YOUR KITCHEN
INTERIORS
INTERIORS
NEW NEUTRALS These Skate kitchen cabinets are available in the company’s new colour options called ‘Haven’. POA (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk).
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT The Allmilmo range, stocked at By Design in Cambridge (01223 248409; www.bydi.co.uk); The Schüller range, available from Grange Farm Kitchens in Royston (01763 209236; www.grangefarmkitchens.co.uk); This Shaker kitchen features colour accents on highlighted drawers. From £18,000 (0800 389 6938; www.harveyjones.com).
New COLOURS
WORDS ANGELINA VILLA-CLARKE
YOUR KITCHEN Whether you want a total overhaul or just a mini revamp, the latest design trends will inspire you to transform your kitchen into the hottest spot in your home...
34 | Property & Home Edition | October 2014
SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
The look of our kitchens is changing. Up until recently, a neutral palette – putty, beige, white and cream – have reigned supreme. While these colours may be the most sensible choices, they can lack imaginative flair. As a consequence, designers are increasingly working with new ‘takes’ on the neutral that can give a kitchen a bright, modern feel. Soft grey is one shade that is overtaking white in the popularity stakes. Effective on walls as it is on cabinetry, it’s a sharp neutral that gives a contemporary edge to a room. “We are noticing a shift towards greys that can range from cool through to warmer hues,” agrees Frances Hall, commercial director at Cambridgeshire-based David Hall Kitchen and Furniture Makers (01763 261010; www.davidhallfurniture.co.uk). “Grey is such a subtle colour and varies according to time of day, and even time of year. It is a fantastic neutral backdrop and can be dressed up with colourful accessories, or left clean and simple, to allow the lines and proportions of cabinetry to do the talking.” Tom Hinton, designer and proprietor of Cambridge-based Tomas Kitchen Living (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living. co.uk), has begun to offer a choice of ‘new neutrals’, such as light grey and pale green.
“Our new colour group ‘Haven’ features neutral greys and some interesting greens and is proving really popular,” he reveals. “These colours come to life with a splash of contrasting colour – bar stools in orange, for instance, or a bold statement wall.” A blue palette is also becoming in vogue, with a mix of azure, teal and cornflower blue used as a step up from a neutral, and splashes of rich Greek or indigo blue used as a bolder statement. Mixed with white, this strong colour can look surprisingly fresh and appealing. “We have definitely noticed an increase in demand for colour,” comments John Stephens, director at handmade kitchen specialist Rencraft (01732 762682; www. rencraft.co.uk). “I think people are starting to get bored of the paler, whiter shades and seem to be getting braver. As we hand paint everything ourselves on-site, customers can choose whatever colour they wish. Painted elements also give flexibility, as they can be easily updated to give a new look for a relatively small cost.” Emily Evison, designer at luxury kitchen makers Harvey Jones (0800 389 6938; www.harveyjones.com) agrees that there’s a move towards using bolder colours in the kitchen – such as olive greens and oranges
– calling to mind a retro 1960s feel. “The hottest colours within kitchens at present are updated neutrals like charcoal greys and putty-coloured tones teamed with accents of bright zesty colours, such as orange or lime. For those who don’t want to make a statement, the easiest way to introduce colour is by adding a splashback or picking out an element of the kitchen – an island, for instance – in a bold colour.” Before committing to a brand new colour scheme, it’s worth getting some advice. Cambridge-based Farrow & Ball (01223 367771; www.farrow-ball.com) are the go-to colour experts and can suggest the best shades and finishes that will work well for your kitchen. “The kitchen is the perfect place to introduce colour, whether it’s a soft accent or a bold statement,” says Sarah Cole, marketing director. “Green hues help to bring some of nature back in to the home, especially if your kitchen looks out to a garden. Mizzle is a beautiful grey-green that could be used on your cupboards to complement a neutral shade, such as Dimpse. Pigeon is another wonderful, easyto-live-with colour, with the same calm, grey properties and ideal for painting a kitchen island.”
