Abstract:
A system and method is provided for identifying activity levels in a kitchen workspace and recommending zones which will facilitate the design and/or redesign of the kitchen workspace. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a software package for receiving user input relative to the user&#39;s activity level in the kitchen workspace and using that user input to identify the user&#39;s activity level and associate an identified activity level profile with one or more recommended zones for the kitchen workspace.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0002]     The invention described herein relates to a system and method for identifying activity levels in a kitchen workspace and recommending zones which will facilitate the design and/or redesign of the kitchen workspace. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a software package for receiving user input relative to the user&#39;s activity level in the kitchen workspace and using that user input to identify the user&#39;s activity level and associate an identified activity level profile with one or more recommended zones for the kitchen workspace.  
         [0003]     2. Description of the Related Art  
         [0004]     Whether for new construction or a remodeling project, the design of a layout of a kitchen and the selection of the equipment and appliances and cabinetry that goes into the kitchen design is often a complicated and time-consuming process. Whether by the consumer themselves or by a certified kitchen designer (CKD), the person creating the kitchen design is often at a loss to completely ascertain the user&#39;s preferences and desires with respect to the layout of the kitchen and the equipment to be used within the kitchen. Typically a kitchen designer simply uses a 2-D or 3-D layout of the physical space of the user&#39;s kitchen coupled with an estimate from the user as to the budget involved (see  FIG. 1 ). The kitchen designer often personally interviews the user to determine the user&#39;s preferences with respect to the equipment and layout of the kitchen. Often, the user can be dissatisfied or disappointed with the end layout of the kitchen and would often prefer other equipment after the installation of the kitchen equipment is complete.  
         [0005]     In a spectrum from planning to design to execution, the user&#39;s meeting with the kitchen designer is solely focused within the design phase of this process. Once the kitchen design is complete, the equipment and cabinets are ordered and installed in the user&#39;s kitchen in the execution phase. However, the planning stage prior to the initiation of the design meeting with the kitchen designer is critical to capturing the user&#39;s vision of what their new or remodeled kitchen would look like.  
         [0006]     Other computer software solutions for kitchen design include the computer software programs 20/20 or Planit which essentially allows a kitchen designer to use CAD-type software program to lay out the kitchen and provide a bill of materials for installing and purchasing the equipment in the user&#39;s kitchen.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0007]     The system and method according to the invention uncovers and captures a user&#39;s biases for the purpose of profiling and inserting the user into a classification scheme to associate the user&#39;s level of activity in the kitchen workspace with a desired kitchen zone representative of the user&#39;s actual (or desired) level of activity in one or more areas.  
         [0008]     Each level of activity within the classification scheme has various solutions associated with them. Both the classification schemes and solutions are biased on input from users as well as experts (chefs, designers, consumers, manufactures, etc. . . . ). The system and method contemplated in the kitchen classification scheme according to the invention also contemplates a continual refinement of the solutions and classification scheme incorporated within the invention to account for changes in consumer behavior, technology (such as new innovations in the kitchen market), marketplace trends, and actual purchases made by consumers to determine whether the actual decisions made consumers match the classification scheme and the solutions associated with each stage w/in the classification scheme.  
         [0009]     The activity level profile coupled with associated kitchen zones can then be used by a kitchen designer (or by the user themselves) to more accurately select and design the kitchen workspace to reflect the user&#39;s activities therein.  
         [0010]     In one aspect, the invention relates to a method for recommending an appropriate kitchen workspace design comprising the steps of: defining a plurality of activities performed by a user of a kitchen workspace; associating each of the plurality of activities with at least one kitchen workspace zone; assessing the user&#39;s level of each of the plurality of activities that the user performs in their kitchen workspace; and recommending one of the at least one kitchen workspace zone corresponding to the assessed level of activity.  
         [0011]     Various embodiments of the invention are also contemplated. The step of assessing the user&#39;s level of each of the plurality of activities can comprise the step of presenting at least one statement to the user about each of the plurality of activities and obtaining a response from the user to each of the at least one statement. The plurality of activities can comprise at least one activity selected from the group consisting of: baking, cooking, entertaining, staging, children involvement, preparation, and cleanup. The at least one kitchen workspace zone can comprise a subset of equipment appropriate for the associated activity for the at least one kitchen workspace zone. The at least one kitchen workspace zone can comprise a plurality of kitchen workspace zones, and the plurality of kitchen workspace zones are associated with at least one activity. The plurality of kitchen workspace zones associated with at least one activity can be tiered into a plurality of levels, increasing according to the amount of the associated activity a user has been assessed to perform in the kitchen workspace area. The plurality of levels can comprise at least one level selected from the group consisting of: professional, advanced and basic.  
         [0012]     The step of assessing the user&#39;s level of each of the plurality of activities can further comprise the step of assigning a level of activity based upon the user&#39;s response to the at least one statement relevant to the particular one of the plurality of activities being assessed. The step of assessing the user&#39;s level of each of the plurality of activities can further comprise the step of generating a kitchen workspace activity profile comprising: a list of activities relevant to the user; and a recommended one of the at least one kitchen workspace zone for each of the plurality of activities in the list of activities relevant to the user.  
         [0013]     The step of associating each of the plurality of activities with at least one kitchen workspace zone can further comprise the step of tracking information representative of at least one of (1) user responses, (2) user confirmations of a kitchen profile, (3) a user selected kitchen layout; (4) a post kitchen design survey of the user, and (5) actual user purchases. The method can further comprise the step of refining the associations between the plurality of activities and the at least one kitchen workspace zone from the tracked information.  
         [0014]     In another aspect, the invention relates to a system for recommending an appropriate kitchen workspace design comprising: a predefined plurality of activities performed by a user of a kitchen workspace; at least one kitchen workspace zone having a predefined association with at least one of the plurality of activities; an assessment device for gauging the user&#39;s level of each of the plurality of activities that the user performs in their kitchen workspace, wherein the assessment device classifies the user&#39;s level of activity into one of at least one level within each zone and can produce output corresponding to the classified level of activity; and a recommender engine capable of receiving the output from the assessment device and displaying to a user a recommended one of the at least one kitchen workspace zone corresponding to the assessed level for each of the plurality of activities.  
         [0015]     Further embodiments are also contemplated in accordance with this invention. The assessment device can comprise a survey comprised of a plurality of statements relating to at least one of the plurality of activities. The assessment device can comprise an interface in which a user can provide responses to the plurality of statements. The plurality of activities can comprise at least one activity selected from the group consisting of: baking, cooking, entertaining, staging, children involvement, preparation, and cleanup. The at least one kitchen workspace zone can comprise a subset of equipment appropriate for the associated activity for the at least one kitchen workspace zone.  
