Q&A: Why don’t any house layouts have the kitchen in the front of the home?

Question by amber 18: Why don’t any house layouts have the kitchen in the front of the home?

We’re getting ready to build our home and we want a house layout where the kitchen is in the front of our home. I have looked at dozens of floor layouts and all of them have the kitchen in the back corner of the house.
Any ideas, anyone have the kitchen in the front?
I’m sure our home builder can help with this… but I’m starting to wonder if this is a stupid idea.
The reason we want this is because the way our house will face, the sun rises on the front right corner, and that is where I want the kitchen. We can’t turn the face of the house for other reasons…

Best answer:

Answer by Sue
Windows are one reason. From the street, the front of the house usually has the largest windows, into the living areas.

Kitchens, as they maximize counter space, usually only have smaller windows above counter height — which aren’t as visually pleasing from the outside. Working around upper cabinets, plumbing, ventilation, wires, etc. also limits the size, number and placement of windows.

Also, as the kitchen tends to be a work area, it is not as welcoming from the front door — imagine greeting guests at the door, and the first thing they see is an overflowing trash can, dirty dishes, the dog-bowl, and the rumpled dishtowels hanging over the oven door.

So, builders, in designing gracious entry areas, will put the kitchen in the back.

Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!