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HOME SEPTEMBER 2019 6 262.363.4200 www.herriges.com 121 Wolf Run, Suite 1, Mukwonago, WI 53149 In Mukwonago since 1972 Julie Herriges, CKBR Wisconsin Registered Interior Designer Award Winning Residential Remodeler ✦ Additions ✦ Kitchens ✦ Bathrooms ✦ Lower Levels 265669002 Kitchens are the most popular rooms in many homes. Even though The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statis- tics states the average per- son spends just 68 minutes each weekday consuming food, and around 37 min- utes preparing meals, the kitchen is not just a spot for food. It also is a gathering place for conversation, homework and family time. In recognition that so much time is spent in this heart of the home, many people are embracing some of the more popular trends concerning kitchen layouts to maximize the comfort and efficiency of these rooms. Communal zones Unlike the days of yore when the kitchen was utili- tarian, today's home floor plans make kitchens a focal point of a home. Food preparation also is no longer a solitary task. Thanks to larger kitchen footprints and multiple zones set up for meal cre- ation, a greater number of people can hang out in the kitchen and help with meals. You'll find multiple sinks, large islands and more counter space are key components of modern kitchen layouts. Dining nooks Kitchen designs are bringing back banquette seating in a cozy nook. This design is a practical use of space, and can fit in large and small kitchens alike. It also can give a kitchen a high-end look, as built-in banquettes can highlight a bay window or seem cus- tom-made for the space. Banquette seating can fit a number of people comfort- ably and provides a sensible and casual dining spot solu- tion. Family table The trend experts at Southern Living magazine indicate that formal dining and living rooms are now used infrequently. As a result, kitchens have evolved to accommodate meal prep and dining. A large family table in the center of the room brings people into the kitchen to get more involved with food, according to San Francisco designer David Kensington. Counter culture Taking a page out of a favorite corner diner or bar, kitchens are increasingly outfitted with a large island flanked by chic counter stools, according to the design pros at Domino. Family members can pull up a stool and grab a quick snack. It's also a great place for friends to engage in con- versation while a host or hostess prepares cocktails and appetizers for an evening soirée. Work zone Many families like to have an area of the kitchen set up as a tech zone where kids can do their homework and even parents can do some work, such as paying bills. Setting aside an area of counter space as a small desk area can be a great idea. Such areas also help parents keep a watchful eye on children while they're surfing the internet. Kitchens are the hub of the household, and modern design trends cater to a growing need for a multi- purpose space. Rethink your kitchen layout When planning a kitchen, keep in mind how you will use it.

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