Archive for the Category ◊ Kitchens ◊

Basics Ideas Regarding Kitchen Designs
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• Monday, December 19th, 2011

Kitchen Designs is one of the most desirable home improvement projects for many homeowners. A new kitchen increases the value of your home and makes your life easier. When choosing the right design for your kitchen, you have to do a little pre-planning, first ensure that the end result is what you are looking for. With so many possible forms around it is important to consider everything before you, no firm decision on your proposal, and also look at a few different ideas to a wider choice. There are many ways you can come up with ideas for your kitchen, from magazines and television to the Internet and even participating in home and garden shows, where you can look at the proposals cuisine offers a wide range of tastes and pockets. If you are really creative, you can come up with your own design from scratch, adapt and improve the kitchen of your home all at the same time. Planning kitchen designs includes taking a few decisions that will help you to get a better deal where you can be comfortable while cooking in the future.

What should be taken into account when choosing the correct design?

There are many factors that you should take into consideration when looking to find the correct transposition for your kitchen. The first step to your new kitchen is to set a budget. Decide how much money you are willing to spend. This will help drive your other decisions. Be sure to leave a cushion in your budget for additional, unexpected expenses. The amount of money that you have to spend will determine everything from the materials you use to the type of appliances that you have.  However, it is still possible to design your ideal kitchen on a budget and have it look like a million dollars. Another factor to consider is any theme that you have running through the rest of your house. If you are decorating the rest of your home with some theme in mind, then you may want to stay with this for your kitchen, even though it is certainly no need to do so. The size of your family and the people those are likely to be in and out of your kitchen also needed to be considered. For instance, those with larger families or with young children may need to look at a different type of design to someone living alone or just living with a partner.

Save a small equity in the implementation of its proposal

Once you have decided on the perfect design for your kitchen, you need to start looking to purchase goods and equipment for its implementation. To save money, the best place to have your purchases online is where you can save a lot of money now and pay only for items such as furniture, cabinet doors, kitchen units, and more. Consumers will also have a large selection online, so it also increases the chance of finding everything you need to implement the proposal. However, you also need to remember that design rarely go according to plan.  If something unexpected crops up during the final design stage or during installation, your budget can get totally derailed. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a buffer built in so that you are not caught short when the unexpected happens.

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Choosing The Right Kitchen Bench Tops
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• Sunday, December 18th, 2011

Kitchen bench tops are availed in a broad collection of materials having advantages and disadvantages of each type. If your kitchen bench tops strike against a wall, you need to limit the depth to about 650mm to reach it to clean. The same does not go well for island benches, which make it easy to access from both sides. While making up the mind on its size, you are hypothetical to believe the people regularly using the kitchen, the size and your budget for the same.

You have many options for edging kitchen bench tops, along with wood, half round nose, oblique, bull nose and round nose. The bench used in the material determines types of edge. Getting together with rounder varieties would be a good idea if you have young children and want them to stay away from nasty bumps on the head.

Laminate kitchen bench tops, your cost and flexible choice, and a variety of finishes and looks at them will be used to match most décor perfectly. Laminate bench tops may well be one of the cheapest options in the wide range of colors and finishes. But a laminate bench top stops you from placing hot pans directly on them, besides being prone to scratches.

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Timber kitchen bench tops are perfect for rustic kitchens are made of wood. They tend to be strong and sturdy material and won’t your dull blades. On the other hand, they one expensive option.

Stainless steel kitchen bench tops have now taken over the kitchen after the decision of the other great opportunities, such as hotels and restaurants. They are classified as the most hygienic way types, and also the ability to cope with the hot pot. They seem to scratch easily and are expensive alternatives.

Marble kitchen bench tops will turn entice you in the luxurious and beautiful appearance. On the other hand, they may not be sustainable to the granite kitchen bench tops and other stone bench tops are. With, do not expect a scratch or stain resistant things and are willing to shell out more because they are expensive choice.

Granite, like marble, is also a naturally occurring stone. But, in contrast to marble, bench tops made from this material are ideal for kitchens because of its strong and durable nature. Granite bench tops are known to be resistant to scratching, staining and even heat and hence are ideal for kitchens.

