7 steps to YOUR PERFECT KITCHEN
Andrea Fawell of property developer Kebbell (www.kebbell. co.uk), shares her top tips on making your kitchen look and feel welcoming...
1 Hardworking kitchens need to be clutter free. Aim to keep your worktops free of paperwork, bits and bobs and ingredients. Clear space by recycling any gadgets or crockery you no longer use.
2 Refresh your cabinets: If your cabinets are looking tired, consider changing the doors or simply give them a lick of fresh paint. Even changing your cupboard handles and drawer pulls is a really simple way to update them. 3 Splash out on splashbacks: Modernise the look by adding glossy tiles with reflective coloured glass, textured antique or Morrocan patterned tiles. Or simply refreshing the grout can make a big difference (see page 107 for tips on reviving your grout).
4 Invest in one standout item: Choose a piece that will give your kitchen a talking point; perhaps a sleek coffee machine, hanging copper pans on a rack or sparkling long-stemmed wine glasses on display.
5 Refresh your paintwork – because splashes of tomato or oil stains are never a good look! Many brands have very good washable ranges.
6 Herbs and plants: Plants help to filter the air and are said to be soothing and restorative. Display fresh
herbs on your windowsill in matching pots to add fragrance as well as taste to your cooking. (See page 108 for a fun hanging herbs project).
7 Don’t forget the window: A room looks unfinished if the window is undressed. Shutters are practical but quite an investment or you could choose blinds or curtains in washable, quick-drying fabrics.