Equations are for more than just math class. Did you know there’s a proper order of operations for your home too? Whether it’s arranging your couch and television for optimal viewing, or making sure towel bars are right within reach, knowing a few key numbers can help you determine the ideal place for each item in your home – creating spaces that look great and are easy-to-use.
Kitchen Calculations
Do you ever feel like you’ve got too many cooks in the kitchen? Creating an effective layout following the principles of ‘the kitchen work triangle, will ensure that you never feel cramped again. Comprised of your three main work areas – the stovetop, refrigerator and sink – the triangle should provide enough space to move around, but not be so large that cooking is difficult. Keep these areas between four and nine feet apart for the most efficient use of space. To keep the kitchen flow going, ensure all other appliances are in proportion to one another, with complementary ones grouped together. For example, minimize the mess from wet dishes by placing the sink and dishwasher a maximum of 91.4 centimetres apart.
When you’re whipping up a family favourite, easy access to kitchen areas is essential. Finding the right height for important elements will make your kitchen even more accessible – most countertops are about one metre high, while microwaves are typically no higher than 1.14 metres for easy reach. Be sure to choose the correct faucet height so it’s in proportion with other fixtures and works with your layout. You don’t want a too-tall faucet that blocks your window, or one so low it’s difficult to fill sizable containers or pitchers. For example, Moen Canada says it has designed the Voss pullout kitchen faucet to be just the right height. Its lower-profile spout is ideal for installations near a window or on an island, while still providing ample room to fill large pots, reduce splashing and improve rinsing in and around the sink.
Living Room Logarithm
Create a lounge space to love by ensuring your living room furnishings are in the ideal locations for maximum relaxation. Here are a few tips to ensure your living room is comfy and functional:
- Position the couch and coffee table 45 centimetres apart to provide plenty of leg room.
- Keep the table and sofa heights within a few inches of each other to make it easy to grab the remote or a tasty beverage.
- Arrange seating a maximum of three metres apart to inspire conversation.
Make binge watching your favorite shows more fun – and avoid eye strain – by positioning your television carefully. The larger your television is, the more distance is required between the screen and your couch. A good rule of thumb is 6.9 centimetres of space for every inch of diagonal screen size for an HD plasma, LED or LCD television.
Perfectly Proportioned Bathroom
Functionality is key when you’re getting your grooming going. Ensure your bathroom has plenty of room for personal care by keeping a few essential measurements in mind. Start by making certain the layout provides proper clearance for any doors, including cabinetry and shower stalls, and aim for at least 76.2 centimetres of space between the three major areas – tub or shower stall, sink and toilet. Toilets should range between 109 and 121 centimetres in height from floor to seat, with at least 45 centimetres of elbow room on the sides. And make sure the shower is roomy, too – shower stalls should be at least 91.4 centimetres by 91.4 centimetres with showerheads placed at a comfortable level for the individuals in your home.
Similar to kitchen countertops, vanities with sinks should be about 36 inches high, with accompanying lighting at eye level for shaving or makeup application. Avoid dripping hands, says Moen, by hanging towel bars in a spot that’s easy to reach, ideally near the sink. Its popular range of towel bars, robe hooks and other accessories are simple to install.
Now that you know the numbers, you’ll find it’s simple to create spaces that improve how your home and life functions – no arithmetic required.
www.newscanada.com
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