Saturday, February 24, 2024

LIST OF LAWS ESSENTIAL TO THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

 


Prior to commencing any project, it is essential to be able to gain the fundamentals, if not the complete knowledge of the essential laws relevant to the professional practice of Architecture in the Philippines. According to Professional Regulation Commission website, https://prc.gov.ph/architecture, the practice of architecture is hereby defined to be: “The act of planning, architectural and structural designing, specifying, supervising, and giving general administration and responsible direction to the erection, enlargement or alterations of buildings and architectural design of engineering structures or any part thereof, the scientific, aesthetic and orderly coordination of all the processes which enter into the production of a complete building or structure performed through the medium of unbiased preliminary studies of plans, consultations, specifications, conferences, evaluations, investigations, contract documents and oral advice and directions regardless of whether the persons engaged in such practice are residents of the Philippines or have their principal office or place of business in this or another country, and regardless of whether such persons are performing one or all of these duties, or whether such duties are performed in person or as the directing head of an office or organization performing them.”

The Architecture Act of 2004, also known as Republic Act No. 9266 (listed below), is the primary legislation that governs the practice of architecture in the Philippines. This law sets out the qualifications, registration requirements, and code of conduct for architects practicing in the country. Aside from this law, there are quite a number of others that are essential to the practice such as those concerning the environment, accessibility, fire, human settlement, etc.

My main objective in writing this article is to help students. professionals and even workers in the construction industry to be able to refer to a single landing page where they could access all the necessary links directly to the specific laws needed for any specific activity they are involved in. It would be an advantage to have the technical knowhow of these laws so that every construction team member will be aware of the architectural aspect of the industry for proper coordination and smooth workflow.

The following are selected references and document links for the above purpose:


LAWS DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9266

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 545, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES," AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

https://www.prc.gov.ph/uploaded/documents/ARCHITECTURE%20LAW.PDF


NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES 

MALACAÑANG Manila PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1096 ADOPTING A NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES THEREBY REVISING REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SIXTY-FIVE HUNDRED FORTY ONE

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/national_law


IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES (PD 1096) OFFICIAL TEXT 2005 REVISED EDITION

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/PD1096



ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AFFECTING ARCHITECTURE


THE PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE 

June 2015 A Referral Code of the NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/pgbc


Philippine Green Building Code Full Text and User Guide; GB Code Checklist-Architectural; GB Code Checklist Electrical and ECE; GB Code Checklist-Mechanical; GB Code Checklist-Plumbing and Sanitary

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/guidelines_manuals/green_building


PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1308 March 2, 1978

REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF THE PROFESSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING IN THE PHILIPPINES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/presdecs/pd1978/pd_1308_1978.html


ACCESSIBILITY LAW


Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/bpb344


Enforcement of the Accessibility of the Law (BP 344) along National Roads

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/enforcement_bp344



FIRE SAFETY CODE


FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, RA9514 IRR as of June 26, 2009

https://bfp.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Fire-Code-of-the-Philippines-2008-IRR.pdf



HOUSING LAWS


PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 957 July 12, 1976

REGULATING THE SALE OF SUBDIVISION LOTS AND CONDOMINIUMS, PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF

https://lawphil.net/statutes/presdecs/pd1976/pd_957_1976.html


PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1216

DEFINING "OPEN SPACE" IN RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISIONS AND AMENDING SECTION 31 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 957 REQUIRING SUBDIVISION OWNERS TO PROVIDE ROADS, ALLEYS, SIDEWALKS AND RESERVE OPEN SPACE FOR PARKS OR RECREATIONAL USE

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/irr_11201_2019.html


THE IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11201, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENT AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT ACT”

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/irr_11201_2019.html



LAWS OF OTHER PROFESSIONS RELATED TO ARCHITECTURE

Republic Act No. 8534, February 23, 1998

AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF INTERIOR DESIGN IN THE PHILIPPINES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1998/ra_8534_1998.html


REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9053, March 30, 2001

AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHTECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2001/ra_9053_2001.html


Republic Act No. 1378 An Act To Regulate the Trade Of Master Plumber 

https://legisph.com/statute/republic-act-no-1378


REPUBLIC ACT 9003 January 26, 2001

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR AN ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, CREATING THE NECESSARY INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS AND INCENTIVES, DECLARING CERTAIN ACTS PROHIBITED AND PROVIDING PENALTIES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2001/ra_9003_2001.html



DISCLAIMER: While we have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this blog has been obtained from reliable sources, Architalktural is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided "as is", with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All information are provided solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as a professional service of any kind. In no event will Architalktural be liable for any decision made or action taken by the reader in reliance on the information derived from this site or any consequential, special or similar damages, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.


