Oval table for 8 people. What is the height of kitchen tables with countertops

The right height kitchen tables with a countertop - one of the important parameters, which is the key to comfortable work in the kitchen. Too low or too high a countertop can not only slow down and complicate the cooking process, but also increase fatigue, muscle strain, which in the future leads to undesirable consequences.

Too low or high countertop not only slows down and complicates the cooking process, but also increases the fatigue of the hostess.

Whether you are designing furniture yourself or ordering a custom-made kitchen, you have the opportunity to adjust the dimensions of all cabinets to the appropriate growth parameters. When buying a ready-made headset, the choice of sizes can be very limited, since it is more profitable for manufacturers to make standard furniture.

How does the size of the kitchen table depend on the height of a person?

There is a clear relationship between the height of a person and the size of the table. The larger the person, the higher the work surface should be. According to the results of experimental studies, a number of standard parameters furniture that is suitable for comfortable work in the kitchen:

1. With a height of less than 150 cm, the height of the kitchen table should be 75-76 cm. A person of normal height for work will have to double in order to be able to work at such a table.
2. For a height of 150-160 cm, the working surface of the table should be approximately 80-82 cm from the floor level.
3. Height 160-180 cm is the standard that most manufacturers are guided by kitchen furniture. In this case, the height of the countertop will be 87-90 cm, which is the optimal indicator that allows both men and women to work in the kitchen. If you measure any standard kitchen, you will see that its height will approach the given one with a deviation of plus or minus 3 cm.
4. For people whose height does not fit into the standard framework, it is possible to make a custom-made kitchen with a worktop up to 1 meter high. Such furniture is suitable for height from 1.85 m to 2 m.

Calculation of the optimal height of the working surface, depending on growth

It is important to choose the size of kitchen tables in such a way that it is comfortable for all family members to work at them. For this you need to find compromise solution, which would satisfy the needs of everyone who will work in the kitchen.

This issue can be approached with scientific point vision and calculate the planned height of the countertop, taking into account not only average height family members, but also the total time that each of them will work in the kitchen. For good example Let's take a family of two (husband and wife) with a very contrasting growth, for example, 150 for the wife and 190 for the husband. Their average height is 170 cm. For a person with such parameters, it will be most comfortable to work at a table whose height is 85-87 cm, but given that the wife will spend in the kitchen large quantity time, the parameter of the optimal height of the countertop should be slightly shifted to the bottom. We get the final result: the height of the working surface of kitchen furniture should be about 80 cm. This will allow both husband and wife to work in the kitchen with an optimal level of convenience.

Disadvantages and consequences of choosing the wrong height of kitchen furniture

In order to clearly highlight for ourselves the consequences of choosing the wrong height of the kitchen work surface, let's turn to the example of people whose work is associated with constant cooking - restaurant chefs. In addition to occupational diseases such as varicose veins and hypertension, they often suffer from various diseases joints associated precisely with the wrong height of the table. As a result, there is an overstrain of certain groups of muscles and joints, which leads to increased fatigue, swelling of the limbs, microscopic ruptures of muscle fibers.

The average housewife spends less time in the kitchen than a professional chef, but all the “charms” also concern her not proper organization kitchen work. In addition to purely physical inconveniences, there are problems of another kind. For example, when cutting vegetables at a too high countertop, the juice from the products begins to flow down your arms, flowing down to the floor, staining clothes and furniture.

The most correct distribution of muscle strength during work occurs under the condition that the arm moves parallel to the table surface, and the elbow is bent at an angle of 90 °. In this case, the speed of the robot increases significantly, and fatigue is minimized.

With the proper organization of work, kitchen technological processes make about 40 muscles of various groups work. Even with a slight change in posture, the number of muscles involved increases greatly. They connect the broad muscles of the back, buttocks and inner surface hips.

When placing the tabletop on high level the load also increases.

At the same time, fatigue increases exponentially, which will undoubtedly be painfully felt at the end of the working day.

Choosing the best kitchen desktop model

In a kitchen of a small standard area, the height of the kitchen table is forced to match the height of the rest of the kitchen set, since it is often impossible to install a separate table for work. If your kitchen area is large enough, then best solution will purchase a separate kitchen work table, which can be placed in the center of the kitchen, organizing a cooking area around it. There are models of kitchen tables with height adjustment (Fig. 1). They are equipped with a tabletop on vertical telescopic supports that are able to move and lock into the desired positions. Such tables are rather an exception to the rule and have many drawbacks, but at least they allow you to find a compromise solution in the struggle for practicality. kitchen space.

An important factor to consider is that each technological process, carried out in the kitchen, is carried out at its specific height of the position of the working surface, which directly depends on the height of the person. Consider some of these processes:

1. It is most convenient to knead the dough on a rather low working surface, since in this case the force during work is optimally distributed.
2. Slicing products requires an average table height. When cutting meat, the force must be applied parallel to the surface of the table. For such work, the height of the table should coincide with the height of the elbow above the ground or be a few centimeters lower.
3. Washing dishes. The height of the countertop with a built-in sink should be such that you do not have to bend over it too much. Ideally, it should be a fist lower than your elbow above the ground.

When choosing a specific height of kitchen tables, it should be borne in mind that it will be convenient to do one job on it, and not very much the other. When choosing a desktop for a standard-sized kitchen, the exit from difficult situation inconsistencies in the height of the tabletop and the height of a person can become equipment kitchen cabinets retractable cutting boards. This makes it possible to dual use work surfaces: for work that requires a low position of the countertop, sliding boards are used, and for other processes, the kitchen table surface. Modern drawer systems make it possible to equip the kitchen with highly durable worktops capable of withstanding considerable weight and force applied to them.

The choice of the height of the countertop for the kitchen is quite difficult process where many parameters must be taken into account. If you do everything right, then you will not only experience the aesthetic pleasure of comfortable work in the kitchen, but also protect yourself and your loved ones from possible undesirable consequences associated with increased fatigue.

The choice of a kitchen table consists of many details, which consist in the selection of a model, color, style and height of the product. The last point is especially important for the kitchen table, because every person spends part of his life at breakfast, lunch, dinner and just leisure in the kitchen. What should be the height of the kitchen table so that it does not cause discomfort and inconvenience.

Many inexperienced furniture store salespeople can assure you that all kitchen tables have a standard height. But in fact, everything is different. "Standard" tables cannot suit absolutely everyone, because by nature each person is different in height. Therefore, each buyer should approach the selection of a kitchen table individually.

Kitchen table height standards

Having decided to purchase tables of the right height for your kitchen, you may encounter a small problem. The point is that almost all furniture stores you will be offered kitchen tables standard height because, firstly, arrange the furniture different heights on the trading floor will be simply unrealistic, and secondly, it will also be quite difficult to sell each piece of furniture. Therefore, you need to be aware of standard kitchen table heights. The standard height of kitchen tables is calculated from the average height of a person, namely 165 cm.

