Inspired By: Ted Allen

Foodie and lifestyle icon, Ted Allen, has a knack for combining individual ingredients into show-stopping recipes that are greater than the sum of their parts. The multi-faceted talent hosts three shows on the Food Network, has authored cookbooks, is an Esquire magazine contributing writer, and has an Emmy and a pair of James Beard Awards to his credit.

As host of the hit Food Network culinary competition, Chopped, Ted ushers chefs through a series of challenges that test their skills and creativity as they julienne and saute their way to each episode’s top prize. The timed format is a nail-biter for gourmands, and Ted notes that the Chopped set is intentionally laid out for optimal chaos, “It’s designed inefficiently to make the challenge more difficult. Do not design your kitchen like the Chopped kitchen — it creates panic.”

In his real-life kitchen, in the Brooklyn brownstone he shares with husband Barry Rice, Ted favors order, efficiency, and a logical workflow. Little considerations, like making sure the dishwasher is installed in close proximity to the dishwashing station, promote harmony in the space. “It’s all about workflow — appreciating the different functions of the room,” Ted said. “Along the long walls of our rectangular room, we have stainless steel counters with a small prep sink and dishwasher. On the other side, we have a small bar sink with a coffee maker and banquette.”

Ted designed the kitchen around a 6-burner Viking range, which he placed in the center island. He explained this layout makes sense for filming or teaching a small class, and added, “We can have up to five chefs at once in our kitchen.”

To create a space where everyone can relax and enjoy a good meal, the kitchen had to be a thoughtful study in efficiency and hospitality. We asked the Food Network star to share his favorite design secrets for turning the heart of the home into the ultimate space for entertaining. Ted perused Build.com for some chef-worthy picks, and here are his recommendations:

Cook

Viking Range + Dacor Range Hood

The starting point for the food expert’s kitchen design was a formidable 6-burner Viking gas range. Ted said a strong, efficient range hood is essential. “This allows me to do things like pan-fry steaks or roast turkeys without the whole house smelling like food for three days.”

Clean

Bosch Dishwasher

“The dishwasher next to the dishwashing space promotes harmony,” Ted said.

Prep

Pre-Rinse Faucet + Sink + Cutting Board

“Principles of flow equate to making the kitchen usable by a stranger. We don’t want anything hidden… our cutting board is out all the time,” Ted explained.

Chill

Viking Fridge + Wine Cooler + Ice Maker

Ted advised, “Efficient placement of the stove, fridge, dishwasher, and sink is number one! I also really prize close access to the outdoor grill area.”

Style

Wall & Floor Tile + Cabinet Pulls + Pendant Light

Ted stressed the importance of task lighting, and added, “Lighting which is dimmable is important in order to set the mood. I have a pair of pendants that hang over our island.”