10 Important Things to Consider Before Designing a New Kitchen

Here are 10 important guidelines for your kitchen design project.

1. For efficiency, the work triangle (the space between the sink, refrigerator, and stove) should measure 26 or less with no single side longer than 9, or less than 4.

2. In kitchens smaller than 150 sq. ft., opt for at least 13 of base cabinets, 12 of wall cabinets, and 11 of countertop. In kitchens which are larger, go with at least 16 of base cabinets, 15 1/2 of wall cabinets, and 16 1/2 of countertop.

3. For convenience, plan work aisles to be at least 42 wide for one cook, and at least 48 wide in multi-cook kitchens.

4. Specify a minimum of 24 of counter space on one side of the sink and at least 18 on the other.

5. To create the most accessible landing for unloading groceries, allow at least 15 of counter space on the handle side of a standard refrigerator; on both sides if its a side-by-side model. Or include a landing area directly across from the refrigerator, but no more than 48 away.

6. For cleanup ease, install the dishwasher within 36 of one edge of the sink and allow for at least 21 of standing room next to it.

7. For microwaves and ovens, provide at least 15 of counter space nearby, at least 16 deep.

8. For optimum clearance, no entry, appliance, or cabinet doors should interfere with another.

9. For comfort and to help avoid repetitive-motion injury, plan for work counters of different heights; between 28 and 36 off the floor (easier for chopping and seated-use access), and between 36 and 46 for general tasks (higher counters accommodate taller cooks).

10. To install a cabinet unit above the cook top, make sure the clearance is at least 24 for a fireproof surface, 30 for an unprotected surface.

Designing a kitchen is as much a science as it is an art. Knowing the recommended measurements to use when planning the project can make all the difference in the final outcome.

Cookware purveyor Mario Fiorucci walks you through the enameled cast iron Le Creuset cookware. This high quality cookware is the benchmark for enameled cast …
Video Rating: 4 / 5

This is a cookware review of Paula Deen Signature Nonstick 15-Piece Porcelain Cookware Set. Enjoy!

Paula Deen Signature Nonstick 15-Piece Porcelain Cookware Set

  • Set Includes: 1qt.cov. Saucepan, 2 qt. cov. Saucepan, 6 qt. cov. Stockpot, 2.75 qt. cov. Saute, 8″ Skillet, 10″ Skillet, 5 Piece Measuring Spoon Set
  • Colorful speckled porcelain exterior will enhance every kitchen from contemporary to traditional. This attractive exterior is durable, stain resistant and a breeze to clean.
  • Heavy gauge construction heats up quickly and evenly. Durable DuPont Teflon® Select nonstick interiors provide easy cleaning and long-lasting food release.
  • Color coordinated, dual riveted, soft-touch handles are designed to provide a comfortable, secure grip. Stylish copper plated rings are attached for hanging convenience. Oven safe to 350°F.
  • Tempered glass lids lock in flavors and let you watch your food cook without lifting he lid. Copper plated knobs add a punch of color and sophistication to spice up your kitchen.

“Poring through antique shops with my Aunt Peggy is one of my most cherished memories. This line was inspired by the many treasures she and I found on our adventures. My wish is that they are as fun to collect for you as they were for me.” Best Dishes! – Paula Deen Read the full review here…

List Price: $ 119.99

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What do you think about cookware? Feel free to leave your opinion below.

14 thoughts on “10 Important Things to Consider Before Designing a New Kitchen”

  1. I have heard certain types cast iron or iron which is not from food
    sources, something industrial or whatever it may be, such iron can
    accumulate in the body and cause oxidation, which can damage arteries, lead
    to cardiovascular disease, Alzheimers and many other host of problems

    So the question is, where is the iron derived from to create these fine
    looking sets of cookware?

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  2. Thank you for your post. I’ve been undecided about which pieces to buy
    next. I’m glad you pointed out that its mainly about shape and preference
    — b/c they are so versatile. I’d love to hear your opinion on LC skillets
    vs. fry pans and does it really make that much of a difference to the home
    cook.

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  3. I once borrowed a Le Creuset from my mother, and it slipped off the
    draining board and broke !!! It happened a while ago, and I am not sure if
    it must have been a stoneware one or cast iron. I am about to purchase a
    cast iron French oven for myself, and am a bit worried about this happening
    again, as they are so expensive!!!

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  4. Dishonest? Each piece of cookware has a different use. For every type of
    cooking, a chef has their preference. The aluminum in the background is
    being used to make stock. If Le Creuset made a pot that large, we would
    surely use it if needed.

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  5. 136 of 146 people found the following review helpful
    3.0 out of 5 stars
    Good at first, not so much after repeated use., November 29, 2012
    By 

    This review is from: Paula Deen Signature Nonstick 15-Piece Porcelain Cookware Set (Kitchen)
    This set of cookware was great when I first started using it. It was non-stick as described, heated evenly on an electric stove and overall I was pretty satisfied with it. After using it for a year, my opinion is beginning to change. The handles on the pots keep coming loose and have to be tightened every couple of uses. The non-stick bottom, although I have been very careful to avoid scratching or damaging it has started to peel off in little bubbles. The bottoms tend to get burn marks that you can’t scrub off even with some serious elbow grease. I think when you buy these, you are buying the name. You could probably get a similar item for much less money at your local superstore. Not thrilled.

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  6. 183 of 200 people found the following review helpful
    2.0 out of 5 stars
    Word of Caution, December 13, 2012
    By 
    nivico –

    Overall we’ve been pleased with the Paula Deen cookware, but be aware that as per the manufacturer’s instructions included inside the box they can not be used on high heat settings. This hasn’t been so much of an issue with the pans, but whenever we need to boil something in a pot (eggs, pasta, soups, water, etc) we have to use a different set of cookware altogether.

    That’s a pretty big design flaw in my opinion when cookware can only be used on low and medium heat settings.

    My second complaint with the set is that the smallest pieces are too small to be useful. The smallest pot, for example, is absolutely tiny. It fits inside of the smallest pot from our old set and is smaller in diameter than the burners on the stove.

    It’s a good basic set for the $100 price range, just know that you’re gonna have to invest in additional pieces for a full range of cooking.

    * Wanted to add, too, that advertising this as a “15-Piece Cookware Set” is a bit misleading. The measuring spoons are utensils, not cookware, so you’re really only getting a 10 piece cookware set here.

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  7. 69 of 74 people found the following review helpful
    2.0 out of 5 stars
    Not made for glass top stoves, August 12, 2013
    By 

    Verified Purchase(What’s this?)
    After reading the instructions in the package-it stated not to be used on glass top stoves. This should of been stated in the information section.

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