Kitchen and Dining

OVERVIEW

Kitchens are complicated spaces with many varied activities and usage requirements. The kitchen needs to support many appliances and accommodate different tasks, conversations, cooking and cleanup.

UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR KITCHEN AND DINING

These varied tasks and the differences between cooking preferences require flexibility and options in kitchen design.

Optimally, include work surfaces at different heights (between 32 inches and 42 inches) so that children, adults, aging adults and seated persons can work effectively and comfortably. A raised dishwasher eases loading and unloading for a wide range of users.

Storage should be accessible, not just in cabinets with doors. A good option is pull-out shelves and drawers in base cabinets. Open wall shelving makes finding stored items easy.

Finally, a good blend of natural and artificial lighting in the kitchen is especially important. Always include additional task lighting whether above counter surfaces or under cabinets.

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