Design for function. Work with a kitchen professional who asks how you cook. For instance, if you are a serious baker, use marble or granite for a designated workstation. If you are a chef who likes to entertain, create a separate staging area for serving food and drinks.

Add task lighting to every workstation. This makes measuring, chopping, and reading recipes easier and safer. Some lights can be overhead, others under cabinets.

Install a floor that is comfortable to stand on and easy to clean. Wood is a good option, but vinyl can also be functional and stylish.

Keep knives handy. Julia Child attached hers to a wall magnet and arranged them by size for easy access. If you prefer yours hidden, consider a similar idea inside a cabinet.

Plan a sink station to clean food and temporarily stow dishes. That can be one larger sink, or two smaller ones, one of which is dedicated to food prep.

Add a built-in steam oven and keep both ovens at eye level. This allows you to keep an eye on multiple dishes at the same time.

Add extra electrical outlets. Sneak them inside your island and cabinets for a sleeker look.

Kashian Brothers is located at 1107 Greenleaf Avenue in Wilmette, and 838 N. Western Avenue in Lake Forest. For more information, call 847-251-1200 (Wilmette), 847-295-3737 (Lake Forest), or visit kashianbros.com.