         [0016]     The recommender engine can associate at least one of a plurality of activities with a corresponding appropriate tiered level of one of the kitchen workspace zones associated with the at least one activity. At least one of the assessment device and the recommender engine can generate a kitchen workspace activity profile comprising: a list of activities relevant to the user; and a recommended one of the at least one kitchen workspace zone for each of the plurality of activities in the list of activities relevant to the user. A tracking device can be operably interconnected to the associated plurality of activities and at least one kitchen workspace zone and adapted to track information representative of at least one of (1) user responses, (2) user confirmations of a kitchen profile, (3) a user selected kitchen layout; (4) a post kitchen design survey of the user, and (5) actual user purchases. The information recorded by the tracking device can be fed back into the associated plurality of activities and at least one kitchen workspace zone to refine the associations between the plurality of activities and the at least one kitchen workspace zone from the tracked information. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0017]     In the drawings:  
         [0018]      FIG. 1  is a schematic drawing of a prior art kitchen design system comprising a physical layout of the kitchen workspace combined with an estimate of the users budget.  
         [0019]      FIG. 2  is a schematic drawing of a kitchen design system according to the invention comprising a physical layout of the kitchen workspace, an estimate of the users budget, and a user-specific profile of the users activity level in the kitchen workspace.  
         [0020]      FIG. 3  is a schematic illustration of a matrix of activities typically performed in a kitchen workspace and a corresponding matrix of representative kitchen zones, wherein each row of the matrix of representative kitchen zones corresponds to a row in the matrix of activities typically performed in the kitchen workspace.  
         [0021]      FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of the matrix of activities typically performed and kitchen workspace and the matrix of representative kitchen zones shown in  FIG. 3  wherein the two matrices are associated with one another and by a classification scheme in order to associate a particular activity level with a respective kitchen zone.  
         [0022]      FIG. 5  is an illustrative software interface incorporating the matrix of representative kitchen zones set forth in  FIGS. 3-4 .  
         [0023]      FIG. 6  is a flow chart of the system and method of associating user activity in a kitchen workspace with representative kitchen zones appropriate for that level of activity as set forth in  FIGS. 2-4 .  
         [0024]      FIG. 7  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional baking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0025]      FIG. 8  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “advanced baking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0026]      FIG. 9  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic baking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0027]      FIG. 10  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional cooking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0028]      FIG. 11  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “advanced cooking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0029]      FIG. 12  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic cooking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0030]      FIG. 13  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional cleanup zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0031]      FIG. 14  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “advance cleanup zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0032]      FIG. 15  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic cleanup zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0033]      FIG. 16  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional entertaining zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0034]      FIG. 17  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic entertaining zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0035]      FIG. 18  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “kid&#39;s zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0036]      FIG. 19  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional prep zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0037]      FIG. 20  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “advanced prep zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0038]      FIG. 21  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic prep zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0039]      FIG. 22  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “staging zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0040]      FIG. 23  sets forth a title screen for the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0041]      FIG. 24  sets forth an initial instruction screen for the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0042]      FIG. 25  sets forth a choice to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5  to enter a user input phase to discover the users activity level in the kitchen workspace to determine an ideal kitchen arrangement or to browse the kitchen zones set forth in  FIGS. 7-22 .  
         [0043]      FIG. 26  is an introductory screen provided to a user to introduce the user input phase to discover the users activity level in the kitchen workspace for the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0044]      FIG. 27  is an example statement set forth to a user in the user input phase to discover the users activity level in the kitchen workspace in which the user is provided with a statement and a set of icons in which the user can strongly agree, agree or disagree with the presented statement.  
         [0045]      FIG. 28  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “baking” zone) which will classified the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart.  
         [0046]      FIG. 29  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “cooking” zone) which will classified the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart.  
         [0047]      FIG. 30  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “cleanup” zone) which will classified the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart.  
         [0048]      FIG. 31  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “entertaining” and a “staging” zone) which will classified the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart.  
         [0049]      FIG. 32  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “kids” zone) which will classified the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart.  
         [0050]      FIG. 33  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “prep” zone) which will classified the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart.  
         [0051]      FIG. 34  is a summary presented to the user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5  informing the user of the relevant areas of activity garnered from the user in the user input phase and as determined by processing the logic contained in the flow charts of  FIGS. 28-33 .  
         [0052]      FIG. 35  is an additional page of the summary of  FIG. 34  providing additional information to the user regarding the outcome of the analysis of the logic contained in the flow charts of  FIGS. 28-33 .  
         [0053]      FIG. 36  is a schematic which associates the a signed levels of activity with a particular zone (set forth above in  FIGS. 7-22 ).  
         [0054]      FIG. 37  is a conclusion screen presented to the user following completion of the level of activity of the particular user in the kitchen workspace of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0055]     The system and method according to the invention uncovers and captures a user&#39;s biases for the purpose of profiling and inserting the user into a classification scheme to associate the user&#39;s level of activity in the kitchen workspace with a desired kitchen zone representative of the user&#39;s actual (or desired) level of activity in one or more areas.  
         [0056]     Each level of activity within the classification scheme has various solutions associated with them. Both the classification schemes and solutions are biased on input from users as well as experts (chefs, designers, consumers, manufactures, etc. . . . ). The system and method contemplated in the kitchen classification scheme according to the invention also contemplates a continual refinement of the solutions and classification scheme incorporated within the invention to account for changes in consumer behavior, technology (such as new innovations in the kitchen market), marketplace trends, and actual purchases made by consumers to determine whether the actual decisions made consumers match the classification scheme and the solutions associated with each stage w/in the classification scheme.  
         [0057]     The features of the inventive system and method of this description will now be described in greater detail.  
         [0058]     Turning to  FIG. 2 , a schematic drawing of a kitchen design system  10  according to the invention is set forth comprising a physical layout of the kitchen workspace  12 , an estimate of the user&#39;s budget  14 , and a user-specific profile  16  of the user&#39;s activity level in the kitchen workspace. The physical layout  12  and the budget estimate  14  are conventional tools long used by kitchen designers and would be apparent to one skilled in the art and need not be described further here.  
         [0059]     It is the generation of the user-specific profile  16  which assesses and classifies the typical activity level of a user within a kitchen workspace that is the focus of the invention described herein.  
         [0060]     The profile  16  which is generated specific to a user&#39;s activities in the kitchen workspace begins with a predefined activity matrix  18  and a predefined kitchen workspace zone matrix  20  such as those shown by example in  FIG. 3 . The activity matrix  18  is illustrated by example as a single-column matrix of activities, the activities being those typically performed by a user in the kitchen workspace. The activity matrix  18  has entries shown by example as [A 1 , A 2 , . . . , A n ]. The predefined kitchen workspace zone matrix  20  is shown by example as a two-dimensional matrix having rows which correspond to each of the rows of the activity matrix  18  and, within each row is a sub-array setting forth the particular kitchen workspace zones corresponding to each activity within the activity matrix  18 . For example, the representative kitchen workspace zones which correspond to the first activity [A 1 ] would be [Z A1-1 , ZA 2-2  . . . ]. A zone has been known for many years as being “a work triangle” where a user can perform all actions for a particular activity within a 3-5 foot triangular area.  
