10 tips for an ergonomic kitchen

After reassessing the configuration of your kitchen to make meal preparation more pleasant and effective, identify those areas you dislike (for example: not enough counter space near the stove or disorderly cupboards). A well-thought-out kitchen can make a huge difference.

1 For floor-level storage space, opt for drawers rather than cupboards. This
way, you won’t need to bend over to look for whatever is stuck at the back of a cupboard.

2 Store frequently used accessories in the top drawers just beneath the
counter or on the bottom shelf of the cupboards just above the counter. The
remaining accessories can then be stored based on how often they’re used, with those used least often on the highest or lowest levels.

3 Make sure that your kitchen plan includes a working counter near
the stove for dishes waiting to be cooked or those fresh out of the oven.

4 Install your range in such a way that you have ample space on both
sides. A range placed at an angle, for example, will not give you the required space, and chances are you won’t be at ease when cooking.

5 Provide for counter space close to the sink.

6 Working counters should be a minimum height of 90 centimetres. If you’re shorter or taller than average, don’t hesitate to adapt the counter height accordingly.

7 Provide sufficient lighting for each work area.

8 Make sure the range hood is at least 60 centimetres high so that you won’t bump your head.

9 If you’re left-handed, set up the appliances accordingly: Place the
dishwasher to the left instead of to the right of the sink.

10 Keep a stool handy so that you can carry out certain tasks from a seated position.

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