There are more options than ever when it comes to kitchen design, and it can be hard to know where to start.
Once you've decided on your favorite colors and materials, think about how you'll use your kitchen, what items will be easily accessible, and where the most people will congregate. This will help you decide where to put your appliance and how much storage you need.
It also helps to know the layout of a typical kitchen.check us out Kitchen planning and layout ideas.
Before you think about purchasing a kitchen, please take a look here. best kitchen brands A guide to finding companies that have earned Best Buy Recommendations.
small kitchen ideas
Small kitchens are especially difficult to design because you need enough space for appliances, storage space for food, and space to easily move around.
small kitchen storage
Storage is especially important if you have limited worktop space, as you want to keep your work surface as clutter-free as possible.
Consider:
- Corner cupboard with easy access carousel
- Full-height cabinets – This maximizes shelf space and draws the eye upwards, making the space appear larger. However, be aware that you may have to sacrifice worktop space.
- Installing open shelving instead of wall cabinets will give you more space, but it will look cluttered and anything you store there will likely collect dust and dirt. Cabinets with glass panels can achieve a similar effect without letting in dust.
- Hanging storage such as wall-mounted dish hooks or overhead racks for pots and pans
- Breakfast Bar or Folding Table – This is an efficient way to add dining space to a small kitchen and can also be used as an additional work surface for meal preparation.
small kitchen colors
When designing a small kitchen, it is important to make it look like there is more space. Making the most of natural light and keeping your color palette light will give your space a bright and airy feel.
But that doesn't mean you can't experiment with colorful accessories. Add a pop of color with a dramatic splashback or with a kettle, toaster, microwave or fridge freezer.
Shiny, reflective or mirrored surfaces can also help bounce light around the room. Consider high gloss cupboards and glass or reflective splashbacks.
Integrated appliances will make your kitchen look more sophisticated and spacious.
Check out our guide. best kettle and toaster set.
kitchen color ideas
Light colors reflect light around the room, making the space appear larger. Beiges, creams, and even pale pinks work just as well as white. Using the same color throughout your cupboards and walls will give you a seamless look.
Blue kitchens and green kitchens have proven to be very popular Over the last few years. Navy blue cabinets pair well with gold metallic handles and hardware, while forest green cabinets pair surprisingly well with pale pink tiles and splashbacks.
Dark color schemes add drama and warmth, but if you choose dark blue or black cabinets, they are more likely to show scratches and marks and require regular maintenance to keep them looking new. Please note in particular.
If you want dark cupboards without the maintenance, try stained wood.
When adding color to your kitchen, remember to consider texture as well as color. For example, you can create a visually more interesting plan by introducing tiles on some walls and paint on others.
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kitchen bounce ideas
Kitchen bouncers come in many shapes and sizes. Traditionally, it was a glass, stainless steel, or tiled panel installed behind a sink or stove to protect the wall from splashes and oil stains.
Splashbacks come in a variety of materials, patterns, and colors, making it easy to find one that fits your style and budget. Common materials include:
- tile
- back painted glass
- stainless steel
- marble
- quartz
- acrylic
- laminate
- uPVC
When choosing a splashback, consider the following:
- Heat Capacity – Some splashes are not suitable for microwave cooking.
- Easy to clean – Tile requires more maintenance compared to other materials. A single block color will make stains more visible. Very shiny surfaces leave streaks very easily.
- Cost – Natural materials such as marble are usually very durable bounce options, but they also come at a higher price. Imitation materials such as quartz are also available, but these also tend to be more sustainable.
check us out Estimated kitchen costs To learn more about how much you can expect your new kitchen to cost,
kitchen island ideas
Kitchen islands have become an essential part of modern kitchens. Once installed, there are many benefits, including:
- additional storage space
- space for additional seating
- more work surface
- If you choose to install an oven or stove in your kitchen island, you will have even more space for cooking.
- A good way to 'zone' an open-plan kitchen, diner and living space
Types of kitchen islands
There are various types of kitchen islands.
Perhaps the most common type is a kitchen island with base cabinets and a countertop that matches the rest of the kitchen.
Island appliances that can accommodate sinks and ovens require plumbing and wiring, which adds to the cost.
