How to Design a Chef's Kitchen for the Home Cook

Many of us fondly refer to our kitchens as the heart of our homes. After all, it's where we gather to share meals and entertain guests. If you want to transform your space into a beautiful gourmet area that everyone can enjoy, look no further. There are so many ways to achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

Which features can set your space apart from the rest? Here are a few design tips for an ideal chef's kitchen.

1. Try Warming Drawers

You never want to use a microwave to reheat a dish — but what's your other option? When you need to make a course ahead of time, a warming drawer works perfectly. You don't need to turn on your oven or serve some cold appetizers. Instead, this appliance keeps your meal ready to go.

You could also add a refrigerator drawer. This appliance works similarly, but it cools your food instead. It's an easy way to keep your refrigerators clear of unnecessary items.

In New York, finding a residence with a warming drawer may seem like a challenge. Yet many luxury properties are catering to the home cook. 49 Chambers at Reade St., located in Tribeca, offers stunning kitchens with amenities and appliances perfect for entertaining. Ovens with warming drawers allow chefs to delight guests with ready-to-go dishes.

2. Add an Island or Two

Every cook needs ample work surfaces. It's not always feasible, but if you can add at least one island, you'll have a lot of elbow room. No one wants to feel overwhelmed by dirty dishes and pans as they struggle to find an area to chop vegetables. Plus, when there's more than one chef at the helm, an island provides a lot of advantages. When you mix materials and colors, your island can serve as a distinct centerpiece.

If there's enough square footage, think about a second island. One could act as a tasting counter, where guests can sample dishes and enjoy their drinks. You can reserve the other island for your needs as a cook. Your kitchen needs to allow for both flow and function.

3. Look to Outdoor Space

Right now, there's a massive demand for indoor-outdoor rooms. After all, who doesn't want to enjoy a beautiful view as they cook? If your kitchen connects to a balcony or yard, consider an extension. You can use a sliding or folding door as a replacement for the existing wall. As a result, you'll achieve tons of natural sunlight — plus a truly flexible space.

Those in high-rise apartments may not have outdoor kitchens, but sunlight should still be a prime consideration for the chef’s kitchen. Take the stunning views offered by the luxury residences at Fifteen Hudson Yards in Manhattan. These elegant kitchens are designed to take advantage of natural light and illuminate any home-cooked meal.

4. Find the Right Appliances

When most homeowners envision a gourmet kitchen, they see a six-burner stovetop and stacked double ovens. Those appliances make a huge difference, but you need to choose what's right for your space individually. If you live alone, you may not want to prioritize a massive refrigerator, especially when such a purchase can eat up a major portion of your budget.

You should also consider your home's current capacity and capabilities. Would it be a pain to install a gas stovetop? Consider a variety of appliances before you make a decision — and think about important built-in features, too. These fixtures should add to your space through their appearance and practicality.

5. Consider a Wine Display

In many modern, updated properties, people install small wine refrigerators to keep a collection ready for any event. New York sommeliers have no shortage of such options in luxury properties. For example, Waterline Square — intersecting Midtown and the Upper West Side — offers both under-counter and full-height wine fridges for residents who value vino.

If there's enough extra space, consider a wine room. You can use a spare pantry or downstairs room to create a beautiful display. Use technology to control the area's temperature and add plenty of room for dozens of bottles. Your guests won't be able to look away. Plus, you'll be ready to see every wine together. That aspect makes it a lot easier to choose specific types for recipes or meals.

Finding a Residence With a Chef’s Kitchen

The ultimate gourmet chef’s kitchen includes top-end appliances, entertaining features and elegant design. Fortunately, you can achieve a stunning and versatile space with just a few changes and additions. Both move-in ready and flexible properties can help you start cooking right away in your new kitchen.

Holly Welles is a real estate blogger covering design, finance and market trends for apartment dwellers. You can find more of her work on her blog, The Estate Update.

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