plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/mini-mag-pla… ·...

32
Plan the perfect KITCHEN

Upload: others

Post on 05-Aug-2020

2 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfectkitchen

Page 2: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

so much has changed in the way we use our kitchens. The classic, tried-and-trusted layouts that worked well for many generations have given way to new ways of working. Modern ergonomics now take their cue from work stations in professional kitchens – it’s all about the flow from one task to the next – while open-plan living has radically changed the look of kitchen furniture, giving it a more of a living-room feel. Here at Beautiful Kitchens magazine, we understand that there’s a lot to take on board when you start planning a new kitchen, especially if this is your first time or it has been a while since you took on a project of this size. This collected edition brings together some of our favourite features, including how to choose a designer, planning a layout, designing a small kitchen (after all, we’re not all blessed with acres of space), plus storage solutions and ideas for dining areas. I hope you find it useful for the start of your project and to refer to throughout.

helen stone editor Beautiful Kitchens

PlUs for more beautiful kitchens inspiration at your fingertips right now...■ download a digital edition of our magazine for your iPad, iPhone, Kindle Fire, Nook, Google Play, readr and Zinio – including back issues

■ Visit us at kitchensourcebook.co.uk

■ Subscribe to Beautiful Kitchens print magazine – visit us online (above) for the latest offers. or buy back issues at mags-uk.com.

■ See more at housetohome.co.uk/beautifulkitchens

and follow us on …

3 getting started decided to redesign your kitchen? Break your project down into these seven manageable steps and get it right first time

5 plan… How to find a designer who will help realise the potential of your room

10 splash of citrus Zingy shades of orange and lime green provide a bold hit of colour against warm grey cabinetry

14 fine dining Whether you love entertaining or just want a spot for family meals, our guide covers all the options

17 the look… Squeeze more from your space with our selection of stylish solutions for compact rooms

23 plan… the kitchen is one of the busiest, hardest-working areas of the house, but a well-considered layout will look great and make it easy to use

29 the inside story Clever internal fittings that will maximise storage space in your drawers and cupboards

32 stockists Where to buy everything you need to create the perfect scheme

original material published by Beautiful Kitchens, time inc. (UK) Ltd, Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street, London se1 0su © time inc. (UK) Ltd, 2014. Note to readers: all prices were correct at the time of creating this collection and include VAt; prices may vary depending on the supplier so please check before you buy. Colours may look different from screen to screen so please check colours before buying.

contents

Page 3: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

getting started

The Limehouse kitchen from Neptune is modern

and streamlined with a soft handpainted finish and a wealth of clever features

designed to perfection. The cabinetry for this kitchen

would cost £16,371

Buying a new kitchen is a big purchase and one that can be daunting. From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s a lot to take on board. Breaking it into manageable steps will make the process easier – think of it as a journey, and give each step all the time and consideration it needs

Plan the perfect kitchen

3 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 4: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

4 Consult A KitChen Designerto get the absolute

maximum from your space, input from a professional kitchen designer can prove invaluable. their experience and expertise will offer you plenty of simple ideas – as well as innovative ones – that you might not have even considered. kitchen designers will also have up-to-the-minute knowledge of products, fixtures and fittings, and can source everything on your behalf. ultimately, they’ll help ensure your new kitchen works as efficiently as possible.

5 set Your BuDget always be honest about your budget so that your designer can help you decide where

to save and where to invest – even if you haven’t got large sums to spend. Open shelving is less expensive than closed cupboards, for example, while capacious low-level, pull-out storage may mean you need fewer wall units, which saves on cost. it’s easy to get giddy when faced with a wealth of shiny appliances with countless programs and functions, so only invest in things you think you’ll genuinely use. and don’t forget to include installation fees, as well as the kitchen itself.

6 CAll in the ProfessionAlsit’s important to remember that the way your kitchen

is installed can make all the difference, too. a bad fitter can make any kitchen look terrible, but a good one will ensure even inexpensive units look amazing. ask friends and family for recommendations, or source a skilled person through a registered trade association, such as the fMB (federation of Master Builders). if you’re planning a larger refit or build, you may need planning permission or Building Regulations approval. Visit the planning portal (planningportal.gov.uk) for further information.

7 finishing touChes Make your kitchen feel more coherent by subtly linking finishes – pair a timber

breakfast bar with wooden stools, for instance, or upholster the seats with fabric that ties in with your splashback. little details, such as cabinetry handles, can make a big difference and transform a simple white scheme. Rather than buying everything from the same supplier, source furnishings and accessories from a variety of places, and mix things up to create an individual look. unusual objects picked up on your travels or gorgeous vintage finds will all help to create a more homely and characterful environment.

1 Assess All Your neeDsBefore you begin planning your new kitchen, think carefully

about how you want to use the space. Do you simply need a place to prepare meals or are you dreaming of a multifunctional area where you can also have lunch or dinner with family and friends? Who do you cook for, what do you cook and how do you cook it? how much storage do you need? first, have a good clear-out, so you’re not factoring in items you haven’t used for years. it’s also good to think about what you don’t like about your existing kitchen so you can focus on improving those particular areas.

3 Be insPireDhow you want your kitchen to look is, of course, a very personal choice. it really helps

to collect images and magazine tear sheets and put together a scrapbook or mood board. also, make a note of surfaces, materials or accessories you’ve seen that work well together. even something as simple as a pretty plate, tile, piece of furniture or scrap of fabric can be a great starting point for choosing a theme or colours. Don’t worry too much about cost at this point, just focus on things that inspire you, and soon you’ll be able to identify styles you are drawn to.

‘a good designer

will fulfil the

potential of

your kitchen and

ensure the layout

works perfectly

in every way’

2 MAKe A Wish listconsider your kitchen must-haves. Do you covet sleek

corian worktops, a statement island or lots of cupboards for storage? Or are there some specific appliances that you think will make your life in the kitchen much easier? everybody likes to work in their own particular way, and each person has a different list of priorities, so it’s important to write yours down right at the beginning to ensure your kitchen is tailored to your family’s specific needs. this will also save a lot of time and trouble when it comes to discussing your project with a kitchen specialist.

4 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 5: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

plan... a good designer will unleash the full potential of your kitchen, helping you to find space, function and beauty

where you never knew it existed

Unusual design details such as custom-made wine racks and a

cantilevered glass breakfast bar will bring individual character to your

kitchen. Cue & Co’s Bovingdon range in Hague Blue starts from £35,000

M ost of us will have a good idea of what we want to

achieve in terms of style and function from a new

kitchen. But using a good designer will fulfil the

potential of your room and ensure the layout works

perfectly in every way. Years of training and experience give a designer the

know-how and instinct to create a kitchen that will suit the space and your

lifestyle. They can also attend to those easily overlooked details, such as

creating neat lines along a run of units, ensuring your prep space is just

where you need it and making sure that the bin is close to the sink. Most

kitchen companies offer some form of planning; if you are having a bespoke

kitchen built, you are likely to enjoy a more comprehensive service than

with off-the-peg companies – but even here, a good designer will enable you

to get the very best from what is available across its range. The key is to find

someone you feel you can work with and who shares your vision.

