A lot of community centres and churches are not totally sure how to approach a kitchen redesign, or exactly where to start. So, here are five tips from our design consultants that will help you to transform your kitchen into a space that serves the community for years and even decades.
- Start with the ‘Kitchen triangle’
- Consider accessibility
- Work with space limitations
- Plan the equipment
- Choose the right material
1. Why the ‘kitchen triangle’ is essential for community kitchens
The kitchen triangle is a fundamental best practice for a shared kitchen layout, because it maintains hygiene and functionality. It places the hob, refrigerator, and sink so that you can draw a triangle between them. That means that there is less risk of contamination between storage, washing, and preparation areas, and that the flow of people through the kitchen is smooth and not disruptive.
2. Think about kitchen accessibility
No doubt you will want to make the kitchen as welcoming and usable as possible to all members of your community, and on top of that the Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Part M make it a legal requirement.
In terms of physical features, the balance is being able to provide layouts and features that accommodate disabled or elderly users, while still keeping the space easy to use for those without impairments.
TIP: An expert design consultant (like those at Steelplan Kitchens) can help you find that balance.
The other side of accessibility is creating a fun and welcoming environment for all users. Colour plays a big part in that. A commercial all-stainless steel kitchen can be intimidating or uninspiring, and the right choice of colour (like Steelplan’s range of 18 finishes) can make the space appealing and enjoyable.
3. How to design a church kitchen with limited space
Space is a very common concern in community kitchens because it is often limited, and it can feel like you have to compromise. It’s true that small kitchen footprints can limit what is possible, but you would be surprised how much you can include in a small area — it is all about efficient design. For example, making smart use of vertical space frees up surface area for equipment and workstations.
Steelplan Kitchens have found design solutions for countless small and difficult spaces, and we are confident that we can find one for yours. Plus, as part of our design and consultation process, we can create a 3D model that will show you exactly how the design would look in situ.
4. Plan the equipment you need
It is easy to overestimate the amount of equipment that your kitchen will need, or to be too conservative in what you include. Don’t just think about what your kitchen is currently used for — plan for its potential. If you want to rent it out to external groups, think about what facilities might attract bookings. If you want to use the kitchen for more or different things, think about what that would involve and what your community will realistically take part in, and plan your equipment around that.
5. Choose the right material
Most of the kitchens we upgrade are made of materials that are not suitable for community use. Materials like MDF and vinyl-wrapped doors do not stand up to heavy use, and very easily absorb moisture and bacteria, meaning that the kitchen is never clean enough, and needs replacing relatively quickly after installation.
By contrast, a mild steel powder-coated kitchen carcass with a stainless-steel worktop is durable and easily cleanable, so that you have a hygienic kitchen that lasts.
Do you want to upgrade your kitchen to a space that is enjoyable and safe for all to use, that is as vibrant as your community, and that offers potential or more and better events? Get in touch with the design experts at Steelplan Kitchens and we give you a free consultation on how to transform the kitchen in your church or community centre. Call 0844 809 9186 or email [email protected].
