Kitchen Design for People Who Love to Cook

As an interior designer who loves to cook and entertain, I understand how important it is to make a kitchen look great while standing up to heavy use. We recently renovated our kitchen, so here are some of my recommendations for anyone considering a remodel—especially if you love cooking, baking, and entertaining.

Maximize Counter Space

This is where an interior or kitchen designer can really help. If you've ever hosted a holiday gathering, made 6 dozen cookies for a party, or had your kids spread homework across the counter, you know how crucial clear, working space is.

For example, I recently consulted on a project where the client had already renovated, but hadn’t made the most of the space. They had a 3x6 foot island in a large open-concept room—big enough for something twice the size, plus additional cabinets and counters.

Even if your layout can’t change (like our U-shaped kitchen with a peninsula), small design adjustments make a difference. We widened and lengthened the peninsula, allowing for four stools and more prep space.

Pro tip: Standard counter depth is 24", but if space allows, increase it to 27–30" for more surface area.

Use Hidden Drawers

Clear counters and open shelving are easier to achieve with hidden drawers in your lower cabinets. Getting things off the counters (and floor—like trash bins) creates a cleaner look.

Hidden drawers are one of my favorite features. Ours hold knives, ziplock bags, utensils, and even appliances like our stand mixer and coffee maker. I also installed peg boards inside drawers for easy-access dishes—helpful for kids unloading the dishwasher.

Prioritize Lighting

There’s a saying in the design world: “Don’t illuminate dust bunnies and dogs.” In other words, put lights where they’re helpful—above work areas, accenting cabinetry, or adding visual appeal.

Recommended lighting:

  • Recessed lights 1–2 feet from cabinets to highlight them and brighten the space.

  • Pendants or recessed lights over islands for both function and style.

  • Task lighting over the sink (recessed, flush mount, or pendant).

  • Under-cabinet LED strip lighting—placed 1–2 inches from the cabinet front for maximum effect.

Designers can help map out how many fixtures you need and where they should go.

Ensure Adequate Ventilation

I cook with gas daily, so proper ventilation was a must. A range hood vented outside improves air quality and helps control odors and grease. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends at least 585 CFMs.

Vent hood design options range from simple to decorative. Your designer can help you choose one that matches your kitchen style. New NKBA guidelines recommend the hood overhang the stove by 3 inches on each side for safety.

Install a Large Sink

A large sink is incredibly useful—for prepping food, cleaning up, and even rinsing off muddy kids or pets. Choose the biggest one your space can accommodate. Designers can help match the size and material to your needs.

Source Durable Materials

Kitchens take a beating. Choose surfaces that are durable, easy to clean, and sustainable.

Some of my favorites:

  • Floors: Porcelain tile, bamboo, or engineered wood (note: wood can dent).

  • Counters: Quartz is my go-to—durable, low maintenance, and stain-resistant. Natural stones like granite and marble are beautiful but require sealing. Other options: butcher block, cement, or porcelain.

  • Sinks: Ceramic or stainless steel—both are durable and easy to clean.

  • Cabinets: Hardwood is ideal—paintable, durable, and long-lasting.

Appliances

One common design challenge: where to put the microwave. Ours is in a wall of cabinets at eye level—accessible even to kids. Other options include installing it in the island (though you’ll have to bend over), or placing it in an upper cabinet (which may be less accessible).

Also consider:

  • Two ovens

  • French door refrigerator

  • Wine cooler

A designer can help you select appliances that fit your lifestyle and cooking habits.

Conclusion

If you love to cook and are considering a kitchen remodel, I hope these ideas give you a helpful starting point. From one cook to another, I understand how meaningful the kitchen is. If you need help with design, project management, or furnishings, we’d love to support you.

Let us know how we can help.