Everything plus the kitchen sink
LIZ CONNOR SEEKS OUT EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL FACETS OF CREATING THE PERFECT KITCHEN
FULL-SCALE kitchen renovations can be expensive, which is why it’s important to make sensible, practical choices during the planning stage, that you won’t regret in the long-run.
While it’s tempting to opt for style over substance, the kitchen is arguably the most important room in the house, and for many families, it’s a space that needs to function as an office for homeworkers, an entertaining hub and a stand-up breakfast spot.
Consider these tips when planning your revamp...
1.Suss
“If you’re partial to a crockery collection or have a pantry bursting with exotic ingredients, storage is going to be important,” says Stephen Lynskey, head designer at Hammonds Kitchens (hammonds-uk.
out storage needs
com). “Some people don’t realise storage options are decided at the beginning of a kitchen plan, when the blueprint is being mapped out.
“Think about whether you need more drawers or cupboards, if a display unit is specifically important and how big your pantry needs to be at this stage, to avoid disappointment down the line.”
2.Bright ideas
“Lighting is so important when creating a cosy atmosphere in a kitchen. I recommend focusing on three kinds when creating your perfect set-up: top lighting, task lighting and ambient lighting,” advises Stephen.
“All three need to come together perfectly to create the mood you find most relaxing.
“Thinking about where to have shadows and where to cast light can have a surprisingly large effect on the feel of a kitchen. Aim to shed light on parts you will use regularly, such as the cooker and worktops, but play with shadows in the rest of the space to create an atmospheric and zen place to relax.”
3.Consider matt cupboards
Stephen continues: “Nobody wants jammy hands all over the cabinets.
Choose a matt finish as opposed to gloss, as they are easier to clean.
“Matt also has a timeless appeal, so your kitchen will remain fashionable for years to come.”
4.Go
Laura Davie, marketing manager for Cosentino UK (cosentino.com) says: “Keen cooks will benefit from a heat and scratch resistant surface, such as a composite surface. It’s ideal for recreating a specific look, such as marble or wood, without the hassle of maintenance.
“As for splashbacks, composite surfaces offer the opportunity to use a large, single slab splashback, making a real design centrepiece, while
for practical materials
being easier to clean with no awkward tile grouting.”
5.Visit your personal island
“If you’re the type of household that loves having gatherings in your home, thinking about elements such as seating in the kitchen, is essential,” says Stephen.
“Kitchen islands are a great opportunity to create a sociable space, but rather than having seating down just one side, why not opt for two sides so guests can face one another when socialising?
“For this, I recommend an ‘L’ shape, rather than the standard square.”
6.
Bella Glenn, design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens and Joinery (benchmarxkitchens.co.uk) says: “I would always recommend getting an expert planner involved in your kitchen design early on, to ensure you maximise the features that are important to you.
“There’s a wealth of knowledge available at kitchen retailers, who are best placed to discuss ways to achieve a bespoke look. Many manufacturers will have options available that can replicate a look at a range of price points, so if you have a style in mind, then it’s certainly worth talking this through.”
Get an expert involved