HOME + GARDEN
SHAKER KITCHEN CONT .
What was your design brief for Offham Road ?
This beautiful kitchen was part of an extension project , and the client wanted a room which was open , sociable , warm and homely for lazy days and family time , but also a space to entertain . With an abundance of natural light from ceiling skylights and large full-width Crittall-style doors , it was important the kitchen design kept the room light and neutral , and opting for simple Shaker-style cabinetry created a subtle but stunning platform for the client ’ s wonderful eclectic interior design style .
What are the biggest design considerations when planning a kitchen ?
First and foremost , layout . Knowing your kitchen ’ s purpose is paramount given that it is the most important room in the home . Is it to entertain ? Is it to be a family hub ? Is it both ?
A kitchen must be practical and must work , therefore layout is crucial . The traditional ‘ triangle rule ’ ( hob , fridge , sink in a triangle ) is a good starting point . However , this rule does not always fit and , more recently with open-plan living , kitchens are being designed in zones . This kitchen ’ s focus was one such – the client wanted an open-plan , family living space with zones ; the working areas and the relaxing areas combining to make the room a social , active , and comfortable space . The comfort is enhanced by soft furnishings and warm features such as wicker baskets and place mats , and gorgeous rustic colours . There is even a hanging wicker chair – just wonderful !
Doorways often dictate the traffic-flow of the kitchen and its planning must ensure rooms are still easily accessible . The full width garden doors of this kitchen affect its layout , and the kitchen ’ s design and light palette work to accentuate the doors and garden as a feature to the room . The hanging plants and ornaments link the outdoors , and the living space is extended further .
An island is very much a practical yet stylish replacement for the dining room table , providing extra storage and purpose . It is important you consider where to have the island seating and Collins Bespoke ’ s designers can help you decide . For example , seating on a corner of an island is more sociable . How to use the island is also a big decision : if you plan to cook and eat at an island , ensure there is enough space for both . Facing the cooking areas , like this kitchen , focuses on the kitchen , the gorgeous splash back tiles the client chose – and the chef ! The placing of the island in line with the skylight windows means on sunny days and starry nights you can just look up .
Kitchen spaces vary so much in size , especially if they are being zoned , which is why bespoke kitchens are the best choices . If a kitchen ’ s space is quite small , making practical use of its space is important . There may also be an awkward space which could be turned into additional storage . The wonderful freestanding American fridge-freezer in this kitchen has been framed to not only include it within the cabinetry but to provide additional shelving and balance the wall-cabinetry design .
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