Therefore, the purchased table may not suit you at all, because it may be too low or vice versa - high. Why and how to choose the optimal height of the kitchen table for different processes further tips, formulas and recommendations in this article will help you.

Why choose an individual kitchen table height

The wrong height of the kitchen table can cause a lot of inconvenience. For example, if the dining table is too high, then it will be inconvenient for you to handle the cutlery. If the table at which you eat is too low, then you will constantly stoop at dinner. Both cases will bring you not only inconvenience and irritation - they can turn into the appearance different kind diseases, for example, scoliosis, etc.

The height of a particular surface in the kitchen is especially important for housewives, because, for example, when cutting vegetables and other products, a woman uses about forty muscles. If the cutting surface is below required level, then the number of these muscles increases by 50%. And, if the kitchen tables are above the required height, then the number of muscles does not increase, but there is simply an increase in the load on them. And imagine that the involved muscle group will work uncomfortable and incorrectly. This can be compared to the fact that you sit unevenly all day long. computer desk. Your back will not just hurt - a long uncomfortable position can affect your health and inner well-being.

How to calculate the optimal height of the table and chair

In order not to miscalculate the choice of a table with the required height, the following formula will help you make the most correct calculations:

Your Height * Standard Desk Height: Standard Human Height = The ideal desk height for you.

Let's say that your height is 175 cm. The standard table height is usually 75 cm, and the average height of a person is 165 cm. From this we get the following formula 175 * 75: 165 = 79.5. That is, for you, the ideal and standard height of kitchen tables is 79.5 cm from the floor to the edge of the surface.

When buying furniture for the kitchen, you should pay attention not only to the height of the dining table, but also to the chair, because without it a full, convenient and comfortable lunch will not be possible. How to calculate the optimal height of the kitchen chair? Let's figure it out. If the average height of the kitchen dining table is about 72-80 cm, then the height dining chair from the floor to the seat, on average, should be 40-45 cm. The exact result of the height of the kitchen chair can be subtracted using the following formula. To do this, you need the result of calculating the height of the kitchen table. We get the following formula:

Your result of calculating the height of the kitchen table is 45 cm (assuming you are tall) or - 42-43 cm (assuming you are of average height) or - 40 cm (assuming you are short). If you have an average height, then you should get this formula and this result:

79.5cm - 43cm = 36.5cm This is the perfect height for your kitchen dining chair.

The best option for kitchen furniture for the whole family

So, you have accurately calculated everything and got the result of the optimal height of the table and chair for the kitchen just for yourself. But what about the rest of the family, whose height may differ significantly from yours? If your family consists of households of different sizes that will still grow, then you can simply buy chairs or a tabletop with height adjustment, which will allow you to use the furniture for several years. Or you can simply calculate the height of the table for the kitchen for all adult family members, namely in this way:

If the height of the spouse reaches 200 cm, and the wife is 168 cm, then you will get the following formula (200 + 168): 2 = 184 cm. This calculation will be the result of the average height of a person from your family, from which you can calculate the height of the kitchen table, and then chair.

For small family members ideal option there will be chairs, the leg of which is adjustable in height for individual growth. This option will be relevant for many cases, for example, such chairs can be perfect for guests with different heights. The comfort of the guests will definitely remain in their memory, which will only have a positive effect on your hospitality.

Surface heights for different tasks in the kitchen

It turns out that not only the height of the dining table is important in the kitchen. The cutting or working surface must also be at a certain height, which is calculated taking into account the individual height of the person. But not only the height of a person will affect the height of the surface for cooking. There are five main types of kitchen space today. This:

• Area for kneading and cutting dough
• cooking zone
• Area for primary processing of raw products
• Main workplace, which includes a serving area and a zone for cooling cooked food
• Dishwashing area.

All these surfaces for maximum convenience in the kitchen must have their own height. Of course, this does not mean that every standard kitchen should include all these areas, but for those kitchens that have these surfaces, the following indicators will be especially important.

The height of the surface on which the dough is kneaded and cut, for an average person height of 165 cm, should be 70-82 cm. The cooking zone should be 80-85 cm from the floor. The third type of zone should preferably be located 82-87 cm from the floor. The main workplace should be 85-87 cm, and the dishwashing area should be 85-95 cm from the floor. Based on these indicators, engineers recommend purchasing kitchen tables with this height:

• With a person height of 168 cm, the height of the cutting surface should be 85 cm from the floor.
• From 168 cm to 178 cm, the height of tables should be 89 cm
• If your height reaches 178-186 cm, then the working surface should be at the level of 91 cm.
• With a human height above 186 cm, the height of the cutting surface should be 94 cm from the bottom.

If your height differs from the standard indicators up or down, then you just need to add the difference from your height in centimeters to the height indicators or subtract it. Also remember that it will be much more convenient for you to work in the kitchen if the height of the sink is 10-12 cm higher than the height of the total work surface.

Today, almost all working kitchen tables have one standard height of the product - this is 85 cm. But it is not always very convenient for housewives to cut food and cook food at such tables conveniently. And all because the height of such tables was simply incorrectly selected. To solve such a problem as correctly setting the height of a particular work surface, you can buy a free-standing table that can be raised or lowered if necessary. This kitchen table model is one of the the latest innovations, which is rapidly gaining demand and popularity due to its ease of use.

If in your kitchen all surfaces are located on the same level, then you can find out what the height of the kitchen table (working surface) should be as follows - bend your arm at the elbow and make sure that the working or cutting surface is 15 cm lower from edge of your elbow. Just counting this height will help you with your own fist - its average height reaches 7 cm, so you will need two fists. Remember that the height of the hob should never be tied to the height of the rest of the tables in the kitchen.

Choose for your kitchen kitchen set, a dining table or work surface of the desired height will not be easy for you, because in furniture stores all products are offered in standard sizes with almost the same height. Kitchen furniture with the desired dimensions and height can be made to order. The purchase will be expensive, but very useful for your psychological, physical health and general well-being, because working on furniture of the right and appropriate parameters will bring only good feelings and a positive mood.

The recommended countertop height is directly related to the person's height. It is difficult to imagine that all family members were the same height. Therefore, a compromise in the choice of furniture is necessary. Let us imagine the solution of this issue based on the anthropological characteristics of the human body.

Whoever is closer to the kitchen orders the furniture

Something like this should indicate which of the family members should be a reference point when buying furniture. It is more convenient for a person handling food when there is a distance of about 10-15 cm between the elbow and the surface of the table top. measuring tool: put the fist of one hand on the surface and bring the other to it. The elbow structure should touch it slightly or be slightly higher.

The standard is the growth of the one who often has to cook. If the participation of the spouses in this matter is the same, the high must concede the right to choose. Working with outstretched arms is more exhausting than bending over. Otherwise, the formed kitchen tandem, and with it a piece of the common, will cease to exist.

