"An inspiring design guide and practical resource." The kitchen is the home base for any family to prepare meals, eat, interact, read the paper, listen to the radio, watch TV, relax and more. No other room is used for so much by so many. Kitchen Culture is a beautifully illustrated reference for creating the home's busiest and most important room. The book explores how the kitchen influences sociability, family life and relationships with food and also examines how changing attitudes towards family life are changing kitchen design. Each generation invents its ideal kitchen -- reflecting personal views, lifestyles and the latest design concepts and technology. Kitchen Culture provides critical design advice for maximizing the role the kitchen plays. The book offers fresh ideas and fascinating possibilities for using the kitchen as a lounge, retreat, library, art gallery, playroom, activity center and hospitality zone. Topics include: Effective kitchen storage Working triangles and ergonomics Cooking, small appliances and tools Facilities for cooking Lighting, floors and work surfaces. Practical tips on materials and craftsmanship are also included along with a source list of suppliers and manufacturers. Kitchen Culture is the ideal reference for anyone designing a new home or remodeling a kitchen.