Everything but the kitchen sink?

A client recently asked me why I chose a particular location for her kitchen sink? Which got me thinking about all the reasons I had consciously and subconsciously designed it that way.

When designing a kitchen, there are a number of things to consider when choosing the best location for your kitchen sink. Here's my handy tips;

LOCATION OF EXISTING SERVICES

Where possible, make use of existing plumbing services. It can add considerable expense to your project if you want to relocate your sink, particularly if your home is on a concrete slab.

SYMETRICAL OR ASYMETRICAL

Consider if the design style of your home. Does it lend itself to symmetry - like traditional, Hamptons or French Provincial style? If so, centre your sink within cabinetry or around windows. But if your home is more Contemporary, you can consider an off centre location. Importantly though, when choosing the location, think about how much set down space you want either side of the sink. For dirty dishes or drying. And is the primary dishwasher left or right handed. This needs to be taken into consideration to ensure it functions well.

A WINDOW VIEW?

We tend to spend a lot of time at the Kitchen sink (sadly!) so its nice to be able to look up and out at a view, keep an eye on the kids in the pool or engage with people while your entertaining. So definitely take this into account.

PROXIMITY TO APPLIANCES

Its also important to consider the location in terms of its proximity to complimentary appliances, such as the dishwasher, cooktop (when filling pots) and refrigerator (for washing veggies). Sometimes it may pay to have a second sink (within a Butlers Pantry) or install a pot filler closer to your cooktop. By having your sink close to your dishwasher, you can easily pre rinse and load items without travelling across your kitchen.

LIGHTING

There's a lot of work to be done at a kitchen sink so its important there is good light, both natural and artificial so you can easily complete the tasks at hand.

Need help designing your kitchen? Ask me how.