They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. But designing a family kitchen that brings everyone together – from toddlers to grandparents – is no small feat. But with a few thoughtful touches, you can create a space that’s perfect for every age.
Whether you’re creating a kitchen-diner, somewhere that doubles up as a play area or you want to design a traditional family kitchen, a little planning can create a great space that everyone can enjoy.
When it comes to planning your perfect kitchen, breaking it down step by step with someone who knows about kitchens in Cumbria can really help. Our team is on hand to help you plan out your family kitchen.
Start by thinking about what you want from your new kitchen. Is it more storage, a better layout or something more modern? Think about how the space will be used, is it all about family meals, entertaining or both. Being clear on what you want from your kitchen will help you decide on the rest of design.
Decide how much you’re willing to invest and set a budget for your kitchen. Our experts can give you some guidance on the cost of fitted kitchens in Cumbria if you need some advice. Your budget influences everything, from appliances to finishes, so staying focused on what matters most will help keep your kitchen design on track.
Finally, think carefully about layout, materials, and appliances. The right layout improves the flow and function of your space – consider a classic kitchen triangle for efficiency or an island for extra workspace. Think about your lifestyle and who will use the space, and how they’ll use it. You can even look at our kitchen showrooms near Kendal if you need some inspiration.
Wondering where to start when you’re planning a kitchen that meets the needs of the whole family? Here are our top tips for when you’re looking at kitchens in Lancaster and the surrounding areas.
When it comes to family kitchens, an open-plan layout can be a real winner. Not only does it maximise on space, but it also makes it easier to keep an eye on little ones while you’re cooking or catching up on emails. Think about using an open-plan kitchen-family room setup, which allows everyone to spread out comfortably without being isolated in separate rooms. Plus, with the right layout, you can set up dedicated areas for different activities – like a kid-friendly corner for crafts or a place to relax and watch TV.
Safety is a top priority, especially if you have young kids or older family members. Choose non-slip flooring and rounded edges on counters to help prevent accidents. If you have the space, go for a built-in step stool in lower cabinets so little ones can reach the sink – it’s safer than a loose stool and keeps things tidy, too. For older relatives, think about installing pull-out shelves and soft-close cabinets. These details make life easier and look incredible.
One of the biggest complaints we hear from families about their old kitchen is that it just doesn’t have enough storage. Family kitchens see a lot of action, so having plenty of accessible storage is key. Go for a mix of deep drawers and open shelving – it makes grabbing snacks, cups and plates easier for all ages. Consider creating zones in your kitchen storage too to keep things safe but accessible if they need to be.
Kitchens aren’t just for cooking anymore. They’re places to eat, do homework, entertain and even work from home. So, set up a small workstation where kids can do homework, or parents can check emails and check out the TV if they need to. You can easily transform this into a serving area when guests come over – multifunctional spaces mean you get the best of all worlds.
Good lighting can make a world of difference, especially in a kitchen. Go for layered lighting to suit different activities and moods. Bright, task lighting is perfect for cooking, but dimmable lights can create a relaxed atmosphere for family dinners. It’s also important that you have enough light in the space that everyone can see what they’re doing in the kitchen properly.
With kids, pets, and the daily hustle and bustle, family kitchens need to be made from materials that are durable and easy to clean. Look for hard-wearing countertops that won’t scratch easily and cabinets with finishes that resist fingerprints. Quartz countertops, for example, are easy to maintain – plus, they come in colours to suit any style. Worried about spills? Choose dark-coloured or patterned floors that hide marks more easily.
Having comfy seating in the kitchen is essential, especially for bigger families. A mix of high stools, benches and chairs gives everyone a spot that suits their height and comfort. A bench along the wall can work wonders if space is tight, and it’s easy to style with cushions for a cosy, inviting feel. If you have little ones, make sure to choose sturdy chairs with a bit of back support – and for grandparents, consider adding a comfy armchair nearby to make long visits a pleasure.
Ready to start planning? At Panararmer, our expert team is here to help you bring your vision to life with designs tailored to your family’s needs. Contact us or stop by our showroom to discover the possibilities and how we can help create a family-friendly kitchen that works for everyone.