Friday, February 16, 2024

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE WORLD OF ART

 Sustainable art

Our culture is evolving at this time to become more active and socially conscious. Talks about sustainability, the environment, and social consciousness are being led by creative industries including fashion, architecture, and visual arts. Such movement is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future in art by fusing ecological responsibility with creative innovation. In the first half of this article, we'll delve into the fascinating world of environmentally conscious art, beginning from defining it, digging into its history, examining a variety of cutting-edge sustainable materials, up to discovering interesting ways on how to incorporate them into your artwork."


Sustainability in art has sparked the creation of ground-breaking pieces that combine cutting-edge technologies and materials that deliver strong messages about social issues such as injustice, political instability, and climate change. Now, what is sustainable art in its entirety and who are the real superheroes that are still in the battlefield today? The concluding half of this article examines sustainability artists' works, their categories in the field, and their specific advocacies.”



WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY?

Determining a precise definition of sustainability is challenging because ideas about it change over time and between literary works. However, in our era, which is called the Anthropocene, sustainability can be broadly understood as a societal goal that aims for the harmonious coexistence of humans and other species on planet Earth. The term "Anthropocene" is derived from the Greek word “anthropos”, which means "man." It refers to a geological unit of time during which the effects of human activity on the environment have begun to show devastating effects, including climate change, natural imbalances, and the extinction of numerous plant and animal species. In an effort to ensure that humans can coexist peacefully with other species in more thriving ecosystems for many generations to come, society is shifting toward a more sustainable way of living. Thus, a personal meaning has formed into my senses that "Sustainability is everybody's responsibility."

responsibility



WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE ART?

The term "sustainable art," like most things in the art world, has quite a number of definitions. While some artists use ecologically friendly materials and studio techniques in their work, others are primarily concerned with addressing environmental issues. Furthermore, sustainable art is not just found in the visual arts category, but also frequently appears in fashion and architecture, among other fields.


Fashion designers and manufacturers are coming up with ways to prolong the life cycle of garments, utilize more eco-friendly color dyes, and use less water in the production process by using closed-loop fashion and circular economies.


In an agricultural prefecture in Japan called Ibaraki, not too far from Tokyo, there is a town who does this sustainable fabric dyeing. They dye each fabric by hand using agricultural waste such as tomato stems from local farmers; discarded items like tree branches and leaves are used as well. The company also conducts in-house dyeing workshops, organizes dyeing and harvesting retreats fostering interactions with farmers, and holds dyeing lessons at schools, etc. to highlight the region's agricultural potential and charm.



Architects use eco-paints and other reclaimed and recycled materials, even on the wall finishings, floors and countertops, to name a few. Check out one of my blog which talks about sustainable architecture:



Artists, authors, filmmakers, and performers are also becoming more and more interested in addressing environmental and sustainable issues in their works.



QUITE A LITTLE BACKGROUND

Sustainable art is not really a new idea. Although the phrase "sustainable art" is relatively new, numerous artists from various cultures have long employed sustainable practices before the term was coined. For many years, eco-artists have included environmental themes and issues into their works. African art, for instance, has a long history of using natural materials in a way that honors the environment. Examples of this include body painting, weaving, and fashion, to mention a few, as well as functional and sculptural works made of clay and wood that are passed down through the generations.


Large-scale works were made by Land Art Movement artists in the natural environment. These installations frequently included organic materials like wood, rocks, and soil. By bringing attention to the interaction between people and the environment, these artists hope to get people thinking about how we affect the earth. Around the same time, the Earthworks movement, which is closely tied to Land Art, rose to popularity. Environmental restoration was the primary aim of Earthworks artists who created works of art to restore damaged ecosystems.


Upcycling is another example; it may be seen in African art as well, although it is most prominently practiced in Japanese culture. For instance, “kintsugi” is the tradition of fixing broken ceramics and pottery that contain gold traces in order to celebrate imperfection and reduce waste. Upcycling remains a dominant Sustainable art form used by many fine and contemporary artists today.


