Inspiration for a new kitchen
Renovating the kitchen is a major project. It is time-consuming and can be expensive. Naturally, you want to choose a solution that you will be happy with for a long time, which is good for you, your finances and the environment.
Should you replace the entire kitchen, or can you renovate it for a more affordable price? Before deciding what really needs to be done, it is important to consider a few questions.
How long do you plan to live in the home?
Are you renovating to increase the home's value ahead of an imminent sale, or because you expect to live there for many years to come?
Open-plan solution
Many people dream of a gathering place where the kitchen is integrated with the living room. That is why a kitchen island is at the top of the wish list for many. Around the kitchen island, several people can prepare food, do homework and work at the same time. There is a great need for extra worktop space, and a kitchen island can be equipped with a hob, sink and base cabinets for additional storage. By thinking practically, you can get great enjoyment out of both the kitchen island and the rest of your interior. If you don't yet have an open kitchen layout, consider whether it's possible to create one by removing or moving a wall.
A practical kitchen layout
Consider the importance of a work triangle between the sink, the cooker and the fridge to minimise unnecessary steps in everyday life. With today's trend of placing the oven in a tall cabinet and the hob separately, we are perhaps talking more about a work square, the interior architect points out. It is also essential to think about functions like laundry, drying and storage. Where should the broom and vacuum cleaner be kept? If they have to be in the kitchen, it is important to include this in the planning.
Choice of colours and materials
Both light and dark kitchens are popular, and people regularly choose between wood and durable matte laminate materials. Black and muted earth tones are particularly sought after, while light shades are gaining ground. Lighting conditions and the number of windows should influence your choice of colours. In open spaces, it is crucial to create a sense of cohesion with the rest of the home — or at least the perfect worktop.
The perfect worktop
When choosing elements for the kitchen, a unified approach creates a calmer expression. Here are some of the most popular materials for worktops:
Laminate is maintenance-free, robust and affordable.
Granite/composite offers a natural look or varied designs — both durable and suited to all styles, but priced higher.
Wood gives a timeless, warm and lively look. It needs maintenance, but with regular treatment it is effectively protected.
Steel is durable, heat-resistant and hygienic, most often seen in professional kitchens but now also popular at home.
Choosing appliances
Think about how you use your kitchen and what types of food you cook. Should the appliances be integrated, or contribute to the kitchen's character? Consider the noise level, especially in small homes or kitchens with open-plan solutions.
The importance of lighting
General lighting, task lighting and ambient lighting are all essential. General lighting illuminates the entire kitchen and is typically placed in the ceiling. Task lighting is critical for kitchen work and should be bright and correctly colour-toned. Ambient lighting adds cosiness and personality, and LED lights with dimming options are a good choice.
Robust kitchen sink with a functional tap
The kitchen sink is an essential part of the kitchen and is used heavily every day. Stainless steel is a timeless choice that is durable and easy to keep clean. Silgranite is a coloured, hard and hard-wearing material that requires minimal maintenance and comes in many colours. Ceramic porcelain is elegant, scratch- and heat-resistant, and easy to clean. A large single bowl provides space for washing big pans and pots, while a double bowl makes it possible to perform several tasks at once. The sink can be mounted under the worktop, integrated flush with the worktop, or mounted on top. Consider what you prefer in terms of the tap's height, swing radius and pull-out spout. Steel and black dominate in popularity, but brass is also a frequent choice. More and more people want a tap that can dispense boiling water or sparkling water directly.
Knobs or long handles
Choose between knobs, handle-free solutions, and long or short handles. Handles come in materials such as wood, aluminium, steel, leather and marble, as well as in various colours and finishes. For a kitchen without visible handles, you can choose solutions with handle grooves that either match the cabinet doors or stand out in a contrasting colour for an eye-catching design. The handles should not just suit your style, but also complete the kitchen's overall expression. They should be practical, so make sure to place them where your hand will naturally reach for drawers and cabinets.