Homemakers' reactions to planning, developing and using coordinated food mixing centers in their kitchens

The purposes of this study were to determine reactions of homemakers to coordinated food mixing centers in their kitchens during the planning, developing, and after use stages, and to suggest ways in which educators might work more effectively with homemakers in developing efficient kitchen storage. Contacts were made in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, to locate ten women willing to develop a mix center. Reactions were noted following eight visits. Family information, and reactions after the use period were gained through questionnaires. Photographs taken before and after development of mix center showed space utilization. Mix centers were developed according to the principles of good storage. The homemakers were unaware of inefficient kitchen arrangements or storage. Storage patterns were developed with little thought when families moved into a dwelling. The homemakers could not visualize a mix center until they saw one evolve. They offered varying degrees of resistance to change. Some women, as their understanding and interest grew, were able to apply principles of storage in other areas of the home