Once upon a time the Kitchen was little more than the place where our grandmas disappeared into for hours on end. Today it can be a central complex where almost everything happens. It could be the location for... -- a bill-paying mini office -- under-the-counter Laundry appliances -- island-centric bar and food service areas -- a congregating place that acts like a magnet for company -- a bar for drink preparation ...and did I mention that this is also an area where cooking takes place? Because of the above the Kitchen has taken on a new and more important aspect in new home construction. And this status is reflected in... -- increased size -- additional uses -- enhanced status -- its premium location So as you can see this room is no longer the exclusive domain of the family cook. It deserves the additional respect that relates to its new ranking among the home's other rooms. I would not hesitate to design a home where the Kitchen is surrounded by most of the other rooms... like the hub of a wheel with each spoke having access to other parts of the home.