THE decision has been made - you're going to have that kitchen of your dreams.
Everyone has a different idea of their ideal kitchen but there are a few principles that are common to all great kitchens.
You will need a focal point, somewhere that draws everyone's eye. It could be a magnificent island unit, a range or Aga, or a stunning kitchen table to which all the family gravitates.
If you have a large kitchen and the family tends to get involved in food preparation, consider installing an island. It should be close enough to the sink and appliances to facilitate the moving around of pots and pans but have enough space around it so that more than one person at a time can work in the kitchen.
Make sure you have enough kitchen cupboards to house all your foodstuffs and equipment, both at floor level and on the wall. Corner cupboards should have carousel units so that the deepest reaches are accessible.
If you're a keen cook, buy the best stove you can afford. There's so much choice these days, from electric ranges to gas ovens and solid fuel Agas and Rayburns.
You might want to make room for one of those magnificent American fridges and a practical dishwasher.
The choice and position of appliances is very important. You need to take into account the kitchen’s flow before making a final decision.
The sink will, obviously, be a well-used area. Take a look at all the different types of taps/faucets and the material it will be made of. Do you want ultra-modern stainless steel, a traditional Belfast sink, ceramic or with wooden draining boards? A corner sink might be practical or a double or even triple sink.
For many people the kitchen is the hub of the home and they will want room for a kitchen table. If space is limited a table with corner bench might be practical. A beautiful solid wood country table would add the finishing touch to a rustic or traditional kitchen, or an elegant smoked and etched glass topped table for a modern kitchen, or a period design table and chairs for a classical kitchen.
These are just a few of the things to think about when you make that first decision.
- See a selection of handmade quality kitchens by Country Kitchens of Devon.
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