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The Urban Culinary Oasis
July 1, 2024
This compact kitchen design presented by Dominic Jerard Kurian, Principal Architect, Practice Being won the 1st Prize at the Hettich presents Kitchen Ideas Design Challenge 2023-2024.
This innovative kitchen design for the compact 90 sq. ft. space within a 2-BHK apartment has been curated for a couple who relish hosting gatherings. Beyond its visual and practical appeal, the design effortlessly adapts to the couple’s ever-changing needs.
“Our design proposal is a blend of style, efficiency, and sustainability. It transcends the traditional kitchen archetype, becoming a social nexus where technology, storage, innovation, and safety converge to create a culinary haven tailored for the demands of contemporary urban living,” shared Dominic Jerard Kurian, Principal Architect, Practice Being.
The Layout
In the existing floor plan, the kitchen was confined to a traditional and compartmentalised space. The layout followed a conventional 2-BHK design, with discrete rooms for each function. The kitchen, while functional, operated in isolation.
Isometric view of the compact 90 sq. ft. space within a 2-BHK apartment. Photo Courtesy: Practice Being
“The proposed floor plan envisions a transformative shift towards an open-concept design. The wall and the door separating the kitchen from the living and dining areas are removed, making the kitchen the central hub. The kitchen evolves into a dynamic, flexible space, where cooking, entertaining, and socialising converge effortlessly. The transition from the conventional to the open plan reflects a deliberate move towards a contemporary and adaptable living environment, tailored for a more inclusive and engaging lifestyle,” informed Kurian.
Functional Zoning
The kitchen space is meticulously designed to offer distinct zones for storage, cooking, and cleaning on both counters. The storage area is strategically placed with tall pull-outs and organisers, providing easy access to pantry items and utensils, the under-counter wine refrigerator, discreetly placed, and becomes a focal point for socialising.
The cooking space, centralised around the built-in oven and stove, offers a dedicated zone for culinary activities. The cleaning area is efficiently organised, featuring a built-in dishwasher and under-counter purifiers. This intentional zoning optimises workflow, ensuring a seamless and organised kitchen experience.
Dominic Jerard Kurian, Principal Architect, Practice Being (in the middle) receiving the 1st Prize award from Andre Eckholt, Managing Director, Hettich India (on the left) and Sheital Shetty, Editor and Publisher of Kitchen Ideas (on the right) at the Grand Finale of Hettich presents Kitchen Ideas Design Challenge held at JW Marriott, Juhu, Mumbai.
Space Optimisation: Maximising the limited square footage, the design prioritises intelligent storage solutions from Hettich. Customised cabinets, Avantech You Illumination pull-out shelves with organisers, and vertical storage units ensure every inch is utilised efficiently. The layout is meticulously planned to provide ample countertop space for meal preparation while maintaining a clutter-free environment.
Innovative Features: Innovation takes centre stage with features like a pull-out pantry, hidden appliance garages, and a multifunctional island that serves as a cooking station, serving table, and additional storage. The design fosters adaptability, catering to the needs of the hosts and their guests.
Water and Energy Efficiency: Sensor-activated low-flow faucets with dual-function sprayers, pot fillers planned over the gas hob and instant hot water dispensers near the sink ensure water efficiency and energy-efficient Hettich lighting, and Blaupunkt appliances with high Energy Star ratings contribute to a greener, more eco-friendly kitchen without compromising performance.
This floor plan evolves into a dynamic, flexible space, where cooking, entertaining, and socialising converge effortlessly. Photo Courtesy: Practice Being