From baking to dicing to sauteeing, you do a lot of different things in your kitchen. In order to keep an organized space, consider splitting up this room into various zones. Not only will this help to maintain a tidy area, but it will also improve the functionality of your kitchen as well. This space is no longer used purely for cooking. It has become a homework zone and even a place for entertaining guests while you prepare dinner. If you’ve just gone through a kitchen renovation where you finally have your perfect kitchen layout, then you want to make sure it stays as tidy as possible for as long as possible. Here’s how to split your kitchen into zones:

Zone 1: Food preparation
Food preparation is likely the number one function of your kitchen. Therefore, you should have a designated cooking space that is easy to navigate. Place cooking utensils, cutting boards, and cooking oils next to the stove so that you’ll have exactly what you need while you’re cooking on the stove or using the oven. Also, you may have to get propane supply for the stove, which you can get through a company such as FSi Oil and Propane. While cooking can be a fun activity, there can be various safety issues that may arise. You can incorporate a few safety measures to ensure that your family stays and you stay protected. You may want to look into having something like color-coded custom tea towels for different food groups, so you are handling your food and utensils safely, plus, it’ll look good on your counter with everything matching.

Zone 2: Breakfast nook
Designate a small table or banquette area where you and your family can relax, unwind and enjoy breakfast in the morning. Place the nook in a corner of your kitchen that receives lots of light to make it easy to read the paper and start off your day on a positive note. Even if you’re running low on space in your kitchen, you can tuck a pedestal table in the corner with two chairs for a cozy nook. Use pillows and cozy cushions on the seating to promote a cozy and snug area to enjoy breakfast. Place open shelving wall storage nearby to hold books and magazines.

Zone 3: Baking preparation
Do you bake frequently in the kitchen? If so, you may benefit from creating a specific baking zone. This way, you’ll have convenient access to all of the proper tools and ingredients. Store sugar, flour and salt in clear canisters on the counter and use wall cabinets to store other ingredients you use less often, such as baking soda, vanilla extract, baking powder, cocoa powder and more. Place larger appliances like blenders, food processors and mixers down below where you can easily reach them instead of having to run over to the other side of the kitchen.

Zone 4: Entertainment
Don’t be afraid to bring the party into the kitchen. This way, you can converse with your guests while focusing on getting dinner ready at the same time. Consider a multi-level kitchen island. On the lower half, you can slice and dice food, and the upper half can be designated to your guests. They can sip on drinks and mingle while you prepare the feast. Kids can also use this space in the morning to eat their cereal or do their homework after school.