When we think about renovating or updating the kitchen, it’s common to focus first on aesthetics: the perfect color, the dream backsplash, the handles that add personality.
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But as Real Simple magazine highlights, the true secret of a flawless kitchen lies in functionality. Poor layout or material choices can turn simple tasks – like cooking or cleaning – into a daily nightmare.
Below, we’ve gathered the main kitchen design adjustments recommended by Real Simple and experts such as Liz Goldberg, founder of CAROLYNLEONA, and Angie Hicks, founder of Angi. They’re simple, smart changes that make your routine much more practical.
1. Design for your lifestyle, not for trends
Before following any trend, observe how you really use your kitchen.
If you don’t cook elaborate meals, you may not need a six-burner stove. If you rarely host guests, a full bar may be more decorative than functional.
Goldberg reminds us: “Beauty comes later. Functionality needs to come first.”
Angie Hicks reinforces: “New and shiny features may work for other people, but they can disrupt your routine.”
2. Keep the Golden Triangle in mind
The traditional golden rule of kitchen design places the stove, sink, and refrigerator in a triangular layout to optimize workflow.
While it’s a useful guideline, it can – and should – be adjusted to your home’s real needs.
Goldberg explains: “The important thing is maintaining a natural flow between prep, cooking, and cleaning.”
3. Create dedicated zones
Organization is everything.
Dividing the kitchen into prep, cooking, and cleaning zones makes daily life more efficient and keeps everything within reach without effort.
4. Choose appliances that are easier to use and clean
If you have many small appliances, consider an appliance garage to keep everything accessible and organized.
For large appliances, also think about cleaning:
- Gas stoves = harder to clean
- Electric or induction stoves = much easier to clean
As Hicks reminds: “If you want to simplify cleaning, choose electric or induction.”
5. Prefer low-maintenance materials
Porous materials like marble and granite require constant maintenance and can stain easily.
If you know you won’t have the time (or patience) to seal countertops, consider more practical alternatives.
Hicks warns:
- Marble and granite stain easily
- Laminate, wood, and solid surface can be damaged by heat
- Choose according to your lifestyle – not just aesthetics.
6. Store things where you actually use them
The biggest organizational mistake? Keeping pots far from the stove or cutlery far from the table and dishwasher.
Goldberg recommends:
- Pots and pans: near the stove
- Oils and spices: next to the prep area
- Dishwasher: preferably to the right of the sink
- Trash and recycling: to the left
- Plates and cutlery: within easy reach
Invest in pull-out drawers, organizers, dividers, and well-planned cleaning zones.
Source: Real Simple
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
