How the coronavirus crisis will impact kitchen design

We’re all spending a little more time at home these days and with the kitchen being at the centre of family life, the way we use this space is adapting and not just for the short-term.

As we transition to a new normal, it may be time to anticipate some alterations in kitchen design.

George Forsyth of Drew Forsyth Kitchens says: ‘As a result of the pandemic the design process is changing considerably, with a shift to virtual design consultations that enable homeowners to achieve the space of their dream while always keeping our customers and our staff safe.

‘The kitchen has always been a big investment, but now more than ever customers are recognising the benefits of opting for bespoke, achieving a space that is tailor-made and enables them and their families to live together comfortably.’

Here are some of the keys ways that kitchens are likely to change in the months and years ahead:

Appliances

Larger fridge freezers and even second freezers in a pantry or utility room will become more common. New technology previously only available in commercial refrigeration is entering the domestic market, with consumers investing in appliances that help keep food fresher for longer. With home baking on the increase, ovens with technical features such as moisture injection and precise temperature help produce professional end results

Wine fridges and wine racks

When you can’t get to the pub, the popularity of the home bar is on the rise. Glazed gin display cupboards, wine racks and wine coolers will be a must-have where space will allow in larger kitchens.

Open shelving

Open shelving will be another must-have, providing storage for cookbooks and a place to grow fresh herbs from scratch.

Storage

From deep wide drawers and pull-out shelving replacing standard cupboard interiors to cleaning cupboards becoming pantries for tinned goods, open shelving for jars bottles and spices, the kitchen will be organised like never before.

Clever design features

With small appliances such as mixing aids and coffee machines much more commonplace since pre-lockdown, clever design features such as bi-folding breakfast cupboards enable them to be hidden away yet still easily accessible.

Layout

As whole families spend more time at home, dining spaces will become the norm again. The living room will become an extension of the kitchen even more as designers look to create fluid living spaces where the whole family can interact in harmony.