5 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 6: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

WHY USE A DESIGNER?‘nowadays many people have a genuine interest in design and have been gathering kitchen ideas for years,’ says Robert Burnett, head of design at holloways of ludlow. ‘the designer’s job is to structure these ideas, offer sound practical advice and find solutions to any problems.’

Most designers will be able to provide photorealistic caD drawings or floor plans, which will show exactly what you will be getting. and don’t skimp if your budget is limited – having a talented designer on board can save you money by identifying potential pitfalls and sourcing less expensive solutions where necessary.

even the best designers need their clients to be able to answer initial questions regarding their must-haves, the way they live, or aspire to live, as well as any areas of possible compromise. it helps to make a list, ironing out any conflicts with your partner in advance and narrowing down your overall preferred style. nothing has to be set in stone at this point, but any insight into your tastes and preferences will speed up the design process. ‘then you can take all your ideas and inspirations to your kitchen designer

and let them give you the benefit of their experience,’ adds nick Bell, sales and marketing director, underwood furniture. FINDING A GOOD ONEas with researching any professional service, it’s hard to beat a personal recommendation. contact friends or family, the more local the better, who have recently installed a new kitchen. Quiz them about the pros and cons, how smoothly the process ran, time frames, and the designer’s willingness to resolve any technical issues. Many people are reluctant to talk money but it can be a great way to find out if the designer works within your budget. Recommendations can also come from your interior designer, architect, surveyor or the local planning office, but do try to visit one of the designer’s previous projects or talk to a past customer on the phone.

Many kitchen designers are affiliated with a particular brand or style of kitchen. there’s no point heading to a contemporary showroom filled with cutting-edge furniture if your heart is wedded to classic country style.

INITIAL RESEARCHtake cuttings from homes magazines, trawl interiors blogs for anything at all that inspires, and gather every fabric and material sample that catches your eye. interiors magazines and newspaper property sections are great sources of inspiration and often list kitchen stockists by area. ‘pick up as many magazines as possible. Whether you like ultra-modern, eclectic, period or country homes, there’s a magazine to suit,’ says neil partridge, co-director of nGi Design. Many counties publish glossy magazines with local kitchen design adverts and case studies. internet searches can prove useful for finding nearby companies, too, but take time to scroll through the pages as smaller businesses aren’t as easy to find. also try directories like yell.com.

some of the bigger brands now have online design tools that allow you to work out an approximate price guide, before you head to the showroom. Don’t forget that plenty of designers are willing to travel, or have a network of local suppliers, so it’s always worth calling a company whose kitchen has really impressed.

Getting professional advice on which materials work best together can result in a stunning combination, like this grey matt lacquer and walnut Urbo kitchen by Roundhouse, from £30,000

Beautiful kitchens special6

Page 7: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

YOURSELF If you’re on a budget, and feel confident, consider going it alone. Best in the case of straightforward spaces, this route can save time, especially if you are buying flat-pack and feel happy with the current layout. Measure the floor plan carefully, double-checking figures, and use an online design tool, or graph paper, to see what will fit. Most companies will be happy to look over your plans if you are buying from them.

YOUR INTERIOR DESIGNER Larger renovation projects often involve an interior designer, and their talents are increasingly being used to bring warmth and character to otherwise practical kitchen settings. They will probably only design a handful a year, whereas a popular kitchen designer can be involved with three or four a week, but many will work in collaboration with a kitchen designer and bring expertise on fabrics, colour and lighting to the mix.

‘Be prepared for The firsT

appoinTMenT wiTh The designer.

Make sure You know Your

BudgeT, preferred sTYle of

kiTchen and, if possiBle, have

MeasureMenTs aT The readY’

Hayley Shaw, head of product, Magnet

YOUR ARCHITECT If your kitchen is part of a bigger undertaking – an extension, conversion or new building – you will probably be using an architect. Adding the kitchen to their remit can help achieve visual consistency. Do make sure your architect has a solid working knowledge of kitchen design, and is up to date with the latest legislation, materials and technology. If they only design one or two kitchens a year, you may not be getting the most relevant advice.

Interior designer Rients Bruinsma created a storage-packed kitchen, with a pared-down palette of white units and Thassos marble. A similar kitchen by Rients would cost around £21,500

O t h e R aV e n u e s t O e X p l O R e

Plan the perfect kitchen

7 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 8: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

‘choosing a

designer is aBouT

finding soMeone

You geT on wiTh

and who’ll lisTen

To You. iT’s as

Much To do wiTh

personaliTies as

The producT’

James Herriot, founding director, Callerton

AT THE SHOWROOMpictures will capture your interest but seeing the actual product and getting to meet a designer in person is essential. ‘it’s key to see the detail that goes into each kitchen – something that’s not always portrayed in a magazine image,’ says Jon Rosby, managing director at John lewis of hungerford. ‘equally important is getting to meet the designer you’ll be working with. any company that only presents a sales person to you at your first visit, not the designer, should be avoided.’ narrow down your search first, to save your sanity, but stay open-minded. Don’t be put off if you don’t like the window displays; many designers can offer a huge range of possibilities. try not to request plans from more than three companies or you could end up more confused than when you started. Visiting interiors shows is another fruitful way to see a range of kitchens under one roof and to meet designers; you may also be offered an ‘exhibition exclusive’ deal.

MAKING A CONNECTIONWhile you can’t expect to bond instantly with your designer, if they aren’t at least on the same

page after an hour or so of discussing your preferences, either ask to see another designer or walk away. ‘We sometimes get customers who prefer to see a female or male designer, which is never a problem and i wouldn’t be offended if a customer swapped to one of my colleagues or asked for additional design input,’ says Magnet designer stuart Badger. planning a new kitchen is a long journey so never underestimate the importance of having a good connection. ‘You will spend many hours together, so it is vitally important that you find a designer you can work with and who can translate your ideas well,’ adds John stephens, director at Rencraft. always check references, and ask to see past work or speak to previous customers before you start. companies accredited by the kBsa or trustMark, offer additional peace of mind.

WHAT TO ASKevery company operates differently but it’s always best to get difficult questions such as costs and budget constraints out of the way first. find out if there are any design charges involved (many companies refund the design fee upon

Plan the perfect kitchen

Faced with a vast space, Davonport’s designers

devised a clever solution involving an L-shaped island unit with second

‘wet’ island inside. Davonport’s Linear range

starts from £35,000

8 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 9: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

FEAT

URE

LIn

DA C

LAyT

on

ordering), and the level of service on offer, and at what price. Buying from a bespoke company will result in a very personal service, with furniture made to order precisely to fit your space. high-end companies frequently have their own in-house installers and management teams, and are able to provide a full ‘turn-key’ solution covering plumbing, electrics, lighting and even soft furnishings and decorating. Off-the-peg kitchens are usually available more quickly, but suppliers may not be as flexible when it comes to creating unique features or dealing with awkward spaces. if the fitters are out-sourced, ask who is responsible for rectifying any problems during and after installation. also find out who will prepare the site, remove the old units, sort first-fix services and do repair work on walls and floors.

ideally you will spend a good two-hour session with your designer, discussing what you have in mind. listen carefully to advice regarding appliances and fittings – your designer will know all about the latest innovations, but don’t be afraid to ask about more affordable solutions if you’re on a budget. ‘Once you have found your designer, then talk and keep on talking,’ advises

laurence pidgeon, director of laurence pidgeon. ‘the quality of the kitchen lies in the brief and the ability of the person you’re talking to, to turn it into reality.’