Grey is a fantastic neutral backdrop and can be dressed up with colourful accessories or left clean and simple
SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Property & Home Edition | October 2014 | 35
INTERIORS
New SURFACES While granite will always have its place as one of the most popular materials when it comes to kitchen surfaces, there seems to be a growing trend of homeowners veering away from the more obvious choices in a desire to express individuality. “Bold, bright colours are enjoying something of an upturn,” says Peter Morrison, owner of Cambridge-based Granite Transformations (01223 843333; www.granitetransformations.co.uk). “These look great particularly for contrasting island units and warehousestyle apartments. Black is still a popular worktop choice but we’ve noticed more people looking for a little more sparkle and texture. Our Black Star recycled glass material contains mirror flecks, which creates an incredible sparkling effect and is one of our bestsellers. White, offwhite, brown and beige worktops are also on trend, particularly for minimalist continental-style layouts. Our latest Hydra White material is a recycled porcelain, hardwearing, incorporating mirror fragments for reflective pinpoints.” Recycled worktop materials are also growing in popularity – appealing to homeowners who have a desire for a new look coupled with a sense of responsibility for the environment. “Recycled glass and porcelain surfaces, made from post-consumer and postindustrial reject materials, are definitely in vogue,” says Peter Morrison. “As are composite granite and quartz composite surfaces. Granite Transformations agglomerate worktops are made from up to 78% recycled content.” Countertops in engineered stone and concrete, meanwhile, bring a raw, industrial feel while honed marble surfaces give a polished European look that works well against rougher textures, such as brick or raw-stone walls. Quartz is also on the rise and is a practical choice for families. Nonporous and resistant to heat, the material is BEIGE BE GONE Grey English Revival range (01223 811 111; www.eadonstone.co.uk).
ORGANIC DEVELOPMENT AlnoStar Dur kitchen in grey, from £20,000 (01284 724723; www.kitchenologyltd.co.uk).
FROM LEFT Granite Transformations reports an upturn in customers opting for bright surfaces, such as its Cristillano recycled glass surfaces in blue and orange, from £385 per square metre, including fitting (01223 843333; www.granitetransformations.co.uk).
resistant to spills and scratches making it a good all-rounder. “Low maintenance and practical performance should be top priorities for all kitchen worktops, otherwise you’ll be continuously cleaning or, worse, having to reseal or replace them,” advises Peter. “Consumers are getting wise to this and are turning toward surfaces that have recognised technical approvals.” Jennifer Shaw, design director at contemporary kitchen experts Kitchenology (01284 724723; www. kitchenologyltd.co.uk) identifies an organic trend capturing her clients: “We’ve noticed customers are wanting more organic finishes – glass, wood, ceramic or stone effects. They are opting for greys and neutrals, which are brought to life with a
splash of subtle colour, such as a metallic textured splashback or a statement central island in contrasting shades and materials.” Tom Hinton at Tomas (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk) agrees: “Mixing wood with grey quartz works really well and is a practical option.” Meanwhile, at Eadonstone Kitchens, based in Cambridge (01223 811 111; www. eadonstone.co.uk), marble, such as the Arabescato marble fabricated in the company’s own workshop, is proving popular, as is Silestone’s range of quartz. “Eadonstone is able to source the whole Silestone range,” says Dan Taylor, showroom manager. “It is the original manufacturer of solid quartz worktops. It combines the best of natural stone and cutting-edge design.”
Low maintenance and practical performance should be top priorities, otherwise you’ll be continuously cleaning SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Property & Home Edition | October 2014 | 37
INTERIORS
INTERIORS
SLEEK AND UNIQUE Trinity Contemporary range. Kitchens from £20,000 (01763 261010; www.davidhallfurniture.co.uk).
MARVEL AT MARBLE Marble such as this Botticino Marble (POA) has become popular (01223 811 111; www.eadonstone.co.uk).
New FIXTURES
New
INDIGO Aventos ‘hinge lift up’ cabinets offer clever storage and conceal the extractor fan (01763 261010; www.davidhallfurniture.co.uk).
