The 2021 forecast for kitchen design is open plan and visual design continuity with the surrounding open space. Functionality comes first when planning a kitchen for a seated chef, followed by contemporary styling. A visitor will first evaluate the aesthetics and the users will consider functionality first. It is up to the designer’s skill and ingenuity to marry all needs together.
This plan is for a family kitchen of four, where one of the parents is a wheelchair user. The L-shaped layout accommodates hob/cooking top, oven, fridge, and a prep bowl. There is ample open floor space for the seated chef to turn and manoeuvre in.
The counter- top height is a fixed 860mm, which is finalised with the individual client. There is open space below the stove and the food preparation area. for the seated chef to sit at and work comfortably. The kickplate recess is 200mm x200mm, allowing for the foot of the wheelchair to recess below the lower cupboards. There is open space alongside the large storage cupboards to use when selecting ingredients for dinner and an additional pull-out surface next to the oven. The width (front to back) on counter-top is increased from the usual 600mm to 760-860mm. The lower units have pull or looped doors handles while the upper units have touch hinges. Lighting is always important in a kitchen. Under counter lights are essential for good task lighting.
Sink area
The sink unit is height adjustable, allowing for all to wash up with the sink at a comfortable height, 710mm to 915mm. The dishwasher is raised 200mm above the floor to allow for better reach when packing and unpacking dishes.
Laundry
The height of the washing machine and tumble dryer are raised 200mm off the floor to allow for better access from the wheelchair.
Mobile kitchen unit
A kitchen unit or trolley is a helpful addition for moving items safely around the kitchen. The ease of use is assisted by a level smooth, floor surface.
https://snatcher.co.za/products/3-layer-kitchen-trolley
Look back at these blogs for more guidelines:
Kitchen for Seeing Hands, 10 September 2020
Planning a Kitchen for Visually Impaired People, 24 September 2020
Kitchen for the Seated Chef, 4 February 2021 +