Caesarstone is engineered stone that is created through the amalgamation of quartz and high performance polymers. The percentage of quartz, which is one of the strongest naturally occurring substances, in Caesarstone can be up to 93%. Such engineered stones are known for their resistance to bad elements such as staining, scratching and heat which make these stones the perfect material for kitchen bench tops.

Stone kitchen benches, granite kitchen bench tops and Caesar Stone kitchen bench tops are the hardest bench tops and may well be held in many colors and the price you would love to have.

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Kitchen Design ? Choosing the Right Colours for Your New Kitchen
Author:
• Saturday, December 17th, 2011

The colour of a kitchen needs a lot of consideration; after all, it’s not the sort of room you revamp very often so you’re going to be stuck with your choice for years to come.  Choosing colours that you will still love and that will still look great years down the track is a tough job, but hopefully these simple tips will guide you down the best path.

A kitchen designer can help with the basics, it often helps if you put together a collage of many different colours and styles that you like so the kitchen designer can get a good insight and can therefore make some recommendations for you.  You will be able to see on a computer what your finished kitchen will look like.  Saying this, things on a bigger scale can look very different, especially with lighting differences.  To avoid any huge mistakes, once you have decided on your colour scheme, print these colours onto a large bit of paper and put it up in your kitchen for a few weeks.  This way you can get a good feel of your chosen colours before committing to anything.

Different colours also bring on different moods and feelings, for example:

Red is about anger, energy and passion
Yellow is for creativity, energy and intellect
Green is neutralising and creates harmony and balance
Blue is peaceful, calming and believed to keep hunger at bay!

 

Therefore, you may want to research colours to enhance your kitchen design.  Another factor to consider is the size of the kitchen; if you have a large kitchen and you want it all white it could look clinical, and a small kitchen in a bright colour could make it look smaller.  Bright colours are great but sometimes you only need a little to get a great effect, too much colour can be over powering at times.  When it comes down to it colour is a very unique choice, if you are still undecided you can always go for a neutral kitchen and just have colourful accessories, that way you can change your kitchen colour scheme when you get bored.

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Eco Friendly Kitchen Ideas – Go Green
Author:
• Friday, December 16th, 2011

Kitchen is the center place for any family where everyone meets at the evening, have food together, children do their homework etc. Kitchen is most frequently used place in the house. As it is one of the busiest places in the house, this is where most of the energy (electricity) is consumed. According to one survey, energy, lighting, refrigeration and cooking are responsible for almost 50% of a home’s energy consumption. Do not forget to add dishwashers and washing machines to your power eater’s list. Using environmentally friendly cleaning products, recycling and using biodegradable bin liners are just a few ways families are going green in the kitchen. However one of the most important and significant changes many households are making is buying and using energy efficient kitchen appliances.

Here are some of the eco friendly kitchens ideas that can help you save on your energy bills and help make the environment little better:

Refrigerators

Refrigerators consume the most energy only after heating systems. If you are buying a new refrigerator, buy them with Energy Star label (which designates appliances that use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models). Also consider buying a refrigerator that fits your requirements, do not buy huge one if you are only 3 members in the family.

Dishwashers and Washing Machines

Buy a water efficient washing machine that can save water and electricity. Use dishwasher and washing machines wisely, only use it when you have full load ready to go.

Waste Disposal machines

They help reduce the physical amount of food waste down to small pieces. You can use compost on your houseplants or garden where worms can compost down the food waste more efficiently.

Kitchen Trash Separators

Look for kitchen recycling bins that allow you to easily separate trash, in terms of paper, food, bottles, plastics, etc.

Energy Saving through Proper Lighting

Generally there are two or three light settings such as general, task lighting, and mood lighting. The kitchen should be designed in such a way that in day time sun light can be used at most of the places which saves energy. Low voltage systems for task and mood lighting are highly appreciated in modern kitchen designs. New age kitchen designers use the concept of skylight that brings natural light in the kitchen and makes the environment pleasant.

Other Energy Saving Kitchen Appliances

Use eco friendly kettles for your regular tea and coffee needs. Consider using new generation ovens that doesn’t require pre-heating.

By purchasing energy efficient appliances you’re not only doing your part to help protect the environment, you’re also helping your pocket and saving a substantial sum on energy costs too. Let’s go green and make this world better place to live!

