---
title: Think Zones for Your Kitchen
description: The kitchen serves as a centerpiece for many holiday gatherings. Having a well-designed space can help the cook on important days as well as every day.
image: https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/cymbalski_0114.jpg
---

- [Professional Trades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi-professional-trades/)
- [Careers](https://ksikitchens.com/careers/)
- [Contact](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-contact/)

[![Ksi Logo Blue](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/KSI_December_2022/images/ksi_logo-blue.svg "Ksi Logo Blue")](https://ksikitchens.com)

[![White Logo](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/KSI_December_2022/images/white-logo.svg "White Logo")](https://ksikitchens.com)

- [Why KSI](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/#) 
    - [Why KSI Overview](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/)
    - [About](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-about/)
    - [Accolades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-accolades/)
    - [Professional Trades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi-professional-trades/)
    - [Careers](https://ksikitchens.com/careers/)
- [Design](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/#) 
    - [Design Overview](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/)
    - [Our Design Process](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/ksi-our-design-process/)
    - [Our Design Team](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/ksi-design-team/)
    - [Product Collection](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-product-lines/)
    - [My Inspiration Collection](https://ksikitchens.com/my-inspiration-collection/)
    - [FAQs About Getting Started](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/ksi-design-faqs/)
- [Inspiration](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-dream/)
- [Blog](https://blog.ksikitchens.com)
- [Locations](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/#) 
    - [Locations](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-locations/)
    - [Ann Arbor, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-ann-arbor-design-center/)
    - [Birmingham, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-birmingham-design-center/)
    - [Brighton, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-brighton-design-center/)
    - [Byron Center, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-byron-center-design-center/)
    - [Grand Rapids, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-grand-rapids-design-center/)
    - [Lima, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-lima-design-center/)
    - [Macomb, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-macomb-design-center/)
    - [Northville, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-northville-design-center/)
    - [Rochester Hills, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-kitchen-bath-rochester-hills-design-center/)
    - [Toledo, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-toledo-design-center/)
- [Schedule Free Consultation](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-make-an-appointment/)

- [Why KSI](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/#) 
    - [Why KSI Overview](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/)
    - [About](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-about/)
    - [Accolades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-accolades/)
    - [Professional Trades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi-professional-trades/)
    - [Careers](https://ksikitchens.com/careers/)
- [Design](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/#) 
    - [Design Overview](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/)
    - [Our Design Process](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/ksi-our-design-process/)
    - [Our Design Team](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/ksi-design-team/)
    - [Product Collection](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-product-lines/)
    - [FAQs About Getting Started](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/ksi-design-faqs/)
    - [My Inspiration Collection](https://ksikitchens.com/my-inspiration-collection/)
- [Inspiration](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-inspiration/)
- [Blog](https://blog.ksikitchens.com)
- [Professional Trades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi-professional-trades/)
- [Careers](https://ksikitchens.com/careers/)
- [Showrooms](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/#) 
    - [Showrooms](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-locations/)
    - [Ann Arbor, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-ann-arbor-design-center/)
    - [Birmingham, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-birmingham-design-center/)
    - [Brighton, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-brighton-design-center/)
    - [Byron Center, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-byron-center-design-center/)
    - [Grand Rapids, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-grand-rapids-design-center/)
    - [Lima, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-lima-design-center/)
    - [Northville, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-northville-design-center/)
    - [Macomb, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-macomb-design-center/)
    - [Rochester Hills, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-kitchen-bath-rochester-hills-design-center/)
    - [Toledo, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-toledo-design-center/)
- [Schedule Free Consultation](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-make-an-appointment/)

![](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/cymbalski_0114.jpg)

# Think Zones for Your Kitchen

 Published by [KSI Kitchen & Bath](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/author/ksi-kitchens) on  Nov 21, 2016 4:53:00 PM

The holidays are right around the corner, placing emphasis on cooking, entertaining and time spent in the home. The kitchen serves as a centerpiece for many holiday gatherings. Having a well-designed space can help the cook on important days as well as every day.

What is the best way to set up a kitchen?

Kitchens today range from simple galley styles to large open layouts that flow into other living spaces.  Regardless of the size, every kitchen layout can benefit from a fresh approach. We have a few tips to help you create or redesign your kitchen to better meet your needs.

