Cooking, eating and entertaining are at the heart of many of the most joyous moments we have in our homes.
When we come together with family to have breakfast or when it’s time to pop the cork on a bottle of sparkling to celebrate a special occasion with friends, we often do it around the kitchen bench.
If you’re building or renovating, this is the space that really does deserve some extra-special attention to detail when it comes to planning. Because if you get this space right, it’s going to pay dividends – not just when you boil the kettle for the first time but for years to come.
Image: Darren James Interiors | Staron Solid Surfaces
GET PERSONAL
Forget the textbook advice, the trends and the layout your best friend swears by. Your personal situation is unique and your dream kitchen should reflect that.
Too often, we make decisions based on what we’re told works and then when it is put to the test, it doesn’t actually suit our individual needs.
If you’re not a big cook, don’t bother with a steam oven. If you love to entertain but hate the mess, a butler’s pantry will work for you.
Get real about what your everyday life looks like and plan accordingly. Make a list of what a usual week looks like for you and have that ready when you meet your expert designer.
Image: Affinity Windows
ASK THE EXPERTS
There is a lot to be said for bringing in the big guns when it comes to designing your kitchen. These guys know their way around the perfect kitchen and experience has taught them a trick or two.
They’ll help you with all the things you’ve probably never thought about, such as work flow, ergonomics and storage optimisation.
And the best thing is, they can often help you save money with their buying power and contacts.
Take your time to find one who you feel listens to you and is inspirational.
DETAILS
The kitchen really is the workhorse of the house. The details are what will make it go the distance.
If the budget is tight, splurge on the things that will make your life easier. Quality hardware and tapware is always worth the spend and if you consider your options carefully, it will also make cooking an absolute dream.
Items such as lighting are important since they can set the entire mood and help you get more use out of the space.
Don’t be sucked into including things, just because your neighbour has it. If it doesn’t work for you, you do not need it.
Image: Staron Solid Surfaces
TIMELESS APPEAL
One of the most common dilemmas that interior designers face is making selections that look modern and on trend without creating a monster that will date the second those trends move on.
The answer is to choose finishes and fixtures that speak to the client, not to magazines. Everyone has creative flair buried in them somewhere and if you choose the things that really feel right to you, chances are you will love them a lot longer.
Picture: Jason Windows | Dale Alcock Homes | Photo by D-Max Photography
SHOW STOPPER
If you’re looking for some practical wow factor for your kitchen and your household loves spending time outdoors, then Jason Windows could have just the ticket. Install one of their specialty gas strut awning windows and you have instantly set the standard next level for indoor-outdoor entertaining.
