Ergonomics is a word which is increasingly used these days in many areas of our life. One area which affects us each and every day is our kitchens. Because we use the area so much, some extra time should be spent in designing kitchens for ergonomics.
To save time and energy, focus on designing your kitchen around how you work best. One person’s dream kitchen may be another’s nightmare. Your habits should dictate the placement of appliances, conveniences and cabinets. Design for personal ergonomics and avoid taking others advice unless they have professional credentials.
Consider hiring a professional kitchen ergonomics specialist when designing your kitchen. If you have the budget for a specialist, it may be money well spent.
Here are a few kitchen ergonomic ideas to start you out:
1. Place the spice rack/cabinet near the stove – Cooking and baking cover a majority of spice use. Having the spices placed in close proximity to the stove prevents having to travel each time you need a spice/herb. Avoid placing them above the stove or too close to the stove. Heat and steam from the cooking area will deteriorate the herbs and spices. So close enough for convenience, but a foot or more away for freshness maintenance.
2. Triangle formation – One method of design is a triangle pattern with the range, sink and fridge. Because the three areas are used back and forth from each other so often, having them placed in a triangle pattern will provide easy access from any of the areas.
3. Allow for a straight line of access from the kitchen to the table. At every meal you need to travel to the table many times both in setting the table, bringing the food, and clearing the table. Make these trips easier by allowing for easy access.
4. If you are short, a raised microwave over the stovetop may not work well. Consider moving the microwave to an area which you can reach with ease.
Kitchen layout isn’t the only way to adopt ergonomics into your day. Ergonomic kitchen tools, utensils and knives are designed to be easier on your hands and wrists.
These are just a few tips to consider in designing an ergonomic kitchen. The kitchen is the one place where it makes sense to spend a bit more time planning for making your work environment workable.