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The Alston’s Finally Get Their Dream Modern Kitchen
Author:
• Monday, December 12th, 2011

For Janet and Andy Alston their dream modern fitted kitchen was miles away from what they currently had and they were doubtful it could ever be achieved with the space they had to work with.

After commissioning the Kitchen Design Centre and showing Managing Director and designer Roger Astin their ideal contemporary kitchen and their hopes for the room, their dreams became reality.

Roger said: “Janet and Andy had seen a style of kitchen they wanted in our showroom but they were concerned it would not be possible to recreate in their kitchen.

“The space we were working with was lacking natural light, divided into two separate areas, had a stair way leading to the back door and was quite an unusual shape – making it a challenging project.

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“Because the space was dark and features such as curved walls making it difficult to fit cupboards, it required some imaginative thinking to give them the kitchen they desired.”

Janet said: “For the Kitchen Design Centre to transform our two rooms into one light, contemporary living area with all the functions we asked for is amazing.

“We wanted a functional kitchen, an informal dining area and a relaxation space, all of which we now have and enjoy as a family.”

The kitchen is fitted with all the latest appliances including a combination microwave, oven, warming drawer, cube extractor, induction hob, integrated fridge, freezer and dishwasher and a 100 degrees Quooker hot tap.

Roger added: “As well as all the latest appliances a wine cooler was also built into the wall.”

“A small wall dividing the two rooms was removed to make way for a large island and concealed lighting under the units make a nice feature as well as adding extra light.”

“The island sits in the middle of the kitchen and extends following the curved wall to create an eating space for four people.

Janet added: “The whole process from design to fitting and aftercare has been handled with utmost professionalism and the Kitchen Design Centre have always been obliging and willing to help.

“Our kitchen is now a fantastic, spacious area that we use to its full capacity, the living area with the TV and seating adds another dimension to room that we love to relax in.”

“This project was challenging but with a mix of modular units and a redefinition of space the finished product flows and we achieved what we set out to do,” said Roger.

“We would certainly have no hesitations in recommending the Kitchen Design Centre to anyone considering purchasing a new kitchen – they would not be disappointed with the quality and service,” added Janet.

To find out more about kitchen Design Centre or to find details of your nearest showroom, visit www.kitchendesigncentre.com

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Designer kitchens company launches unique service created to inspire homeowners
Author:
• Saturday, December 10th, 2011

Long established firm, Kitchen Design Centre, has introduced a new scheme to help customers bring their rooms to life – a free kitchen design service.

The kitchen specialist, which offers designer kitchens – both traditional and contemporary – will send a designer to customers’ houses to evaluate the design possibilities – without them having to part with a penny.

Roger Astin from Kitchen Design Centre said: “The new service means people can see what’s possible before they spend any money at all. New kitchens bring significant lifestyle improvements and can add value to houses.”

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The range of modern kitchens bring together a fantastic collaboration of the traditional and the contemporary, with an impressive range of traditional woods and stylish finishes at affordable prices.

And as a forward-thinking kitchen company the Kitchen Design Centre offers the latest in high quality Neff and Miele appliances.

With a century of sourcing kitchen products, the company ensures all sinks, taps and worktops are of the highest quality – featuring optional ornaments to compliment, including modern gadgets.

Over the past 17 years Kitchen Design Centre has gathered a huge portfolio of satisfied customers – a sign of the dedication, commitment and all round talent within the company.

One customer, Janet Alston, said: “It’s amazing that the Kitchen Design Centre transformed our two rooms into one light, contemporary living area with all the functions we asked for.

“We wanted a functional kitchen, an informal dining area and a relaxation space, all of which we now have and enjoy as a family.”

Free kitchen design evaluations are available by applying online or visiting the showrooms.

The showrooms are located in Manchester just off the M60 at junction 22, in Blackburn – positioned on the A666 at Brownhill’s roundabout – and in Colne near the end of the M65.

For more information visit www.kitchendesigncentre.com, email news@kitchendesigncentre.co.uk or call Manchester, 0161 681 5061, Blackburn, 01254 246 046, or Colne, 01282 828 444.

