Six Steps to a Dream Kitchen
1 start early
Engage a kitchen designer early so that structural work and services are planned well in advance. ‘If you need power to an island for example, your designer will ensure this is installed before the flooring,’ says DanielaCondo, kitchen designer at Life Kitchens.
Think about structural work needed at the initial stages to ensure your project runs smoothly and to budget as well.
2 work smart
Plan what goes where. The traditional ‘working triangle’, where the fridge, hob/oven and sink are arranged in a triangle formation, is a good rule of thumb. ‘The idea is to have a clear path between the keyelements, so that they’re easily accessible and not blocked by obstacles,’ explains Andy Briggs, interior designer at Optiplan Kitchens.
Ensure there’s enough space to move freely through your kitchen, adds Ashleigh Hanwell, senior designer at Second Nature. ‘Whether it’s a walkway between units in a galley layout, or the space around an island, we recommend leaving between 900 and 1,000mm between units.’
3 light up
‘Often overlooked during the design stage, lighting should be incorporated right from the beginning,’ stresses Darren Watts, design director at Wren Kitchens. Start by working out where you need lighting most– for example, beneath wall cabinets to illuminate the worktop, above the sink to make sure you can see to wash up or inside cabinets to subtly illuminate the contents, making things easier to find.
See more kitchen lighting ideas.
4 cupboard love
Storage is essential to the smooth running of a kitchen, so take note of what works in your existing space and how it might be improved. Savvy updates include floor-to-ceiling units fitted with racks ordrawer boxes that pull out.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletters are your inside source for what’s shaping interiors now - and what’s next. Discover trend forecasts, smart style ideas, and curated shopping inspiration that brings design to life. Subscribe today and stay ahead of the curve.
‘Tall units will not only accentuate the height of the room, but they’ll also allow you to store rarely used items at the top, with commonly used items at eye level,’ says Andy Briggs, interior designer at Optiplan Kitchens.
5 get floored
Performance is key when you’re considering flooring. ‘For busy, hard-working kitchens, we would recommend durable flooring such as limestone,’says Louisa Eggleston, creative director at Humphrey Munson.
Think practically, too: ‘Be aware that grout changes colour quickly,’says Helen Flanagan, kitchen designer for Harvey Jones. ‘I would opt for a dark grey grout, as it will end up this colour anyway over time.’
6 on the surface
It’s wise to spend as much as you can afford on worktops, as they’re likely to get the most wear. ‘You will need a surface that’s durable, easy to clean and heat resistant,’ says Jonathan Stanley, vice president ofmarketing at Caesarstone.
Don’t forget practicalities such as aftercare. ‘Marble is beautiful but is more susceptible to stains, while zinc or copper will change with wear, creating a beautiful patina,’ says Ben Burbidge, managing director at Kitchen Makers.
Find more ideas for kitchen worktops here.
Jacky Parker is a freelance lifestyle journalist and writer, producing a wide range of features for magazines and digital platforms. She has written for Livingetc and its sister titles, Homes & Gardens and Country Homes & Interiors for more than 15 years, both as a freelance contributor and as Acting Digital Editor and Acting Style Content Editor, regularly reporting on the latest interiors, gardens and wellness inspiration, speaking to experts in their respective fields, and discovering the best tips.
Jacky has also written for other publications, including Sunday Times Style, The Telegraph, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, ELLE Decoration, Red, Grand Designs and more.
-
Who Needs Ibiza? 3 Chic Alternatives a Travel Guru Says You Should Visit This Year Instead
There’s a new set of destinations with all the hedonism and beauty of the Balearic islands but with much fewer crowds — here’s where to head to next
-
The 20mm or 30mm Debate — Which of These Common Worktop Thicknesses Looks Better in a Modern Kitchen?
It's incredible to think how one centimeter can change the entire feel of your space — but these design experts say it absolutely can
-
The Japanese Concept of Mottainai is the One Thing Your Fridge Needs for Maximum Organization — Here’s How it Works
If you find yourself throwing food out having forgotten containers in the corners of your fridge, then mottainai will be your new BFF
-
These are the Best Kitchen Wall Paint Colors to Choose From Right Now — ‘They Make Your Space Look Clean And Light!’
If in doubt about the right paint color for your kitchen walls, look no further than these designer-approved tones to create a fresh and airy feel
-
What is Lava Stone? And Why I Think This Shiny New Surface Could Be Replacing Granite in Our Kitchens
It's sleek, shiny, stylish and comes in a range of different colors — but what is lava stone, and why is it a good choice for our kitchen counters?
-
What is the Best Material for a Kitchen Counter? These 3 Rank High for Durability and Long-Lasting Looks
Experts guarantee it — these three kitchen counters will last so long, your grandkids will live to enjoy their benefits
-
Kitchen Countertop Materials Explained — From How They Look to Price Considerations
Before you splurge on this big element, take a look at the various options available, and choose the one that suits you the best
-
Buying a used kitchen could be your savviest design idea - here's what you need to know
Buying an ex-display used kitchen is a way to a high-end home at High Street prices
-
How much does a kitchen island cost?
Dreaming of a kitchen island? Well, here are some practical pointers to help you budget and get an island ticked off your wish list
-
How to design and install a kitchen island - experts share their tips
This handy guide on how to design and install a kitchen island includes everything you need to know