It is important to work systematically especially when more than one person is in the space. By sectioning off your kitchen into work zones, you'll maximize efficiency to accommodate more cooks and guests.  Given the variety of kitchen sizes and arrangements, it might be helpful to think in terms of work zones. These include:

**![Chase_05.jpg](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/Chase_05.jpg?width=614&height=720&name=Chase_05.jpg)**

**Cooking zone**:  this area near your stove needs to keep pots and pans close by for easy access. We suggest placing utensils within reach either in a caddy or drawer. The goal is to quickly set down something hot without having to walk across your kitchen. We also recommend having a landing area for cooking prep.

**Cleaning zone**: equally important to the cooking zone is a convenient clean-up plan. We like trash and recycling bins near the sink. 

**![cymbalski_0114.jpg](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/cymbalski_0114.jpg?width=614&height=861&name=cymbalski_0114.jpg)**

**Preparation zone**: this area needs a thoughtful layout tailored to your family's needs. It may be a longer countertop or an island that allows space for rolling out pizza dough or chopping vegetables for a stir fry. We suggest designating a zone for food prep with colanders, measuring cups, small containers, cutting boards and mixing bowls within reach. 

**![Chase_04.jpg](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/Chase_04.jpg?width=614&height=922&name=Chase_04.jpg)**

**Self-service zone**: Keeping snacks and beverages separate from the main preparation space is both convenient and streamlines the number of people who need to be in the main work areas of the kitchen.

**![Austin_02 copy.jpg](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/Austin_02%20copy.jpg?width=614&height=922&name=Austin_02%20copy.jpg)**

**Pantry zone**:  shelving and cabinetry need to be ample for house staples, dried goods, baking ingredients and other supplies.

**Kid zone:** If you have the space and the need, create an area where the kids can hang out and have snacks, do homework or play a board game. This will allow you to all be in the kitchen together without the little ones being underfoot.

**Guest zone**: think about creating a space for guests to gather while you are working in the kitchen. A large island will allow space for guests to sit and chat while you are prepping for the meal. 

There are endless options available today for kitchen layouts and zones. The key is to find the best solution that works for your space and lifestyle. [Our designers](http://www.ksikitchens.com/design_team.html) look forward to creating or redesigning your kitchen to meet your family’s needs.

[![Ready to get started? Make an appointment. One of our designers will walk you through our five-step process for "Bringing Design Home." Get Started.](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/495584/befa3d02-d48a-4e57-bf6b-e1723f12664f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/495584/befa3d02-d48a-4e57-bf6b-e1723f12664f)

---

![KSI Kitchen & Bath](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Email/2021/2021-KSI-K%26B-logo-654.png?width=145&name=2021-KSI-K%26B-logo-654.png)

**KSI Kitchen & Bath**  
*KSI Kitchen & Bath is an award-winning home design and remodeling firm specializing in kitchen and bath design.*

---

Tags: [Kitchen](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/topic/kitchen)

[Back to Blog](https://blog.ksikitchens.com)

- [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share)

## Related Articles

<https://blog.ksikitchens.com/kbis-2025-the-latest-kitchen-bath-trends-our-designers-are-excited-about>

## [KBIS 2025: The Latest Kitchen & Bath Trends Our Designers Are Excited About](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/kbis-2025-the-latest-kitchen-bath-trends-our-designers-are-excited-about)

 Every year, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) brings together top brands, designers, and...

[Read More](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/kbis-2025-the-latest-kitchen-bath-trends-our-designers-are-excited-about)

<https://blog.ksikitchens.com/2026-kitchen-bath-design-trends-whats-in-whats-evolving-and-what-were-leaving-behind>

## [2026 Kitchen & Bath Design Mid-Year Trend Update: What’s In, What’s Evolving, and What We’re Leaving Behind](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/2026-kitchen-bath-design-trends-whats-in-whats-evolving-and-what-were-leaving-behind)

 Great design is never static – it evolves with how we live, how we want to feel in our homes, and...

[Read More](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/2026-kitchen-bath-design-trends-whats-in-whats-evolving-and-what-were-leaving-behind)

<https://blog.ksikitchens.com/the-future-of-kitchen-appliances-is-here-and-it-changes-everything>

## [The Future of Kitchen Appliances Is Here – And It Changes Everything](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/the-future-of-kitchen-appliances-is-here-and-it-changes-everything)

 The kitchen has always been the heart of the home. But today, it’s becoming something more. It’s...

