The Furniture Industry Research Association FIRA has published the Kitchen Layout Design Guide, written for designers and manufacturers.

Divided into sections, the 60-page guide spans ergonomics, accessibility, storage, functionality, hygiene, recycling, elderly and disabled users, as well as tools.

Chief executive of FIRA Phil Reynolds commented on the publication of the guide: “Close to one in ten members of the Research Association are within the kitchen sector, so we wanted to address their needs through this niche project and subsequent publication.

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“Much of the content of the Kitchen Layout Design Guide came from primary research our ergonomic experts undertook, really getting to understand how individuals and families are using their kitchens, what barriers there are to them using their kitchens to their full potential and what, in an ideal world, they would change.”

“All too often design can be more focused around the look and feel of a kitchen, based on the demands of customers who are spending a considerable amount on the purchase.

“But there is an education piece we’re aiming to convey in the guide, about how good ergonomic design can enhance use and enjoyment from a kitchen – emphasising the importance of function over form.”

He continued: “Manufacturing techniques are improving, enabling kitchens to have a much longer life span. Kitchen designers should be taking this into account, considering how the layout will remain relevant as consumers age and their needs change.”

Read 202o’s advice on how to design a room to make it look bigger.