KITCHENS
It is no surprise, that a new kitchen is the most popular
choice when updating the home.
Replacing the kitchen is one of the most major updates homeowners do. Not only is a new kitchen a costly undertaking, but the process can be very disruptive. Though it's exciting to plan a new kitchen area, it's imperative to choose the right kitchen to suit your needs, which inevitably can be stressful.
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With so much choice available it's sometimes difficult to know where to start, and mistakes can lead to a case of costly buyers remorse. However, keeping in mind some key points will help you avoid some of the pitfalls. The main points being: function, layout, style and budget.
function & layout
Both the function and layout of a kitchen, go hand in hand, and therefore, this is a good place to start before ordering your kitchen. Firstly, location and positioning. Though it may seem obvious that a new kitchen will broadly mirror the footprint of an existing one, this is a good time to have a re-evaluation. Begin by identifying your ongoing and future requirements. Have you got a growing family? Or elderly relatives? Do you need a bigger space for socialising or maybe you have other special needs?
After thinking about how your kitchen may be used, you may consider moving your kitchen to an entirely different area of the house, or even extending the space structurally. Though this will add to costs considerably, more dramatic changes may future proof your home, avoiding the need to move for some time.
​If your new kitchen is staying in the same location as the existing one, now is the time you can change the layout. Considering how you will use the space can determine the position of the cooker, preparation areas, sink, dishwasher and fridge etc. If you install an island, consider its primary use, but prioritise traffic flow around the main cooking and preparation areas first. The location of the cooker, fridge and sink is important, so try to locate them in a triangular configuration to optimise functionality.
Popular configuration
Though there are many different ways to configure the kitchen, most are based on several main combinations. When deciding on the type of layout be guided by the size of the space and your particular functional requirements.
This type of kitchen features two parallel worktops with a central walkway down the middle. It is typically suitable for narrow spaces, giving you easy access to appliances, but can be cramped due to width resrictions. As worktops are normally run along windowless walls, the galley kitchen often lacks natural light. This can be counteracted by installing adequate lighting.
Galley
​​The kitchen island suits larger spaces and works well in open plan areas. Undersized islands in smaller spaces are best avoided as they restrict function. Islands create a certain wow factor and can be used for cooking, washing, socialising, dining and working. They are a great focal point and often become the hub of the home, but make sure the island is in scale to the rest of the space. Remember, a minimum distance of a metre needs to be retained around an island for adequate traffic flow.
Island
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A single or one wall kitchen is defined by a single linear worktop incorporating storage, appliances, washing and preparation area. This type of kitchen is cost effective due to it's simplicity, being chic and understated in nature. Siutable for small spaces and also larger areas where an open plan feel is required with a minimum kitchen footprint. This kitchen is ideal for a minimalist aesthetic, however, it can lack the wow factor and due to its linear cionfiguration it's functionality is diminished compared to triangular layouts.
Single wall
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This type of layout is similar to the single wall kitchen but utilises an adjoining wall to create a right angle kitchen area. Suitable for medium to large spaces, the l-shape offers more practicality than the single wall. Appliances can be more readily accessed and there is extra storage and work space available. The l-shape is also more sociable than the single wall and can support an island if space allows, as well as being suitable for open plan spaces.
L-shape
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Similar to the l-shape this kitchen adds another adjoining right angle wall of kitchen worktop and cabinetry, creating a distinctive u-shape. Ideal for medium to larger areas, this kitchen can accommodate increased traffic flow as well as being a very sociable space. It's practical too, as essential appliances can be configured in a triangular pattern for optimal accessability. Be careful not to use this layout in areas that are too small as the central area can then feel cramped.
U-shape
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A peninsula layout is similar to a kitchen island but attached to the existing kitchen worktops. Like the island, the peninsula is suitable for larger open plan layouts but can be more cost effective than an island. As you can only access three sides of the peninsula, be careful not to restrict traffic flow when choosing this design. That said, the peninsula is a great way to create the wow factor. It can act as a room divide, and has a bar like aesthetic due its narrow width compared to an island. Peninsula's make wonderful breakfast bars, and encourage entertaining and social interaction.
Peninsula
appliances
Thinking about function also includes the type of ovens, hobs, sinks and white goods such as refrigeration. A bigger or growing family will need a larger oven and fridge and the inclusion of a dishwasher. Also better quality appliances tend to be more durable and last longer. Also, think about the ease of use with appliances, simpler controls, or electric over gas, may suit some demographics, such as the elderly.
For a kitchen to function well, it is essential to consider materials, storage, and lighting.
Choose the right materials to suit the function of your kitchen.
Allowing for adequate storage for your needs, is a must.
Think about kitchen lighting to suit your requirements.
The materials you use in the kitchen should be carefully considered before choosing the style of your kitchen. For instance, depending on the use of your worktops, certain materials can be more practical if the kitchen is heavily used for cooking and socialising.
Choices are numerable, such as composites, like corian, or natural materials like marble, granite and wood. Cheaper composite materials with layered coated fibre board, are budget friendly, whilst concrete is an alternative choice. ​Materials also extend to the kitchen cabinets and flooring as well as splash backs. Your choice of materials will influence the kitchen style at a later stage.