FUNCTIONALITY There’s no point having a sleek, fashionable kitchen if it isn’t practical. These days, homeowners want a kitchen that looks the part but also, more importantly, has all the latest tricks up its sleeve for practical living. From intelligent storage, such as concealed spice drawers and hidden larders, to in-built drinks cabinets and concealed work stations – there’s a growing range of add-on gizmos and clever features you can factor in when planning a new kitchen. One popular trend is the rise in base drawers, instead of standing cupboards. More functional than having to bend down and peer into a cupboard, a pullout drawer allows you to gain access in one simple motion and many can be customised with storage layers to fit dinner plates and bowls, etc. Hydraulic, easy-close doors are also de rigeur, with cabinet doors folding up and out of the way at the touch of a button – ideal for smaller kitchens. “Storage is important in any room, not least the kitchen,” says Hazel Boyd, designer at Eadonstone Kitchens (01223 811 111; www.eadonstone.co.uk). “Drawers in many ways are better for storage than cabinets especially for those who may find access difficult. When the aesthetics are important, hidden drawers provide a great way to maintain the balance of aesthetics with functionality.”
38 | Property & Home Edition | October 2014
Established luxury kitchen experts, such as Charles York Kitchens (available at Eadonstone) have ingenious ideas for those all-important finishing touches. Discreet pull-out shelves are handy for small areas while ‘appliance garages’ hide the unsightly coffee makers and toasters, thus keeping your surfaces clear. Vegetable drawers, bread drawers, utensil inserts, pop-up power ports and pull-out wine shelves are just a few of the other clutterfree ways to keep your kitchen looking show home perfect. “There are thousands of clever storage products on the market, ranging from a kitchen in a cupboard, an enormous choice of bins, corner units and drawer dividers,”
adds Frances Hall at David Hall Kitchen and Furniture Makers (01763 261010; www. davidhallfurniture.co.uk). “We have a pullout shelf system, allowing you to access the food you want without needing to pull out the entire wireworks. Another favourite is the 150mm wide bottle pull-out – ideal for small day-to-day cooking essentials.” Appliance technology is also making big leaps with ‘tablet know-how’ being applied to fridges, ovens and washing machines. Touchscreens and Wi-Fi connectivity will soon mean that appliances will be able to be controlled remotely by apps on smartphones. Other advances, such as practical hands-free taps, will no doubt be the norm in a few years’ time.
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The art of accessorising has come into its own in the kitchen of late. Previously the norm for living areas and bedrooms, design elements – such as choosing the right lighting and furniture for your kitchen – are proving all-important. What’s more, it’s all about being bold and dramatic. Choose unusual light fittings, such as Fritz Fryer’s Converted Gramophone Trumpet Pendant (01989 567416; www.fritzfryer.co.uk) or the Stag Horn Chandelier at Des Res Design (£3,815, 01386 793240; www.desresdesign.co.uk). Group pendant lights, such as the brass versions at Bert Frank, over a dining table (020 8737 0512; www.bertfrank.co.uk). Jenny Hurran, director of online boutique Out There Interiors (www. outthereinteriors.com), which stocks a range of unique lighting, advises: “It’s easy to become fixated on spots, strips and recessed lighting when it comes to kitchen design, and while these elements shouldn’t be overlooked, glamorous overhead lighting creates an unexpected impact in a kitchen. Try a trio of globe chandeliers over an island, or an outsized starburst pendant above the dining area for dramatic effect.” When it comes to sinks, forget stainless steel. Statement sinks in bright hues, such as the orange, green and yellow bowl sinks available at Aston Matthews (from £276, 020 7226 7220; www.astonmatthews. co.uk) are having a moment. And bogstandard extractor fans may be things of the past. Check out the glamorous crystal Celestial Cooker Hood by Elica (www.elica. co.uk), ramping up the luxe factor. For those lucky enough to have a dining area in the kitchen, bring it bang up to date with extra-long dining tables and statement chairs. Rough-hewn, rubbeddown tables have become supersized, with 14 seats or more. This raw ‘banquet’ look is
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Converted Gramophone Trumpet Pendant, £385 (01989 567416; fritzfryer. co.uk); velvet Paris Carver chair, £735 (020 8752 8938; www.thesofaandchair.co.uk); Stag Horn Chandelier, £3,815 (01386 793240; www.desresdesign.co.uk); brass pendant light at Bert Frank, £570 (020 8737 0512; www.bertfrank.co.uk); Bell Shaped Hanging Lamps, £78 (0208 0997 443; www.outthereinteriors.com).