         [0061]     Of course, if a particular activity [A x ] had only a single representative kitchen workspace zone associated with it, then the corresponding row entry within the representative kitchen workspace zone matrix  20  would simply be: [Z Ax-1 ]. Of course, while the associations between user kitchen workspace activity and a corresponding kitchen workspace zone are shown illustratively as matrices, these associations could be stored in any suitable structure, such as a database, data file, or other storage method without departing from the scope of this invention.  
         [0062]     Turning to  FIG. 4 , a schematic illustration of the activity matrix  18  and the representative kitchen workspace zone matrix  20  shown in  FIG. 3  are shown, wherein the two matrices  18 ,  20  are associated with one another by a classification scheme  22 . The classification scheme  22  provides a map by which a particular activity level within the activity matrix  18  is associated with a kitchen zone in the representative kitchen workspace zone matrix  20 . Better said, a particular activity within the activity matrix  18  can be associated with one or more kitchen zones in the representative kitchen workspace zone matrix  20  and the classification scheme  22  enables a particular kitchen zone to be looked up based upon a scalar value of a particular activity level. For example, a low level of activity can result in the classification scheme  22  recommending a basic level of kitchen zone, while a high level of activity can result in the classification scheme  22  recommending a more advanced (or even professional) level of kitchen zone.  
         [0063]     For the purposes of this description, examples described herein will use a predefined set of activities typically performed in the kitchen workspace comprising [Baking, Cooking, Cleanup, Entertaining, Kids, Prep, Staging] (it can be thought of that the activity matrix  18  is loaded with these entries). It will be understood that additional, fewer or different user activities can be used without departing from the scope of this invention. In addition, examples of representative kitchen workspace zones will also be employed wherein each of the activities is associated with one or more kitchen workspace zones. The kitchen workspace zones described herein are tiered according to particular levels of activity. These levels are referred to herein as: professional, advanced and basic in order from the highest or most complex levels of activity down to simple or low-utility activity. It will be understood that an activity can have one, or more than one, level of kitchen workspace zone associated with that activity without departing from the scope of this invention.  
         [0064]      FIG. 5  is an illustrative software interface  24  incorporating the matrix of representative kitchen zones set forth in  FIGS. 3-4 . It will be understood that the interface is shown by example only, as there are any number of suitable interfaces which could accomplish the objectives of this invention.  
         [0065]     The exemplary interface  24  of  FIG. 5  comprises a standard computer window having a user navigation zone  26  at an upper left-hand corner thereof, an information zone  28  at an upper right-hand corner thereof, a title bar  30  extending across the window beneath the respective user navigation and information zones  26  and  28 , a callout region  32  forming a column adjacent the left-hand side of the window, and a main region  34  forming the bulk of the user interface  24 . In the example interface shown in  FIG. 5 , the predefined activity matrix  18  is shown in the callout region  32  and the representative kitchen workspace zone matrix  20 , having rows associated with each activity within the activity matrix  18  is shown within the main region  34 . In the event only a single zone is associated with a particular activity, there are no level indicators (e.g., “professional”, “advanced” or “basic”) associated with that zone, rather, the zone is simply referred to as the name of the activity followed by the word “zone” (e.g., refer to the single zone relating to kids&#39; activities in the kitchen workspace named “kids&#39; zone”).  
         [0066]     The system  10  and associated method  50  according to the invention will be further described with reference to  FIG. 6 .  FIG. 6  is a flow chart of the system  10  and method  50  of associating user activity in a kitchen workspace with representative kitchen zones appropriate for that level of activity as set forth in  FIGS. 2-4 .  
         [0067]     Turning to  FIG. 6 , the activity matrix  18  and kitchen zone matrix  20  are shown with the classification scheme  22  interconnecting the two to provide associations between the two. For convention purposes, the steps of the method { 50 } which correspond to the system  10  according to the invention are generally indicated below with bracketed numbers (e.g., { 50 }) for correspondence with the steps of the method { 50 } to the steps shown in  FIG. 6 .  
         [0068]     The method { 50 } presumes the associated activity matrix  18  and the zone matrix  20  have been previously established when a user begins the method { 50 }. The user is brought to a user input phase { 52 } in which, for example, the user is presented with a series of statements regarding activities in the kitchen and the user assesses the personal relevance and/or importance of the statement to the user&#39;s activities in the kitchen. The user can then indicate whether the user strongly agrees, agrees or disagrees with each statement. The user&#39;s responses and then associated with the classification scheme  22  to classify each user&#39;s level of activity within each of the predetermined set of activities { 54 }. The method { 50 } then generates a user profile of activity within the kitchen workspace in which the profile generally comprises a list of one or more of the activities relevant to the user and an indicator of the scalar level of activity that the user has been classified as { 56 }.  
         [0069]     The user can be given an opportunity to confirm the activity profile generated by the classification scheme  22  at { 58 }. If the user disagrees, processing returns to { 52 } and the user is given an opportunity to re-enter the user&#39;s responses to the series of statements in the user input phase. If the user agrees with the profile, processing continues to { 60 } in which preferably each activity provided in the activity profile generated in { 56 } is matched with an appropriate kitchen workspace zone corresponding to the level of activity determined within the activity profile generated in { 56 }.  
         [0070]     Alternatively, the user can simply select the particular activity profile desired by the user without requiring the user to re-enter the user&#39;s responses to the series of statements already presented. For example, if the user is unhappy with rating a low level in a particular activity, the user can simply modify the rating to a higher level (e.g., “rate me as a professional entertainer, not a basic entertainer”), and vice versa. This enables the user to have an opportunity to fix any perceived mis-rated activities to the user&#39;s satisfaction.  
         [0071]     The generated user activity profile is then provided to a kitchen designer who can then couple the user activity profile generated according to the method { 50 } and system  10  of this invention with the physical layout of the user&#39;s kitchen space as well as an estimate of the user&#39;s budget to determine an appropriate set of equipment and cabinetry to put in the kitchen workspace which matches the user&#39;s level of activity and preferences set forth in the user activity profile { 62 }.  
         [0072]     After the kitchen has been designed at { 62 }, the user is then surveyed to determine whether the generated kitchen activity profile was accurate and the suggested zones were useful in laying out the actual design of the user&#39;s kitchen { 64 }. After the post-project survey at { 64 }, the user&#39;s actual actions (e.g., the actual equipment and cabinetry purchased by the user) are also tracked at { 66 } by an appropriate information tracking device, such as a database or other information provided by the kitchen equipment provider or other third-party source of equipment provided to the user.  