The idea of sustainable art has expanded over time to include a greater range of environmental concerns in addition to artwork, such as the materials used by artists, waste reduction efforts, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices that can lessen the environmental impact of their work. Many artists have joined the push in the art industry toward sustainability as a result of this change in focus.


ART-FRIENDLY, ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS

Now, the term "sustainable art" refers to a broader variety of environmental concerns as well as artwork, including the materials used by artists, waste reduction, and adopting eco-friendly practices that might lessen the environmental impact of their work. Many artists have now joined the art world's push toward sustainability as a result of this change in focus.



RECLAIMED WOOD


reclaimed wood art

Reclaimed wood is now a popular and adaptable medium in art. Reclaimed wood, which comes from abandoned structures, shipping pallets, or fallen trees, enables artists to produce one-of-a-kind, eye-catching pieces while cutting down on waste and deforestation. Reclaimed wood has a rustic and natural appearance that gives artwork depth and personality. It can be utilized for installations, sculptures, or frames for painting canvases.

ECO-PAINTS


Additionally, gaining popularity are eco-friendly paints, which use natural binders and pigments with lower volatile organic compounds (VOC) and hazardous chemical contents than conventional paints. For artists who want to switch, brands like Earth Paints, Natural Earth Paint, and Bioshield provide a variety of eco-friendly paint and other solutions.



RECYCLED METAL


scrap metal art

Recycled Metal is another sustainable material gaining traction in the art world. Artists like El Anatsui and Vik Muniz have gained international recognition for their use of discarded metal objects and industrial scraps, such as aluminum, copper, steel, and brass, to create unique sculptures and installations while reducing waste and conserving resources.

PLASTIC


While plastics have been incredibly useful in many industries due to their durability, versatility, and low cost, they also pose significant environmental problems. Most plastics are not biodegradable persisting for hundreds or even thousands of years, which leads to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills, oceans, and other ecosystems. Biodegradable and plant-based plastic alternatives are eco-friendly alternatives derived from renewable resources like corn, sugarcane, and algae. Compared to conventional plastics, they are more environmentally friendly and can decompose more quickly.


ORGANIC TEXTILES It is also possible to incorporate organic textiles into the artwork, such as hemp, linen, and cotton. These materials are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Artists can use organic textiles for tapestries, wall hangings, or mixed media pieces, blending sustainability with creative expression.


NATURAL OBJECTS

Natural and Found Objects can create distinctive and thought-provoking pieces that engage with the natural world by adding elements such as leaves, branches, rocks, or waste materials found in the surroundings. This strategy lessens the need for additional materials and encourages discussion about how people, the environment, and art are related.




IMPORTANT SUSTAINABLE ARTISTS



AGNES DENES

Agnes Denes, also known as Dénes Ágnes, was born in Budapest in 1931. She is a New York-based conceptual artist of Hungarian descent. She is renowned for a variety of mediums, including poetry, philosophical writings, incredibly detailed drawings, sculptures, and iconic land art pieces like Tree Mountain—A Living Time Capsule (1992–1996) in Ylöjärvi, Finland, and Wheatfield — A Confrontation (1982), a two-acre field of wheat in downtown Manhattan commissioned by the Public Art Fund. Her work Rice/Tree/Burial with Time Capsule (1968–79) is regarded as one of the first examples of ecological art. She resides and creates in New York City.





EL ANATSUI

Ghanaian artist El Anatsui, born on February 4, 1944, spent the majority of his career working in Nigeria. His "bottle-top installations" have garnered him significant international recognition. These installations are made up of thousands of aluminum pieces that are taken from alcohol recycling centers and are connected by copper wire to create wall sculptures that resemble metallic cloth. Although these materials appear rigid and strong, they are actually pliable and free, which frequently facilitates installation of his sculptures. Anatsui was listed among the world's most influential individuals in the Time 100 list for 2023.



ANDY GOLDSWORTHY

Andy Goldsworthy is well-known as an environmental artist, well known for his site-specific sculptures and Land art. Born in England, Goldsworthy began working on several farms at the age of 13. His sculpture method is mostly based on rhythm and regularity, which he draws inspiration from the repetitive nature of farm work. He once compared the creative process to "picking potatoes." In his artwork, Goldsworthy uses organic materials such as wood, clay, stone, and flower petals. He states that his primary objective is to cultivate a bond between his audience and the natural world. Engaging with the natural cycles of creation and destruction, Goldsworthy views nature as a partner in his work. Through his art, he frequently draws attention to the beauty of nature and celebrates its organic patterns.



