use chalkboard paint or stick-on chalkboard panels.
An Herb Garden Window
Nothing beats the convenience of snipping fresh herbs right in the kitchen. Create a mini garden in a sunny bay window. Opt for low-maintenance herbs like thyme, rosemary and basil.
A Charging Station
Prevent searching for stray charging cables by mounting a charging dock or station in the kitchen. Built-ins keep everything powered up and orderly.
Fun Wallpaper
Lively wallpaper jazzes up any boring wall. Look for prepasted papers in wipeable materials like vinyl. Accent a backsplash, breakfast nook or pantry space.
A Pet Feeding Zone
Give pets their own dining spot with a designated feeding station in an out-of-the-way corner. Store food and bowls in nearby low cabinets or concealed cubbies.
Warming Drawers
Keep meals piping hot and ready to serve with built-in warming drawers. Place near the oven for easy transferring of food. They’re also handy for proofing dough.
Choosing Appliances for Functionality
Appliances take a lot of use and abuse in a busy family kitchen. Select equipment with convenience and durability in mind:
Dual Fuel Range
This range combines an electric oven with a gas cooktop. The oven distributes heat evenly for baking, while the cooktop allows precise control over flame. Look for continuous cast-iron grates.
Multi-Cycle Dishwasher
Choose an ENERGY STAR dishwasher with at least two racks and multiple cycles, including quick washes for lightly soiled dishes. Look for a model that grinds up food particles to prevent clogs.
Side-by-Side Refrigerator
A side-by-side fridge allows family members to access refrigerated and frozen items simultaneously without getting in each other’s way. French door fridges work well too.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks withstand hot pans, are easy to sanitize and won’t chip like porcelain enamel. Double-bowl sinks allow multitasking and come in family-friendly lowered heights.
Built-In Microwave
Integrating the microwave into surrounding cabinetry looks sleek while freeing up counter space. Place at a safe height to deter unsupervised use by kids.
Pot Filler
A pot filler faucet over the range or cooktop makes filling large stockpots easier. Look for safety features like temperature regulation and automatic shut-off.
Create an Efficient Work Triangle
Arrange appliances and work zones to form an efficient triangular workflow:
- The sink, refrigerator and stove/cooktop should anchor the three points of the triangle.
- Make each segment of the triangle 4-9 feet apart for convenient multitasking.
- Clear walkways and an open concept allow cooks to move easily between the points.
- Place prep/cleanup areas like islands and countertops just outside the work triangle for an seamless kitchen layout.
When the workflow connects seamlessly, family chefs can effortlessly prep, cook and clean up delicious meals with ease.
Incorporate Universal Design Features
Universal design elements make a kitchen accessible and easy to use for family members of all ages and abilities. Consider:
- Pull-down shelving and full-extension drawers for those who can’t easily bend and reach
- Undercabinet task lighting to illuminate work areas without glare
- Lever-style faucets and cartridge valves that are simple for all to operate
- Front-mounted controls on cooking appliances set away from burners
- ADA compliant knee spaces under sinks, counters and cooktops
- Slip-resistant flooring that accommodates unsteady gaits or walkers/wheelchairs
- Side-by-side fridge and appliances that don’t require much bending or reaching
By incorporating universal design elements, the kitchen can be safe and comfortable for any family member to navigate.
Eco-Friendly Tips for Family Kitchens
An eco-friendly kitchen is one where sustainability is built into the design, appliances, materials and daily habits. Some green tips include:
- Choose ENERGY STAR certified appliances proven to conserve energy and water.
- Install on-demand tankless water heaters to reduce water waste.
- Use LED bulbs in all fixtures to lower energy usage and costs. Opt for natural light whenever possible.
- Incorporate recycled, renewable and locally sourced materials like bamboo cabinets or cork floors.
- Establish dedicated recycling bins and composting systems to reduce household waste.
- Use green cleaning and laundry products to avoid introducing harsh chemicals indoors.
- Set up recycling stations for batteries, light bulbs, electronics and other hard-to-recycle items.
- Grow herbs and vegetables right on the windowsill or counters to enjoy ultra-fresh produce.
Going green doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. An eco-friendly kitchen works beautifully for any family.
FAQs About Designing a Family-Friendly Kitchen
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about creating the ideal kitchen for a family:
What size should a family kitchen be?
Ideally, a family kitchen should be at least 150-200 square feet to accommodate multiple cooks. For a smaller household of 3-4 people, 120 square feet could work if the space is well designed.
What’s the best layout?
Open concept kitchens are great for families, allowing adults to supervise kids from anywhere. Large islands provide extra prep space and seating. If space is tight, opt for a galley kitchen with pull-outs and stackable appliances.
How much storage is needed?
Aim for a minimum of 30 linear feet of cabinets and drawers. Include specialty pull-outs for dishes, pots and pantry items. Also incorporate features like command centers, mail sorting stations and message boards for household organization.
What types of appliances are best?
Look for heavy-duty appliances in stainless steel. Must-haves include a spacious fridge, dishwasher with food grinder, and convection oven. Dual fuel ranges provide excellent temperature control.
What should I splurge on?
Spend more on appliances you’ll use daily like the stove, dishwasher and fridge. Quality countertops like granite or quartz are worth the investment too. Also splurge on kitchen island space and ample lighting.
What about kids at different ages?
Adjust counter and sink heights in zones for little kids. Add kid-friendly features like seating nooks. Ensure adequate shelving is safely out of reach. Lastly, incorporate lockable storage for chemicals and breakables.
How do I accommodate different cooking styles?
An island with two cooking zones allows different family members to prep and cook simultaneously. Add his-and-her sinks. Make sure there’s adequate ventilation for multiple cooks.
What flooring works with pets and kids?
Durable water-resistant flooring that allows spills to be easily wiped up is best, like luxury vinyl plank. Tile is another good option, just add some cushy rugs for comfort.
Bringing It All Together for Family Harmony
The kitchen should be a space loved and enjoyed by every member of the family. Fulfill this goal by:
- Choosing surfaces and materials made to withstand constant use without showing wear and tear. Opt for stainproof, rustproof, and scratch-resistant whenever possible.
- Incorporating lighting options ranging from bright task lighting to mood setting ambient fixtures. Give lighting levels some personality.
- Organizing storage wisely with a spot for everything. Include pull-outs, specialty racks, and even dedicated drawers for tidiness.
- Selecting heavy-duty appliances designed for the demands of a mid-to-large sized household.
- Designing an efficient and intuitive workflow so multiple cooks can collaborate simultaneously.
- Adding special features like a message board, charging station, pet area and seating nook that enhance family connectivity.
- Including universal design elements so all can safely access and move around the kitchen.
Most importantly, make the kitchen open to the living areas so it becomes the heart of the home where the whole family comes together.