The question of the height of the dining table is completely different. In Russian families, it is customary to honor elders, protect children, and hospitably honor acquaintances. The gap in growth is large. Comfortable conditions at a feast, it is possible to create due to the optimal combination of a kitchen table and chairs.

We measure height and choose furniture

The standard height of kitchen tables is in the range of 72 - 78 cm, chair seats: from 40 to 42 cm. The indicated values ​​​​optimally correspond to a height of 165 cm. To a small child at such a table it will be quite comfortable on a high chair. Tall parents will have to constantly bend down. Eating in this position is awkward and ugly. Installing low chairs will not solve the problem: protruding knees make the pose ridiculous, limit freedom of movement.

Making a kitchen to order makes it possible to move away from standard norms and choose the height of the furniture, taking into account the growth of the whole family. You can determine the optimal height of the table and chair for a particular person using the proportion method between standard values ​​and actual values.

Calculation example

We accept calculated data:

• 78 cm - standard countertop height;
• 165 cm - standard human height;
• 184 cm - actual height;
• X is the recommended countertop height for a person whose height is 184 cm.

The calculated value is determined by multiplying the actual height by the standard table height and dividing the result by the standard height: X \u003d 184 cm × 78 cm / 165 cm. We get: X \u003d 87 cm (rounded value is given).

Considering that such growth is not inherent in all adults, you can slightly reduce the height of the table top, up to 82 cm. Departure from optimal value 5 cm will not be critical for comfort. At worst, this can be corrected by a slight change in the height of the chairs, which are calculated in a similar way.

Calligaris Calligaris
These chairs are comfortable and practical, and sliding tables (glass, solid wood, metal) can be placed anywhere modern home
Bontempi
Extendable table Galileo: cast aluminium, glass. Miss chairs: metal carcass; seat and back - with removable covers in fabric or Jesse leather
The Gast chair model (metal and fabric) is the epitome of sophistication and comfort. The table top is finished natural veneer cherries Tonon
Graceful legs on the stand soften the rigid design of the table, make the structure weightless
"Ecofurniture"
Tables and chairs made of solid wood (birch and oak) are not only comfortable, but also durable, and country style, like wood, never goes out of style.
Calligaris
Dining group with a transforming table and ergonomic chairs
Transforming table Calligaris with a central insert. Its wheels make it easy to move. When purchasing chairs from this manufacturer, you can choose for them wooden, polypropylene or vinyl seats, as well as upholstered in fabric or leather in various colors.
The motto of the Milan MDF factory is: "Simplicity is a philosophy that can be applied to everything in life" Nolte K chen
Bar stools - an attribute of youth cuisine
red apple
The combination in the design of the chair legs different section, straight low back, hard seat - signs of modern design.
nolte k chen
Behind the bar, a continuation of the working "island", Giorgio Piotto's friendly parties are held
Classic style enters a new round of its history
"Atlas-Lux"
Solid wood dining group is an organic component of this interior
W ssner
Kitchen "corner" allows for more efficient use of space
"Maria"
High (80-85 cm) chairs and stools with a crossbar-footrest rely on the bar counter. For children and the elderly, this height is not very convenient and unsafe. The transforming table (Ronald Schmitt) made of glass and metal in high-tech style is organically combined with Tonon wicker chairs
Transparent walls led to the choice of fragile-looking structures, as if floating in the air.

In the context of the home, the dining table always plays leading role. Relatives and friends gather behind him - and celebrate significant events, have intimate conversations, share the latest news, express interesting ideas make important decisions... So it was, so it is and so it will be.

Some eat in a specially equipped room - a dining room. Others - in a spacious living room. For the third (and we have the majority of such people), the dining table in the kitchen is a favorite gathering place for the whole family. But, wherever we dine, real pleasure in the process of eating can only be obtained at a comfortable table, sitting on a comfortable chair.

Table: from general to particular

There are a great many options for dining tables, but structurally they are all similar to each other, at least in in general terms: a lid (tabletop), supports (legs) and a frame (tsarga) connecting them, having the shape of a square, rectangle, less often - a circle or oval. As in any furniture design, all parts of the table are connected to each other with spikes, screws, screws, glue, etc. It is desirable that the side and legs are not made of chipboard, but of coniferous and hardwood or metal - this is more reliable.

There is no definite answer to the question of how many legs a table should have: there are not necessarily four of them - there are eight, and six, and three, and two, and even one (in the form of a rectangular massive column). Indispensable attribute of all classical interiors is a round table with a traditional carved leg in the middle, which is divided into three "paws" closer to the floor (such tables were known in ancient Rome). An oval bipedal table fits well into the same classic interiors, each support of which "branched" into two or three parts. Massive structures are also known (usually rustic tables) with strong panel supports along the edges. Legs of another contemporary table and you can’t call them legs - they are just works of modern art.

According to circumstances

As a rule, it is almost impossible to allocate a place in a typical apartment for placing a stationary table for 8-12 seats. Therefore, today users prefer transformable models. They are equipped with mechanisms that allow you to adjust the height of the legs, the length or width of the tabletop. They are easy to adapt to any life situation.

In square and rectangle
The dimensions of the dining table must be determined depending on its location. A family of 4 for joint meals requires a table measuring 85-85 or 90-70 cm (average 60 cm per seat), provided that it stands in the center of the room. At a table measuring 120 80 cm, 4 people will be accommodated if the table is adjacent to the wall with a long side, 5 - if it is short, 6 - if it is moved away from the wall.

In a circle
A round table with a diameter of 75-80 cm will fit 2 people, a diameter of 85 cm - 3, a diameter of 95 cm - 4, a diameter of 100-105 cm - 5, a diameter of 110 cm - 6, a diameter of 130 cm - 7, a diameter of 150 cm - 8, with a diameter of 165 cm - 10 people.

Along with the size of the tables, the shapes also change: the square becomes rectangular, the round becomes oval. The most popular models with a transformable countertop. There are several ways to increase its area.

Tables with center tabs are suitable for those who do not plan to move them apart every day, since the installation process of the inserts is quite lengthy.

In a limited space, models with side retractable "wings" are more in demand. The convenient mechanisms with which they are equipped allow you to quickly fix one or two additional sections. Thus, the same table has three modifications.

"Vista" Transforming table "Rome" unfolds, changing its dimensions from a modest 110 70 cm to a solid 140 110 cm. Its height can be set at any level within 15-74 cm. The table is used as a dining, coffee or coffee table

Models with folding "wings" are relevant in two cases: when it is assumed that the table will be in assembled somewhere near the wall (sitting behind it from the side of the "wings" is inconvenient, since they block the space necessary for the knees), and they will only pull it out and unfold it by the arrival of guests, or if it is constantly unfolded at least half.

Double folding tables are only good for spacious rooms. But on the other hand, they are convenient both in assembled and unfolded form.