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Family helps to design their own kitchen
Author:
• Sunday, December 04th, 2011

For the O’toole family, converting their existing home into a contemporary dwelling was full of interesting challenges.

The dark and more cramped feeling of the old original property needed to be totally rethought.

With the combination of their own design skills and the sensitive approach of designers at  Kitchen Design Centre, they managed to create their perfect designer kitchen within their perfect cooking, living and dining space.

The kitchen was transformed from a small and relatively dark area into a light, spacious, modern room with lots of personality.

The O’tooles wanted a modern, luxurious kitchen, with helpful appliances to assist them with day-to-day living and entertaining.

Louise O’toole said: “The old kitchen was in desperate need of a makeover. It was a small cottage-like kitchen. So we spoke to one of Kitchen Design Centres designers.

“Roger Astin came up with several draft design ideas which we carefully considered before settling on one scheme which seemed to tick all the boxes. These ideas were then developed in much more detail.

The scale of accuracy and the help his team offered was of very great help. Our building ideas really came to life when we saw their fantastic artwork’

In order to create more space and light, a new area was created – with light pouring through a large glass construction which links the main kitchen area to a large dining area and to a sunny lounge too.

“The walls were knocked through and the whole area came together as one living space” said Louise.

“The overall theme change from dated and cramped to multifunctional, contemporary and roomy’

“Now every time I walk into the room I feel in better mood – instantly.”

The modern kitchen is nothing short of luxurious. There are a multitude of innovative Neff appliances throughout the room – including fridge-freezers which are discreetly concealed side by side within an alcove formed from an old doorway.

There is a Quooker – a permanent boiling water tap – and a coffee machine with its own warming drawer for cups. A multifunction Circotherm oven and separate combination Microwave with another warming drawer for plates or food containers.

Louise said: “Our kitchen and everything I wanted and more. The Kitchen Design Centre craftsmen were extremely professional and arrived on the day they first gave and punctually, they completed the work with diligence and care.”

The couple chose Kitchen Design Centre because of their reputation for design, quality installation and cost effectiveness..

Designer Roger Astin said: “It was a combined effort really because Sean and Louise had some great ideas and a fantastic building for us to work in, they were able to accommodate the best ideas and had a real desire to do so.”

Louise added: “We created more space for the children, while at the same time keeping it safe. Overall it turned out brilliantly.”

“The help and support Kitchen Design Centre offered was fantastic. Every step of the way we were helped with enthusiasm.”

“I’ve already recommended the company to a number of my friends.”

Kitchen Design Centre has showrooms are located in Manchester just off the M60 at junction 22, in Blackburn – positioned on the A666 at Brownhill’s roundabout – and in Colne near the end of the M65.

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Upgrade Your Kitchen Before The VAT Increase, says KBSA
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• Friday, December 02nd, 2011

Homeowners planning an interior makeover with a new kitchen would be wise to order now to beat the VAT increase in January, according to the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA).

“Beautiful modern kitchens can be major investments so it makes sense to order now before the 2.5 per cent vat increase early next year,” says Roger Astin from Kitchen Design Centre, a member of the KBSA.

“Investing in modern kitchens will also increase the value of homes – which is important for those who would like to sell their homes as the market improves.”

The KBSA, which promotes excellence within the interiors industry and champions customer protection, includes around 300 retailer members – including North West based Kitchen Design Centre.

Those considering a home makeover project should look no further than members of the KBSA, such as Kitchen Design Centre, for faultless service, quality products and top class installation.

KBSA members are dedicated to upholding the association’s high standards of design, supply, installation and customer service throughout the interiors industry.

All members are carefully vetted prior to admission and they must have been trading for at least two years in order to be considered for membership.

“The extra reassurances that we can provide lets consumers know that they can buy with confidence from a reputable and reliable retailer.” adds Roger.

KBSA retailers also offer full deposit protection, work in progress cover and a six year workmanship warranty.

In addition, all members are subject to regular monitoring of their businesses to ensure levels of quality are continually maintained.

Kitchen Design Centre has gathered a huge portfolio of satisfied customers over the past 17 years.

A free kitchen design service is available by applying online or visiting the showrooms – which are located in Manchester, Blackburn and Colne.