THE NEXT STEPOnce you’ve ironed out your core requirements, arrange a site visit, preferably with the designer who will be working on your project, rather than a surveyor. this will allow you to discuss the layout in more depth, and reiterate what you love and hate about your existing kitchen. You can expect to receive initial designs within a week or so. Go through them with the designer, and request alterations until you are completely happy with the results. One of the main ways to delay installation is to change your mind at the last minute, so run through every eventuality and stick to your guns once the designs have been finalised. this is also the time to agree schedules and put in place any penalty clauses for significant delays. Once agreed, you’ll usually need to sign the designs or a confirmation form, and provide a deposit that secures your order, starting the production process rolling.

nEEd To knowDo shop around to find a designer you feel comfortable with but don’t get plans from more than three, as it can be confusing.Be honest with yourself – and your designer. If you hate cooking, go for basic appliances and ovens that will do the hard work for you. There’s no point in paying for extras that you simply won’t use.Work to your budget If the initial quote comes in over budget, talk to your designer about what you’re willling to compromise on. A good designer will do their best to find solutions.Make changes early on The later you leave tweaks, the more difficult and expensive it is to action them – especially if it involves moving services. Pore over every detail on your kitchen plan and get it right first time.

Architects, The Anderson orr Partnership, worked alongside Teddy Edwards to create this open-plan kitchen with cabinetry in solid oak and Warm Grey paint. Kitchens from £38,000

Plan the perfect kitchen

9 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 10: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Splash of citrus Patricia McGinnis's contemporary scheme showcases her passion

for bright, zingy shades and vintage furnishings

Feature Judith Robinson-LyttLe Photography RoRy CoRRigan

A s an interior designer, Patricia McGinnis had a crystal-clear idea of the type of kitchen she wanted in her new home. ‘When I first viewed the property, I thought it was ugly but I saw huge potential,' she says. 'Its south-facing position was a huge draw and

I knew I could improve it without too much upheaval.’ What Patricia had in mind was a contemporary-style kitchen

in a glass-box extension. ‘There had been an odd little pine dining room in a lean-to structure at the back of the house that resembled a sauna,’ explains Patricia. ‘Once walls were knocked through between this and the kitchen, it was surprising how much space I had to play with. So rather than having a series of small, impractical

rooms, I created a large one for cooking and entertaining.’Patricia asked Philip Millar of Interior 360, who she’s worked

with on numerous projects, to design the kitchen. Her biggest priority was that the scheme was both functional and visually inviting. ‘Philip’s designs are superb, and he’s very reliable so I knew I was in safe hands,’ says Patricia.

She felt that modern cabinetry would suit the space best and opted for a combination of Next125 handleless units in Truffle Brown and Natural Larch. 'They say something without being imposing,' says Patricia. 'It was also important that the units blended seamlessly into their surroundings because I wanted to include a bright orange feature wall and colourful furnishings.

Modern classic'The contemporary extension was

crying out for a cutting-edge kitchen,' says Patricia 'It’s a

Mid-Century house so I guess it also needed some

complementary furniture, and I enjoyed mixing the two styles and

adding personality'

Plan the perfect kitchen

10 BeauTIfuL kITcHeNS SPecIaL

Page 11: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

What was your brief for this kitchen renovation?Patricia asked me to design a scheme for everyday family living – it had to look fantastic and be easy to maintain. In keeping with her desire for a modern and streamlined look, she wanted concealed appliances and handleless units. The room had to also serve as a sociable space, hence the inclusion of an island with a breakfast bar facing the dining area.

At which point did you join the project?I came on board during the early building stages of the extension, which allowed for an important alteration to the original plan. Although Patricia’s house is detached, it's within close proximity of her neighbours and I felt the proposed window offered little privacy, so I suggested replacing it with a low 'postbox' design above the sink. This also freed up valuable wall space for a run of three contrasting cupboards in natural larch veneer.

What other storage systems have you included?The only appliance on display is Patricia’s Britannia range cooker, so all the rest are fully integrated behind smooth, lacquered door fronts. Even her freestanding coffee machine is housed inside the larder on a pull-out shelf, which keeps the worktops clutter free. The wall cabinets have up-and-over doors to maintain a streamlined look when open – even the extraction system is fitted neatly into a bulkhead in the ceiling. It mirrors the dimensions of the island and its lights illuminate the workstation below creating a dramatic central feature.

Did any problems arise during the course of the project?Due to careful planning and excellent two-way communication with the builders, everything ran seamlessly, from concept to completion. I found working on the kitchen design at such an early stage of the build to be hugely beneficial and key to the success of the project.

d e S I G N S O L u T I O NP h i lip Mi llar explai ns…

Heart of the home'An island is such a great place for entertaining and I loved the idea of cooking while facing the dining table,' says Patricia. 'Although I have a separate sitting room, I wanted the kitchen to be the social centre of my house'

Easy accessTo the right of a narrow pull-out larder, Philip designed a bespoke unit with a handy pull-out shelf for the Nespresso coffee machine

Plan the perfect kitchen

11 BeauTIfuL kITcHeNS SPecIaL

Page 12: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

The layout

the oWneRs Patricia McGinnis, owner of Maven Interior design, and her five-year-old son Lalit

theiR hoMe a three-bedroom 1960s detached house in Belfast

the PRoJeCt Removing dated cabinetry and fixtures and adding a modern extension to create a well-proportioned open-plan room for cooking, living and entertaining.

RooM siZe 6.2 x 4.9m

designeR Philip Millar at Interior 360

CabinetRy Next125 handleless kitchen with NX120 units in natural larch finish and NX502 in Truffle Brown matt lacquer, from £15,000, Interior 360

budget £18,500

Project profile

Zest appealPatricia has used her favourite colour

to create a striking feature wall. ‘I adore orange; it’s such a warm and vibrant colour and somehow goes

with everything,’ she says

Plan the perfect kitchen

12 BeauTIfuL kITcHeNS SPecIaL

Page 13: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

CabinetRy Next125 handleless kitchen with NX120 units in natural larch finish and NX502 in Truffle Brown matt lacquer, from £15,000, Interior 360

suRFaCes Silestone in unsui worktops, £295lin m, Interior 360. Porcelain floor tiles, £45sm, Shellard Tiles. Wall paint, french Grey intelligent matt emulsion; for a similar feature wall colour try Orange aurora intelligent matt emulsion, both £19.50 per litre, Little Greene

aPPLianCes L-Line 100cm dual-fuel range cooker, £2,599, Britannia. esto ceiling extractor, £930, GWa. freestanding microwave, £89, Samsung. fully integrated fridge freezer, £615; fully integrated dishwasher, £459, both Siemens

sinK and taPs kubus undermounted one-and- a-half-bowl sink in silk steel, £210; Bern monobloc mixer tap in silk steel, £199, both franke. Basic boiling-water tap, £685, Quooker Finishing touChes for an alternative dining table try ercol Originals Plank design, £885, Barker & Stonehouse. Vitra Panton dining chairs in chartreuse, £200 each, Occa-Home. ercol red bar stools, £200 each, Nest. Nespresso coffee machine, £150, House of fraser. Parlour Lighting ceiling pendant, £725, donna Bates design. for a similar copper floor lamp try Tom dixon, £785. andromeda table lamp, £450, calligaris at Interior 360. kartell Red cindy lamp, £149, ambientedirect.com. Ruark R4i music system, £599, Lyric Hi-fi

