There can be several reasons why some kitchens end up being poorly designed:
Space Constraints: In smaller or older kitchens, space constraints might limit the options for optimal kitchen design. Builders and homeowners often try to fit everything within the available space, which can lead to awkward layouts and limited functionality.
Cost Considerations: Building or renovating a kitchen can be expensive, and some people may prioritize cost savings over design optimization. This might result in compromises in the layout or choice of materials.
Lack of Expertise: Not everyone has experience or knowledge in kitchen design. Homeowners may attempt to design their own kitchens without fully understanding the best practices, leading to suboptimal layouts.
Pre-existing Structures: In some cases, the kitchen might be part of an existing building or floor plan, and significant structural changes are not feasible or affordable.
Regarding the specific example you mentioned, with the oven adjacent to cabinets that hinder their full opening, this issue could arise due to:
Limited Space: In smaller kitchens, the available space might not allow for sufficient clearance between the oven and adjacent cabinets, making it difficult for the cabinets to open fully.
Standardized Designs: Some kitchen layouts are designed with pre-made cabinets and appliances in mind, without considering customizing the arrangement to suit individual needs.
Poor Planning: Inadequate planning during the kitchen design phase might lead to suboptimal arrangements. The designer might not have considered the full range of motion required for the cabinets to open comfortably.
Retrofitting: In cases where a new oven is installed in an existing kitchen, the placement might not align perfectly with the original cabinet layout, resulting in restricted cabinet movement.
It's essential to keep in mind that kitchen design can be challenging, and what might seem like a logical arrangement on paper might not work as well in practice. To avoid such issues, it's best to work with experienced kitchen designers or consultants who can create customized solutions based on your specific needs and the available space. Additionally, newer kitchen design trends often focus on maximizing functionality and efficiency, so newer kitchens might have fewer of these design problems.