In the last few decades, kitchens have evolved from being utilitarian spaces to becoming a real reflection of the lives we choose to live. And as the trend towards cocooning and smart houses has grown, so too has the desire to create kitchen spaces that tick the ‘functional’, ‘aesthetic’ and ‘liveability’ boxes. Transforming that initial idea begins with examining the style you best relate to. From there, the finishes, countertops, appliances, fixtures and colour palette will flow.
#1 Choosing a style
As far as style goes there are a variety of options to choose from, so it’s worth the time to examine references for kitchen inspiration. You may have an affinity for timber, which is enjoying something of a revival in conjunction with manmade stone. You may love intelligent appliances concealed in cleverly designed joinery systems. What colours do you love to live with? Contemporary dark kitchen designs featuring black finishes, surfaces and joinery makes for a timeless aesthetic and in combination with textured timber accents, creates a beautifully rustic , yet warm feel. When designing the kitchen, consider the appeal of islands, a separate larder or walk-in fridge if space allows. The latest high-end kitchen design focuses on multi-tasking, free-flowing arrangements with a paired-back look. Materials like steel and glass work well with integrated appliances and handleless doors. There’s also something to be said for a curated look that incorporates carefully styled shelving, and nooks and crannies to house selected art pieces or books, freestanding appliances and comfortable seating, all of which lend instant personality and lived-in appeal. Clean and with few embellishments, white Shaker kitchens with island seating are also a popular option. And on the opposite end, floating kitchens can take style, colour and sophistication to a whole new level.
#2 Selecting a reputable joinery
If you’ve never employed the services of a joinery company before, it’s wise to do some research. Your questions around kitchen cabinet suppliers should include finding out what materials they work with, what construction methods they favour, do they stand out in the industry, have they been recommended, can you view their previous completed work and do they have a showroom you can visit. A good reputation, track record and longevity in the industry are all imperative to creating the best space possible that is in line with your vision. Remember, the joinery will be responsible for creating a host of items in your new space including kitchen cupboards, doors, handles and draws. Handleless kitchen cabinets are trending and creates a sleek appeal, with international kitchen trends favouring a pared-back, streamlined look, together with simplicity and unique joinery details.
#3 Narrowing down the best counter tops
Naturally you’d want kitchen counter tops and work surfaces to be functional, durable, pleasing to the eye and appropriate for the task at hand. Timber is great for small areas like bar tops and dinettes but not ideal for wet areas. Solid Surfacing like Corian and Staron have great applications for moulded sinks, coved upstands and splash backs. Engineered stone brands such as Caesarstone have recreated the look of marbles and granites whilst offering a harder, more durable, less porous solution. When it comes to splashbacks, stone cladding, glass and tiles make for a great addition to the space where texture can be introduced. The materials and colours you choose are integral to your overall kitchen design, so be open to advice and guidance from your suppliers and joinery design team.
#4 Cherry-picking your appliances
If you’re planning on all-new appliances, consider whether you want them freestanding or integrated, and for smaller items, if they will be concealed or peppering the countertops. Lighting is also important – you’ll need to ask yourself if you want functional task lighting or ambient lighting, or a combination of both. The lighting aesthetics will add so much to your overall kitchen look, so it’s important to spend time when choosing. This is where the knowledge and skills of a reputable joinery company are vital in assisting with the decision making process.
#5 Last, but not least
Be mindful of details such as your preferred style of sink and how many you’ll need; which type of taps are most suitable; grocery and utensil storage solutions are the kind of considerations that further enhances your experience in your kitchen. Bespoke furnishings and fittings, down to the kitchen handle details, are the items that enhance the overall look in your curated kitchen area.