Kitchen makeover
heart is set on a design with an integrated ice maker and water dispenser.
These factors instantly narrow down our choices.
Consider who uses the kitchen, and write a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves before you shop.
If you’re getting a custom kitchen, consider integrating appliances into your cabinetry for seamless style. If not, buy appliances from the same range for a uniform look.
Before you shop, read up on consumer reviews, have a budget in mind and measure your spaces.
A place for everything
If you find yourself yelling at your pantry, it’s time for some storage therapy. Identify your bugbears and work with your kitchen designer to plan solutions: built-in systems to conceal rubbish, drawers for pesky hard-to-reach goods, storage at joint-friendly levels, and storage ‘‘zones’’ for optimum workflow (cleaning, cooking, consumable, non-consumable and cooking).
The custom options on offer from companies like Blum have changed kitchen storage from scream to dream – think swing-out corner shelves, multi-tiered drawers, slide-out chopping boards and oh-so-smooth soft-close hardware that’s worth every penny. Storage has never been so sexy.
Light saver
Statement pendants allow you to personalise your kitchen. Use one large one as a focal point, or a row of three over a kitchen island for wow factor. Task lighting is also a must-have – use LEDs or strip lighting under and above cupboards, and ceiling down lights to ensure your kitchen is practical.
This article originally appeared on realestate.co.nz and has been republished with permission.