Parameters and forms of comfort

In ancient times, the Aesculapius believed that free space at the table creates a feeling of abundance and favorably affects the atmosphere of the feast as a whole. In order for an adult to feel comfortable enough at the table, he needs a personal space at least 60 wide, and preferably 70 cm, and 35-40 cm deep. One more important nuance: people should be able to freely, without interfering with each other, sit down at the table and just as freely, pushing the chairs back, go out from behind it.

The height of the dining table is designed for average height modern man. Usually it is 75-76 cm, but there are models with a height of 70, 74, 77, 78 cm. As a rule, tables in classical style a little higher. The dimensions of the table correspond to the dimensions of the chair. For a chair without armrests, you need 65 cm of space in front of the table, and for a chair with armrests - 70 cm. Free space is also needed for the knees - at least 30-35 cm.

The table is the head of everything

If you are planning a kitchen renovation with a complete renovation, we advise you to first determine where the place for eating will be, and then arrange the cabinets. When choosing a dining table, you need to consider how many people will sit at it every day. If you plan to gather guests at the same table, calculate at least the approximate number of seats in reserve.

IN spacious kitchen from 10 m 2 to create a separate area for a feast (table, chairs and free passage around them) is not a problem. But if your kitchen is small, it is difficult to allocate a special area according to all the rules. We recommend not to get carried away with cabinets, utensils, choose compact appliances, universal appliances, but just do not sacrifice the comfort of the place for a meal. And do not forget that you also need to ensure that the drawers are extended to full depth, opening the doors of cabinets, ovens, and refrigerators. It is absolutely unacceptable for the dining table to become a hindrance to this.

Round tables are the center of family communication - they bring special atmosphere home comfort and security, contribute to the creation of a warm, trusting atmosphere. And the absence of sharp corners makes them safe for small children. But they look advantageous only in the open space of the living room, dining room or large kitchen with a clearly defined dining area. Around them it is necessary to leave a free annular zone with a width of at least 80 cm.

The same applies to oval tables. Square models are compact (100 100, 90 90, 80 80, 70 70 cm), designed for four people and fit into any room: kitchen, dining room. But perhaps the most common tables in any interior are rectangular. They can be moved to the wall, put under the window, placed either end to the wall, or the long side. Like round and oval, they are especially effective in the center of the room. Dimensions rectangular tables vary: 80-250 cm (and even more) in length and 80-110 cm in width.

Regulation obliges

In the production of tables, wood, chipboard, MDF, glass and metal, artificial and natural stone. Laminated films, plastics, veneer of various types of wood, ceramic tiles are used for cladding.

If the dining room separate room in the house, its interior is a stylistically complete solution and the dining (dining room) group is usually its compositional center. In a classic interior, one of the most sought-after materials is solid wood. From a solid array of countertops are made quite rarely - expensive. Type-setting wood is more common, such as oak, beech, maple, ash, cherry, walnut, etc. Malaysian manufacturers offer tables made of hevea, which competes with oak in strength.

Countertops made from inexpensive woods are often veneered with more valuable woods; MDF is also finished with veneer, laying out a beautiful pattern from it.

The classic dining group is massive, mirror polished, rich in texture. natural wood; in addition, indispensable conditions are the strict proportionality of all components, straight or slightly curved legs.

Dining groups in a minimalist style are characterized by a combination of metal, glass, plastic, wood; the lack of decor is compensated by the beauty of the materials. One of the fashion trends recent years- furniture in colonial style, which combines an array and a wicker liana (rattan).

In the decoration of the kitchen table, practical, easy-to-clean coatings often appear: plastics, laminated films imitating stone, wood, leather.

About the faithful knights of the table

Most often, chairs are purchased together with a table - as a set. Their quality should be treated, perhaps, with even greater predilection than the quality of the table, because they are exploited more actively.

The width and depth of the seat, the height of the backrest can vary. However, dining chairs are considered to have optimal height seats from floor level - 42-45 cm, but not more than 47 cm. Seat width - 55-60 cm, while kitchen chair are usually more compact. The back is set straight, almost perpendicular to the seat. A smooth anatomical curve makes even a hard back comfortable.

magic transparency

The most simple tabletops in the glass incarnation acquire incomparable beauty and lightness. At the same time, glass can be combined with any materials: with a forged and wicker base, with wooden legs - intricately curved or carved - and, of course, with metal. As for the kitchen, the glass top is relevant only in a very spacious room, combined with the dining room. In addition, glass requires special careful care: Every time you touch it, it leaves fingerprints.

The height of the back from the seat should be at least 50 cm, which provides good support for the spine. Optimal depth seats - 48-55 cm, but there are models with a depth of 43-45 cm. Armrests will add convenience to the chairs for the living room.

As for the design of chairs, then, perhaps, there is no other subject that would be the object of such close attention of designers. But, no matter how the chair looks, the requirements for the quality of materials and components remain high. It is necessary that the frame is securely fastened, all bolts and screws are hidden, and fabrics and any other upholstery materials are easy to clean, durable, environmentally friendly and, of course, beautiful. After all, it is this factor that often turns out to be decisive in final choice models.

All chairs are conditionally divided into hard, soft and semi-soft. Hard chairs are considered to be chairs with seats and backs made without the use of flooring materials, that is, woven from straw, rattan, wooden ( viennese chair), plastic. Upholstered chairs have a flooring thickness of 30-50 mm, and there are springs. Semi-soft chairs - with an average thickness of the flooring (20-40 mm), without springs. Sitting on a soft chair, you relax too much, there is a feeling of lethargy. In a chair that is too hard, you will soon feel tension in your muscles. But if the hard seat has an ergonomic recess, then the chair will be comfortable. If you still do not want to sit on hard chairs, choose the golden mean - a semi-soft seat.

It is advisable to choose a table and chairs of the same style. This is especially important for classic interior. Modern tendencies allow and bold combinations when the chairs differ in shape, color and texture not only from the table, but also from each other. However, there is a danger of overdoing it with variety.

Manufacturers

Foreign and domestic manufacturers offer a huge number of models of dining groups for every taste, style, footage and budget. Most offers from Italians. Among the Italian factories there are representatives of all styles and directions. Let's name just a few. These are the factories of Aldo Moletta, Aran, Arrmet, Bakokko Group, Birex, Bonaldo, Bontempi, Calligaris, Carpanelli, Cattelan, Effezeta, Eurosedia, Florida Group, Forni Mobili, Francesco Molon, Giaretta, Gimo, Giorgio Piotto, Grup Sedia, Idealsedia, IMS , Italteam , Luciano Zonta , Paolo Marchetti, Maronese , MDF , Morelato , Pinotti Roberto, Prima Mobili, Tonon and others.

Conquer Russian market and Spanish manufacturers. Among them are the factories Linea Stil, Mobilfresno, Moblesa, Muebles Almaz n, Vidal Grau, Zaragoza Mobiliario and others.

