Design And Style Ideas For New Kitchens

The kitchen of our times is not just a place where we prepare and cook food. This is now the new venue where the family entertains guests, eats meals and stores gadgets. As we design our new kitchens, we now need to accommodate these new additional activities.

The additional activities have contributed to the increased popularity of kitchen remodels for those with older kitchens. Currently, kitchen islands, stainless steel appliances and farmhouse sinks are regular kitchen additions; while custom countertops and cabinets remain key elements of any inspirational layout.

If you're thinking of constructing a new kitchen, the following suggestions may be useful:

Determining Kitchen Layout

Installing an entirely new cooking space or carrying out a complete renovation is a great opportunity to create that kitchen you have always desired. With the expert and professional help of a home or kitchen designer, even your small space could be transformed into a remarkable place, bearing excellent functionality and abundant storage.

Generally, you have two options:

• If your cooking space is quite large, try a U- or L-shaped design that has a large centre island.

• For a small space, the galley layout would be fine. Due to the limited horizontal space, think vertically by stacking shelves and counters high up on your walls.

The Kitchen Storage

To adequately store all your cookware and appliances, you'll need to have enough drawers, cabinets and shelves. To achieve that goal, ensure that you make use of all the available spaces:

1. Include cabinets in the kitchen island.

2. Buy hanging pot racks and spice racks.

3. Invest in a good kitchen cart.

4. Place your frequently used bulky kitchen ware on the countertop.

5. Free up space by storing the less commonly used items in your store or basement.

6. Above all, get your place organized!

In Australia, there are specific rules regarding the amount of space you need to have around cook tops. The relevant rules and regulations are found in the Australian Standard AG/601-AS5601. In particular, gas burners are accorded plenty of attention, mainly because they possess naked flames.

Cabinets And Countertops

Countertops made of granite and marble are elegant options. Concrete, stainless steel and limestone counters are also wonderful options. For that dash of colour, you may add a bright mosaic tile backsplash or pick out a floor finish made of vibrant wood.

Perhaps even more contemporary is the mix up cabinetry! Today, frosted cabinets are valued for their sleek, modern feel.

The Lighting

For a modern, super stylish and beautiful look, you may opt for tiled light or even install several backlit glass panels. This will generate effectual lighting around the workstation and your countertops.

While installing new light fixtures, make sure that you comply with all applicable regulations. Fortunately, in keeping with the new National Construction Code (NCC) regulations for lighting in domestic setups, the Australian Building Codes Board has recently launched a Lighting Calculator. The Calculator has been designed to assist lighting designers, particularly in new buildings, to successfully adhere to the new Code.


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Jeremy Foxe highly recommends the services offered by Apollo Kitchens. This firm delivers excellent kitchen installation and renovation services. Whatever your tastes or preferences, you can be sure Apollo Kitchens will give you the best service. Visit http://www.apollokitchens.com.au/new-kitchens-nsw.html for more tips and ideas about new kitchen designs.