The details

‘IntroducIng colour Is

a great Way of addIng

fun and Interest to your

kItchen. If you choose

a neutral or muted tone

for the cabInetry, there’s

no reason Why you can’t

be darIng WIth a vIvId

feature Wall’

Salvaged stylePatricia inherited the table from her parents and paired it with complementing retro-style chairs. ‘I grew up with this table so it’s lovely that my son Lalit and I can keep it alive with lots more happy memories,’ says Patricia

Fall in lineSurrounding the 'post

box' window, handleless units and fully integrated

appliances ensure a look of symmetry and simplicity

Plan the perfect kitchen

13 BeauTIfuL kITcHeNS SPecIaL

Page 14: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Whether for entertaining or family meals, a place to eat is essential in the modern-day kitchen

fine dining

Plan the perfect kitchen

14 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 15: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

LEFT This white leather bench complements the walnut table and blends well with the pale scheme

RIGHT Modulnova’s Light kitchen shows how a low-level dining area at the end of an island can be a clever use of space. Modulnova is available from DesignSpace London; kitchens start from £25,000

with the advent of open-plan living, the formal dining room has all but disappeared, the space now procured to enlarge the kitchen and create a place where everyone can gather. today, it’s all about eating in the kitchen, where cooks can maintain contact with guests when entertaining, and where it’s easy to keep an eye on the kids when prepping family meals.

the kind of dining area you create really depends on your taste, lifestyle and the size of the space available. a long refectory-style table with ample seating is great for gathering the whole family together and for casual dining, but if you entertain a lot, you might want something more glamorous. Where space is at a premium, look at built-in seating such as a banquette to make the most of every inch and to keep the dining area contained. and, if you have a young family, prioritise practicality – there’s nothing to stop you having sleek, smart and gorgeous

furniture, but keep it looking that way by ensuring all surfaces are easily wiped clean.

su r face m at t er sthere is a vast choice of tables available to suit every style and budget. Your space and the number of people you tend to cater for will inform your choice, but do think about how the size and shape of your furniture will work with the scale of the room – it needs to be in proportion. extending tables are the most versatile option; round ones can be more convivial for up to eight; and beyond that, a long rectangle offers more accessible space.

Design shops, furniture specialists and department stores all offer a great deal of choice and, with the formal dining room falling out of fashion, antique and second-hand retro pieces are very affordable. if you’re struggling to find what you want, consider commissioning a

custom-made piece. find a furniture-maker on the Guild of Master craftsmen’s website, findacraftsman.com, or discuss designs with your bespoke kitchen company.

Pull uP a PewOften it’s the seating that delivers the most impact. the current trend is for completely mismatched chairs, each one different, but you don’t have to go that far. Modern designs will sit quite happily with a rustic farmhouse table, while metal or painted ones work well alongside wood. upholstered chairs are the exception, as they look better with a more formal table. if you have a very striking table, perhaps something with a dynamic shape or brightly painted legs, it’s a good idea to make the seating recede. in this case, keep the style simple and choose a colour that is similar to the floor shade – dark grey on a slate floor, wood on wood or

‘Eating in thE kitchEn is a grEat way to kEEp guEsts with us

whilE wE cook, and an informal approach puts thEm at EasE’

Designer Laurence Pidgeon

15 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 16: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

LEFT Banquette seating nestled within an L-shaped island creates a sociable seating space at the heart of this family kitchen

RIGHT A central pedestal on a round table ensures no-one gets stuck with straddling a leg

Need to kNow n Built-in  seating uses every inch and can work around tricky features such as central pillars.n Consider extending a long island with a lower-level dining table.n Banquettes make good use of corners or can be positioned along the back of an island, with the cabinetry as a back rest. Access can be tricky, though.n Benches accommodate more diners, and the area below fitted designs can be used for storage.n On the table, allow a minimum of 60cm per place setting; the average table height is 75cm.n Choose practical fabrics for upholstered furniture and treat with stain- and water-repellant protection.n In small schemes, choose designs that coordinate with your kitchen for clutter-free simplicity.n Ensure you have clearance through hallways for large pieces.n Folding or stackable chairs can be used to boost space as needed.

white on a pale floor, for example. in a small room, try benches or a banquette, which is essentially a bench seat with a back fixed to the wall. cushions and upholstered finishes can all add comfort, but any good chair should offer ample support through its design.

the Perfect sPotnot all rooms will allow the luxury of choice, but if you are planning furniture in an open space, think about the following: where possible, site the table in natural light and with a view – sitting there offers the longest opportunity to take in surroundings, and it should work at all times of day and evening. try to avoid putting it in a thoroughfare – it’s annoying for both those eating and anyone trying to get past – and place it within view of the kitchen, but not so close that it hampers the cook’s movement. in smaller rooms, one end or a corner provides a dedicated area. in large, square rooms, the best available spot may be in the centre where the table can double as a prep zone, but make sure there’s enough chair clearance – allow 60cm – and avoid placing seats with their backs to the oven or other danger hotspots. a rectangular or l-shaped island with enclosed banquette seating is an excellent use of this kind of space.

DesigneD in styleWhether it’s in the centre or in a corner, aim to anchor the dining area in the room. Big or bold tables may not need much help, but a change in flooring or a large (and cleanable) rug, can create some boundaries. corner dining areas can be given a whole mood of their own with a dedicated wall finish – mirrors are excellent at increasing the sense of space and boosting light, but choose soft, distressed glass for a relaxed, less austere finish. a wall of art is a great way to add personality and create a focal point.

setting the scenea considered lighting scheme is a must. choose a striking pendant fitting to draw the eye, or try a strip of leDs or uplighters along the top of banquette seating to cast a warm, soft glow. for a relaxed and welcoming mood, go for a combination of ambient sources, and make sure the whole illumination system is controllable. that way you can dim lights in the functional part of the kitchen while washing the dining space in soft light. look for leDs with a warmer temperature of around 2,700k. if the dining table is to be used for work, wall lamps and overhead spots can deliver a clean, bright light to prevent eye strain in the evening. ph

oto

gr

aph

y TI

MEI

NC

UKC

ON

TEN

T.C

OM

Plan the perfect kitchen

16 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 17: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

not every home is blessed with a vast open-plan kitchen but, if your room is on the small side, there’s plenty to feel positive about. For a start, it’s easy to keep everything to hand, and you’ll find a wealth of clever storage ideas to get the very best out of every bit of space. Plus, you can afford to go for unashamedly luxurious materials – so with a limited amount of door and drawer fronts to cover, investing in a little luxe easily elevates your kitchen area.

