køkken

Køkken is the Danish and Norwegian term for a room or area where food is prepared. In everyday use it refers to domestic spaces as well as commercial and institutional kitchens. The modern køkken typically includes zones for cooking, cleaning, and food preparation, and it may incorporate dining areas in open-plan layouts. The design and size of a køkken vary by country, housing type, and cultural practices. Common layouts include galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, and open-plan with an island. Key components are cooking appliances (stove, oven, range hood), refrigeration, sink, storage cabinets, countertops, and often a dishwasher. Proper ventilation, lighting, and electrical outlets are important for safety and usability. Materials range from wood, laminate, and stone countertops to metal backsplashes, selected for durability and ease of cleaning.

Historically, kitchens were separate from living areas and heated by wood or coal stoves. Industrialization introduced standardized appliances, plumbing, and mass-produced cabinetry, transforming work and social patterns. In the late 20th and 21st centuries, kitchens have become social and multifunctional spaces, incorporating ergonomic designs, energy-efficient appliances, and smart devices that control temperature, lighting, and ventilation.

Cultural variations influence køkken practices, such as meal preparation workflows, storage solutions, and dining arrangements. In Nordic contexts, there is often an emphasis on simplicity, high-quality materials, and efficient use of space. While the term køkken is most closely associated with Denmark and Norway, the concept of a dedicated space for cooking is universal in modern homes and institutions.