         [0073]     It will be understood that it is also a feature of the system  10  and method { 50 } according to the invention that the information gathered through the steps of the method { 50 } are fed back into the information sources making up the activity matrix  18 , zone matrix  20  and classification scheme  22  to optimize the confidence level { 68 } that the system  10  and method { 50 } described herein produce optimal results for the user and future users of the system  10  and method { 50 }. Examples of information that is fed back into the activity matrix  18 , zone matrix  20  and classification scheme can include statistics of user responses to the user input { 52 }, the particular output by the classification scheme  22  { 54 }, records of generated user profiles { 56 }, whether a user typically agrees with the generated kitchen activity profile { 58 }, the associations between the activity profile and the particular recommended zones { 60 }, information representative of the actual design layout { 62 }, user responses to the post-design survey { 64 } and the actual purchase made by a user responsive to the kitchen design { 66 }. This feedback information is then used to refine the activity matrix  18 , zone matrix  20  and classification scheme  22  { 70 }.  
         [0074]     In addition, as an aside, additional external factors can also be continually provided to the classification scheme and the zone of solutions such as expert knowledge in the field (which is developed over time) { 72 }, new innovations in the kitchen marketplace { 74 } as well as market research in user patterns in the kitchen space. All can be fed into the activity matrix  18 , zone matrix  20  and classification scheme  22  to improve the confidence level as well { 68 }. In this manner, the user becomes a design element which is coupled with the traditional elements of the physical layout of the kitchen space with an estimate of the user&#39;s budget to provide an optimal kitchen design solution.  
         [0075]     The particular predefined kitchen zones provided within the zone matrix  20  in the system  10  and method { 50 } will now be described with respect to  FIGS. 7-22 . It will be understood that the particular zones set forth in this specification are by example only and shall not be used to limit the scope of this invention. In each case, several icons are shown within the particular kitchen zone which correspond to particular kitchen-related elements (appliances, features, equipment, accessories, etc.) that can be recommended to a user who has an activity profile recommending that particular zone. In the exemplary interface  24  shown herein, moving a human interface element (such as a mouse) over the icon (whether displayed within the callout region  32  or the main region  34  results in a “pop-up” being displayed which provides more information on that particular element. Listed below the description of each zone of  FIGS. 7-22  is a table which provides the description provided in the pop-up associated with each element of the particular zone.  
         [0076]      FIG. 7  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional baking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 1.  
                         TABLE 1                       Professional baking zone.                                Combination   The KitchenAid ® Combination Oven, model KEHC309J, provides       Wall Oven   extra capacity for special occasions. The microwave assists with prep           activities like melting chocolate for baking.       Warming   Keep plates or foods warm until serving with this high-performance       Drawer   KitchenAid ® Warming Drawer, model KEWD105H, the ideal           addition to a traditional oven.       Built-In Cooling   Ideal for cooling large batches of cookies or several loaves of bread.       Racks   Reduces clutter on the counter to give you more work space.       Super Cabinet   Wire pull-outs. Full extension roll trays. Door Storage.       Multi-Level   A lower, counter-height marble slab eases the strenuous task of       Solid Surface   rolling dough.       Dry Ingredient   Typical of a commercial bakery setting, the pull-out cabinet with       Storage   storage bins (accessory) ensures ample supply of baking fl our, sugar           and other dry ingredients.       Dual-Fuel Steam   KitchenAid ® Dual-Fuel Range with Steam, model KDRP767RSS, is       Range   a combination of steam and convection technology. Chefs have been           using this technology for years. An industry first, a must-have!       Bowl-Lift Stand   The most powerful KitchenAid ® Stand Mixer, model KP26M1X,       Mixer   helps you produce professional results.       Double Drawer   KitchenAid ® Double Drawer Refrigerator, model KDDA27TR,       Refrigerator   provides you with ample refrigeration space for your baking needs           where you need it most. These drawers can also be used           independently.       Baking Wash   An additional Sink, KitchenAid ® model KSW80R0MMR and model       Area   KKFV01LP (faucet), in your baking zone ensures water close at hand           and accommodates more than one baker in your kitchen.       Pantry   This tall pantry with a smooth pull-out allows you to access areas you           never dreamed of reaching before.                    
         [0077]      FIG. 8  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., an “advanced baking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table  2 .  
                         TABLE 2                       Advanced baking zone.                                Dry Ingredient Storage   Commercial style pullout cabinet with storage bins (accessory)           ensures ample supply of baking fl our, sugar and other dry           ingredients whether you are baking for two or twelve.       Spice Storage   Eye-level storage keeps spices away from heat sources.       Multi-Level Solid   A lower height marble slab counter will make rolling dough less       Surface   strenuous.       Built-In Cooling   Ideal for cooling large batches of cookies or loaves of breads.       Racks   The racks reduce clutter on the counter, and give more work           space.       Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer   Mix large batches of heavy batter and dough with this           KitchenAid ® Professional 5 Plus Series Stand Mixer, model           KV25G0X.       Drawer Refrigerator   A KitchenAid ® Drawer Refrigerator, model KSDA24TR,           supplements a primary refrigerator, providing storage in much-           needed areas.       Baking Wash Area   An additional sink, KitchenAid ® model KSU90S0MLL and           model KKFV01LP (faucet), ensures ample water in your baking           zone. Also works well for more than one baker in your kitchen.       Stand Mixer   Accessorize cabinets with customized storage for KitchenAid ®       Accessory and   Stand Mixer attachments. This space-saving feature provides       Attachment Storage   fast storage and easy access for later use.       Combination Wall   KitchenAid ® Combination Oven, model KEMC308J, gives       Oven   extra capacity for special occasions. The microwave assists with           prep activities such as melting chocolate for baked goods.       Warming Drawer   High-performance KitchenAid ® Warming Drawer, model           KEWD105H, is ideal with a traditional oven. Keeps plates or           foods warm until serving.       Bowl Storage   Cabinet space for mixing bowls helps the baker to reduce clutter           on the counter, and have more workspace.                    
         [0078]      FIG. 9  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic baking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 3.  
                         TABLE 3                       Basic baking zone.                                Pantry   A tall pantry in minimal space. Smooth pullout allows you to           access previously unreached areas.       Bowl Storage   A cabinet space for mixing bowls allows easy access to bowls           when baking. Storage reduces clutter on the counter, and gives           you more workspace.       Tilt-Head Stand Mixer   KitchenAid ® Accolade ™ Series Stand Mixers, model           KN15E1X, feature tilt-head design for easy access to large 5-           quart bowl.       Stand Mixer   Accessorize cabinets with customized storage for KitchenAid ®       Accessory and   Stand Mixer attachments. This space-saving feature provides       Attachment Storage   fast storage and easy access for later use.       Baking Sheet Storage   Keeps your trays, cookie sheets and cutting boards in vertical           storage units.       Single Wall Oven   KitchenAid ® Single Built-in Oven, model KEBC107M,           combines sleek design with EasyConvect ™ conversion system.           Delivers professional, consistent results every time.       Countertop Surface   CORIAN ® surfaces look like marble and stone, and are easy to           maintain.                    
         [0079]      FIG. 10  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional cooking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table  4 .  
