Qualities of a Beloved Kitchen

Life happens in the kitchen. Memories are made, time is spent with loved ones and recipes are shared for generations. Over the years, the “latest and greatest” design trends and state-of-the art technology have changed the look of a kitchen. Nonetheless, the essential purpose of a kitchen remains the same: to provide an open space to cook, gather and entertain guests.

Everyone has their own ideas about what features make a kitchen aesthetically pleasing and functional. We asked our WHA staff to identify what qualities they value in a kitchen for everyday life. The most popular responses focused on a kitchen’s layout, storage and amount of space to cook and gather.

Layout – As designers, our staff understands what ingredients make a kitchen flow.

“The most important aspect of a kitchen is its connection with other spaces. Maintaining visual connection with living spaces and outdoors provides for the most enjoyable time spent in the kitchen.”

“I look for a close ratio between stove and sink; I prefer to use larger pots and pans but not all stove and sink pairings work together.”

“An open concept with lots of natural light!”

Storage – Pantries and cabinets are essential to a kitchen for keeping items organized and contributing to decluttered, clean surfaces.

“I need to have functional storage space in my kitchen so that everything has a place. This way the cooking process can become a lot smoother and cleanup is a breeze”

“I prefer cabinet space so I can keep counters clear and have plenty of storage.”

“A Pantry! Need a place to store all of our goodies and small appliances.”

Space – Generous surface area and substantial square footage in the kitchen are ideal for cooking elaborate meals and entertaining guests.

“Space around the island for circulation. Large space for friends to gather in the kitchen to talk during a party.”

“A lot of counter space and an area to gather. No matter how small the kitchen is, people always congregate there.”

“Space … so my wife and I can use the kitchen at the same time.”

“A large cooking range and space to move around. No one likes to be jammed up in a pathway with a hot pan right off the cooktop!”

Every kitchen is unique. These design features help create an amazing space. In honor of spending more valuable time in the kitchen, we are sharing some favorite recipes from WHA staff. Enjoy these savory recipes!

THE SATURDAY WHITE BREAD
Shared by Kim H. The recipe comes from the book, Flour Water Salt Yeast. “I love it because working with the dough and watching the changes through the day is such an exciting experience. It creates this super crusty bread that is absolutely delish; I also save some dough to make the best pizza.”

FRENCH QUICHE
Shared by Abigail B. “I like this recipe because my boyfriend and his family taught me how to make it in France. It has become a dish I cook often that represents the beginning of our relationship as well as a small understanding of his culture.

EGG ROLL SOUP
Shared by Jessie P. This recipe is by Predominantly Paleo and she loves it because it is “healthy, easy and delicious”.