Getting the right designer on board is key and, crucially, the kitchen needs to be tailored

to suit the space rather than picking a range or style and trying to adapt it to fit. Dual-purpose pieces and good internal storage will make the most of cupboard space. Also, weigh up the pros and cons of tall units over worktop space – small double galleys often benefit from one side of tall cabinetry with a run of base units opposite.

Keep surfaces free of clutter, too. Look for smaller appliances, choosing premium models that give the optimum internal space while still fitting a standard or smaller space. Multifunctional models, such as compact

ovens that offer a range of cooking methods in one neat package, are great buys.

When it comes to the colour scheme, conventional wisdom suggests light and bright, but the opposite can also work. Dark and moody charcoal cabinetry teamed with a dramatic lighting scheme will make the kitchen feel smart, while the use of mirrors help create the illusion of space. And don’t stint on the lighting. Incorporate adequate task lamps under cabinets for food preparation and include in-drawer and in-cabinet lighting where possible.

the look... small can be beautiful – make the most of every inch of room with stylish space-saving ideas

Side effectsIn a compact multifunctional space, open shelving at the end of the units provides storage for a living area, while wall-mounted cabinetry exposes the floor for a roomier feel. Euromobil’s Filoescape kitchen in Matt Optic White Polymeric laminate and TSS Oak textured laminate, from £12,000 at Espresso Design.

Dark magicTraditional designs can add warmth to small rooms. This light corner can handle a dark colour and has been paired with rich oak, while open shelving breaks up the run of units. The Linda Barker Shaker kitchen in Oak and Cornish Slate Matt costs around £7,200 from Wren. It’s available in 40 colours and three finishes.

17 BEAuTIFuL KITChEnS SPECIAL

Page 18: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Tunnel visionThis corridor of a kitchen has storage aplenty and its clean lines and colour scheme make it work. Dark cabinet doors with matching splashbacks help the cupboards recede, while a strip of marble floor guides the eye to a garden. A shining blade of stainless-steel worktop with integrated hob and sink completes this slick look. B3 kitchen in bronze aluminium from bulthaup holland Park, £75,000.

Plan the perfect kitchen

18 BEAuTIFuL KITChEnS SPECIAL

Page 19: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

pho

tog

ra

ph M

att

cla

yto

n

Plan the perfect kitchen

On reflectionChoosing mirrored glass for the splashback not only makes a kitchen appear bigger, it also reflects light around the space. An antiqued finish is more forgiving when it comes to steam and splashes, and here it adds depth to white gloss and macassar units. Kitchens from £27,000, Rendall & Wright.

Step by stepIn this apartment, room for the kitchen has been found in the most unlikely of places. Appliances and cupboards sit below the stairs with a run of units and a mini island for extra storage and work space. This Metod design with hyttan lacquered oak-veneer and Veddinge white-painted doors costs £1,910 from Ikea.

It’s a wrapCurves are excellent for helping with the flow of a room. This wrap-around design contains the cook, creating a sense of theatre in a relatively small footprint, and provides plenty of storage and workspace. The Malmo kitchen in solid Fumed Oak and Graphite Gloss by Burbidge costs from £10,000.

Bright ideasEye-catching details aren’t just for the big boys. This stone-clad wall has a lit inset shelf that mimics a window above the sink and a statement extractor that echoes the cabinetry by Second nature. Discreet domino hobs let the marble worktops shine. Kitchens from Residence Interior Design start from £20,000.

19 BEAuTIFuL KITChEnS SPECIAL

Page 20: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

The big revealFolding doors that concertina to show a compact cooking area and sink mean you could have a kitchen installed practically anywhere in your home. Matt white lacquered cabinetry topped with chunky Krion composite and glass splashback gives a minimal look when the doors are opened – and when they’re closed, stunning Esparto Vintage Oak veneers. Kitchens from Porcelanosa cost from £20,000.

Plan the perfect kitchen

20 BEAuTIFuL KITChEnS SPECIAL

Page 21: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

Hide and seekIn open-plan spaces, pocket doors that slide open and then fold into the cabinetry are brilliant for revealing the kitchen just when you need it. The bespoke Secret Kitchen by Mowlem & Co has full-height doors painted white to match the space, concealing bright red laminate furniture and contrasting worktops inside. A similar design costs from around £20,000.

BEAuTIFuL KITChEnS SPECIAL21

Page 22: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

feat

ure

rac

hel

og

den

o p t f o r d r a w e r s over doors and maximise unit space with pull-out storage and corner and plinth solutions. not only will it be easier to see what’s inside, it’s a great way to stay organised.t h i n k v e r t i c a l ly by continuing your cabinets up to the ceiling but plan carefully to ensure the room feels as open as possible. Store less frequently used items in high cupboards.c o n s i d e r r o o f l i g h t s or a glazed ceiling if your kitchen is dark. Keep tall cabinets and fridge freezers away from windows where they may limit the amount of daylight.

a c h i e v e a l i v i n g - r o o m f e e l by matching worktops to units and choosing handleless cabinetry.i n s ta l l ta m b o u r , sliding or pocket doors in an open-plan design to hide units away when not in use.a d d a b r e a k fa s t b a r if you can – the amount of storage and workspace it provides makes great use of the footprint and will ensure your kitchen is more sociable. look for a mobile model on castors.r e d u c e d - d e p t h u n i t s and worktops will give you more room to move – a minimum of two square

metres of space is best for comfort. i n c l u d e a d i s p l ay a r e a if you can squeeze it in. open shelves are ideal for showing off decorative items and cookbooks, which helps your kitchen to feel personal and can break up a wall of units. f i l l a g a p at the end of a run of cabinetry with something useful – slim pull-outs, towel rails, tray storage and wine racks all make sure your design is working extra hard. f i t f l o o r i n g d i a g o n a l ly or following the length of the kitchen to make it appear longer.

Moving storyBoffi’s Minikitchen is a reissue of a 1963 design that’s now executed in Corian with swivelling castors and brakes. It combines an induction hob, 50-litre fridge, storage, sockets, teak chopping board and pull-out worktop in the form of a large trolley – with everything but the kitchen sink. Priced from £26,400.

All in oneusing the same material gives a seamless look that will make a kitchen recede in a multifunctional room. Plinth lighting helps these Alpine White units appear to float, while a reflective extractor almost disappears. hI-MACS by LG hausys starts at £300lin m, kitchen by Simone Piva. For a similar design try Solidity.

Make it work for you

‘Keep materials simple. I’d recommend a maximum of three finishes

in a small kitchen, which allows you to zone areas, create features and

let other sections blend into the background’ Lindsey rendaLL, co-founder, rendaLL & wright

Plan the perfect kitchen

22 BEAuTIFuL KITChEnS SPECIAL

Page 23: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

plan…

your perfect kitchen layoutThe right design will create an efficient space that’s safe and comfortable for all the family

A sweep of units with a cook-station peninsula facing out into the room makes cooking more sociable. Hi-gloss Palazzo White units combined with Dark Oak veneer, kitchen prices start from £10,000, Wilson Fink

23 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 24: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

They may be built for cooking,

but today’s kitchens are often

designed with so much more

in mind. Depending on the

size of your room, you might want to combine

cooking and prep areas with dining and living

zones all in one open-plan space. Many people

these days want a family hub where everyone

can come together for meals, but still have

room to do their own thing – be that unwind

on the sofa, catch up with tV, browse the

internet or fit in some homework. even if you

don’t have masses of space, somewhere in the

kitchen to enjoy a glass of wine or supper with

friends will allow you to be part of the

conversation while preparing the meal. When

it comes to the functional part of the room, a

good layout will make the most of the available

space and keep everything well organised,

with the most regularly used items to hand.