                         TABLE 4                       Professional Cooking Zone.                                Drawer Refrigerator   KitchenAid ® Drawer Refrigerator, model KSDA24TR, provides           the refrigeration space for your fresh ingredients where you need           it most.       Spice Storage   Spices stored at eye level away from heat sources.       Professional   KitchenAid ® Classic Commercial-Style Cooktop, model       Cooktop and Vent   KGCP462K, with a powerful Hood, model KICU265H, is what       Hood   every cook desires. The high-powered burners are ideal for wok-           cooking. Gas burners provide you the control you desire.       Cookware,   Adjustable wood shelves, plenty of pullouts, generous door       Silverware, and   storage and the flexibility to configure it any way you want. This       Small Appliance   cabinet will fit equipment and cookware storage needs of every       Storage   chef.       Bowl-Lift Stand   The most powerful KitchenAid ® Stand Mixer, model KP26M1X,       Mixer   helps you produce professional results.       Warming Lamps   Used extensively in restaurants, heat lamps keep any food item           warm.       Bottom-Freezer   KitchenAid ® Built-In Refrigerator, KBRC36FM, positions the       Refrigerator   refrigerated space at just the right height. Bottom drawer           accommodates freezing needs       Single Wall Oven   The 36-inch Built-In Oven from KitchenAid, model KEBC167M,           accommodates the largest cookie sheets; convection technology           makes perfect results possible.       Warming Drawer   Warming Drawers Keep plates or foods warm with a high-           performance KitchenAid ® model KEWD105H, the ideal addition           to a traditional oven.       Built-In Microwave   This KitchenAid ® Microwave Oven, model KBMS1454S, helps       Oven   create a flexible cooking/prep center where you entertain.                    
         [0080]      FIG. 11  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., an “advanced cooking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 5.  
                         TABLE 5                       Advanced Cooking Zone.                                Bottom-Freezer   The KitchenAid ® Built-in Refrigerator, model KBRC36FM, gives       Refrigerator   you the refrigerated space at just the right height. Bottom drawer           serves your freezer needs.       Glassware and Dish   Clearly display dishware and glassware for quick access       Storage with Glass       Panel Doors       Silverware and   Drawer cabinets with storage accessories accommodate the most       Utensil Storage   bulky gadget to the smallest utensil.       Cooktop and Vent   KitchenAid ® Cooktops, like gas model KKGCC766, or electric       Hood   model KECC568, offer premium performance and precision. Sleek           Hood design, model KWCU360J, inspires culinary           experimentation.       Pot Filler   Eliminates the need to move heavy pots from the sink to the stove.           It is a must-have item for the serious home cook.       Cookware Storage   Dual-action pullouts store pots, pans, and lids within easy reach.       Small Appliance   Organize cooking tools or ingredients in this Super Cabinet. Full       Storage   extension rollout trays makes storing and accessing small           appliances easy. Door storage is perfect for an immersion blender           or similar tools.       Built-In Cutting   Lose the knife block and cutting board. A cutlery cabinet liberates       Boards   counter space and the built-in cutting board completes the cooking           zone.       Combination Wall   This premium KitchenAid ® Built-in Double Oven, model       Oven   KEBC278K, combines the sleek design with our EasyConvect ™           conversion system. Simply enter the conventional cooking time           and temperature, and the oven makes the precise conversion for           professional, consistent results every time.                    
         [0081]      FIG. 12  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic cooking zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 6.  
                         TABLE 6                       Basic Cooking Zone.                                Vent Hood with   KitchenAid ® Ultima Cook Speed Oven, model KHHS179L,       Microwave Oven   provides both microwave cooking and ventilation in a contemporary           style. The Ultima Cook ™ feature will cook, brown or crisp foods in           less time!       Slide-In Range   KitchenAid ® Slide-in Gas Range, model KGSA906P, combines           traditional cooking with convection baking. This range features front           controls and continuous cooking surface in both 30″ or 36″ sizes.       Cookware   Dual-action pullouts keep pots, pan lids, and cookware stored within       Storage   easy reach.       Cooking Wash   A sink in your cooking zone ensures ready supply of water when its       Area   needed. KitchenAid ® Sink, model KSV90L1M, and pull-out Faucet,           KKFV01PP, easily fill the tallest pots.       Corner Cabinet   Make the most of your kitchen space by installing a corner sink       Storage   cabinet with storage accessories.       Food Processor   Powerful KitchenAid ® Food Processor, model KFP750, features a           large capacity work bowl. Two big feed tubes accommodate a variety           of food items.       Side-By-Side   KitchenAid ® Side-by-Side model KSRP25FN, provides ample       Refrigerator   space for frozen and refrigerated foods. A water-dispensing feature           provides chilled water without opening the refrigerator door.                    
         [0082]      FIG. 13  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional cleanup zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 7.  
                         TABLE 7                       Professional cleanup zone.                                Silverware Storage   Drawer with cutlery dividers will hold all silverware, enhancing           the appearance of your cleaning area.       Towel and Linen   Store your towels and elegant linens in separate drawers. The       Storage   drawers keep your linens fresh, and tidy up your kitchen.       Dishwasher   Enjoy the stainless steel styling of the KitchenAid ® Architect ®           Series Dishwasher, model KUDS01FL. This top-of-the-line model           features a sleek, fully integrated panel that conceals all controls.       Cleanup Wash Area   The deep, large single bowl KitchenAid ® Sink, model           KSW90L0MMR with pull-down Faucet, model KKFV01SPSS,           Hard Food Disposer, model KCDS250X, and Hot Water           Dispenser, model KHWG160P, allow you to easily wash large and           small pots.       Tilt-Out   A clever option to keep sponges, scrubbers and soaps out of sight.       Compartment       Glassware and Dish   Clean and stack your glassware and dishes upon removing them       Storage   from the KitchenAid ® dishwasher.       Double Drawer   Two independent drawers let you wash different loads on different       Dishwasher   cycles at the same time. KitchenAid ® Double Drawer Dishwasher,           model KUDD01DPPA.       Pull-Out Cleaning   Makes excellent use of unusual or narrow areas. Perfect for storing       Supply   Storage dish soaps and other cleanup items.       Trash Compactor   Eliminate unsightly trash cans. KitchenAid ® Trash Compactor,           model KUCC151L, offers a convenient, stylish way to handle           waste.       Three Compartment   Rotating three-basket design expands your kitchen&#39;s capacity for       Rotating Recycling   handling trash and recycling.       Bin                    
         [0083]      FIG. 14  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., an “advanced cleanup zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 8.  
