Monday, November 7, 2011

My Tips: Designing your own kitchen


Designing a compact kitchen can initially seem like a huge challenge considering how much you have to squeeze in.
The key is to stick with the working triangle rule, which has the sink, hob and fridge in a triangular formation, just a few steps apart.
Choose good storage solutions
Magic corners, drawers and hanging racks, are the best way to make a small space appear bigger. Leave as much of the floor area as clear as possible and opt for large tiles or narrow planks with recessed plinths.
Go for compact appliances
Appliances should be built in and compact. Opt for a slimline dishwasher as well as a combination microwave, instead of a full-size oven, for example.
Keep the decor simple
Use reflective surfaces, such as glass worktops and splashbacks and stainless-steel appliances. Too many shades and textures will crowd the room, so stick to a single block of ceramic or glass wall tiles or a vibrant splashback if you want a burst of colour.
Add glass-fronted cabinets
Jude Keenan, Planner for the John Lewis fitted kitchens department in London, suggests adding glass-fronted cupboards in a small room. ‘When lit from inside, they make the kitchen appear bigger by drawing the eye to the back of the unit,' she explains.
Get the look:
Find space-saving storage solutions at Blum andPoggenpohl, and check out Parapan's seemless handles.
Visit Quick-Step for a wide range of floor styles andDulux for paint.
If you're really stuck for space, you could always opt for the innovative On/Off Kitchen from Boffi. It's incredibly compact, allowing you to easily create an open-plan, minimalist scheme for a real loft-living feel.

Article via housetohome.co.uk
Vera xx