Once considered a purely utilitarian domain, the kitchen is now merging with our living spaces and fulfilling multiple purposes, transforming the way in which we live.
Jacqueline Maya explores the benefits of designing a multipurpose kitchen that, like a chameleon, can adapt to suit almost any situation.
Despite its central location today, historically the kitchen was positioned at the back of the home, with some separated from the house entirely, as it was thought to be in poor taste to expose guests to the aromas of dinner being prepared. In the past, the function of a kitchen was to provide a place solely to prepare food. Since then, the kitchen has evolved into a place within which to work, socialise, relax and even grow plants, aptly becoming the heart of the home.
From the beloved island bench to the convenient study nook, current kitchen trends are focussing more on multipurpose functionality. Read on as Queensland Kitchen + Bathroom Design explores how to achieve an all-encompassing kitchen design that is perfect for the whole family
TIME TO EVOLVE
In a world driven by digital calendars, ever-growing ‘to do’ lists, as well as the fear of missing out (aka FOMO), time is most precious to us. With a newfound appreciation for organisation, personal and professional development, and time-management skills, homeowners of today are searching for clever ways to create a convenient living space that is equally suitable for work, family time and social commitments. Enter the multipurpose kitchen.
A family room, a home office and an entertaining space in one, the modern multipurpose kitchen is gaining popularity among designers and homeowners alike for its versatility, efficiency and convenience. The benefits of designing a multipurpose kitchen are plentiful, with its biggest drawcard being its unique space-saving abilities, which make it a cost-effective solution by eliminating the need for extending or
increasing the size of your house. Further, designing a multipurpose kitchen allows the whole family to use the space simultaneously, whatever activity they are engaged in.
OPEN-PLAN LIVING
Depending on the size and layout of your home, an open-plan kitchen design may be best able to accommodate your various daily activities. The absence of internal walls in this design allows plenty of natural light to enter the home, which makes it feel more inviting. If you’re renovating a double-storey abode, designing a void above the living area or kitchen will not only create an instant ‘wow’ factor, but it will also give you a beautifully bright, airy and open space.
Similarly, loft-inspired kitchen designs have become highly sought-after in modern homes. Creating a mezzanine within your kitchen is a great way to ensure the space has multiple uses. If height isn’t a problem, the ground level can be dedicated to cooking and entertaining, whereas the elevated space can be used as a home office, a children’s playroom, or a parents’ relaxation zone.
TAKING SHAPE
While many contemporary kitchens feature expansive open-plan layouts, not all properties may be ft to include an open-plan area in
their design due to site constraints. Although an abundance of space is a real asset when designing an open-plan living zone, even the
smallest kitchens can become highly functional multipurpose areas with the help of an expert designer and builder. When designing a kitchen that is to serve more than one purpose, its layout is the ‘make or break’ ingredient. The overall design and interaction between
its different areas require careful attention to promote a seamless integration of spaces. The layout should be both practical and aesthetically pleasing, resulting in a space that will be enjoyed for many years to come.
When embarking on your project, you’ll first need to focus on establishing an intuitive flow throughout the area by choosing the right layout for the size and shape of your space. Perfect for incorporating multiple zones, the L-shaped layout comprises two walls of cabinetry that meet in the corner point of a kitchen. The extra space created by installing appliances and cabinetry along the kitchen’s walls allows for a generous and convivial space suited to a high-traffic zone, while leaving ample room for socialising with family and friends. This layout also allows for the installation of an island, which has now become a much-celebrated staple within contemporary kitchen design.
Alternatively, the I-shaped or galley-style kitchen is a great solution for smaller abodes, such as studio lofts and cosy apartments. Many homeowners opt for this single-wall variation for its simplicity and affordability, creating an efficient yet stylish use of the available space. For an I-shaped kitchen, position the sink, rangehood, and food preparation area together in a single line. For convenience, ensure the preparation station is positioned halfway between the cooking and cleaning zone. This space-savvy layout will boost workflow efficiency, allowing you to spend more time in your kitchen by choice, not out of necessity.
Regardless of the layout you choose, remember to ensure your kitchen counters are strategically positioned, your appliances are stored in accordance with their purpose, and your seating zones are out of the way of traffic.
JOINING FORCES
Selecting the right joinery is essential for creating a functional multipurpose kitchen. Perfect for hiding away additional appliances and
infrequently used items, concealed cabinetry will provide you with flexible storage space that is invaluable in a multi-use zone.
Whether you have chosen to incorporate a European laundry, a study nook, or a butler’s pantry, installing easily operable doors will ensure the area can be hidden from view in the blink of an eye.
While open shelving is gaining popularity, closed cabinetry is timeless, and will help create a much cleaner look and feel to the space. Further, installing clever internal hardware and storage solutions are perfect for tight or pokey areas, and will allow you to utilise every inch of your available space.
IN THE ZONE
The key to creating the ultimate multifunctional kitchen is to think about all its possible uses, and how its design will meet your needs now and into the future. However, if you’re a little lost for inspiration, it can help to research some trending features that have been making their way into kitchens across the nation.
The Herb Hub
Together with the indoor plant phenomenon, the grow-your-own movement has soared in popularity, and for good reason. Not only are indoor gardens a great way to bring greenery and fresh air into your home, but they also give you easy access to healthy produce and herbs, encouraging sustainability and eco-friendly practices within the home. installing a herb garden in your kitchen is a simple way to blend form and function, creating an interactive space that’s beneficial for the whole family.
