Family-Friendly Kitchens: Q&A with Our Design Experts

Ever thought about how to design a kitchen that works for a busy family, with kids, pets, or both? It’s easy to miss the important detail during the design phase, but futureproofing your kitchen is key.

In this blog, we chat with Clare and Tom Chantler of Family Kitchens, one of our Top Real Stories 2024 competition winners, who share their expert insights on layout options, childproofing, selecting durable materials, and much more to help you create the perfect family-friendly space.

What are the key elements of a family-friendly kitchen?

We believe the key elements to a family friendly kitchen is creating the perfect balance of functionality, style and most importantly, safety. We ensure that throughout the design process, we guide our customers through great design ideas but also offer practical advice on functionality and safety to ensure we tick all the boxes!

How can I create a kitchen layout that works for both cooking and family activities?

Designing a kitchen layout that seamlessly accommodates both cooking and family activities is achievable through close collaboration with a skilled kitchen specialist. As a kitchen serves as the heart of a home, it should be a place to prepare meals but also provide a welcoming space for socialising with family and friends. Various features such as an island or peninsula with seating can be a versatile central place for all family activities.

How can I childproof my kitchen without sacrificing style?

As a kitchen involves the use of hot appliances, ensuring that the room is safe for little ones is paramount when designing a family-friendly space. One of the main ways to achieve this is to ensure that, where possible, ovens are located next to worktops, to avoid crossing walkways, where children may be running.

Incorporate design elements like pull-out shelves and deep drawers that keep potentially dangerous items out of reach but still seamlessly integrate into your kitchen’s overall look. Use tempered glass for cabinet doors, which is extra tough and consider a stylish, durable backsplash that can withstand spills and splashes while also contributing to the kitchen’s visual appeal. Additionally, discussing features like rounded countertop edges and magnetic cabinet locks during your design consultations can further enhance safety without compromising on style.

What are the best appliances for a family-friendly kitchen?

When selecting appliances for a family-friendly kitchen that prioritises child-proofing, it’s essential to focus on safety features alongside functionality.

Look for ovens and cooktops with cool-to-the-touch surfaces and automatic shut-off features to prevent accidents. Refrigerators with child-lock options can keep little hands out of snacks and other items, while dishwashers featuring time-delay settings allow for operation at safer times. Additionally, a microwave with a child-lock mechanism ensures safe usage.

It’s important to consider appliances that offer easy-to-clean surfaces and sturdy designs, providing a practical solution for busy families. Consulting with a knowledgeable designer can help you navigate options that provide both safety and seamless integration into your home.

What are the best storage options for a busy family kitchen?

The best storage options for a busy family kitchen focus on efficiency and easy access to everyday essentials. Incorporating solutions like corner pull-outs can maximise corner space, making it easier to reach items that often get awkwardly tucked away. Tall larder pull-outs and pantries help maximise space and can easily and neatly store a family’s weekly food shop while drawer dividers help keep utensils and other kitchen items organised. Under-sink storage with pull-out racks can also accommodate cleaning supplies discreetly without sacrificing accessibility.

Adding smart storage features can really boost your kitchen organisation. Everything will have its place, making it easy to find what you need.

How can I incorporate seating that works for children and adults alike?

Creating a kitchen space that works for both kids and adults can make it a great spot for the whole family to gather.

One way is to consider adding a peninsula or kitchen island with adjustable bar stools. This way, everyone from kids to adults can sit comfortably. Multi-height islands are super versatile too, making it easy for everyone to join in on cooking or dining together.

Also, picking durable and easy-to-clean materials for your seating makes it last longer and easier to maintain, which is perfect for busy households. This mix of smart design and practicality turns your kitchen into a cosy spot where family and friends can easily gather and hang out.

What are the most durable materials for countertops and cabinets in a family kitchen?

When it comes to choosing durable materials for countertops and cabinets in a family kitchen, it’s essential to focus on options that can withstand daily wear and tear. Quartz countertops are an excellent choice, as they are not only resilient against scratches and stains but are also non-porous, making them easy to clean and maintain.

If you want a stylish look that’s also practical, high-quality laminate worktops are a great choice. They can mimic natural materials like wood or stone but are more affordable and durable. Plus, laminate surfaces resist heat and moisture, making them perfect for a busy kitchen.

For cabinetry, look for finishes with scratch-resistant coatings or solid wood options. These choices will keep your kitchen looking great, even with busy family life. Picking durable materials means your kitchen will be both stylish and long lasting.

How do I choose finishes that are easy to clean and maintain?

When choosing finishes for doors, worktops, and flooring in your kitchen, it’s essential to prioritise options that are easy to clean and maintain and this should be considered during the initial design process.

It’s important to give your designer some background on your household, like if you have pets or children. This way, they can recommend the most suitable materials and finishes. For instance, durable materials such as foil finishes are easy to clean, and the likes of slab door designs don’t feature intricate beading, so there’s nowhere for dirt to gather.

Visiting a showroom allows you to “touch and feel” different door styles and finishes. By focusing on these details, you can create a kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional for years to come.

How can I create a space that grows with my family’s needs?

To create a kitchen space that evolves with your family’s needs, it’s crucial to design with both style and practicality in mind. Collaborating with a skilled designer can ensure your kitchen remains timeless and adaptable.

Think about creating an open-plan layout that creates flexibility and brings the family together. Multi-functional islands can be your go-to-spots for prepping meals, dining, and even doing homework. Adjustable shelving is a game-changer, offering storage that adapts as your family’s needs evolve. Opting for durable materials ensures your kitchen stands the test of time, while future-proof appliances can cater to your cooking needs.

By thoughtfully integrating these elements, you can design a kitchen that fits your life now and grows with your family.

Whether you’re getting ready for a new addition to the family or just looking to update your space for a busy household, the right kitchen design can make a big difference to your daily family life. Book A Design Appointment with one of our independent STORI retailers throughout the UK and Ireland, and kickstart your dream kitchen journey today!