Kitchen work zones (also known as “work stations”) have become the progression of the ever classic and functional work triangle.
The three primary work zones include the Prep Zone, Cooking Zone, and Clean-Up Zone. In addition, several niche-specific zones are popular for the kitchen as well. For example, a Baking Center, a Coffee Station, a Command Center, or a Pet Station might also be included in the kitchen depending on its size and the needs of the household.
Zone 01 – The Prep Zone
The kitchen Prep Zone is the dedicated work center where meals are prepped and combined prior to being cooked. Common activities that take place in the Prep Zone include everyday tasks of washing, peeling, cutting, chopping, measuring, and mixing ingredients. It is optimal for the Prep Zone to be in close proximity to the refrigerator and a sink. It’s important to consider the access to cutting boards, cutlery, a sprayer, a garbage disposal, and a waste bin when planning this zone.
Zone 2 – The Cooking Zone
The Cook Zone is the primary work zone within the kitchen where the food is actually being cooked. The Cook Zone includes cooking appliances such as a range or a cooktop with separate wall ovens, steam oven, warming drawer, microwave, or any other cooking-related appliances that are ideally located within proximity to the Prep Zone. A well-designed Cook Zone will often include plenty of organized storage for commonly used items such as pots and pans, cooking utensils, trivets, oven mitts, and hot pads.
Zone 3 – The Clean-Up Zone
The kitchen Clean-up Zone generally consists of an area that includes a kitchen sink and a dishwasher that is separate from the Prep and Cook Zones. This zone is dedicated to the care and clean-up of items that are used during the cooking process and after a meal. When designing your new kitchen, the Clean-up Zone should be centered around the kitchen’s primary sink and focused on creating a smooth, simplified workflow.
