Some of the reasons we reach for a healthy snack versus one that will make us feel bad are simple unconscious nudges: what is at eye level, what is fresh and appealing in its display, what just never gets into the grocery cart in the first place! If you’re working on a healthy diet, your kitchen design can help you make the choices you’re committed to, all without changing so much at once. Here are just a few design elements that will help you focus on what you want to eat most while potentially boosting home value.
Hanging baskets for fruit and root veggies
Once you know how to store every fruit and vegetable properly, you can make use of hanging baskets and an attractive fruit bowl to keep your favorites front-and-center while also ensuring that you maximize their shelf lives and keep them appetizing for longer.
Open shelving helps with inventory
Feeling like there’s “nothing in the house” can prompt a hungry grocery shop, which may or may not yield what you really want. A disciplined meal schedule often starts with a good inventory of what is already in your home, and some open shelving can really help. While cabinets and pantries also have their place, consider organizing open shelving so you always know what you need to buy more of so that you don’t default to takeout if you’re trying to cook more.
Seating at the kitchen island
You’d be surprised how much having a place to sit down in the kitchen to eat a good meal can help you savor what you eat and enjoy your time cooking.
Plenty of counter space
Let’s face it: convenience meals are much easier to prepare in a small or cramped kitchen. If you have the counter space to chop lots of veggies and organize tasty meals, you’re more likely to make them.
Butcher block island for easy prep and clean
Islands with butcher block on top can make it easy to clean and prep vegetables, as the countertop is itself basically a cutting board.
Multi-function faucet and large basin sink
A good large kitchen sink with excellent faucet can really be a boon for cooking, since you want to be able to quickly whisk away anything that you’re done with. Doing a big sink full of dishes is also simply easier if you have space than if everything is spilling out onto countertops.
Chalkboard sign for fridge or wall
Meal prep and intentionality is so important for the early days of a healthy eating habit, and chalkboards can be a way to put the menu up for the whole family but also for yourself as you cook or prepare to buy food.
Deep freezer to have healthy convenience food
If you have the space, getting a deep freezer can be a good place to store prepared convenience meals, things you cook ahead of time and make ready for a future quick evening meal. When there are healthy options in your freezer that are just as easy as takeout, it’s easier to resist the allure of convenience food, and you’ll often save money even if you’re using high-quality ingredients in your cooking.
Adding these features to your home can even benefit you when you go to sell; talk to your real estate agent about what features are in high demand these days.