Tables and chairs from Efekti, Isku, Kirsi (Finland) are traditionally distinguished by high consumer characteristics. Tables and chairs are also presented by Alno, Bau-for-mat, Chromo, H c Ker, GrabfeldM bel, Hela-Tische M bel, Hoffmann, H lsta, Modo, Nolte K chen, Ronald Schmitt, V lker Design, W ssner, WohnM bel (all - Germany).

Dining room furniture made of solid hevea is produced by Hume Furniture, Pan Star, Weu Hong, Yeo Aik Wood (Malaysia).

Dining groups are offered by domestic factories "Avilon", "Amadeus", "Vista", Elt, "Ivanovomebel", "Konstantin", furniture association "Ladoga", "Mebel-Alliance", "Furniture Massiv", "Miassmebel", "Orimeks "," Shatura-Mebel "," Eco-furniture ", as well as" Tron "(Belarus). As a rule, it is good beautiful furniture in which imported components are used.

Among the manufacturers of inexpensive furniture, IKEA (Sweden), Gomlden, Red Apple (China) should be noted.

Issue price

The range of prices for tables and chairs is quite large. It all depends on the size, materials, design, transformation mechanism.

For 7-10 thousand rubles. you can buy a dining table with a frame and supports made of solid hardwood and a top lined with natural veneer, designed for 4-6 people. This price range includes most products from the countries of Southeast Asia (Malaysia and Singapore) and Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Romania, etc.).

About 20 thousand rubles. can cost a sliding model with a size of 120 80 cm with veneered or glass top(Calligaris , Paolo Marchetti) or a convertible table (Hela-Tische M bel) - even with a pneumatic height adjustment mechanism. But, as a rule, products of manufacturers of this level are much more expensive.

For an oval table measuring 168 107 cm with two additional tabs from the hevea array (Malaysia), you will pay 15-21 thousand rubles. A chair made of the same material can be bought for 2.5-3 thousand rubles.

The dimensions of the dining table are determined by the dimensions of the serving place, the optimal area of ​​​​which is 60 40 cm (a - c). Minimum distance from the tabletop to the wall - 75 cm, to the cabinet with hinged doors- 120 cm. To seat people on both sides of the table, its width must be at least 75 cm

The price of wicker rattan furniture is 5-10 thousand rubles. and higher. It is produced in South America, Indonesia, Malaysia, Poland, Spain, Italy and Germany. In Russia, colonial-style wicker furniture is produced by BentWood.

Tables with glass tops measuring 120 76 cm for four persons (Malaysia) can be purchased for 5.5-6.5 thousand rubles, and for 15 thousand you can buy lunch group made in China, which includes a table with a glass top and four chairs.

Russian factories delight with their products. Quality tables domestic production Unfortunately, they are not as cheap as we would like, although they are 2-3 times less than Italian tables of the middle price category.

For example, high-quality tables made of solid pine, birch, oak from the Ecofurniture factory are sold for 3.5-21 thousand rubles. and higher. For an elegant table-book "Havana" with two folding wings measuring 90 64 cm with a laminated top from the "Vista" factory, you will have to pay 9.5 thousand rubles.

A typical example of European-made furniture of an average price level is a Kirsi set (four chairs and a table 120 cm long), the price is about 32 thousand rubles. Romanian-made solid wood tables cost 3-12 thousand rubles, and chairs - 1.5-5 thousand rubles.

The cost of Italian products of the average level is approximately equal to Finnish or exceeds it (furniture made of solid walnut, cherry and other valuable woods is especially quoted).

Not cheap and fantasies of glass. A table from the Calligaris factory can cost, for example, 20-45 thousand rubles. How more original design the more expensive it is. average cost many models Longhi, Bonaldo, Tetide, Fly Line - 25-45 thousand rubles. German products are expensive, but of high quality.

The minimum amount for which chairs are offered to you is 1.5-3 thousand rubles. But as there is no limit to design delights, so there is no limit to the prices of these masterpieces. However, this also applies to tables.

The editors would like to thank the representative office of Nolte Kchen in Moscow, as well as Red Apple, W ssner, Atlas-Lux, Vista, Decoration, Maria, MBTM, Eco-furniture for their help in preparing the material.

Ergonomics deals with the optimization of workplaces in order to ensure maximum work efficiency. If you take it wider, it is responsible for convenience and comfort. Ergonomic kitchen should allow owners to cook food minimal cost time without being physically tired. And, of course, without the risk of injury. We have to take into account the technology of cooking, understand the features of human physiology and psychology. Universal kitchen ergonomics and the creation of an individual comfortable environment for a specific person or the whole family - the topic of our article.

There are generally accepted rules for designing furniture, with their help you can create an environment in which any person will feel more or less comfortable. But people are different, they lead their lives in different ways, they have their own physical data and habits. The standard solution, which is considered convenient, will not always be the best for a particular person. equipping own kitchen, you should think about how you cook food. And how could they improve and facilitate this process if the situation was organized differently. Individual ergonomic design- not a luxury, but a way to reduce cooking time, preserve health and create Have a good mood.

Ergonomic kitchen is convenient, allows you to cook food faster and not get tired

Everything in mind: a rational layout of the kitchen

The basis of an ergonomic kitchen - comfortable layout and the arrangement of furniture, taking into account the technology of cooking. We cook basically like this: we take a piece of meat (fish, vegetables) out of the refrigerator, wash (clean), cut (crush), put in a pan (in a saucepan, on a baking sheet). The path of most products: refrigerator - sink - cutting board- plate. You just need to arrange kitchen equipment and furniture, without confusing their sequence. If in linear kitchen put a stove between the refrigerator and the sink, the hostess is forever doomed to unnecessary manipulations, which will certainly cause inconvenience and irritation.

It does not matter in what configuration the furniture will be placed. In one line, L-shaped or with the letter P. The main thing is to observe the technologically determined sequence in the location of the equipment

As for the size of the zones: the larger, the better. A large refrigerator, a two-compartment sink with a “wing”, a food preparation (cutting) area with a length of 90-120 cm and a full-size kitchen stove - perfect solution. Alas, in domestic conditions, the size of the room limits the flight of fancy. The inhabitants of "Khrushchev" have no choice: the refrigerator, subject to the placement of the table, often has to be taken out into the corridor or hallway, because in the kitchen of 6 m2 there is simply no place for it.

The functional layout of kitchen furniture must comply with the technology of cooking

Options for arranging furniture and appliances in standard kitchen 12 m2

When planning a kitchen, it is necessary to take into account recommendations both for the height of individual furniture elements and for the width of the aisles.