A perceived drawback of apartment living is having to forgo a private garden. However, by thinking outside the box and installing some innovative cabinetry, having a lush green space to yourself has never been more possible. Indoor gardens can be incorporated in many ways, from living walls to window features.
If you have an underutilised open shelf, placing a basil plant here will make pesto an effortless and satisfying addition to your weekly dinner menu. Both practical and aesthetically pleasing, a herb garden is ideal for keeping little hands busy and tummies happy, ensuring your family has a greener and healthier future.
The Study Nook
Perfect for small lots that may not have the space for a second bedroom or living area to accommodate a home office, the study nook is a trending feature appearing in modern kitchens around the world.
Whether you’re looking for a space to work from home, a central homework hub for the kids, a designated writing zone, or simply a place for keys, bills and your charging device, it’s easy to make room for a practical workspace, and in turn make your space work for you! A cleverly designed kitchen can incorporate a practical desk enclosed behind custom-fitted cabinetry or recessed into a wall or alcove. Even if you don’t work from home regularly, a devoted station for completing all those to-do lists, responding to emails, or planning the
family’s social events can be useful in creating an organised home, and as they say, an organised home means an organised mind.
When designing your study nook, be mindful that there may not be a lot of distance between this workspace and the food preparation and cooking area, so opting for practical, highly durable materials that are easy to keep clean is a must.
Instead of selecting upholstered chairs, consider slip covers that can be removed during cooking, and are easily washed. Further, when it comes to decorating, keep in mind that this area will form part of an open space. While incorporating some unique accents and trendy décor will liven up the space, selecting finishes and decorative items that complement the overall aesthetic will ensure a cohesive finish. However, the most important thing to remember when styling your nook is to ensure it has ample storage solutions, so that the area is kept neat, tidy and ready to use whenever you need it.
The Island
A must-have in any home, the island is deservedly at the centre of kitchens for its ability to gather everyone together, whether for a quick family meal, social drinks, or a soothing cup of tea. The best way to achieve a perfect island design is to start by visualising how you want you and your family to use it. It is equally important in the design stages to consider the height and width of the bench, as well as the seating arrangement, for an optimal result.
Once you’ve decided how you want to use your island, the next step is to select the storage solutions and additional features you’d like to incorporate into the design.
Integrating appliances into the bench can significantly enhance the overall functionality of the space, while a compost and pull-out bin will also ensure your island is kept clean. If you want your island to be used primarily for food preparation, having a spare sink at one end will make clean up a breeze. Tech-savvy households can benefit from pop-up power outlets, which can be easily concealed within the countertop when not in use. However, it’s essential you chat to your electrician early on to make sure they can incorporate all the necessary components for your island’s electrical plan.
Depending on your desired aesthetic, your storage solutions needn’t be hidden behind cabinet doors. Many modern islands feature open display shelving and drawers so that you can personalise the space with your most treasured cookbooks and collectables.
The Daybed
There is nothing quite like enjoying a lovely view of your garden while relaxing indoors with your favourite book and beverage of choice. Fortunately, incorporating a wide daybed or cosy window seat into your kitchen’s design has never been easier.
Installing a daybed or window seat offers a number of advantages, especially for those wanting to focus on their general well-being. Taking the time to relax for a while and breakaway from the modern-day mindset of being ‘too busy’ can be the first step towards bringing a little more balance to your life. While the size of the daybed can determine where you intend to place it, and vice versa, ensure it’s long enough for you to stretch out and get comfortable, and wide enough for you to sit or lie in any way you please. Positioning the daybed to overlook your garden will connect your kitchen interior with your outdoor area, acting as a bridge between both realms. Further, window seats are also very easy to install, especially in homes with expansive glass windows, so turn off your phone, take a seat, and soak up that sunlight.
For those short on space and on a tight budget, a simple window seat with built-in storage is the perfect option for promoting comfort and functionality. Not only will you have a comfortable resting spot in the kitchen, but you’ll also have space to stow away additional kitchenware that you may not frequently use. To achieve a seamless aesthetic, match your daybed to your existing joinery. For those wary of spills and stains, vinyl or leather seat coverings are extremely pet- and child-friendly, which means less stress for you.
ALL ROUND ADVICE
Regardless of whether you choose to include many functional zones into your kitchen, or only a few, the beauty of creating a multifunctional space is being able to customise its design to suit your lifestyle. If arts and crafts is a family favourite, swap out the study nook for a designated craft zone instead. Alternatively, if you and your partner are passionate about coffee, ditch the herb hub for a state-of-the-art espresso station. Tailoring the space around the things you and your family love the most will ensure that your kitchen is used to its fullest potential, and provide you with greater opportunities to spend time together no matter what’s on the agenda, whether it’s homework, housework or nothing at all.
Creating the perfect multipurpose kitchen for your home isn’t an easy task. It requires precision in the planning and design stages, as well as a keen eye for style and detail. Through careful planning and by working with a trusted, experienced and knowledgeable industry professional, the ‘chameleon’ kitchen of your dreams is sure to become a reality, providing ample space for you, your family and friends to gather, so that there will never be too many cooks in the kitchen.