Since Covid, even those of us not super-enamored about cooking have come to realize that the kitchen is truly the heart of the home. With everyone home at once, a few particular ideas have been showing themselves in my clients’ ideal kitchens.

• A “social corner” on the island. Installing a large, corner sink on your kitchen island is perfect for kids helping out. You can face one another and prepare meals, cookies and whatever else makes you happy.

• Plenty of electrical outlets on the island and comfortable seating for homework. When meals are ready, the children simply move to the nearby dining table. They’re more likely to stay focused when they’re comforted by your presence in the kitchen.

• More color. Your kitchen doesn’t have to look like a laboratory. Have fun with your backsplashes, color accents on your faucets and appliances. Don’t forget your ceiling, consider a wallcovering above – unexpected and unique. Thick, fun seat cushions, colorful window valances. Of course all your elements will be well balanced, scaled and coordinated. But coziness is key. Even with a beautiful, slick countertop you can integrate a table lamp, or joyful accents. Cozy doesn’t mean messy.

• Not too big. Your kitchen should be easy to work in, to reach things. Going all the way around a large island to reach the fridge can be annoying.

• Kid-friendly. Use refrigerator drawers that are theirs alone, and fill them with healthy snacks and drinks. They won’t be staring forever into the primary refrigerator trying to figure out what to eat with the door wide open.

• Use drawers for dishes and glasses. Easier for kids to help out in the kitchen (unloading the dishwasher and putting dishes away). As we get older as well, it’s much easier to open a drawer than try to reach up too high to grab a glass.

• Consider “living finishes” on fixtures that will patina over time. Brass is classic. If you want to use a silver look to pewter for warmth.