A freestanding kitchen island is not built into the kitchen. The advantage of these is that they are very easy to move or replace if your needs change.
A kitchen trolley is a type of kitchen island with wheels, and it is perfect for small kitchens because it can be taken out on wheels when needed and stored when not needed. The disadvantages of these are that they may not really offer much space or are difficult to maneuver if they are heavy.
A kitchen peninsula is similar to an island, but attached to one wall. This is suitable for small spaces or elongated kitchens, and is usually suitable for creating a breakfast bar.
kitchen lighting ideas
When planning your kitchen lighting, you should consider three main types:
- Ambient lighting: This is general lighting, which combines overhead lighting with natural light in the room. The key is to create a comfortable, even level of light throughout the space. If there is less natural light, you should install more ambient lighting. If your dining table is in the kitchen, consider hanging pendant lights above it.
- Task lighting: Used to illuminate functional areas. Spotlights are common, but LED strips that sit under cabinets to illuminate work surfaces are also popular. If you work from your home kitchen, consider additional task lighting.
- Accent Lighting: This is more of a “mood lighting” feature, used to highlight visually appealing areas such as beautiful paintings, display shelving, or cabinetry.
Check out our guide. buy the best light bulbs.
kitchen tile ideas
Tile is a great way to add style and personality to your kitchen. Colored tiles can add personality to your kitchen, while patterned tiles are a great way to jazz up a traditional kitchen without overwhelming it.
Kitchen tiles are popular as part of a splashback. Geometric tiles have become a popular trend in recent years.
Tiles are also a cost-effective way to renovate your kitchen. Ceramic tile is generally cheaper to purchase and install than porcelain or stone. Cheap tiles can be purchased for less than £10 per square meter.
kitchen floor tiles
If you're tiling a high-traffic area, you'll want tiles that are easy to clean and durable.
For a unique design, choose patterned tiles (think geometric patterns or the popular chevron style) or checkerboard.
If you don't want to experiment too much, large monochrome tiles are also fashionable.
kitchen paint ideas
Whether you're spending a lot of money on your kitchen or are on a tight budget, paint is a great way to transform a space and inject your personality.
However, you should choose a paint that is moisture-resistant, durable, and wipe-cleanable (especially if you have children!). Paints designed specifically for the kitchen fulfill these roles.
If you are struggling with moisture in your kitchen, you may want to choose a paint that is resistant to mold and mildew. However, these specialty paints often have limited color options.
Another option is to use semi-gloss or high-gloss paint. These repel moisture, so if mold develops, you can wipe it off.
How to paint kitchen cabinets
Painting your kitchen cabinets is a great way to redesign your kitchen and refresh old fixtures.
However, to ensure you achieve the best results, you should follow the following process.
- First, remove the hinge and handle.
- Fill the dent with a suitable filler and then sand the surface.
- Apply primer. This is a very important step as it will help the paint adhere to the cabinet.
- It's time to draw! Use a paint roller for large flat areas and a brush for edges and final touches.
If you are thinking of renovating your entire kitchen, click here. best washable paint.
kitchen sink ideas
Your sink is an important part of your kitchen, so you should choose durable materials, especially if you cook regularly.
You should also consider type, size, and style.
For example, if you don't have a dishwasher, a double sink is convenient. When washing dishes, you can fill one with hot water and use the other to rinse the dishes.
You will also need to choose between an inset sink and an undermount sink.
- Inset: This is a more traditional option. The bowl of the kitchen sink falls onto the kitchen worktop.
- Undermount: The sink fits under the worktop. Undermount sinks usually don't have a sink drainer, so they're more suited to a minimalist look.
Types of kitchen sink materials
When choosing a sink material, keep in mind that sinks are usually subjected to shocks. It is wise to choose durable options.
- Stainless Steel – One of the most popular options, stainless steel can withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen and is an affordable option.
- Granite composite – adds character to your kitchen and is durable, but can be expensive.
- Ceramic – this option is durable and looks traditional.
- Composite – Similar to granite, but more affordable than granite.
Ready to get started? Check out our guide kitchen installation Learn which method is best for your kitchen.
