"Flexibility is key, but strategic redundancy can really elevate practicality without cluttering the layout."
Couldn't agree more here, especially the idea of strategic redundancy. I've seen it work wonders in smaller spaces too—not just luxury homes. A friend of mine remodeled her modest kitchen recently and added a compact second sink in the island, thinking it might be overkill at first. But honestly, whenever I visit and we're both prepping dinner together, it's amazing how much smoother everything flows. It also subtly encourages guests to pitch in, making cooking feel more collaborative and social.
On a side note, if you're looking for practical ideas that are also eco-conscious, consider positioning these secondary prep areas near natural light sources or windows. It reduces the need for artificial lighting during daytime, saving energy and creating a more inviting atmosphere. Small details like this can make a big difference in comfort and sustainability.
I see your point about strategic redundancy, but I'd caution against overdoing it in smaller spaces. Sometimes adding extra features—like a second sink—can unintentionally eat up valuable counter space or storage. When I redid my kitchen, I skipped the second sink and instead focused on versatile countertop extensions and pull-out cutting boards. It kept things flexible without sacrificing room. Just something to consider if you're tight on space...