Storage is a very important aspect when considering a new kitchen and should be a priority at an early stage. Though many kitchen cabinets have innovative internal storage solutions, having enough cabinets to suit your needs is imperative.
Also consider extra shelving or even a separate pantry, if you have the space. You may require space for more refrigeration, or even a place to store wine etc. Remember, without adequate storage, we tend to use valuable worktop space. If worktop areas are used to house certain essentials, such as cooking knives or tea/coffee stations, make sure you plan enough worktop area for general cooking etc.
Though sometimes an after thought, planning adequate lighting at an early stage is always a good idea. Also, plan enough natural light if building a new kitchen extension, and be aware where natural light falls during the day. This may determine where an island is positioned, eg. too much bright sun can be distracting.
Three types of artificial light should be considered, ambient, task and mood. These cover, general light, light for food preparation and work and softer light sources for aesthetic purposes.
Style & Budget
Selecting the design for your new kitchen can be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience, though it does come with its own set of challenges. However, it is worthwhile to consider some other points before racing ahead with your order.
Firstly, be guided by the architecture of your home. For instance, a more traditional kitchen will look fine in a period property but may look out of place in a more contemporary house. Though, of course there are exceptions, and there are plenty of kitchens which work well in a contradictory style. Although, these tend to be in larger properties.
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When discussing traditional or modern kitchens, there are countless styles that blend elements from both categories. The main styles are, traditional, contemporary, farmhouse and transitional, such as shaker. Bear in mind, a kitchen doesn't have to be a row of matching cabinets. It's totally possible to purchase and adapt second hand furniture to make a kitchen. This mis-matched look can be very effective in a bohemian or shabby chic setting.
Modern kitchen units come in a myriad of styles. This kitchen is called slab sided, as the cabinet doors are flat with no visible handles.
Mixing different units can be cost effective and very chic. This look works well in certain buildings, such as converted warehouses and barn conversions.
A contemporary kitchen can be given a warmer transitional aesthetic by using a natural wood finish.
A shaker style kitchen can work well in both modern and traditional houses.
Choosing the right colour for your kitchen can be a difficult choice.
Deciding on a kitchen style is one thing, however, the colour you choose can make a dramatic difference. Though it is tempting to select a neutral tone for your kitchen units, a bolder colour can elevate a kitchen to another aesthetic level. Colour can also help differentiate cooking and eating zones in an open plan layout.
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Colour shouldn't be chosen due to trends, or pleasing other people, though it may be sensible to reconsider a divisive colour if you are thinking of moving within a few years. Also bear in mind, if your colour choice needs changing in the future, that good quality wood cabinets can be easily professionally resprayed, in situ. Colour can also be used to turn a traditional style cabinet into a transitional, more modern style, by using a bolder tone. Of course, if you have chosen a style of kitchen which uses materials such as timber, stainless steel or concrete, you can embrace the natural colour way.
Off the peg ! Or bespoke ! Plan your budget!
The most popular route to purchasing a new kitchen, is from well known high street suppliers. These retailers have a wide selection of different styles and colours and normally offer a free design service. The majority of these kitchens are made from MFC, Melamine faced chipboard.
Higher end designer kitchens are available from companies such as Boffi and Poggenpohl, which offer a more innovative design and material selection. Bespoke services can also be found from kitchen designers like Smallbone, but expect to pay much more than the high street brands.
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It is a good idea to research local craftsman, many of which can design and construct a bespoke kitchen to your design. These local firms can, in many cases, compete with the high street on price, as they have lower overheads. They also use better construction materials as well.
The style of a kitchen is also determined by the surrounding area, here we look at walls and flooring.
When thinking about the style of a new kitchen, it's important to include the other surrounding finishes, such as walls and flooring. Going back to function, the way your kitchen is used will dictate materials. Kitchens, commonly have a tiled or timber floor, whilst walls will usually have splash back areas, again usually tiled. Many kitchens also use engineered wood or laminate flooring which can be more water resistant and less prone to heat variation than real wood.
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It's generally a good idea to keep these areas understated, with tones which compliment the kitchen units, especially if cabinets are a bolder colour.
However, neutral toned cabinets can be contrasted effectively with more colourful or patterned tiles on the walls. Flooring is best kept neutral in most cases though subtle pattern can be used. A change in tone or style of flooring can also zone open plan spaces effectively. For instance, they can create a visual break between the kitchen and an open plan dining area.
updating an existing kitchen
It goes without saying, regardless of the size, style and materials used installing a new kitchen, the process is expensive. Alternatively, updating an existing kitchen can also see transformative results with lower costs than a full replacement. Depending on budget, and how much disruption can be tolerated, the most popular changes are, replacing cabinet doors, handles, and new worktops, both of which are cost effective for a dramatic new look. For those with existing wood cabinets, these can be professionally resprayed to the colour of your choice. Of course you can also change the flooring and splash backs, update lighting, and replace old appliances. However bear in mind, that too many changes may not be cost effective compared to a brand new kitchen. There are companies that specialise in updating kitchens, but always get at least 3 quotes and ideally choose a firm recommended by someone you trust..