MAYA LIN

Maya Ying Lin is an American designer and sculptor who was born on October 5, 1959. She became well-known across the country in 1981 while attending Yale University as a student after winning a national design competition for the proposed Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Landscapes, sculptures, public and private buildings, and memorials have all been designed by Lin. She is well-known for her historical memorials, but she is also well-known for her environmentally oriented pieces, many of which deal with environmental degradation. Lin claims that although nothing she makes can compare to the beauty of nature's architecture, she finds inspiration in it.


FINAL THOUGHTS

COLLECTIVELY PAINT A GREENER FUTURE

Artists are adopting more sustainable artistic methods and collaborating with scientists to help spread awareness of the seriousness of the climate problem as society grows more conscious of its effects on the environment and the planet's imminent peril. Sustainability is about making decisions that don't hurt the environment and being aware of how we use and produce goods. Through their artistic endeavors, artists are actively working to bring about social change in our communities and are fully committed to the idea of a better future for everyone.

The success of the sustainable art movement is a credit to the inventiveness, passion, and hard work of artists who are determined to change the world. Artists have the ability to inspire audiences and improve the environment at the same time by implementing these strategies and utilizing eco-friendly materials. We are constructing an art world that prioritizes responsibility and beauty with each eco-art work we produce, eco-friendly habits we embrace, and people we impact through our eco-practices. So let's get our paintbrushes out, get dirty, and let's paint a greener future together! It's a noble choice...




JOEY CASTANEDA

Author



Important sources and acknowledgment:

-Wikipedia.com for artists featured.

-Stock photos taken from Pexel.com and Pixabay.com


Joey Castaneda

Architect/Artist

Linked In Account for Architectural Works

Link Tree Account for Artworks


Sunday, February 11, 2024

CHOOSE YOUR BEST KITCHEN LAYOUT

Sample kitchen layout with an island.


“A practical kitchen layout should be your primary concern whether you're renovating your current kitchen or looking through the plans for a brand-new house.” – Joey Castaneda, Architect
When constructing a kitchen, there are several factors you ought to take into account, such as important building dimensions and workflow configurations. However, this might not always the case, especially if one is doing a significant renovation and a variety of styles are accessible.

Today, styles are flexible, and the fact that "traditional" is the most popular style is due in large part to the fact that many kitchens fall under this category, and have the option to combine other styles. The same is true of modern; both are vast genres of kitchen design. Learn more about kitchen architectural styles.


Yes, kitchen planning is quite tough. However, before thinking about other factors, the best strategy is to begin with a good layout. We prepared this kitchen layout guide with pros and cons in order to help you make the most of your space.





Sample of an L-shaped kitchen layout.

1. L-SHAPED LAYOUT

One of the most common kitchen layouts is L-shaped, if not the best one. Two adjacent countertops that form a right angle in a kitchen corner define this design's kitchen layout.

When designed appropriately, L-shaped kitchens provide a wonderful work triangle for streamlining preparation, cooking, and cleaning. A kitchen's L-shaped arrangement allows for exceptional work and traffic flow so that several cooks may work simultaneously and others can pass through the space without being impeded.



On the other hand, solitary chefs may find it irritating when purchasing a property that already has an L-shaped kitchen layout. Appliances are frequently dispersed, which makes it more difficult for a chef to prepare a dish. Consider the positioning of appliances and other components when planning a remodel or creating a bespoke house to improve your workflow.

Example of L-shaped kitchen.

EXAMPLE OF AN L-SHAPED KITCHEN



Advantages:

  • Ideal working space;

  • Conceptually open which may be well ventilated and natural lighted;

  • Open interior may boost a home's value prompting a designer or decorator to show-off.


Disadvantages:

  • Dispersed appliances may be aggravating for lone chefs;

  • More rooms for cleaning;

  • Working with corner cabinets might be challenging.



Example of U-shaped kitchen layout.

2. U-SHAPED LAYOUT

Known sometimes as horseshoe designs, U-shaped kitchen plans use three walls or countertop portions that form a semicircle, or "U" shape. Large kitchen areas with enough for three countertop pieces are ideal for u-shaped designs.

