Although we can't completely avoid cross traffic or keep it out of the kitchen, it is possible to organize the flow to reduce interference with the work area. When remodeling a kitchen, fixing the traffic problems could be much more important than the style of the cabinet doors.
 | In the 1950s and onward, homes began to have attached garages and generally lost the front and back porches. Family and friends once came in through the front door and suffused through the living area - but with the car being used for most trips, that traffic now comes in through the kitchen. Often it goes right through the food prep. work area. Many builders took the opportunity to insert the stairs right next to the kitchen to keep things compact. A central kitchen table further interferes with the work triangle. |
| A few deft changes could improve the situation considerably by channeling the traffic to flow past the work zone. They should also help to define the areas used for cruising through or hanging out. It's best to keep these separate from the room needed by the cook and bottle-washer; even if it takes a pickle-shaped island. Sometimes adding walls and arched openings can help accomplish this while adding a sense of classical organization to the space. Opening up stair walls for railings and adding windows will visually improve the feeling of spaciousness and of reduced congestion. |  |
This article was originally printed in "Remodeling" magazine published by Hanley Wood - August, 2006
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