HEART OF THE HOME

The kitchen is where it will pay to turn up the heat when making improvements

ESTATE agents will tell you one of the best spaces in which to do home improvements is your kitchen, as it gives you a good return on investment if you sell.

Even if you’re not selling, it makes sense to improve this hightraffic space to your liking – but not to spend more than 10% of your home’s value.

Once you have your kitchen kitted out, there are ways to make the space both practical and attractive without too much expense.

Simplicity is key, and a neutral palette is safe.

We asked three interior designers, Melanie Cook (MC), Liza Watermeyer (LW) and Ester Venter (EV), for advice.

KITCHEN TRENDS:

Screed flooring is still a big trend for 2018. Screed products and methods have improved to give a much smoother finish.

Dramatic dark colour palettes are fashionable, and clever solutions to customise space. Allow as much natural light to flow in as possible, so keep the windows uncluttered. Timeless trends include central islands with bold lighting above.

Minimal upper cupboards and, instead, all-in-one cabinets with open shelving. Appliances integrated into the work counters, which open to the living area.

Open up your workspace as much as possible. Declutter and get rid of oversized appliances. Floating shelves increase your storage space without adding the bulk of built-in cupboards.

Store your appliances in cupboards so your work surfaces are clear.

Screen off the butler’s sink and washing appliances with a door so the mess is hidden from your open-plan kitchen/living space.

Is an outdoor kitchen with a builtin oven worth it?

It depends on your lifestyle. Most South Africans love being outdoors and entertaining at home. A small outdoor kitchen space may be costly, but it generally adds value.

It’s a matter of practicality and affordability. In very windy environments, for instance, it would be completely impractical.

Look at the area in which you live. Do homes around you have outdoor kitchens? If you won’t get a return on the investment, don’t do it.

What are contemporary flooring and walling options?

Printed tiles are a big trend now, both on walls and floors. These can be used to create a striking back-splash, or to complement your cupboards/counter tops.

Find the balance of practicality and aesthetic. Your kitchen floor should last for several years. The wood look – in herringbone or wide planks – is trending, in ceramic, bamboo or vinyl. Screeds in greys, whites and honey are also in.

Ceramic or porcelain tiles are the most practical option.

Are granite tops worth the expense?

Granite is durable, but is a costly to remove and replace. There are many on-trend alternatives, including Caesarstone, café quartz, neolith and solid concrete.

Granite is more hygienic and doesn’t stain. If other homes in your area have granite tops, the investment is worth it.

Make the best use of lighting options to ensure your kitchen looks brighter and bigger, declutter the entire area and get rid of oversized appliances.