Optimal working area length

Let's calculate what, in our opinion, the convenient length of the kitchen front should be. It will consist of the following elements:

• Standard refrigerator- 60 cm.
• Sink - 80 cm. A smaller one (60 cm) will not be so convenient. The "trough" will take about 35-40 cm, and the remaining 20-25 cm for the "wing" will be too small. The sink wing is used not only for storing unwashed dishes, but also for pre-training products. Do not place the sink close to the refrigerator, it is advisable to step back at least 10 cm.
• Food preparation (cutting) zone - from 90 cm.
• Plate standard sizes- 60 cm.

As a result, we scored 300 cm. This is almost within the capabilities modern apartments or "brezhnevok" of increased comfort, if the furniture is arranged in an L-shape. You can “squeeze” by reducing the width of the cutting zone, the distance from the stove to the refrigerator. You can get by with a 50-centimeter stove.

One of options distribution of elements working area kitchens. For those who cook a lot at home, we recommend making the food preparation area much wider than in the diagram. It's better to give up separate zone for additional household appliances by placing a kettle and coffee maker between the sink and stove. If necessary, the equipment can be rearranged, freeing up space for "large" cooking

The role of an additional or main place for cooking can be played by an “island”, if, of course, there is a place for it. The island should be the same height as the main work area. With sufficient dimensions, it is extremely convenient to cook on it, but when transferring food from the island to the sink or stove, something will definitely fall or spill on the floor.

The kitchen island can simultaneously serve working surface, dining table and bar counter. Its height should be the same as that of the countertop.

If there is not enough space

What should hosts do small apartments, where there is a catastrophic lack of space for full-fledged kitchen furniture and appliances, and it is impossible to make an improving redevelopment? We offer the following solutions:

• Place the refrigerator outside the kitchen: in the hallway or corridor. If there, of course, there is a place for him. This will allow you to install a full-sized stove and sink, there will be enough space for preparation and cutting and a kitchen table for two or three people. True, in big family a hostess who is actively involved in cooking may eventually regret her choice, making her way with pots along narrow corridor past her husband, children and dog to the refrigerator.

Arranging furniture in a tiny apartment is always a compromise. In this case, when planning the kitchen, they “sacrificed” the wardrobe in the hallway by placing a refrigerator there. This made it possible to at least slightly expand the working surface of the kitchen and put a dining table not for two, but for three people.

• Use the kitchen table for large cooking. A small area of ​​30-40 cm on the work front is enough to prepare breakfast. If at this time no one is sitting at the dining table, it is a convenient and large place for cutting and slicing food, kneading dough, which acts as a kitchen "island". However, it should be noted that the height standard table for breakfasts and lunches - 70-72 cm and it will be extremely inconvenient to work behind it while standing. Not everyone will like to cook while sitting, but it is more comfortable to work while standing when the height of the table is identical to the level kitchen worktop(90-95 cm). Chairs of standard height for such a table will not work, models of medium height are needed.

The place is small, there was not enough space for a full dining table. Instead, a semi-bar table was installed, which is a continuation of the countertop.

For a table that is identical in height to the tabletop, neither the usual low nor too high bar stools will fit. You will have to pick up a chair of intermediate height - they are on sale, but in a smaller assortment. Suitable for bar stools with adjustable seat

• "Bachelor's kitchen" involves more free planning and distribution of elements of the working area. Usually one or two people are in the room at the same time, numerous household members do not scurry around in the process of cooking. In the "bachelor kitchen" you can generally sacrifice a standard dining table in favor of a stylish bar counter, which will serve as an additional working area. A table or table-rack can be installed under the window, this will free up the center of a small kitchen.

The window sill table allows you to have a normal breakfast, but practically does not take up space

• Transformable furniture will help you get more functionality in a small area. Apart from sliding tables, there are retractable and folding.

On this small and very narrow kitchen only a retractable dining table is placed, which, after eating, is completely hidden under the countertop

Inside the transforming table (length varies from 20 to 150 cm) is placed a complete set of folding chairs

Folding table in the folded state does not take up any space in the room

Many kitchen furniture manufacturers offer retractable cutting boards.

Not enough space for large cooking - increase the working surface of the kitchen by pulling out an additional cutting board

• Drawers can also be built into the plinth, putting infrequently used things there.

Usually an unused reserve for storing utensils is the plinth, where drawers can also be built in. They should be recessed relative to the main facade of the kitchen by 6-10 cm

How high should the table top be?

The wrong choice of tabletop height is fraught with overstrain of the back muscles and, as a result, excessive fatigue and constant pain in the lower back. The height of the working surface of the kitchen should be determined individually, in accordance with the growth of the owners of the apartment or house.

In accordance with domestic standards, according to which typical furniture is still being produced, the height of the countertop in the kitchen should be 85 cm. But GOST was developed in the 60s of the last century, when the average height of Soviet women was 157 cm. Today's ladies "grew up" almost by 10 cm, and the younger generation continues to stretch even higher. Nowadays, men do not disdain cooking, whose average height is 175 cm. The low "grandmother's" kitchen is no longer suitable for most contemporaries.

When determining the comfortable height of the working surface of the kitchen, it is necessary to take into account the differences in people's height

Fortunately, the architecture of the modern kitchen modular furniture makes it possible to install the working surface of the kitchen at a height convenient for a particular family. Most European manufacturers make cabinets lower tier 72 cm high. The thickness of the tabletop is 3-4 cm. The height of the working area is set by correct selection supports, the height of which ranges from 10 to 18 cm. At the same time, the supports have adjustable design, which allows you to increase its height by another 2 cm. We get a minimum height of 85 and a maximum of 96 cm with the ability to set any value within these parameters.

Standard legs for kitchen furniture have an adjustment range of 2 cm

How to choose the right kitchen countertop height for a particular person? We recommend making a simple anthropometric measurement. Standing, bend your arm at the elbow at a right angle. The shoulder is vertical, the forearm is strictly horizontal. Open the palm and point down. Measure the distance from the floor to the palm. Subtract 10-15 cm from the obtained value. This will be the height range of the kitchen countertop, on which it will be convenient for this person to cook.

The ergonomic height of the working surface is best determined not so much by growth as by the distance from the floor to the elbow. The optimum lies in the range of 10-15 cm below the elbow

Higher countertop - more space for utensils

Not enough storage space kitchen utensils? With a high countertop, additional space can be found by making the lower cabinets higher than the standard size. For example, with a work area height of 94 cm and a worktop of 4 cm, low 10 cm legs can be installed. It remains 80 cm, which is 8 cm more than the standard value. If the furniture is not typical, but made to order, it is not difficult to make cabinets of increased height and this will slightly affect their cost. The only limitation is that it will not be possible to use typical paneled doors with non-standard cabinets. It must be remembered that the plinth should sink about 8 cm relative to the front so as not to rest against it with your feet.