Kitchen Design Centre offers bespoke traditional and contemporary kitchens.

For more information visit http://www.kitchendesigncentre.com.

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5 Simple Fitted Kitchen Tips and Design Ideas
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• Thursday, December 01st, 2011

From the name itself, we expect something where all the things we need in a kitchen would be meticulously arranged into a functional and aesthetically pleasing layout. For the sake of those who intend to find the ideal fitted kitchen design, here are some tips that you may want to consider in planning and refurbishing your own kitchen space.

1. The triangle design. There is an unwritten law that says the sink, fridge, and oven must be placed near each other, as these three are the most used components of the kitchen. You can start your design by planning where to place these three first.

2. Keep it ergonomic, especially for kitchens with limited space it is necessary to utilize the walls where fixed cabinets, smoke vents, and other things can be hung. However, we should also keep in mind the family members who are going to use it. For example, we ought to keep cabinets within reach without needing a ladder or stool to step on. The drawers and cabinets most frequently used dishes and silverware should be placed at the most accessible parts of the kitchen.

3. Allow for sufficient storage space. Extra storage is always favorable especially for families whose kitchens are actively used every day and a lot of appliances must be kept from gathering dust. Extra storage is also important keeping in mind where to keep the food bought in bulk.

4. Functionality must come with aesthetics. Together with planning the working parts you should match them with design that will promote the kitchen’s pleasant atmosphere. Elements such as lighting, color to match the rest of the house interior and materials to be used must be carefully planned to keep them cohesive. You can choose a particular theme to make it easier to decide.

5. Surfaces must be easy to keep clean. Kitchen work is usually messy, so choosing the appropriate surface is vital. The usual choices are granite, ceramic, and hard wood. These surfaces are resistant to being chipped and scratched from bumps and contact with appliances. Cleaning is also easy for smooth, non-porous materials as mentioned.
Deciding on what premade design to choose or making your own depends on how much you know about kitchen components. Prior to actual construction, you may want to browse through magazines or websites on home makeover ideas to get some useful ideas to apply to your own kitchen space. Several companies also offer complete services from planning to construction. Whatever the choice you make a fitted kitchen that reflects the family’s personality would be the best.

 

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How To Make Your Kitchen Trendy Using Kitchen Appliances
Author:
• Tuesday, November 29th, 2011

Several factors affect kitchen design. Latest technologies, available space, common activities, and personal preference are just some of the important things considered in planning a new kitchen or in making minor or major renovations. The biggest trend leans towards the use of high-end and high-tech appliances. Sleek stainless steel finish is a popular look for refrigerators, dishwashers, and electric ranges with large smoke vents. Even a newbie cook would feel professional using these kinds of appliances. Another popular and stylish approach is by integrating several appliances into a complete unit camouflaged with the cabinet doors and drawers. This not only gives a wow-factor to visitors who would discover technology behind these doors but also maximize the use of kitchen space. This type of kitchen design enhances the warmth given by simple design of artificial or authentic wood panels disguising the appliances complemented by adjustable lighting to suit the type of activity one is going to engage into. Putting other centerpieces such as a table with smooth granite finish gives a classy appeal at the same time an alternative area to share a hearty breakfast with family members.

The integrated look for kitchens is steadily gaining popularity as more people tend to enjoy the innovative feel of such design. Manufacturers of electronic appliances start to give more emphasis on custom-made rather than stand-alone kitchen appliances. You would be amazed how refrigerators are hidden to look just like ordinary cabinet doors or how some electronic ranges are fitted into a limited space. Interior house designing and electronic circuitry rolled into one, almost everything imaginable can be done to turn a simple kitchen space into a state-of-the-art home feature.

Efficiency wise, another innovation called the kitchen garage is a considerable option especially for limited-spaced kitchens. It is generally described as a kitchen cupboard on a countertop providing storage for small appliances such as a toaster, blender and food processor for easy access. It is advisable for young professionals occupying small condominium or studio-type dwellings.
Whatever the design or theme in mind it is best to consider all the factors and limitations you might encounter while planning and choosing what kitchen appliances to buy. Start with an important aspect such as functionality or cost-effectiveness; in the end it must reflect the household’s character as a whole.

 

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