But it’s not all about storage. flow is an

important consideration, especially in an

open-plan space or where there are several

doorways or an island to work around. using

the layout to steer traffic away from dangerous

hotspots and towards user-friendly areas

instead, such as a drinks fridge or seating

area, will ensure that your kitchen is a

practical, safe and sociable space for all its

users, including guests and children.

Back to Basics‘start by asking yourself what you want from your kitchen,’ advises Mark Wilkinson OBe, head of Mark Wilkinson furniture. ‘Do you love to cook? Want to entertain? need a family space? this will help you set your priorities and give your kitchen designer the best brief.’ then create a wish list of all the elements you’d like to include, from appliances and gadgets to storage, seating and dining areas.

You may also have a clear idea of things that irritate you about your existing kitchen – anything from difficult-to-reach cupboards, lack of space for your cookbooks, to the long trudge between dishwasher and crockery storage. Your kitchen designer should ask all these sorts of questions and quiz you about your lifestyle and how you like to use your kitchen, but being prepared for that first consultation will ensure that nothing is overlooked.

What is the perfect layout ?in most cases, the size and shape of your room will determine the most suitable design, and it’s always helpful to consider the classic ‘working triangle’. this concept is designed to minimise effort and walking distance between

A U-shaped layout with centrepiece

dining table maximises the narrow space.

Bespoke grey-painted cabinetry by Podesta.

Kitchens start from £30,000

24 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 25: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

caption here caption here please caption here caption here please caption here caption here please caption here caption here please caption here caption here please

Plan the perfect kitchen

Double islands create an efficient work area. Bespoke handleless cabinetry, Holloways of Ludlow. Kitchen prices start from £25,000

the sink, fridge and cooker by placing them on three points of a triangle. it works with most kitchen layouts although, if you have to run all the appliances and the sink along one wall, you may need to ‘flatten’ the triangle by positioning the three points in a line with just a few steps to walk in between. however, nothing is set in stone. ‘if the triangle works in your kitchen that’s great, but don’t feel you have to be a slave to it,’ continues Mark Wilkinson. ‘and if you have to walk a few extra steps, it will be worth it if it means you’re able to include an extra element you really like that wouldn’t otherwise fit into the design.’

the NeW thiNkiNGlike Mark Wilkinson, there are several other designers who feel that the triangle can be too rigid and who prefer to think of the kitchen in terms of zones. Blum’s Dynamic space concept is based on arranging your layout as task zones designed in a clockwise (or anti-clockwise) route. tasks might include emptying the dishwasher (store your crockery close by), making breakfast (keep all your breakfast things together), preparing meals (utensils, chopping boards and bins in pull-outs under

the worktop), cooking (store pots, pans and utensils in a drawer under the cook top with bottles of oil and spices in a pull-out close by), and cleaning (materials for cleaning close to the sink). With everything near to hand, you can then create the easiest workflow.

Go With the floWthe workspace may be crucial, but the movement of people around the kitchen space as a whole also needs careful thought. the main aims are to keep children away from danger spots and stop guests from getting in your way. look at placing the fridge at the threshold so children can access drinks and snacks without straying into your path. in open-plan spaces, make sure the route through from the entrance to the garden is unobstructed and think about how best to direct your guests to seating areas.

an island can act as a useful shield for the cook – position bar stools along the opposite side to give guests a place to perch at a safe distance. ‘in a large space, consider using two islands to create multiple-flow possibilities,’ says Graham Barnard, MD of Matrix kitchens. try changing decor to demarcate the separate dining, lounging, cooking and office areas in

‘An islAnd doesn’T

AlwAys need To be A

sTAndArd recTAngle

– iT cAn be AlmosT

Any shApe To suiT

your room, And even

A simple design cAn

be mAde inTeresTing

wiTh curved ends’

Martin Postle, design manager, Teddy Edwards

25 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 26: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

This T-shaped island and breakfast bar combine practicality

with sociabililty. Silverstone solid bleached oak and Warm Grey-painted cabinetry, from

£38,000, Teddy Edwards

Plan the perfect kitchen

26 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 27: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Floor-to-ceiling units and display shelves add interest to a classic L-shaped layout. Individual Design S2 cabinets in Lotus White and Floating Spaces shelving system in Natural Oak veneer, from £25,000, SieMatic

Plan the perfect kitchen

a multifunctional space. ‘this can be achieved by using different floor finishes, paint colours and lighting in each of the zones,’ says Robert Burnett, head of design at holloways of ludlow. ‘Don’t forget, you can always strategically position a wall, or include a room divider such as a half-height wall or storage unit, to help screen off certain areas,’ advises scott nicholson, MD of chamber furniture. ‘it does need to be carefully placed so as not to block out light, but we are using these features very successfully in an increasing number of our designs.’

uNusual spacesnot all kitchens are standard cubes or rectangles. some are glass boxes with limited wall space, others have sloping ceilings, while you may also have tricky features to work around such as pillars or numerous entrance doors. an experienced kitchen designer will have come across all these sorts of problems before so do ask them for advice.

‘Often, it’s not possible to get rid of structural pillars,’ says scott nicholson, ‘but sometimes you can move them, and even shifting by half a metre can have a huge impact in some rooms. You can usually

convert something negative into a positive feature if you deal with it imaginatively – try building a pillar into an island to create an architectural feature, for example.’ l-shaped and t-shaped rooms can be effectively split into zones, dedicating one leg to dining or storage, and keeping the working kitchen in the other.

if you buy a property with curved walls, such as an oast house, it’s usually because you like its style – ‘so make the most of its quirkiness with cabinets that follow the curves,’ says scott. even if this means that you have to buy more expensive bespoke furniture, you may not need a large amount of it to create a dramatic effect.

clear solutioNshaving floor-to-ceiling glazed doors across one side of your kitchen can offer great views of your garden, but the drawback is that you lose much of the usable wall space. Make the most of what remains by fitting cupboards that also reach from top to bottom; a flush finish ensures they appear to occupy less space than ones that protrude into the room. a single, double or u-shaped island also compensates for potential cupboard space lost to glazing, once cleverly packed with storage and built-in appliances.

need to knowThink of large open-plan spaces as a series of linked cooking, dining and living zones, but don’t lose sight of how they work as a whole. In high-ceilinged rooms use strong colours to draw the eye downwards, and avoid running cabinets right up to the ceiling, which can feel oppressive.In a busy home consider having a drinks zone with coffee machine, a fridge or wine cabinet, small sink, boiling-water tap and storage for mugs and glasses – so everyone can help themselves.A walk-in larder is useful for storing food and larger serving dishes and pans. Include an extra sink or perhaps a microwave and panini maker so any teenagers can make themselves a midnight snack without waking up the whole family. Or how about a breakfast cupboard, complete with toaster, shelves, sink and boiling-water tap?

