The open plan living trend is not showing any signs of slowing down, and our kitchens have become truly cemented as the very heart of the home. From cooking to dining to relaxing and doing homework, the kitchen these days is frequently the most lived-in room in the entire home.

If you are wanting to update your kitchen and are searching for ways to make it even more family friendly, then check our list below for the ten things that all family kitchens need to have.

1. Durable Work Surface

Hard working family kitchens need to have a tough and attractive work surface. There are different choices of worktop solutions which include a broad range of different laminates that are popular choices and are cost-effective for families. Other options include durable granite, non scratch glass worktops, natural wood, Encore and Corian that provide a uniform finish that has the option for integrating the sink; ideal for those who are searching for a minimal appearance.

2. Wipe Walls Clean

Kitchen walls, from sticky fingers to food splatters can see plenty of action. Wall tiles near food preparation areas are an absolute must and surrounding the rest of the kitchen choose an endurance paint specifically designed for kitchens since it provides increased resistance to stains and grease and will be tough enough so that it can be wiped clean without the paint surface being damaged.

3. An Eating Area

Having an open plan dining or living area frequently is on many house buyers ‘must have’ list to create an eating area that makes sense inside of your kitchen. If your kitchen is already able to accommodate a dining table, then that is great news. However, if you have a small kitchen and you are not planning an extension, search for ways to make a space more sociable – for example, can you have a breakfast bar in exchange for sacrificing counter space.

4. A Place for Relaxing in

If you would like your kitchen to be the true heart of your home and place where people are able to relax by putting a comfortable sofa in the room. Choose a wipe clean finish, like leather, since it will be easy to clean and not as likely to absorb cooking odors.

5. The Latest technology

When you are updating your kitchen it is the ideal time for adding up-to-date technology to the room. Some of the most popular options include a TV and wireless sound system and don’t forget to have a charging area included for all your gadgets.

6. A Place for Children to Play in

One of the best things about a family kitchen is the space where everyone is able to interact while also doing their own things. In order to encourage your children to spend more time inside the kitchen (and help keep it organised) make s toy storage area – a couple of baskets will do, and you can include craft things and tabletop games to encourage family-friendly activities in your kitchen.

7. Child Locks

There are many potential hazards in kitchens, in addition to the risk of scalds and burns, there are toxic substances, sharp knives, and drawers and cupboards that may trap small fingers. In order to keep small children safe, make sure that appropriate child locks are installed on all of your drawers and cupboards and don’t leave children unattended inside of the kitchen.

8. Soft Close Drawers and Cupboards

Do you have teenagers? If so, reduce the chances for door slamming by installing soft close drawers and cupboards. In addition to eliminating the slamming, having soft close action will mimimise the amount of wear and tear on the door hinges.

9. Family Sized Hob and Oven

If you have a large family, one good way to make cooking your meals easier is to choose extra hobs.

10. Adaptable Lighting

Depending on what time of day it is, most likely your kitchen is being used differently. During the morning, tiches are often a hive of activity for families, while during the evening it is more of a place to chat and relax. Given that your kitchen sees different activities, it is a good idea to install an adaptable lighting solution. Consider using ambient lighting for your dining and focused task lighting for preparing food.