KEEP YOUR COOL

Socialising and having dinner with friends was at the heart of Kirsty’s kitchen design. And while she might not have been able to put it to full use over the past year, there’s one important feature that would still have come in handy – her wine fridge. Dedicated drinks storage may seem like a luxury, but can be useful in helping to free up space in a busy family fridge. Nowadays, there are lots of affordable options to be found that can suit any space.

A A wine fridge needn’t take up much room. In both Kirsty’s kitchen and this Westbourne design from the House Beautiful Collection at Homebase (from £2,120), the wine fridges slot in next to other drawers and cupboards within the island.

B This super-slim number is the Sense Wi156 undercounter

wine cooler, £360, from Caple. It can store up to eight bottles, so you can be sure to have a chilled one at the ready for visitors.

C If you’re serious about your wine storage or mixing up a cocktail or two, consider creating your own hidden bar, as seen in this smart design by Blakes London, revealed here with its doors opened. With an undercounter drinks fridge and shelves above, it’s the ultimate entertaining hub. From £45,000 for a bespoke kitchen.