                         TABLE 8                       Advanced cleanup zone.                                Pull-Out Cleaning   Make excellent use of unusual or narrow areas. Perfect for storing       Supply Storage   dish soaps and other cleanup items.       Cleanup Wash   A 10-inch deep, Dual Bowl Sink, KitchenAid ® model       Area   KSW10C0MMR, combined with long, tubular Faucet, model           KKFV01LPSS, Hard Food Disposer, model KCDS250X, and Hot           Water Dispenser, model KHWG160PSS, allows you to wash your           deepest pots without splashing water everywhere.       Towel and Linen   Under-the-sink storage includes space-saving linen drawers.       Storage       Double Drawer   KitchenAid ® model KUDD01DPPA features independent drawers       Dishwasher   that wash small loads while saving energy. Waist-level top drawer           provides easy access with less bending.       Glassware and   Clean and stack —that is essentially what dedicated storage for       Dish Storage   glassware and dishes allows you to do when it&#39;s located near your           KitchenAid ® dishwasher.       Silverware Storage   Drawer with cutlery dividers accommodate all your silverware,           eliminating clutter and chaos from your cleaning area.       Two Compartment   Neatly collect items for recycling without cluttering the kitchen.       Pull-Out       Recycling Bin       Trash Compactor   Do away with unsightly trash cans. KitchenAid ® Trash Compactor,           model KUCC151J, offers a convenient and stylish solution for           waste.                    
         [0084]      FIG. 15  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic cleanup zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 9.  
                         TABLE 9                       Basic cleanup zone.                                Dishwasher   Energy Star-rated KitchenAid ® Dishwasher, model KUDI01IL,           combines great cleaning performance with styling. It&#39;s built-in hard           food disposer enables you to wash dishes without pre-rinsing them.       Glassware and   Clean and stack your glassware and dishes upon removing them from       Dish Storage   the KitchenAid ® dishwasher.       Cleanup Wash   KitchenAid ® double-bowl Sink, model KSW80C0MMR, and Faucet,       Area   model KKFV01LP, cleans and rinses at the same time. Hard Food           Disposer, model KCDS250X, complements your Cleanup Zone.       Cleaning   Keep cleaning supplies handy and organized under the sink.       Supply Storage       Silverware   Drawer with cutlery dividers accommodates all silverware, providing       Storage   organization to your cleaning area.       Pull-Out Trash   A neat way to collect items for recycling, and remove them from view.       Bin       Towel and   Store your towels and elegant linens in separate drawers. The drawers       Linen Storage   keep your linens fresh and tidy up your kitchen.                    
         [0085]      FIG. 16  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional entertaining zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 10.  
                         TABLE 10                       Professional entertaining zone.                                Entertaining Wash   KitchenAid ® briva ® In-Sink Dishwasher, model KIDS36EP,       Area with In-Sink   provides a separate sink for entertaining and a small dishwasher       Dishwasher   for washing glasses in only 18 minutes.       Blender   Commercial-style blender has a robust design for handling tough           jobs with outstanding results. This KitchenAid ® Pro Line ™           Blender, model KPES100, thoroughly blends frozen drinks and           soups in just 20 seconds.       Wine Cellar   The perfect dinner companion, this KitchenAid ® Wine Cellar,           model KUWA244P, stores up to 48 bottles of wine in three           different temperature zones simultaneously!       Glassware and Dish   The wall cabinet with glass front, displays your fine crystal for       Storage with Glass   all to see and enjoy. The easy-to-access display will make your       Panel Doors   guests feel at home.       Ice Maker   A clear, crisp ice supply within easy reach for entertaining is           provided by the KitchenAid ® Ice Maker, model KUIA15PRL.       Espresso Machine   Top off your evening with perfect cups of espresso blended in           the KitchenAid ® Pro Line ™ Espresso Machine, model           KPES100.       Coffee Mill   The KitchenAid ® A-9 Series Burr Coffee Mill, model KCM200,           delivers the finest grinds of coffee and espresso. The mill           combines professional performance with a legendary design.       Super Cabinet   Organize tools or ingredients in this Super Cabinet. Roll-out           trays extend to store many items in a convenient, accessible           fashion.       Wine and Cheese   Add a separate storage area for your wine accessories, Margarita       Accessory Storage   mixer, cheese cutter, etc., to make evenings more enjoyable, and           to speed cleanup tasks.                    
         [0086]      FIG. 17  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic entertaining zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 11.  
                         TABLE 11                       Basic entertaining zone.                                Entertaining Wash   Entertain your guests without moving for water,       Area   with this KitchenAid ® Sink, model           KSW55S0MMR, and Faucet, model KKFV01PP.       Blender   KitchenAid offers the most powerful premium           blenders available. Model KSB5 features a strong           motor and patented blade design.Oversized           stainless steel blades crush ice at any speed.       Undercounter   The compact, Undercounter Refrigerator,       Refrigerator   KitchenAid ® model KBCA06XP, offers           accessible refreshments in entertainment areas.       Glassware and Dish   The wall cabinet with glass front allows you       Storage with Glass   to display your wine and espresso glasses right       Panel Doors   where you need them. It is so inviting and easy to           access, that even our guests will feel at home.       Coffee Maker   KitchenAid ® Coffee Makers evenly saturate           the coffee at optimal temperatures for rich, flavorful           results.       Super Cabinet   Organize your entertaining tools or ingredients           in this Super Cabinet. Full extension rollout trays           make storing and accessing things much easier.           Door storage accommodates more in the same           space.                    
         [0087]      FIG. 18  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “kid&#39;s zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 12.  
                         TABLE 12                       Kids&#39; zone.                                Kids&#39; Wash Area   Kids can wash their hands in their own space with this KitchenAid ®           Sink, model KSW80S0MMR, and Faucet, model KKFV01LPSS.       Low Storage   Kids have easy access to their snacks and cereal.       Drawer   The KitchenAid ® model KSDA24TR Drawer Refrigerator will       Refrigerator   empower and encourage kids to help themselves to fresh fruits,           yogurt, vegetables, and cheese.       Built-In   The KitchenAid ® Microwave Oven, model KBMS1454S, at kid       Microwave Oven   friendly height allows kids to help with the cooking or to pop           themselves some popcorn.       Activity and   Work area for you to share with your kids when working together.       Work Area       Double Drawer   Independent drawers in the KitchenAid ® Double Drawer       Dishwasher   Dishwasher, model KUDD01DPPA, accommodate kids&#39; small loads.                    
         [0088]      FIG. 19  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “professional prep zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 13.  
                         TABLE 13                       Professional prep zone.                                Bowl-Lift Stand   The most powerful KitchenAid ® Stand Mixer, model KP26M1X,       Mixer   helps you produce professional results.       Small Appliance   Roll out access to tools like the KitchenAid ® Ultra Wide Mouth ™       Storage   Food Processor, model KFPM770.       Bowl Storage   Bowls and other essential containers stored within reach.       Multi-Level Solid   Solid surface counters set at two heights for multitasking or to       Surface   accommodate multiple cooks.       Cutting Board and   Trays, cookie sheets, and cutting boards all stand vertically, at your       Baking Sheet   fingertips.       Storage       Double Drawer   KitchenAid ® Double Drawer Refrigerator, model KDDA27TR,       Refrigerator   provides refrigeration space for preparation (vegetables and cheese,           etc.) needs, where it&#39;s most needed. Cook in your own space while           your partner prepares salad in another space.       Spice Storage   Spices stored at eye level away from heat sources.       Prep Wash Area   Complete cleaning center offers an integrated, below-the countertop           Sink, model KSW80S0MMR, plus 360° swivel Faucet, model           KKFV01SP, with pull down showerhead. Whisper Quiet ™ Food           Waste Disposer, model KBDS250X, helps eliminate odor.       Cutlery Storage   Safely display your fine KitchenAid ® Cutlery within reach.       Trash Compactor   A fully integrated Trash Compactor, model KUCC151L, looks           stylish while reducing waste storage.                    