For homeowners who want an open concept design but still want some separation between the kitchen and living area, this plan is a fantastic option. U-shaped kitchens, on the other hand, are often narrower and deeper. Even though modern kitchens have plenty of room, it might seem cramped when more than one person is cooking.



Advantages:

  • Extensive countertops provide enough area for cabinets;

  • Kitchen interior could be improved by combining finished materials.


Disadvantages:

  • Lesser aisles area and pathways for work;

  • Working with corner cabinets might be challenging.




3. G-SHAPED LAYOUT


With the addition of a small amount of space to form the "G" shape, this particular kitchen layout has all the advantages of a U-shaped design. Large open concept homes with a large kitchen space are more likely to have this design. This might be mistakenly identified as a peninsula layout, however, a G-shaped kitchen is close type with walls even in the shorter countertop side, while peninsula is an open type layout.


This plan will maximize storage and countertop space in a kitchen designed to handle a busy family and numerous cooks simultaneously. You'll also have a lot of options for setting up one or more work triangles because of how big these kitchens are.


However, constructing a G-shaped kitchen requires much more thought and preparation than other layouts, so it might not be the greatest option if you're leaning toward a straightforward, minimalist style.



Advantages:

  • More counter space just like the U-shape;

  • The shorter side is useful;

  • There are several work triangle choices.


Disadvantages:

  • Intricate design;

  • Limited access to and from the kitchen;

  • Working with corner cabinets might be challenging.




4. SINGLE WALL LAYOUT

If you're working with a tiny area, a single-wall kitchen plan, sometimes referred to as a single-wall layout, is another practical design choice. In this design, the kitchen's other three sides are left open to the living space while the prep stations, appliances, and cupboards are arranged along one wall. That is the most open-minded idea there is.

The typical work triangle is eliminated in single-wall kitchen designs, but this is compensated for by increased efficiency in the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. The remainder of the house or apartment is made more open by having the kitchen confined to one wall. This optimizes natural sunlight and improves traffic flow overall, plus well ventilated space.

Example of single wall kitchen layout.
SINGLE WALL KITCHEN LAYOUT

Despite having the most open layout on the list, these kitchens lack the prep and storage room that big families or accomplished cooks may require. Single-wall kitchens provide the best workspace for one or two individuals, but if there are any more, the area may rapidly become crowded.



Advantages:

  • Space is saved not only in the kitchen itself, but also for the entire house;

  • Lesser expensive than other kitchen designs;

  • Suitable for a single or two individuals living in a studio type condominiums or apartments.


Disadvantages:

  • Possible crowding during busy days;

  • Unsuitable for extended families;

  • Unsuitable amount of counter and storage space.




5. GALLEY LAYOUT

A galley kitchen plan, also known as a corridor or parallel layout, may be effective in medium and large-sized kitchens even though it is most typically seen in compact kitchens. A galley layout consists of two parallel counters with a walkway in the middle.


Example of a galley kitchen layout
GALLEY KITCHEN LAYOUT

This design creates a seamless work triangle if your workstations and appliances are set up appropriately. However, this style might not be the best option if you want to cook with your spouse. Galley kitchens are usually compact, making it difficult for many people to work together there. Consider creating a galley kitchen with an island if there is space.



Advantages:

  • Maximum effectiveness and function;

  • Ideal for compact rooms;

  • Sufficient counter space.


Disadvantages:

  • Usually narrow;

  • With many people, it could feel crowded;

  • Lesser storage than U-shaped kitchens.



6. ISLAND LAYOUT

The freestanding countertop in an island kitchen arrangement may either complement your current decor or serve as a focal point. If there is room, a kitchen island can provide more workplace, seating, and storage for:

  • U-Shape Layout

  • L-Shaped Layout

  • Single -Wall Layout

Example of a G-shaped kitchen layout with an island
G-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT WITH ISLAND

Although they provide greater workspace, kitchen islands are not the ideal choice for tiny kitchens. You may have little room to move around because of these large, pricey kitchen additions that take up valuable floor space. A mobile cart or a tall table are more adaptable options if you absolutely need the extra storage and prep space.



Advantages:

  • Island serves as added space for storage;

  • More countertop surfaces for work;

  • Kitchen seats or stools may be applicable if needed.