27 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 28: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Mushroom-painted cabinets from the Real Shaker Kitchen collection, Carrara marble worktops and white metro tiles give this galley scheme a bright, spacious feel. Kitchens start at £8,000, DeVol

In this L-shaped layout, one half faces into the room creating a neat cooking ‘theatre’. Elements Collection Bexton Ivory kitchen, from £6,900, Caple

Plan the perfect kitchen

n Galley named after the diminutive ship’s kitchen, the classic galley has one single row of units, while the double galley has two, running parallel. it’s the ideal layout for narrow rooms, but is also a popular option in open-plan spaces where a long island runs parallel to the units along one wall. aim for at least 1.2m between facing doors and include an efficient triangular cooking zone with the fridge on one wall and the sink and hob opposite (or a variation on this theme). if space allows, it’s best to avoid having tall units which might accentuate the narrow space and, for the same reason, stick to paler colours to help keep the room light and airy.

n U-shaped and G-shapeda common solution for medium-sized rooms is to run the units round three walls in a u-shape. this layout provides plenty of workspace, and you can use clever internal fittings to get the most out of the corner cupboards. With such a large worktop area, a well-chosen surface can really come into its own, so pick something striking. consider

solid-surface materials such as corian, which can sweep around corners seamlessly.

in a large room, you might have enough space for an island or a table and chairs at the centre of the u. Or, in a classic kitchen-diner, the third leg of your u-shape could be a peninsula – a long island joined at one end to the wall, between kitchen and dining areas.

if your room is open-plan and you spend a lot of time entertaining, you may want to think about having the bulk of your kitchen designed as a u-shaped island, which can then become a real cook’s theatre. Or create a G-shape, with a peninsula joined to one of the walls.

n L-shaped Occupying two adjacent walls of a kitchen, this layout feels open, but can be more tricky to work with. the best ergonomic placing has the sink on one wall, and the cooker and fridge on the other, but do make sure there is adequate workspace between these elements. this can be an efficient layout for one cook, but two may find themselves under one another’s feet – you could include an extra prep sink to ease the pressure. and, if you

have enough room, position a dining table at the centre, or opt for a small island in the middle which is more compact and can provide additional storage and prep spaces, as well as an informal family eating area.

n Island lifeprobably the most popular kitchen element of recent years, an island makes a practical and eye-catching feature. it can act as a ‘bridge’, cutting down on leg work between workstations, and, in a large room, it makes the most of unused space. add a worktop overhang to create a breakfast bar seating area, or a stepped-down surface for an informal dining table.

to make the design more functional, position ‘working’ elements along one side of your island so you don’t waste time constantly walking around it. ‘Most people allow 900mm between a wall run of cabinets and an island. however, it should really be 1100mm minimum to create a spacious feel, especially if you have more than one cook in the kitchen, so you can move past each other with ease,’ says nicholas Goldman, MD at Goldman & Rankin.

s t a n D a R D l a Y O u t s These popular designs still hold true in kitchens of all sizes, including open-plan spaces

Feat

ure

AM

ELIA

TH

ORP

E

Beautiful kitchens special28

Page 29: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

Plan the perfect kitchen

A trip to the showroom starts with the

big idea – what style of kitchen? But

opening and closing drawers and

doors is all part of the experience and

can be a real eye-opener when it comes to clever internal

fittings. Racks, pull-outs, compartments – there’s a vast

choice and a storage solution for all items, both large

and small. Get the storage right and not only do you

increase capacity, you’ll also enjoy a sense of order that

will make your kitchen work like a dream, and give you

a place for everything – keeping worktops clutter-free

and ensuring the entire space looks its best.

the inside storyThe secret to maximising storage is simple – clever

internal fittings are a kitchen’s best friend

ABOVE Bulthaup’s b2 Kitchen Tool cabinet, from £6,000, provides space for all the chef’s equipment

Beautiful kitchens special29

Page 30: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

A plAce for everythingto get the most from the storage solutions available, you need to decide what’s going where at the planning stage, and a good designer will guide you through this process. a lot of modern kitchen design is still based on the ‘working triangle’, with sink, cooker and refrigeration in a fairly compact, three-point space in the kitchen, following the flow of prep and cook. the next step is to allocate the storage around each station – spices and utensils near the cooker, crockery and pans close to the sink and dishwasher. consider whether you want more drawer units, a pull-out larder next to the fridge and corner carousels or hidden internal drawers.

MAxiMising spAcethere are a few rules that work across all kitchens. Drawers generally accommodate more than cupboards and offer better access. if you

prefer cupboards, make sure you optimise storage with pull-out racks. almost all kitchen companies offer a range of interior fittings, such as carousels for corner cabinets, racks to hang on the interior of a cupboard door, sorting systems for the waste/recycling, drawer pegs, inserts and dividers, and plinth storage options. Bespoke kitchen companies will tailor-make to suit your lifestyle, offering storage slots for chopping boards, drawers designed to hold ‘coffee capsules’ and spices or which have pegs to hold plates in place. Many kitchen companies use Blum fittings, some use häfele and sieMatic has its own MultiMatic range, which can be specified for the initial installation, but added to as and when your needs change.

the drAw of drAwersthe days of struggling with a stack of plates at the back of a deep cupboard shelf are long gone;

now we can pull out a drawer and see a whole dinner service neatly stacked, with pegs keeping everything in place. Drawers can also hold inserts with individual cut-outs for specific utensils or be divided up to contain cutlery. consider storing all your dried goods (boxes, packets, jars or plastic containers) upright in a deep drawer – everything will be identifiable by its top. Of course, the ‘pan drawer’ is ubiquitous, practical, a joy to use and testament to how much weight a kitchen drawer can take. Designers have been known to stand in drawers in the showroom to prove how robust they are.

verticAl pull-outsthe great advantage of a pull-out – often used as a larder – is how much it can hold, in relation to its width. they’re often positioned either side of the fridge and freezer, or alongside a bank of ovens. at just 30cm or so wide, a full-height

FAR LEFT Modulnova’s Convoy internal pull-out has adjustable shelves and is suited to a 700mm wide cabinet. Kitchens cost from £25,000 at DesignSpaceLondon

LEFT Crown Imperial’s mid-height integrated Pull Out Column includes the frame and cabinet. From £1,165 for a full-height 600mm wide version

RIGHT Mowlem & Co’s Macassar Ebony and stainless-steel veg drawers can be easily removed for washing. Bespoke kitchens cost from £25,000

LEFT Wood drawer inserts in this Smallbone of Devizes kitchen keep crockery accessible and help prevent chipping. Kitchens from £40,000

RIGHT The Le Mans corner cabinet, from £600, shown in the Basalt Grey kitchen by Neil Lerner, comprises capacious swivel-out shelves for pans and bakeware

FAR RIGHT A secret plinth drawer features electronic touch-control opening. It’s shown in the Vermont kitchen by Underwood, from £30,000 for a kitchen