         [0089]      FIG. 20  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., an “advanced prep zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 14.  
                         TABLE 14                       Advanced prep zone.                                Bowl-Lift Stand   Mix large batches of heavy batter and dough with this KitchenAid ®       Mixer   Professional 5 Plus ™ Series Stand Mixer, model KV25G0X.       Cutting Board and   Trays, cookie sheets, and cutting boards all stand vertically, at your       Baking Sheet   fingertips.       Storage       Double Drawer   Fresh ingredients conveniently located where you need them,       Refrigerator   courtesy of the KitchenAid ® Double Drawer Refrigerator, model           KDDA27TR.       Prep Wash Area   Complete cleaning center from KitchenAid, offers an integrated,           below-the-countertop Sink, model KSW80S0MMR, and single           lever Faucet, model KKFV01LP, with long neck. Continuous-feed           Food Waste Disposer, model HCDS250X, cleans up with a flip of a           switch.       Small Appliance   Roll out access to tools like the KitchenAid ® Continuous Chopping       Storage   Food Processor, model KFP750.       Cutlery Storage   Built-in cutlery drawer to safely store your “chef” tools.       Two Compartment   A neat way to separate waste items.       Pull-Out Trash Bin                    
         [0090]      FIG. 21  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “basic prep zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 15.  
                         TABLE 15                       Basic prep zone.                                Tilt-Head Stand   KitchenAid ® Artisan ® Series Stand Mixers, model KSM150PS,       Mixer   feature tilt-head design for easy access to large 5-quart bowl.       Small Appliance   Conveniently store small appliances like the KitchenAid ® Chef&#39;s       Storage   Chopper Series Food Chopper, model KFC3100.       Cutting Board   Trays, cookie sheets, and cutting boards all stand vertically, at your       and Baking Sheet   fingertips.       Storage       Prep Wash Area   KitchenAid ® wash center includes top-mount, single bowl Sink,           model KSV85E2MMR, and pull-out hose Faucet, model           KKFV01PP. A continous-feed Food Waste Disposer, model           KCDC250K completes the task.       Pull-Out Trash   Waste storage where it&#39;s needed, glides away, out of sight       Bin       Cutlery Storage   Display your KitchenAid ® Cutlery, model KA1PB16TN, where you           use it.                    
         [0091]      FIG. 22  sets forth a diagram of an example kitchen zone (e.g., a “staging zone”) provided to a user of the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . Elements and a description of each element are set forth below in Table 16.  
                         TABLE 16                       Staging zone.                                Lowered Countertop   Lower counter heights are desirable for kids, and for other special           tasks.       Warming Lamps   Commercial-type keep warm lamps are great when serving buffet           style.       Warming Drawer   KitchenAid ® Warming Drawer, model KEWD105H, is a perfect           addition to your staging area. Warm several dishes at the same           time in this drawer.       Platter Storage   Your platters will stay organized and within easy reach in this           drawer cabinet below your staging counter.       Staging Wash Area   A small Sink, KitchenAid ® model KSU90S0MLL, with self-           cleaning Faucet, model KKFV01LP, provides all the water you           need for entertaining.       Built-In Microwave   This KitchenAid ® Microwave Oven, model KBMS1454S, adds a       Oven   cooking/prep center to your entertainment area.       Place Mat and Linen   Keep place mats and linens in one central location, ready for       Storage   entertaining.       Silverware and   Drawer cabinets with storage accessories accommodate all sizes       Serving Utensil   of gadgets and utensils.       Storage       Countertop Surface   CORIAN ® surfaces look like marble and stone, and are easy to           maintain.                    
         [0092]      FIG. 23  sets forth a title screen for the illustrative software interface of  FIG. 5 . This screen can be provided when the user launches the interface  24  upon initiation of the user of the system  10  and method { 50 } according to the invention. Clicking on the title screen results in the initial instruction screen for the illustrative software interface  24  as shown in  FIG. 24 . Clicking on the screen of  FIG. 24  results in the screen of  FIG. 25  being displayed.  
         [0093]      FIG. 25  sets forth a choice to a user of the illustrative software interface  24  according to the invention to enter the user input phase (see { 52 } in  FIG. 6 ) to discover the user&#39;s activity level in the kitchen workspace to determine an ideal kitchen arrangement or to simply browse the kitchen zones set forth in  FIGS. 7-22 . If the user chooses the first option (to discover the user&#39;s kitchen activity level and to generate a kitchen activity profile), the screen of  FIG. 26  is displayed. If the user chooses the second option (to browse the available kitchen zones), the user is presented with the screen of  FIG. 5 . The user can then click on the various names of the zones in the main region  34  associated with each activity type represented in the callout region  32  to display the particular kitchen zone described with respect to  FIGS. 7-22 .  
         [0094]      FIG. 26  is an introductory screen provided to a user to introduce the user input phase { 52 } to discover the user&#39;s activity level in the kitchen workspace for the illustrative software interface  24  of  FIG. 5 . On this screen, the user is simply provided with instructions on how to proceed with the user input phase { 52 } and is prompted to press the “Continue” link when the user has completed reading the instructions. Pressing the “Continue” link presents the user with a user input screen like that shown by example in  FIG. 27 .  
         [0095]      FIG. 27  is an example statement set forth to a user in the user input phase to discover the user&#39;s activity level in the kitchen workspace in which the user is provided with a statement and a set of icons in which the user can strongly agree, agree or disagree with the presented statement. When presented with a screen like that shown in  FIG. 27 , the user would assess the statement relative to the user&#39;s activity in the kitchen as described by the statement (e.g., “I love to bake”) and click on one of the icons which most closely describes the user&#39;s personal conclusion relative to that statement, e.g., strongly agree, agree or disagree. Other scoring methods can be employed by the interface, such as numerical scoring (e.g., “Rate from 1 to 5 . . . ”), weighting of particular responses over others, and the like, without departing from the scope of this invention. Particular example statements employed in the exemplary interface  24  are set forth below with respect to each activity type, although it will be understood that the statements need not be presented to the user in any particular order.  
         [0096]     For each of the logic trees presented in  FIGS. 28-33 , the numbers [ 0 ], [ 1 ] and [ 2 ] represented in boxes below each statement (abbreviated in each logic tree as “QA”, “QB”, “QC”, etc. in  FIGS. 28-33  and set forth in full in Tables 17-22 herein) correspond to a particular response received from the user. In the example logic set forth in  FIGS. 28-33 , the boxed numbers [ 0 ], [ 1 ] and [ 2 ] represent “disagree”, “agree” and “strongly agree” answers, respectively. Of course, other types, addition or fewer responses can be employed within the scope of this invention.  