Variable work surface

When determining the height of the work surface, you may encounter two problems:

1. Work surface, the height of which the best way suitable for cutting and washing dishes, it will be inconvenient for manipulating a frying pan on a built-in stove. Especially if the hob is gas. Given the height of the pan and the grate above the burner (6-10 cm in total), the home cook will have to raise their elbow too high to stir and turn the contents. If you cook in this way often, you may experience pain in the arm and spine. The way out is to lower the level of the countertop by about 8 cm in the area where the hob is located. Or install a stand-alone cooker at an appropriate height. Unfortunately, such a solution is possible only if the kitchen is sufficiently spacious.

From the point of view of ergonomics, it is correct when the section of the countertop with built-in hob located below the main working area. Such a solution can only be implemented in big kitchen with a long front

1. It will not be possible to find a perfectly comfortable countertop height suitable for all family members who are fond of cooking if they are noticeably different in height. You will have to compromise, as a result of which short people will be a little high, and tall people will be a little low. The installation solves this problem. kitchen cabinets on transformable (adjustable by means of electric motors or pneumatic mechanisms) supports. He pressed a button - and the countertop, and with it the sink and stove, lowered or rose to a level convenient for the “kitchen attendant”. Fantastically convenient, but so far very expensive. However, "advanced" technologies are getting cheaper. Transforming office tables have already moved from the category of exclusive exotics to the standard equipment of a modern workplace. We hope that in a few years the prices for automatic height-adjustable kitchens will also drop to an acceptable level.

It is difficult (possible, but, again, expensive) to seal the junction of a height-adjustable countertop to the wall, so kitchen islands are often installed on supports with lifting mechanisms. For embedded gas stoves and sinks produce special flexible connections.

A height-adjustable working surface with the help of servo drives is no longer a curiosity, such mechanisms are sold in Russia

The tabletop that is transformable in height is also good because it is equally convenient to study baking recipes on it (you need to raise the table higher), knead the dough (set it to the middle position) and roll it out with a rolling pin (lower it down)

Ergonomics of base cabinets

• For storing relatively small things, it is more convenient to use not shelves, but drawers - you don’t have to lower yourself on all fours to take things out of the far corners. On the shelves it makes sense to store large kitchen appliances, like an air grill, and possibly heavy stacks of plates. The more often items are used, the higher they should be placed.

It is more convenient to store medium-sized things in drawers. Bulk products placed in transparent containers will take less space and will be easily accessible

Pots and pans are also more practical to place in drawers

• Bottles and similar-sized items are most conveniently stored in a narrow pull-out basket closer to the stove.

Bottles and tall cans are always at hand in the narrow pull-out basket

• It is desirable that the width of the door swing cabinet, especially located under the sink, was at least 40 cm. Otherwise, it will be inconvenient to get something out, the more difficult it is to service the sink drain. The width of the cabinet (and door) under the sink with the filter located under it should not be less than 60 cm.

The wider the door in the cabinet under the sink, the easier it is to service the equipment installed in it.

• Fashionable minimalistic furniture handles protruding forward look spectacular, but they are not very convenient on the lower cabinets, especially in the cutting and washing area. An adult, while cooking, will rest his hips on their edges, and a naughty child can get a bump on his forehead.

The railing handles are extraordinarily beautiful, but they will rest against the hostess's stomach and hips while washing dishes. A child who has been playing can hit his head on the edge of such a handle.

Hidden kitchen handles, which are horizontal slots in the doors, safety

Modern solutions for upper cabinets

The standard distance at which upper cabinets were previously recommended to be placed above the level of the countertop is 50 cm. However, today, half a meter clearance seems insufficient to many and cabinets are hung higher, 60-65 cm from the work surface. Undoubtedly, it is more convenient, especially when appliances are located on the countertop: an electric kettle, food processor etc. However, it should be borne in mind that due to the too high hanging of the lockers, the access area in them without a stepladder is reduced.

Hinged doors for upper cabinets with standard hinges that open at an angle of 90º or slightly more are potentially dangerous. Being carried away by the process of cooking, it is easy to miss open door and knock on her corner, getting a bump or, even worse, a black eye. Safe, if used correctly, swing doors, equipped with full opening hinges that allow you to open the door to an angle of up to 180º. The fully open door does not stick out forward, it is parallel to the front. True, it overlaps adjacent cabinets, so it is impossible to open adjacent doors. However, this is rarely needed. Our advice: if the upper cabinets provide for opening doors to the side, at least it is worth equipping the drying rack with special hinges - it is used most often.

A special hinge allows you to open the door to an angle of 180º, so that it is parallel to the cabinets, and does not stick out perpendicular to the furniture front

Another safe way to open the doors is up. They can swing open or move. Sliding ones almost do not protrude relative to the plane of the facades, it is impossible to knock on them. Swing should be positioned so that they are above the head of the home cook.

Upper cabinets equipped with hinged doors (1) are potentially dangerous. You can also stuff a bump on the swing door that opens up (2), if it is located below the top of the head. Safe sliding (3), folding (4) and folding (5) doors opening up

If the height of the upper cabinets exceeds 60 cm, it is better to make the door opening up folding. The disadvantage of the door opening up: to close it, you have to reach high for the handle, which is inconvenient for a short person.

Folding up cabinet doors are the most practical and safest type of opening. If you do not spare money and order a mechanism with an electric drive, the cabinet can be made arbitrarily high, because we close and open it by simply pressing a button

Height of upper cabinets

Top cabinets are available in three sizes:

• Low cabinet - 60 cm.
• Standard - 72 cm, which is equal to the height of the lower cabinets.
• High - 92 cm.

Many manufacturers offer cabinets and other dimensions. In the manufacture of custom-made furniture in the house with high ceilings you can make the upper cabinets even higher. However, if heavy dishes are stored in them, it is more rational to hang two rows of cabinets. So more reliable. The bottom row of cabinets with upward opening doors should be of such a height that a person can easily reach the handle.

The nomenclature of common standard doors for cabinets. If there is space, it makes sense to use the upper cabinets with a height of 92 cm

Happy owners of apartments with high ceilings can hang the upper cabinets in two rows

Open shelves against cabinets

From the point of view of ergonomics, the cook should have everything necessary at hand during cooking. List the right tools, utensils and ingredients for cooking can be great. Some spices, packaged in small jars, can be filled with a dozen. Salt, pepper, a cutting board, all kinds of scraper blades, tea and coffee are needed at almost every cooking and meal, if the owners do not eat frozen fast food heated in the microwave. Take it out several times a day closed cabinet and hiding back is a dubious pleasure. In our opinion, it is much more convenient to keep frequently used utensils on open shelves. Everything is before your eyes, and even if the thing is not put in its place, it is easy to find.

Open shelves, rails and hooks provide quick and easy access to frequently used items

Adherents of a refined minimalist style in the interior will prefer to wipe the sink dry after each dishwashing and hide it in the closet. detergent, sponge and napkins, not to mention other things. But for most people, it will be more comfortable to use open shelves and racks for small items. There are two reasons for the wider spread of the "open top". First: the contents of the shelves will have to be kept in order and periodically wiped. However, infrequently, provided that the room is installed good hood. The second reason: the lack of traditions, "Soviet" kitchens were equipped with blank cabinets.

