The kitchen is often considered the hub of the home because it’s a natural spot to socialize, relax, and reconnect during family meals. The right layout makes it even easier to create the family-friendly ambiance and warmth that you envision. If you have a big family, here’s how your general contractor can make the space functional and welcoming.

How to Create a Family-Friendly Kitchen

1. Include an Island

An island is more than just the focal point of the kitchen; for families, it can also be a place to sit, dine, and prepare meals together. Your general contractor can add cabinets, install a sink and appliances, and extend the counter so it accommodates a few stools. You’ll have more room to cook and entertain or keep the kids nearby while they do homework, making this a smart addition for any family.  

2. Prioritize Storage Space

When you have more food and dishes in the house, it’s easy to feel like there isn’t enough room for everything. Combat this problem by adding more storage during the remodeling phase.

Think of ways to create more storage without limiting necessary counter space. Cabinets and shelves built into the island can help, as can cabinetry above the refrigerator and oven. Ask your general contractor to install deep drawers to hold pots and pans so you free up shelving for other items. You can also install hanging racks for the items you use most frequently, such as your go-to skillet and cooking utensils.

3. Consider Open Planning

Many new homes feature open floor plans because they allow more natural light and foster a sense of togetherness. This floor plan unifies the living room, dining room, and kitchen, so families and guests can spend time together without feeling confined. 

The open space may feel daunting at first, but you can establish designated zones through decor. For example, coordinating area rugs provide focal points for the living and dining areas, while pendant lights over the island serve as both task and ambient lighting. Choose colors and finishes in the kitchen that match other elements throughout the space for a cohesive design.

If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen and transform it into a family-friendly space, turn to the qualified general contractors at Homeworks Construction. Proudly serving homeowners throughout Honolulu, the company is ranked as one of the country’s top 500 residential remodeling professionals by Qualified Remodeler Magazine. They handle every step of the designing and building process and are only satisfied when you are. Visit them online to browse some of their finished home design projects, then call (808) 955-2777 to request a free consultation.