         [0097]     Flow lines extend from each of the [ 0 ], [ 1 ] and [ 2 ] boxes beneath each statement which either result in the presentation of another statement to the user or the end classification of the user into a particular activity level within that activity (e.g., professional, advanced, basic and, in some cases, none). For zones with only one defined level (e.g., the “kids” zone and the “staging” zone), the logic tree simply determines whether the zone should exist or not, rather than assigning a particular level. It will be understood that  FIGS. 28-33  are an example of the classification scheme  22  which can be employed in accordance with this invention.  
         [0098]      FIG. 28  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “baking” zone) which will classify the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart. Table 17 below sets forth the definition of statements “QA” through “QF” which results in the user being classified as one of a professional, advanced or basic baking activity according to the logic tree in  FIG. 28 .  
                         TABLE 17                       Example baking activity statements.                                Bake QA   I love to bake.       Bake QB   I only bake at holidays and special occasions.       Bake QC   I bake just about everything from scratch.       Bake QD   Homemade bread, dinner rolls, or biscuits are served           with almost every meal.       Bake QE   Custards, souffles, pies, pastries, breads - I bake a variety           of things every week.       Bake QF   I usually bake large batches.                    
         [0099]      FIG. 29  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “cooking” zone) which will classify the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart. Table  18  below sets forth the definition of statements “QA” through “QD” which results in the user being classified as one of a professional, advanced or basic cooking activity according to the logic tree in  FIG. 29 .  
                             TABLE 18                       Example cooking activity statements.                                    Cook QA   I cook less than four meals a week.           Cook QB   I cook for less than three people.           Cook QC   I prefer the meals I prepare to be quick and easy.           Cook QD   Cooking is my passion.                        
         [0100]      FIG. 30  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “cleanup” zone) which will classify the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart. Table 19 below sets forth the definition of statements “QA” through “QD” which results in the user being classified as one of a professional, advanced or basic cleanup activity according to the logic tree in  FIG. 30 .  
                         TABLE 19                       Example cleanup activity statements.                                Cleanup QA   My kitchen must be organized and spotless.       Cleanup QB   I don&#39;t dirty enough dishes to run a full dishwasher load           every day.       Cleanup QC   Save the planet. I recycle everything.       Cleanup QD   I often prepare meals for five or more people.                    
         [0101]      FIG. 31  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “entertaining” and a “staging” zone) which will classify the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart. Table 20 below sets forth the definition of statements “QA” through “QG” which results in the user being classified as either no entertainment or staging activity, professional entertaining, basic entertaining or staging activity according to the logic tree in  FIG. 31 .  
                         TABLE 20                       Example entertaining and staging activity statements.                                Entertaining/Staging QA   I like to entertain and I do it often.       Entertaining/Staging QB   I&#39;m a social cook; I like to visit with my guests in the kitchen           while I create my masterpieces.       Entertaining QC   I prefer my guests to help themselves to beverages.       Entertaining QD   An endless supply of ice for cocktails, fine wines chilled to           perfection or steaming expresso - at my guests&#39; fingertips -           now that&#39;s entertainment.       Staging QE   I don&#39;t want my guests to see my kitchen when it&#39;s in use.       Staging QF   When I entertain, most of the food is catered or prepared           before my guests arrive.       Staging QG   I would like to serve my guests buffet style, with easy access           to my kitchen.                    
         [0102]      FIG. 32  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “kids” zone) which will classify the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart. Table 21 below sets forth the definition of statements “QA” through “QC” which results in the user being classified as either having kid-related activity in the kitchen, or none according to the logic tree in  FIG. 32 .  
                         TABLE 21                       Example kids activity statements.                                Kids QA   I have kids living in my home, they spend time with me in           the kitchen.       Kids QB   Meal preparation in our house is a family affair, even the kids           get involved.       Kids QC   I like the kids to be able to help themselves to snacks and           the microwave while I&#39;m cooking.                    
         [0103]      FIG. 33  is a flow chart for taking the user through one or more statements relating to activity in a particular kitchen zone (e.g., a “prep” zone) which will classify the user into a particular activity level based upon the users responses to the presented statements in the flow chart. Table  22  below sets forth the definition of statements “QA” through “QD” which results in the user being classified as one of a professional, advanced or basic prep activity according to the logic tree in  FIG. 33 .  
                         TABLE 22                       Example prep activity statements.                                Prep QA   If the ingredients aren&#39;t fresh, they don&#39;t go into my recipes.       Prep QB   I want quick, easy access to refrigerated ingredients in my           work area.       Prep QC   My partner and I love cooking together as a team.       Prep QD   Washing, chopping, slicing, mixing, kneading, seasoning - I           am the multitasking master.                    
         [0104]      FIG. 34  is a summary presented to the user of the illustrative software interface  24  informing the user of the relevant areas of activity garnered from the user in the user input phase { 52 } and as determined by processing the logic contained in the flow charts of  FIGS. 28-33 . As can be seen in the example kitchen activity profile of  FIG. 34 , the callout region  32  is populated with a list of activities relevant to the user&#39;s kitchen activity profile and each listed activity has a number of icons located beneath the listed activity to indicate the level of that particular activity in the kitchen workspace. For example, the “entertaining” activity is shown as a high level (due to the three glassware icons) and the “preparation” activity is shown as a moderate level of activity (due to only two food processor icons being shown). In the example profile shown in  FIG. 34 , no “kids” or “staging” activities were shown because the classification scheme  22  determined they were not necessary based upon the user input { 52 }. Pressing the “Continue” link in the main region  34  presents the user with the screen of  FIG. 35 .  
         [0105]      FIG. 35  is an additional page of the summary of  FIG. 34  providing additional information to the user regarding the outcome of the analysis of the logic contained in the flow charts of  FIGS. 28-33 . Pressing the “Continue” link in the main region  34  presents the user with the screen of  FIG. 36 .  
         [0106]      FIG. 36  is a schematic which associates the assigned levels of activity with a particular zone (set forth above in  FIGS. 7-22 ). The screen of the interface  24  of  FIG. 36  presents the user with recommended zones { 60 } from the zone matrix  20  associated with the particular level of activity in the generated user profile { 58 }. The user can click on the recommended zones for each activity type in the main region  34  of the interface  24  and be linked to the particular zone profile shown in  FIGS. 7-22 . Pressing the “I&#39;m Done Print My Summary” link in the main region  34  presents the user with the screen of  FIG. 37  after sending a printer-friendly document with the generated user kitchen profile and/or the recommended zones to a printer or other transmission device such as an e-mail server or a facsimile machine.  
         [0107]      FIG. 37  is a conclusion screen presented to the user following completion of the use of the interface  24 . Clicking on this screen will close the application.  
         [0108]     While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation, and the scope of the appended claims should be construed as broadly as the prior art will permit.