On the kitchen famous designer Artemy Lebedev, there are no closed lockers on top, only open shelves

Sink and trash can: a practical upgrade

The size of the sink bowl should allow you to wash the largest dishes in your home.

The side “wing” and the second, small, bowl are very convenient. If there is room for them.

The side wing will serve as an additional cutting surface. Additional bowl - optional, but convenient equipment

If you have a water filtration system, you should make sure that the sink allows you to install a second faucet for purified water if you do not want to purchase an expensive faucet with a switch. Under a tap with a low spout, it is inconvenient to wash large dishes, and splashes fly from a tall mixer when washing small dishes. The best, but not cheap option is a faucet with a pull-out spout.

Pull-out spout kitchen faucet not only make washing dishes more comfortable, but also reduce water consumption

We recommend purchasing a sink with a bottom valve that allows you to close the drain by turning the handle. The valve is more convenient than a plug, and due to the rise in the cost of housing and communal services, it is more economical to wash dishes by pre-soaking them. Yes, and faster.

It is customary to store a trash can under our sink. They opened the door of the lower cabinet, took out a bucket, threw out the garbage, closed it. It will be easier if you hang the bucket on the door - less movement.

Inexpensive, but convenient trash can mounted on the cabinet door. We open the door - the lid of the bucket rises, close it - it falls. No smell

The best option placement of the "garbage bin" - built-in, under the work surface. A hole is made in the countertop, a container for garbage is placed under it. The hole and container are closed with a flat lid. You can buy a sink with a built-in trash can, it's even more convenient. The presence of a grinder sewer drain significantly reduce the volume of waste and almost eliminate the "flavor" of the waste. Alas, advanced garbage collection and disposal systems are not cheap.

The most convenient "garbage bin" is built into the countertop. Pulls out easily - upwards.

Convenient and safe placement of equipment

We talked about the arrangement of the main elements of equipment on the floor plan. Some tips for choosing and placing kitchen appliances:

• If the kitchen front has an L-shaped configuration, it is more rational to put household appliances located on the countertop (microwave, electric kettle, coffee maker) in inner corner, which is problematic to use for cooking.
• Very convenient solution- accommodation oven in a high column cabinet at a height of 65-80 cm from the floor. It is much more convenient to observe the cooking process, load and unload baking sheets without bending. Unfortunately, in small room it is difficult to find a place for the "column".

It is much more convenient to use the oven installed in a tall cabinet at a height of 65-80 cm than under the countertop in standard version

• A traditional fireplace-type hood does a good job of removing kitchen fumes, but protrudes dangerously forward. You can fill a bump by trying to look into the pan. The same disadvantage also affects exhaust devices built into furniture. But the inclined hood is absolutely safe, it does not stick out above the stove at head level. By the way, the minimum height of the hood suspension above the electric stove is 65 cm, above the gas stove - 75 cm.

Ergonomic inclined hood removes kitchen fumes as well as traditional "hoods", but almost does not protrude above the stove

• The process of cooking or heating food in a microwave oven is easier to control when its transparent door is installed slightly (about 20 cm) below eye level. The best places for a microwave are in the "column" above the oven or on the bottom shelf. top cabinet. And the owners of tight Khrushchev can find a place for the stove on the windowsill.

It is advisable to place the microwave so that, while standing, you can see the cooking process through the glass window.

The right tables and chairs for the dining area

IN Soviet times the dining table had to have a height of 70 cm, this corresponded physical characteristics man in the 60s. And today many enterprises produce furniture according to these standards. But for people taller than 160 cm, this height is already too small. To date, dining tables in the EU countries mainly have a height of 72-76 cm, and in the USA already 74-78 cm. On the domestic market, you can find furniture of various parameters. Not uncommon - tables on supports adjustable by several centimeters.

On the private kitchen you can find two more types of tables: semi-bar and bar. We have already mentioned the first one, it is made to the level with the tabletop (85-95 cm) and is used both for eating and as an additional working area. A high bar counter (as in public bars) has a height of 120-125 cm, but at home it can be a little lower.

In width for one person sitting at the table, it is recommended to allocate a space of 60 cm. Accordingly, for two - 120 cm. It makes no sense to do less than 50 cm per person, it is too crowded. Recommended minimum depth table, on both sides of which people sit - 80 cm.

Chairs must be chosen according to the table. Provided that the thickness of the tabletop, together with the stiffening rib, does not exceed 10 cm, the seat of the chair should be approximately 30-35 cm lower than the top of the table for a standard dining table, 28-33 cm for a semi-bar table and 23-27 cm for a bar table. A stool for a high bar counter must necessarily have a support bar for legs.

Dining and bar stools adjustable height easy to put in a position convenient for a particular person and type of table

A look into a bright future: lighting and sockets

There is not much light. In addition to the general lighting of the kitchen, bright illumination of the work area and good lighting above the dining table are necessary.

Moderate general light and bright illumination of the working area is the key to comfortable work and the safety of the vision of the home cook

Sockets: no matter how many you make, you still don’t have enough. We recommend counting the number of electrical appliances that are planned to be installed in the kitchen and making a couple more sockets. You should also not forget about the TV and the handset of the telephone system, if any are planned in the kitchen. Putting the TV on the refrigerator, as is often done, is not worth it: you can turn your neck while looking at it from a chair. TVs are now flat, it is better to hang on the wall or place on the table.

Recommended layout of outlets in the kitchen. Sockets of appliances located on the countertop - above the cooking and cutting areas. It is better to make sockets for built-in appliances in the sink cabinet or in the basement, so access will be provided to them.

Once again about safety: how to protect children from injury

We have already mentioned safety, an integral part of ergonomics. If there are small children in the house, care should be taken that the babies do not get injured. Where possible, sharp corners should be avoided when designing or selecting furniture. Can be used special devices protecting the child from hitting sharp objects.

A soft overlay on the corner of the table will save a frisky child from injury

We should not forget that children are curious and will definitely climb where they are not allowed:

The “children's” pad on the door (on the left) will not allow the child to enter the “secret” locker, and the stopper-brake (on the right) will not allow the finger to be pinched by the door

Electrical wires must not be left accessible; blocking plugs must be inserted into low-lying sockets

Special protective screens on the cookers that prevent the child from reaching hot pots are not sold in every store, but parents should look for this useful thing. Magnetic constipation on the refrigerator (on the right) is also useful

Many models of modern household appliances are equipped with a power-on lock function, in which children can press buttons and turn knobs - nothing will happen.

We hope our recommendations will be useful to you. Within the framework of the article, many questions on ergonomics and organization of the kitchen remained untouched. We recommend that you seek advice from specialists at the furniture design stage. Experienced Designer furniture or interior will be able to suggest a lot of useful things and save you from mistakes. Good luck.