Real-Time Adaptable Residential Kitchen: A Plug-In Standard

Authors

• Rachel Fuelberth, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Sharon Kuska

Date of this Version

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

A design thesis presented to the faculty of the College of Architecture at the University of Nebraska in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture

Major: Architecture

Under the supervision of Professor Sharon Kuska

Lincoln, Nebraska, May 2026

Comments

Copyright 2026, Rachel Fuelberth. Used by permission

Abstract

This thesis looks at how a real-time adaptable standard could be put in place within the modern kitchen to allow for equitable use of the space by numerous members of the household and their differing physical characteristics. The residential kitchen is a fundamentally exclusionary architectural construction designed around able-bodied, average-height adults. This excludes children, the elderly, anyone outside of the average height, and people with mobility differences. The kitchen has never been a place of equity. It has been designed to be used by an average-height female, and it does not account for the discomfort of those outside this norm. Research was also done to understand how young adults view their kitchens. This was done through a survey that looked to gain a greater understanding of the critiques that the average person may have of their kitchen space. In addition, a research study was done to gain real data from participants to see what the most comfortable range for them to work and cook at. A real-time adaptable standard was then designed using a plug-in framework that opens the kitchen to be a more equitable space.

Advisor: Sharon Kuska