[Read More](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/the-future-of-kitchen-appliances-is-here-and-it-changes-everything)

### **Ready to bring your vision to life with KSI?**

[Make an Appointment](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-make-an-appointment/)

Back to top

[Schedule Free Consultation](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-make-an-appointment/)

- - [Ann Arbor, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-ann-arbor/)
    - [Birmingham, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-birmingham/)
    - [Brighton, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-brighton/)
    - [Byron Center, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-byron-center-design-center/)
    - [Grand Rapids, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-grand-rapids/)
    - [Lima, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-lima-design-center/)
    - [Macomb, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-kitchen-bath-macomb-design-center/)
    - [Northville, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-northville-design-center/)
    - [Rochester Hills, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-kitchen-bath-rochester-hills-design-center/)
    - [Toledo, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-toledo-design-center/)
- - [734.769.7669](tel:7347697669)
    - [248.647.9567](tel:2486479567)
    - [810.220.8730](tel:8102208730)
    - [616.583.9304](tel:6165839304)
    - [616.315.2900](tel:6163152900)
    - [419.331.1995](tel:4193311995)
    - [586.532.1874](tel:5865321874)
    - [734.261.6960](tel:7342616960)
    - [248.923.1860](tel:2489231860)
    - [419.841.7338](tel:4198417338)

- [Why KSI](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/) 
    - [About](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/)
    - [Accolades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-accolades/)
    - [Professional Trades](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi-professional-trades/)
    - [Careers](https://ksikitchens.com/careers/)
- [Design](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/) 
    - [Our Design Process](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/ksi-our-design-process/)
    - [Our Design Team](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/ksi-design-team/)
    - [Product Collection](https://ksikitchens.com/why-ksi/why-ksi-product-lines/)
    - [FAQs About Getting Started](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-design/ksi-design-faqs/)

- [Inspiration](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-dream/) 
    - [The Home Chef](https://ksikitchens.com/lifestyle/the-home-chef/)
    - [The Entertainer](https://kitchens.com/lifestyle/the-entertainer/)
    - [Smart Storage](https://ksikitchens.com/lifestyle/smart-storage/)
    - [The Spa Lover](https://ksikitchens.com/lifestyle/the-spa-lover/)
    - [Award-Winning Designs](https://ksikitchens.com/lifestyle/award-winning-designs/)
    - [Pro Tips](https://ksikitchens.com/lifestyle/pro-tips/)
    - [Styled Spaces](https://ksikitchens.com/lifestyle/styled-spaces/)
    - [Full Gallery](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-dream/ksi-full-gallery/)
- [Blog](https://blog.ksikitchens.com)

- [Showrooms](https://ksikitchens.com/ksi-contact/) 
    - [Ann Arbor, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-ann-arbor/)
    - [Birmingham, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-birmingham/)
    - [Brighton, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-brighton/)
    - [Byron Center, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-byron-center/)
    - [Grand Rapids, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-grand-rapids/)
    - [Lima, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-lima-design-center/)
    - [Northville, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-northville-design-center/)
    - [Macomb, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-kitchen-bath-macomb-design-center/)
    - [Rochester Hills, MI](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/locations-kitchen-bath-rochester-hills-design-center/)
    - [Toledo, OH](https://ksikitchens.com/locations/ksi-kitchen-bath-toledo-design-center/)

![News Flare](https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/KSI_December_2022/images/footer_white-logo.svg "News Flare")

 © 2026 KSI Kitchen & Bath 

 | [Privacy](https://ksikitchens.com/privacy-policy)

<https://www.instagram.com/ksikitchens/> <https://www.facebook.com/KSIkitchens> <https://pinterest.com/ksikitchens> <https://www.houzz.com/pro/ksi-kitchens/ksi-kitchen-bath> <https://www.youtube.com/user/KSIkitchens> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/ksi-kitchen-%26-bath?trk=top_nav_home>

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "KSI Kitchen & Bath",
    "url" : "https://blog.ksikitchens.com/author/ksi-kitchens"
  },
  "datePublished" : "2016-11-21T21:53:00.000Z",
  "headline" : "Think Zones for Your Kitchen",
  "image" : [ "https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/Zones/cymbalski_0114.jpg" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://blog.ksikitchens.com/think-zones-for-your-kitchen",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://blog.ksikitchens.com/hubfs/KSI_Logo_RGB_NoTagline-109-1.jpg"
    },
    "name" : "KSI"
  }
}
```