How to Create a Kitchen Fit for a Chef

Storage

Chefs have more pots, pans, and kitchen gadgets than the average homeowner. This makes storage a vital component of a kitchen fit for a chef. Take an inventory of the things you own to help you plan room to accommodate them. Nest pots and bakeware when possible to consolidate space, and keep seasonal and seldom-used items in the basement so your kitchen functions better from day to day.

As for the cabinets themselves, choose closed cupboards for most of your storage needs and a few glass doors to display decorative items and collectibles. Avoid open shelves that gather dust and ornate molding that’s difficult to clean. Consider choosing cabinets made of renewable bamboo, agrifiber, or salvaged wood finished with low- or no-VOC stain and paint.

Countertops

Easy-to-clean counters are crucial for culinary pros, but the material you choose should cater to how and what you cook. For example:

• Stainless steel is a desirable surface for its stain resistance and ability to withstand abrasive cleaners.
• Recycled glass resists staining, scratching, and scorching—plus, it’s eco-friendly.
• Paperstone is heavy-duty, stain resistant, and non-porous—and it’s made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper and petroleum-free resin.
• Butcher block is ideal for kneading dough and cutting directly on the countertop.
• The coolness of natural stone is ideal if you specialize in confection-making.

Appliances

All the appliances you purchase for your kitchen should be ENERGY STAR® qualified to ensure the lowest energy consumption possible while maximizing performance. When shopping for appliances, consider these chef-worthy varieties:

• Gas range for fast, even cooking
• Double electric wall ovens to bake high quantities of food in half the time
• Dishwasher with a large, versatile interior to fit as many dirty dishes as possible
• Refrigerator with a top- or bottom-mounted freezer for more efficient performance than a side-by-side fridge/freezer