Beautiful kitchens30 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 31: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

FEAT

URE

LIN

DA P

ArKE

r

pull-out can store dried goods, tins, jars, bottles, packets and boxes and, because of its narrow width, everything is pretty much in full view. the shelf height can be adjusted, so ensure there is a tall section to accommodate items such as cereal boxes or bottles. the art of stacking is to always start with the heaviest items at the bottom and work upwards.

lArder stylethere’s a huge trend for kitchens to include a big, larder-style cupboard, which conceals an impressive combination of shelves, cupboards and drawers. the general idea is to treat it as an old-fashioned walk-in store/cold shelf or perhaps a baking station or breakfast corner. so, it could hold all your cooking ingredients and perhaps a pastry slab, or instead house bread, a kettle, toaster, coffee maker, and so on. it’s useful to have a couple of sockets there for hand mixers,

blenders, etc, giving you extra prep space. in classic kitchens, the ‘larder’ is often a freestanding element; in contemporary kitchens, it may be part of a fitted look, but is perhaps hidden behind bi-fold doors or a tambour roller shutter. More and more modern schemes follow the ‘hidden’ style, with much of the kitchen being disguised behind sliding or pocket-style doors that are pulled back when preparing food, to reveal open shelves and drawers, wall racks and hanging systems.

wonder wAllsthe space between worksurface and wall cupboards can also be put to use with a range of ingenious and highly practical fittings. the simplest way to make use of that space is to add a series of hanging rails. Bulthaup has an impressive selection, including drop-down chopping blocks with knife storage.

NEED TO KNOW…n Carousels and magic-corner fittings are ideal for corner units.n Plinth-space drawers can be used for things like cleaning materials, which need to be kept away from groceries.n Wrap-around under-sink drawers utilise the void beneath the sink – unless it’s needed to accommodate the tank for a boiling-water tap.n Inserts come at a price – investigate the possibility of adding them at a later stage if your budget is stretched.n Invest in adjustable drawer dividers, then if your equipment changes they’ll still be useful.n Consider waste recycling and bins – if it’s not sorted in the kitchen it will have to be sorted somewhere else.

LEFT Pantry cupboards from the 1909 brand by PWS can include features such as pull out chopping boards and marble surfaces. A similar design is about £4,000

RIGHT The Space Corner Drawer from Blum is the perfect solution to clashing corner drawer units. Blum fittings are stocked by most good kitchen suppliers

FAR RIGHT Walnut and oak drawers from Mowlem & Co are tailored to store knives, utensils and cutlery. Prices as before

FAR LEFT Bulthaup’s b2 range includes portable grocery boxes. Kitchen Architecture, prices as before

LEFT Pull-out storage in this Holloways of Ludlow Mathewson kitchen makes cooking ingredients a cinch to find. Kitchens from £25,000

RIGHT Maximise concealed storage for knives and so on with the drop-down Function Box from the b3 range – it blends into the splashback when closed. Bulthaup b3 kitchens are from £45,000 at Kitchen Architecture

Plan the perfect kitchen

31 Beautiful kitchens special

Page 32: Plan the perfect kitchenhousetohome.media.ipcdigital.co.uk/96/00001ad97/dba5/Mini-Mag-Pla… · From choosing the right style to finding a designer and agreeing a layout, there’s

A ambientedirect.com 0870 005 2275

ambientedirect.com

B barker & stonehouse 0333 355 9213

barkerandstonehouse.co.uk blum 01908 285700 blum.com boffi boffiuk.com britannia 0844 463 9705 britannialiving.co.uk bulthaup 0844 846 7810 en.bulthaup.com burbidge 024 7667 1600 burbidge.co.uk

Ccallerton 0191 514 0003 callerton.co.uk

caple 0117 938 1900 caple.co.uk chamber furniture 01959 532553 chamberfurniture.co.uk corian by dupont corian.co.uk crown imperial 01227 742424 crown-imperial.co.uk cue & co 020 7731 4728 cueandco.com

D davonport 0845 468 0025 davonport.com

designspace london 020 7487 5077 designspacelondon.com devol 01509 261000 devolkitchens.co.uk donna bates design 028 4482 8740 donnabatesdesign.com

E espresso design 020 7078 9912 espressodesign.co.uk

F franke 0161 436 6280 franke.co.uk

Ggoldman & rankin 020 8969 3632

goldmanandrankin.com gwa 028 9261 7332 gwa-ni.com

H hi-macs by lg hausys 01892 704074 himacs.eu

holloways of ludlow 020 7602 5757 hollowaysofludlow.com house of fraser 0345 602 1073 houseoffraser.co.uk

I ikea 020 3645 0000 ikea.com

interior 360 028 9070 9360 interior360.com

Jjohn lewis of hungerford 0700 278

4726 john-lewis.co.uk

K kitchen architecture 020 8785 1960

kitchenarchitecture.co.uk

L laurence pidgeon 020 7610 6166

laurencepidgeon.com little greene 0845 880 5855 littlegreene.com

lyric hi-fi 02890 381296 lyrichifi.com

Mmagnet 01325 469441 magnet.co.uk

mark wilkinson furniture 01380 850007 mwf.com matrix kitchens 020 7808 0340 matrixkitchens.co.uk mowlem & co 020 7610 6626 mowlemandco.com

Nneil lerner 020 7433 0705 neillerner.com

neptune 01793 427427 neptune.com nest 0114 243 3000 nest.co.uk ngi design 01780 766899 ngidesign.co.uk

Oocca-home 0330 363 0330 occa-home.co.uk

P podesta 01494 677770 podesta.uk.com

porcelanosa 0800 915 4000 porcelanosa.com/uk pws 01325 505555 pws.co.uk

Q quooker 0808 102 0673 quooker.com

R rencraft 01732 762682 rencraft.co.uk

rendall & wright 01787 375076 rendallandwright.com residence interior design

01730 829566 residenceinteriordesign.com rients 020 7608 2900 rients.com roundhouse 020 7297 6220 roundhousedesign.com

Ssamsung 0330 726 7864 samsung.com

second nature 01325 505539 sncollection.co.uk shellard tiles 028 9267 5119 shellardtiles.co.uk siematic 0161 246 6010 siematic.com siemens 0844 892 8999 siemens-home.co.uk simone piva simonepiva.com smallbone of devizes 020 7589 5998 smallbone.co.uk

T teddy edwards 01865 404960

teddy-edwards.co.uk the anderson orr partnership 01865 873936 andersonorr.com tom dixon 020 3696 4950 tomdixon.net

U underwood 01296 771801 underwoodfurniture.com

W wilson fink 0113 232 3233

wilsonfink.co.uk wren wrenkitchens.com

STOCKISTSContact details for all the additional companies mentioned in this issue

Find more inspiration Whether you’re new to Beautiful Kitchens or just getting started on your kitchen project, you can find more inspiration by buying back issues of the magazine. Call 01733 385170 or visit mags-uk.com

digital editionS aRe aVailaBle on iPad, iPhone, Kindle FiRe and nooK Via google Play, aPP StoRe, ReadR oR Zinio

Plan the perfect kitchen

Beautiful kitchens special32 Beautiful kitchens