The best furniture, layout and worktops for busy family kitchens


The best furniture, layout and worktops for busy family kitchens

For most families with young children, it’s crucial to create a space that is both functional and safe, as well as looking beautiful.

If you’re planning to build a family-friendly kitchen, you might want to consider these tips.

1. Opt for low-maintenance kitchen worktops.

If you have young children, you know that family-friendly means durable and low-maintenance. When it comes to worktops, quartz is an excellent option because it is scratch resistant and easy to clean. They do, however, come at a price.

Laminate has come a long way in recent years, so is a worthy alternative if you’re on a budget. They are more prone to damage though, particularly from scratches, so ensure you’ve always got a good chopping board to hand.

2. Choose easy-to-clean kitchen cabinets.

No one wants to spend hours scrubbing fingerprints and smudges off glossy cabinets. Opting for cabinets with a matt finish will help you avoid all the extra work. In addition, steering away from complex or ornate designs can also help to keep your kitchen looking clean.

A simple, clean style is great for families, as they’re easier to care for and won’t distract from other design elements in your kitchen.

3. Create a flexible kitchen space.

A family-friendly kitchen is one that can adapt to the needs of its users. An open-plan layout, for example, allows you to keep an eye on the kids while they play in the living room or garden. If you have an island or breakfast bar, it can be used for homework or as a place for the kids to sit and chat while you cook dinner.

4. Focus on ktichen storage.

A well-organised kitchen is a key element of a family-friendly home. After all, when you have young children, there’s no such thing as too much storage. Full-height cabinets are a great way to make the most of vertical space, while deep drawers with organisers can help to keep things tidy.

And don’t forget about corner cupboards — these often-overlooked spaces can be transformed into functional storage areas with the help of some pulls.

5. Don’t skimp on appliances.

The last thing you want is a dishwasher that doesn’t clean properly or a fridge that is constantly breaking down. Trusted brands like Bosch or Neff are known for their quality and durability. For cost effective options consider Beko and Hotpoint.

Additionally, go for appliances designed to be as user-friendly as possible. Some features to look out for include a programmable timer and smart solutions that can be controlled by a phone.

Whether you’re a family of two or six, we can help you create a kitchen that works perfectly for your needs. Our kitchen designers are experts at planning family-friendly kitchens, contact us to organise a no-pressure chat.