Can you cook?: A Kitchen Design Guide for Older and Disabled Individuals.

‘Can you cook?’ is a thesis that explores how domestic kitchen design can be improved to better accommodate its users, especially those who are older or have disabilities. Research findings have shown that the application of ergonomics in labour-intensive spaces, such as healthcare and workplace design, is a well-established practice and a well-researched area of architecture. Several researchers have also said that the kitchen is the most labour-intensive part of the house. Yet, we rarely see the application of ergonomics in the design of domestic kitchens. This thesis aims to initiate the discussion of taking a more holistic approach to designing domestic kitchens with applied ergonomics for a kitchen that is more connected to the body, user and its intended functionality.

This research project uses a ‘research through design’ methodology to conduct qualitative research, using participant observation as the primary source for data collection. Other research methods such as participating in an age simulation workshop, literature review, case studies and expert evaluation were used. The amalgamation of these primary and secondary methods resulted in a set of guidelines for domestic kitchens that were designed and developed to provide meaningful contribution to the architecture industry.

The findings from this research resulted in the increased awareness of spatial considerations and understanding the significant process of iteration. It was also recognised this research project could be developed with the same methods but on a larger scale to present a more accurate depiction of the population.