Even in properties with only a few square metres of floor space, as is often the case in Italian apartments, it is possible to optimise space and make a kitchen more functional and modern. The important thing is to think about the arrangement of the furniture intelligently, following the theory of the kitchen triangle. Never heard of it? Let's find out what it is by following the furnishing ideas proposed by the experts at IKEA in Italy.
The kitchen triangle theory is a principle of furniture arrangement designed to make not only the actions to be performed more efficient and immediate, but also safer between the sink, hob and fridge. Anyone planning a new kitchen, or wanting to change its layout, would do well to pay particular attention to a few aspects to be assessed.
Regardless of the layout you have in mind for your kitchen layout, the basic idea to start with is the position of the sink and, therefore, to place the hob and the refrigerator at a short distance, so that they are within easy reach without having to walk a long way while cooking.
In addition to this, you will need to ensure sufficient surface area for cooking and preparing dishes that also need an oven, which therefore cannot be separated from the worktop which, just as importantly, must be large and placed between the sink and the hob. Another practical idea is to also place the waste container and dishwasher within easy reach, to clear the area quickly and easily.
Another fundamental aspect of designing a functional kitchen in a small Italian apartment is paying attention to storage space. Items should be placed as close as possible to where you use them most, perhaps right under or next to the hob. Therefore, pots, pans and cooking utensils should be stored in drawers or cabinets close to the hob so that they are always easily accessible. The same principle applies to a well-organised spice rack.