We’re used to ergonomics in the workplace. But home ergonomics are also surprisingly important. In fact, an ergonomic home helps us stay healthy and comfortable. And of course, it streamlines tasks – enabling us to spend more time with our loved ones.

Typically, it’s the home office where we focus on ergonomics. Trying to get the right desk and chair to avoid strains and improve our productivity. But every room in the home can benefit from the same treatment.

The kitchen is a different type of workspace but the same principles apply. That’s why we want our worktops and cupboards at a sensible height and buy gadgets to make things quick and easy. But it goes further than this. Cushioning the floor with luxury vinyl makes it more comfortable to stand and putting appliances in the right place streamlines the cooking process.

Although it’s less obvious, bedrooms and bathrooms can benefit from ergonomics. A supportive mattress and a bed that’s adequately sized for instance. And wet-room style showers that are roomy with a floor-level, non-slip tray.

As homes increasingly become multigenerational – supporting aging parents and children returning to the nest – these features become even more important. Safety and efficiency are the ergonomics that really count.

We don’t normally think of good storage as ergonomic but it’s an important part of how any house performs. Wading through clutter makes things hard to find and cleaning laborious. It’s also hard to relax with clutter. And keeping the floor clear helps the eldest and youngest move about with ease. Of course, clutter builds up easily in multigenerational homes. That’s why wall-length storage and entertainment units are a popular addition to lounges.  

Back in the kitchen, this space is now taking on the role of restaurant, office, school and playroom. So, innovations need to work for the whole family.

Multi-level worktops lend themselves better to food prep, eating and studying. While drawers are more accessible to everyone than cupboards. The pantry cupboard is similarly handy.

Meanwhile, sink systems can dispense drinks, drain food and wash dishes at the same time. Flexible over-the-sink boards and drainers save valuable worktop space and lever-handled taps are easy for fragile hands to flip on and off.

Induction hobs have touch-safe tops and child-lock functions. Magnetic and smart locks keep little fingers out of other danger spots, so the kitchen works as an open family space.

Contributor link:Myjobquote.co.uk
Kane Hughes - Interior designer: Kane has over ten years' experience in the interior design sector, with a specific focus on kitchens and bathrooms. He works as a consultant expert with MyJobQuote while also focusing on his house flipping projects across Wales.