by the editors of
Southern Accents
Kitchen Essentials: Must-Have Elements
If you're planning a makeover, what are the non-negotiable qualities of a great kitchen? Our experts weigh in
"A great combination of natural light and overhead lighting, space to work and lay out cookware, and well appointed drawers to keep everything in its place."
-- Barbara Westbrook, interior designer, Atlanta

"A nicely proportioned space with great circulation and wonderful views."
-- Ruard Veltman, architect, Charlotte

"Quiet dishwashers -- as the everyday work of the house centers in the kitchen, so the conversation follows."
-- Mary Evelyn McKee, interior designer, Birmingham

"A kitchen should have a good front stage/back stage relation. Front stage accommodates the theater of the kitchen -- cooking, conversation, cocktails, and serving food. The backstage should accommodate the necessities of the kitchen -- storage and clean up."
-- Ken Pursley, architect, Charlotte

"An appliance garage to keep clutter to a minimum, roll out drawers, a gas stove, a walk-in pantry, built-in drawer dividers for utensils."
-- Susan Massey, interior designer, Rosemary Beach, Florida

"I believe every kitchen should have great lighting, a short work triangle, a wonderful sound system, comfortable seating, a warming drawer, and a great set of knives and cookery."
-- Matthew Quinn, kitchen and bath designer, Atlanta

"Adequate storage and great work surfaces that do not scratch or burn. I am starting to use a lot of reconstituted stone, such as glass stone and Caesar stone."
-- Alison Spear, architect and interior designer, Miami

"Natural light, simplicity, space, and excellent ventilation."
-- Simon Coltman, kitchen designer, Atlanta

"Good lighting at prep stations, two sinks when possible, a pot filler faucet close to the stove, and something beautiful and interesting."
-- Cindy Smith, interior designer, Charlotte

RESOURCES: Simon Coltman, 404/702-1752; Susan Massey, 850/231-3940; Mary Evelyn McKee, 205/879-7544; Ken Pursley, 704/334-6500; Matthew Quinn, 404/261-0111; Cindy Smith, 704/332-1668; Alison Spear, 305/438-1200; Ruard Veltman, 704/540-5620; Barbara Westbrook, 404/355-9430.
 
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