No matter what overall size your kitchen is, it still should:

A typical kitchen work area scheme

1. Provide adequate working space. Any kitchen can be thought of as a combination of three work areas (see image). The first is food preparation, which includes counter space, utensil storage drawers and cabinets, places to store cutters, knives, food processors, chopping boards, glassware, cups, and plates. The second is food cooking, which includes the range, oven, counter space, and storage areas for pots, pans, cooking utensils, seasonings, ingredients, and other cooking supplies. The third is food cleaning, which includes single or dual basin sinks, counter space, dishwasher, trash facilities, and perhaps a garbage disposal.

Even the smallest kitchens should be set up so that the items stored at each work area are used for corresponding activities. For instance, the groceries should be stored near the refrigerator, so the sandwich maker has easy access to the peanut butter, jelly, bread, and milk without walking all over the kitchen. Likewise, cooking utensils and aids are best kept by the stove. Cleaning supplies and pot scrubbers should be stored within reach of the sink.

2. Provide sufficient counter space. Counter space at both sides of the sink is crucial. At least three linear feet of counter should be installed between the sink and refrigerator so that you can remove food from storage and put it away with ease, and can cut and chop foods or roll out dough. The counter space between the sink and refrigerator is often called the mix center. Near the sink, you need one place to stage dirty cookware and dishes before you rinse and wash them, and another to let them dry off after washing. Sink counter space is still a requirement even if you plan to have an automatic dishwasher.

The range or cooking center should also have counter space on both sides so you can place prepared foods in one place before cooking and afterwards in another while cooked foods are cooling. People frequently don’t allow enough counter space here, and family cooks are sorry later on.

Beyond these areas, there should be enough additional counter space to accommodate all your favorite items and appliances such as a mixer, blender, food processor, toaster, crockpot, microwave oven, electric sharpener, can opener, bread box, and even a telephone.

3. Provide ample storage space. In the kitchen, enough storage space can mean the difference between a food preparation area that’s easy to organize, easy to work in, and easy to keep clean — or an area  that’s difficult to work in and always a mess. Neatness and cleanliness count heavily toward a cook’s efficiency and enjoyment of his or her work. And it’s a proven fact that substantial psychological stress occurs to people who occupy cluttered, disheveled areas.