New ‘Kitchen Layout Design Guide - key resources for your design process’ published

The Furniture Industry Research Association has published output from its latest project. Their new ‘Kitchen Layout Design Guide - key resources for your design process’ is a 56 page guide aimed at designers and manufacturers across the kitchen sector and has been authored by the ergonomics experts at FIRA International.

According to the latest statistics digest released in January by the Furniture Industry Research Association, the UK kitchen market was worth £2.6 billion in 2016 (up from £2.2 billion in 2015). This turnover is generated from 1,324 enterprises; so plenty of choice for consumers. Layout design is one aspect that can help set these organisations apart.

As such, speaking on the publication of the guide, Phil Reynolds, Chief Operating Officer of the Furniture Industry Research said “Close to one in ten members of the Research Association are within the kitchen sector, so we wanted to address their needs through this niche project and subsequent publication. Much of the content of the Kitchen Layout Design Guide came from primary research our ergonomics experts undertook, really getting to understand how individuals and families are using their kitchens, what barriers there are to them using kitchens to their full potential and what, in an ideal world, they would change.

“All too often design can be more focused around the look and finish of a kitchen based on the demands of customers who are spending a considerable amount on the purchase. But there is an education piece we’re aiming to convey in the guide about the how a good ergonomic design can enhance use and enjoyment from a kitchen. Emphasising the importance of function over form.

“Manufacturing techniques are improving, enabling kitchens to have a longer product span. Kitchen designers should be taking this into account, considering how the layout will remain relevant as consumer’s age and their needs change.”

Sections in the comprehensive guide were shaped through the primary research conducted by FIRA International on behalf of the Furniture Industry Research Association, and include:

• Ergonomics
• Accessibility
• Storage
• Functionality
• Hygiene
• Recycling
• Elderly and disabled users
• Tools

The ‘Kitchen Layout Design Guide - key resources for your design process’ is available below to all members of the Furniture Industry Research Association. Non-members can purchase the guide for £125+VAT here.