Small Kitchen Design Dimension: As architectural students, we are trained to look at spaces not just for their aesthetics but for their functionality and the way they impact the user. The image you provided presents a well-organized kitchen, and it allows for a close examination of proportions, material use, and spatial arrangement, all of which are crucial to successful design.
Breaking Down the Layout: Kitchen Design
The image depicts a kitchen with a variety of features. The diagrammatic elements make it easy to grasp the size and proportions of each part. Let’s dive into a breakdown:
1. **Overall Dimensions:** The total width of the upper cabinets is given as 165 cm, and the lower cabinets are 2.25 meters wide. These measurements set the overall scale of the space. There is a very consistent and cohesive color palette, combining light wood and white. The white backsplash creates a visual break between the upper and lower cabinets, and it also adds a sense of brightness to the kitchen.
2. **Upper Cabinets:** We observe a multi-tiered system with varying heights and depths.
* The horizontal shelf on the far left of the image is 20 cm in depth and 60cm wide.
* The first vertical section that is on the right of the horizontal shelf is 47 cm high and 60cm wide.
* The vertical cabinet on the right of that is 29 cm wide and has a height of 47 cm + 50 cm + 59 cm = 156cm.
* The small section on the far right has a width of 29 cm and a height of 88cm.
3. **Lower Cabinets:** The image highlights that the lower cabinets are 80 cm high. The image breaks down the widths of each of the lower cabinets as follows: 55cm, 82 cm and 55cm, respectively. There are also 3 different sections of drawers with measurements of 17 cm and 22 cm.
* The depth is not indicated, but we can assume, from the perspective and the other measurements, that there is consistent depth throughout.
4. Countertop and Backsplash:
 The area of the counter above the cabinets is designated as 120cm wide. The depth is consistent with the upper and lower cabinets.
  The backplash is white with small square tiles
5. Appliances: A cooktop and sink are integrated into the countertop. The sink, being slightly smaller, does not take up much of the countertop space.
**Analysis for Architectural Students**
Here’s how we can analyze this design through an architectural lens:
1. **Proportion and Scale:** The upper and lower cabinet dimensions, when taken together, create a space that has a sense of balance. The vertical lines of the cabinet doors enhance the height of the room and also add some visual interest to an otherwise box-like space. The depth and width of the upper cabinets allow for ease of use. The horizontal shelving on the left provides a visual contrast and also balances out the space.
2. **Functionality:** This kitchen is well laid out, combining the sink, stove and countertop spaces, which all allow for a functional working environment. The positioning of the various sections suggests good workflow. The inclusion of shelves above the counter allows for storage, but it can also be used for displaying items.
3. **Material and Texture:** The use of light-colored wood gives a modern but natural feel. The wood is very consistent throughout and brings a unified visual to the kitchen. The white countertop and backsplash provide a clean contrast, but they also make the room feel brighter. The vertical grooves in the upper cabinets add visual texture, making them visually interesting.
4. **Ergonomics:** The heights of the counter and cabinet storage should be well within reach for the intended users, which is an important factor to consider when designing a space. The countertop space is large enough to be functional for food preparation. The sink and cooking top are separated by a buffer zone, ensuring that there is some space for working.
5. **Details:** This design is visually coherent. The addition of small details like the small planter, utensils, and canisters all contribute to a more homely and comfortable environment. The vent grates in the lower cabinets indicate a practical concern for airflow and ventilation. The hooks above the countertop allow for the display of utensils and also add to the aesthetic of the space.
Lessons for Architectural Practice:
This simple yet detailed image demonstrates various principles that are key to successful kitchen design:
1. **Precise Measurements:** Accuracy in measurements is crucial for functionality and aesthetics. The indicated measurements on the image are critical to the design’s coherence.
2. **Balanced Proportions:** The balance between vertical and horizontal elements, as well as the relationship between different sections of the kitchen, is fundamental to creating a pleasing space.
3. **Material Choice:** The selection of materials needs to consider the environment and aesthetics of the space. In this case, the use of light wood contributes to a brighter and more natural feel.
4. **Ergonomic Design:** Spaces should be designed for the end user. In this case, the heights of the cabinets and the counter height should be designed for comfortable use.
5. **Attention to Details:** Small details, such as the addition of utensils and display items, contribute to the overall feeling of the space.
As architectural students, our goal is to create spaces that enhance the experience of its users. The image provided is a lesson in the power of proportion, functionality, and detailing, and it serves as a reminder that successful design must always be well balanced.
