Suppose you can handle the basics of cooking but feel a little overwhelmed with all the bells and whistles in a kitchen like Paula Deen’s on The Food Network. Where do you start? “Organize the kitchen into work centers, such as a food storage/preparation center, cooking center and cleanup center,” advises Debbie Butler of Greensboro’s Brickwood Builders, a stalwart in the industry that has created every kitchen imaginable. Butler also suggests implementing good lighting (you have to be able to read those recipes, after all!) and planning storage areas for small appliances, so precious countertop space isn’t cluttered.

And ditch the computer/ workstation for the same reason. Speaking of counters, granite requires the least fuss; it has come down in price and requires only annual cleaning and sealing. As for appliances, “you don’t need to go overboard,” says Butler. “Purchase a moderately priced gas or electric range, possibly with a warming drawer,” she suggests. It’s also a good idea to place the refrigerator near the cook area and sink.

“We like to enclose them in 24” deep cabinetry,” Butler explains, “so the cabinet above is fully usable and within reach.” Separate it all with an island (to keep well-intentioned guests out of your way), add some deep drawers for pots and pans, and under-cabinet trash and recycling bins, and you’re in business. Before you know it, you’ll be in the same league as “Lady” Deen herself.

Brickwood Builders
Greensboro
www.brickwoodbuilders.com