Disadvantages:

  • Not recommended for little kitchens;

  • Restricting traffic lanes;

  • Expensive.



7. KITCHEN PENINSULA


What is a Kitchen Peninsula?

The kitchen island has grown in popularity in most modern houses over the past few decades, but not all home designs can accommodate one. A kitchen peninsula is a fantastic solution, especially when space is at a premium.


It's simple to change and expand your current kitchen plan by adding a kitchen peninsula. Kitchens that are L-shaped, G-shaped, or U-shaped frequently have a peninsula. Depending on the available area and desired use, a peninsula's length can vary, and even a tiny peninsula can be quite useful in your kitchen.



Distinction from Kitchen Island

A kitchen peninsula only has three accessible sides, compared to a kitchen island's four which makes it less expensive. Another cost advantage of kitchen peninsula is that the installation of appliances is simpler than installing a kitchen island. The advantages of a kitchen island are available with a kitchen peninsula, but it takes up less room.


Alternatively, a kitchen island is not appropriate for every kitchen. The more practical peninsula arrangement will work better in smaller kitchens that might not be able to accommodate a kitchen island. By dividing rooms in a house with an open floor plan, peninsulas can also serve as a partition between the kitchen and living area.

Example of a kitchen peninsula
KITCHEN PENINSULA

More Facts About Kitchen Peninsulas

Smaller houses and flats often include peninsula kitchens. Without taking up the entire kitchen, they offer all the advantages of a peninsula. A kitchen peninsula has three reachable sides and is linked to a wall or nearby countertop. On the inside, or occasionally on all three, it frequently has lower cupboards and/or drawers for additional storage and offers additional counter area for food preparation and dining. Additionally, it could have a sink and/or culinary equipment. It is also possible to define space in an open-concept house and create separation between the kitchen and living room by including a peninsula island in the kitchen.


Depending on the available area and intended use, kitchen peninsulas can come in a variety of sizes and shapes. A kitchen peninsula serves as an addition to the existing kitchen area, giving the cook of the household a highly useful workplace with easy access to cupboards and equipment. Bar stools and an overhang on one or more of the peninsula counters' outside edges provide for the perfect seating arrangement for entertaining or grabbing a fast bite. The inside of the kitchen is defined by the peninsula's connected side, minimizing disturbances for the chef.



Design Factors to Consider

Just a few examples of how you may include a peninsula into your kitchen design are as follows:


  • To delineate zones without totally separating them, a peninsula might act as a half-wall between the kitchen and the living room;


  • A breakfast bar, entertainment area, or space for doing schoolwork may be created by setting up bar stools on one or two of the peninsula's edges;


  • A one-wall kitchen may be made into a L shape by adding a peninsula, which will add more workspace;


  • An existing L-shaped kitchen may be transformed into a U-shaped one with significantly more usefulness by adding a peninsula;


  • Including appliances in the peninsula will increase meal preparation efficiency and convenience;



Advantages:

  • May increase the market value of your house;

  • With more bottom cabinets and drawers, there is more storage space;

  • More counter area for food preparation;

  • Installation of appliances is simpler than installing a kitchen island;

  • Extra seats for entertaining guests and hurried lunches;

  • Use it for work or study and have plugs and charging stations available;

  • Better space flow may be found in open-plan homes;

  • Fantastic option for condos without a dining room.


Disadvantages:

  • Kitchens on peninsulas are sometimes prone to congestion.

  • They could have rounded edges.

  • For bigger kitchens, peninsula kitchens may be less effective.

  • For bigger kitchens, peninsula kitchens may be less effective.




FINAL THOUGHTS


The amount of space available, desired efficiency and convenience all go into the layout of the kitchen. However, there are instances that the shape of the house or the main building happened to be irregular, and there is nothing that you can do except to adjust the layout which makes it the last option...an irregular shaped kitchen layout.

Example of an irregular kitchen layout
IRREGULAR LAYOUT

Nevertheless, the efficiency of the kitchen is determined by the work triangle. Therefore, the workspace is designated by the placements of the sink, stove, and refrigerator. The separation between these three main elements is constrained by a small triangle. While picking the best plan for your house, regardless of the type of kitchen layout you chose to create on a new house or renovate even on an existing one, always be ensured to take the work triangle into account.




Joey Castaneda

Architect/Artist

Linked-in Account for Architectural Works
Link Tree Account for Artworks