Kitchen Design: A Twenty-Year Comparison 1968:1988

Abstract

Of all the rooms in the home, the kitchen has received the most attention in terms of design efficiency. Widely accepted standards for kitchen design have existed since the early 1960s; however, it has not been clear how carefully designers have adhered to them. This study examined kitchens presented as models in 1968 and 1988 consumer magazines. Content analysis was conducted to determine the kitchens’ conformity to fundamental kitchen design guidelines. The majority of kitchens were found to have one or more major flaws. The most common problem was cross traffic interruption of the work triangle. Other frequent problems included a lack of counter space next to the open side of the refrigerator and a lack of counter space next to the oven. Mean efficiency scores on a five-point scale were 3.79 in 1968 and declined to 3.50 in 1988.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carmen D. Steggell

Carmen D Steggell is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Human Development and Family Science Department at Oregon State University.

Joan R. McFadden

Joan R McFadden is a faculty member in the Department of Housing and Equipment at Utah State University.