Did you know that everyone uses the kitchen differently? Really! I hear you ask.

Yes, it is so true!

Do you cook as you clean?

Are you a messy cook?

Do you clean up later or even the next day?

Are you rough in your kitchen? Are you always banging cupboards or hitting the edge of your bench and chipping it 😩?

These are just a few critical questions determining the correct type of products and finishes that would suit how you use your kitchen and create a workspace that can handle you.

Factors we considered for our kitchen renovation were the amount of direct and natural light, amplified in the mornings, which enhances fingerprints when the finishes are shiny. I opted for a white matte finish anti-fingerprint technology laminate. For the overhead cupboards, it chose a black textured laminate. Now keep in mind you will get fingerprints on any product, but some disguise it better than others.

Check out this great before and after image.

Secondly, our original benchtops were engineered stone, which is a porous product. I chose a porcelain benchtop for all its beneficial reasons. It’s non-pours, extremely high heat resistant, scratch resistant, hygienic, plus it can be used indoors and outdoors.

I was after porcelain which emphasised the look of natural stone as opposed to marble. That is why ours has the dark goldie brown vein in it. For me, I love earthy tones. Black and white, timbers and greenery surround my home. So this type of benchtop enhanced my space exactly how I wanted it to.

I also decided to undermount our sink, where the edge of the sink is hidden as it is mounted from underneath, therefore, leaving the exposed polished stone edge. The benefit of this is you can brush the crumbs straight into the sink without them getting trapped on the sink rim, but for us, it was more to do with enhancing the streamlined look. The biggest thing you need to be careful of when undermounting your sink is the exposed stone edge. If you are rough in your kitchen or often washing large pots or pans, you need to be mindful about not knocking the edges too hard as they can chip.

Next was selecting the sink and tap. Often these items are overlooked, but in my opinion, they cop the most wear and tear in your kitchen, so we opted for a surgical-grade stainless steel sink and tap.

We purchased a new undermount style rangehood, Smeg induction hotplate and pyrolitic oven for the appliances. The rangehood is a silent rangehood made by Schweigan. Their motors are mounted externally, therefore virtually silent from inside the kitchen (OMG, AMAZING!)

Now since my kitchen, living, dining and our office are all within one area, having this silent rangehood has made cooking in the evening so much more calming as no one is needing to yell over the old noisey rangehood, my boys don’t need to turn the TV up full blast and I can now hear everything going on around me. It has been a huge win.

Here are a few design tips to consider if you decide to embark on a kicthen renoation:

1. Determine your needs: Consider how you use your kitchen and what you need it to accomplish. Consider factors such as how you cook, appliance needs, and storage requirements.

2. Make a plan: Either sketch a floor plan or write a list that includes the placement of all appliances, cabinets, and countertops. This will help you visualise the space and make sure everything fits properly. The key here is to understand how you work in your kitchen.

3. Consider the workflow: The kitchen should be designed with functionality for easy movement.

4. Think about storage: Maximise storage space with cabinets and drawers. There are so many clever organisational features to have in your kitchen.

5. Invest in quality materials: Durable materials such as porcelain and stone will last longer and look better in the long run. And don’t forget your sink and tap as they cop the most wear and tear, so it is worth investing in quality.

6. Lighting is critical: Proper lighting can make a big difference in the look and feel of your kitchen. Consider a combination of overhead and task lighting for optimal results.

7. Remember the details: Add personal touches such as the type of handles, splashback (tiles, glass, porcelain or stone), fixtures, and paint colours to make the kitchen feel like your own. They all need to work harmoniously together.

8. Work with a Professional: As a professional designer, I can help you create a functional and beautiful kitchen design to suit your tastes and lifestyle. I make you think and consider things you may yet to consider and advise on the best products for how you use your kitchen.

If you have any questions about starting a kitchen renovation, feel free to send me an email or Book a Call to discuss.

Click here to watch our kitchen walkthrough.

Thanks go to:
Absolutely Marble Us: Benchtop and splashback installation
North East Tiles: Supply of white wall tiles
Tailor Made Kitchens: for cutting our new drawer and door fronts
Neolith: porcelain benchtops and splashback in Himalaya Crystal
Titan Sinkware: Tap and Sink, purchased through Winnings