Time Test

Do a time test to evaluate your current kitchen's efficiency and record what works and what doesn't. This will help you to avoid making the same mistakes when planning your new floor plan and storage options. Sit down and think through a typical weekday and a typical weekend day--then add in a non-typical weekday and a holiday or houseguest day. Run through your steps after you first hit the kitchen floor and make a list--you'll be surprised at all the steps taken. What do you do first, what do you do next, and what is happening while you are doing all of that? How often do you use the appliances that are sitting on your counters?

For example, can you cluster the items for breakfast (usually your most hectic time) into a small area so that you don't have to walk from one end of the kitchen to the next, just to get out the cereal boxes or coffee grounds? How close are you to the refrigerator, microwave, sink, dishes and silverware? There is no rule that says that a cabinet or drawer can hold only one type of item. Use this opportunity to reduce your steps and give yourself a few extra minutes to relax--wouldn't that be nice!

ADDITIONAL READING
·The Complete Home Organizer, by Maxine Ordesky, published by Michael Friedman Publishing Group, Inc.