What to Know About Kitchen Prep Zones
Kitchen prep zones help organise a kitchen by task and instead of everything being spread out, each area has a clear job. This makes cooking easier and less messy, especially in busy households.
What Are Kitchen Work Zones?
Kitchen work zones are different areas of the kitchen that are designed for specific activities and when each zone is planned properly, everything you need is close to hand.
Work Zones vs the Kitchen Triangle
The kitchen triangle focuses on three key points: the fridge, sink and hob and it works well in small kitchens. Larger kitchens also benefit from work zones and this approach is used in commercial kitchen design, where efficiency and safety are essential. If you need commercial kitchen design, there are a number of firms that can help.
Planning a Kitchen with Zones
Each area should have the right storage and tools nearby and that means cupboards, drawers and appliances are placed where they’re actually used. This reduces movement, keeps worktops clear and improves hygiene. For official guidance on food safety and kitchen layouts, the UK Food Standards Agency is a useful resource.
The Five Main Kitchen Zones
The food storage zone includes the fridge, freezer, pantry and cupboards and food preparation should have clear worktop space and nearby storage for knives, boards and bowls.The cooking zone includes the hob and oven plus storage for pots, pans and utensils. The cleaning and waste zone usually includes the dishwasher, bins and cleaning products and the serving zone has plates, glasses, cutlery and small appliances like a coffee machine.
