How To Create A Kitchen That Is More Relaxing

The concept of having a relaxing kitchen might sound somewhat like an oxymoron since it is the hub of the home.  After all, it’s where so much of your life is lived, where family and friends gather, where all of your meals are prepared, and where so many wonderful memories are made.  So although we might not necessarily want our kitchen to be relaxed, we might want one that is organized and harmonious – and free of clutter and chaos.  I know that I do my best work in a kitchen that is free of clutter and organized.

The more organized your kitchen is, the calmer this space will be for you.

Store like items together.  Keep all of your spices in the same place, and make the ones that you use most often more accessible.

Every so often, clean out and organize your pantry and cupboards.  Throw out any items that have been opened and been around for some time, such as cereals, cookies and crackers.  It’s always a good time for checking your supplies and replacing any items that you are starting to run low on.  Do the same thing to your refrigerator when it comes to items that have been sitting in there a long time or that have expired.  Wipe all of the shelves down.

Set up a coffee bar area.  Have one space for keeping your coffee maker, coffee, sugar and coffee mugs or cups.

Have a snack drawer set up for your kids.  Designate a certain area in the refrigerator for your kids where they have access to healthy snacks like juice, cheese, yogurt and fruit.

Maintain clutter-free work spaces.  People have a tendency to dump magazines, mail and other items onto their counters.  Over time, those piles have a tendency to grow and get pushed from one place to the next.  Have one space designated for paperwork that isn’t on your counters.

Add a nice indoor water fountain addition with the help of Soothing Walls – it’s a great feature and also very relaxing.

Think about where your prep areas will be.  Also, your prep tools like measuring spoons, knives and cutting boards should all be within easy reach, instead of having to walk to the other side of the room to get needed items.

If there is a table in the kitchen, be sure to keep it clutter-free.  You can use the table as an extra prep area, however having a table that is clutter-free ensure that your family can sit at the table together without needing to clear it off before every meal.

Keep plenty of fresh fruit in bowls handy.
Place pots of herbs, plants or vases of flowers on your counters, or on the kitchen table or next to the sink.  (They don’t take up too much work space, and you can push them aside easily).  Flowers and plants are very soothing to have around.

Keep your cookbooks organized, easily accessible and on display.
Install decorative light fixtures to replace the ordinary lighting.  Have dimmers installed as well.  Be sure that all of your work areas are lit well for your prep work in the kitchen.

To soften the floor and absorb sounds, put down washable area rugs, especially in the areas where the most standing is done, like prep areas and near the sink.

Hang photographs and art on the walls in your kitchen.
Have kitchen-related collectibles on display, like copper pans and pots or rolling pins. Keep them organized so that your kitchen doesn’t end up looking cluttered.

Keep an iPod dock, CD player or radio on hand.  There is nothing more soothing and pleasant than listening to music while you work or eat in the kitchen.