juxtaposed with glamorous dining chairs in velvets and suedes, like those available at The Sofa and Chair Company (020 8752 8935; www.thesofaandchair.co.uk). Tom Hinton gives his tips for furniture to stand the test of time: “We’ve recently started stocking the iconic Danish brand
Glamorous overhead lighting creates an unexpected impact in a kitchen. Try a trio of globe chandeliers
‘Republic of Fritz Hansen’, as part of our furniture and lighting collection,” he reveals. “Buying a piece of quality furniture from classic designers such as these is the perfect way to make a statement. Invest in Jacobsen’s Drop Chair, which has just been relaunched or his classic Seven chair. Another iconic designer – Carl Hansen – has just launched a beautiful special edition Wishbone chair with Paul Smith fabric – it doesn’t get any better than that!”
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Property & Home Edition | October 2014 | 39
INTERIORS
New TEXTURES With kitchens becoming increasingly sleek and luxurious, there’s a danger they can become monotone and, dare we say it, boring. Bring your space to life by adding in a few artisanal touches – think copper taps, arty open shelving and textured tiling. Rob Whitaker, creative director of Fired Earth (01223 300941; www.firedearth. com) agrees: “Tiles and wood flooring are an ideal way of adding a sense of texture or understated pattern to a kitchen. Herringbone and chevron designs are particularly popular at the moment and they work equally well in contemporary and traditional schemes. For example, solid oak flooring such as Fired Earth’s Parquetry in Herringbone Seashell has a timeless look and a subtle decorative finish that make it a perfect choice for a dining area. “The naturally textured surfaces and colour variation of stone and slate complement classic kitchens perfectly,” he continues. “For a more modern take, look for crisp, diamond-sawn slate and marble – using the tiles on walls as well as floors – or use brick format limestone, which can have an almost industrial feel. Moorish tiles such as those in Fired Earth’s Marrakech range can also create a lovely sense of texture.” Open shelving, meanwhile, is one of the easiest ways to introduce personality into your kitchen. Providing a clean and contemporary look, floating shelves can make a space look bigger by drawing the eye along the wall and are a lovely way of showing off interesting pieces of crockery, ceramics and cookware. As an alternative to streamlined shelves, consider a series of modular box shelves, such as the solid oak Modbox Creations by Tomas, available at Tomas (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk), which can be built in to a fitted kitchen or deployed as free-standing furniture. While displaying kitchen items on shelving has undoubtedly become fashionable, remember that this look only works if the items on display are fashionable too! Clear out the clutter, and arrange plates and bowls in colourcoded piles (all-white is very effective), with the odd quirky piece, a frame or antique glass, added in for interest. Source vintage kitchenware, old signage and one-off pieces from floral tea sets – but
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Bespoke kitchen specialists Langtry Fitted Furniture can make minimalist-style kitchens to order for that perfect streamlined look, POA (01353 725380; www.langtryfurniture.co.uk). Invest in Sainsbury’s stylish, indigo-blue crockery (from £3, 0800 636362; www.sainsburys.co.uk) and its new range of oak and white tipped kitchenware (from £3.50).
don’t overdo it – you want it to look sophisticated, not cluttered. Hannah Mallett, kitchen shop buying manager at Sainsbury’s (www.sainsburys. co.uk), gives her insight into how you can affordably accessorise your space: “You can create a classic, timeless look with our new range of oak and white-tipped kitchenware which brings a natural, elegant look. Organic brush strokes and
a space look bigger by drawing the eye along the wall 40 | Property & Home Edition | October 2014
origami-style patterns on glassware and ceramics make for stunning, eye-catching pieces. The design encapsulates oriental simplicity, bringing a sophisticated look to the rich, jewel-coloured palette in the indigo blue trend.” Having the last word is Jenny Hurran of Out There Interiors: “I’m all for open shelving. Why buy lovely crockery then hide it in a cupboard? I also advocate using your best stuff every day. Tastes and trends change so quickly so don’t wait for special occasions. Enjoy your favourite things now.”
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INTERIORS
NEW NEUTRALS These Skate kitchen cabinets are available in the company’s new colour options called ‘Haven’. POA (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk).
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT The Allmilmo range, stocked at By Design in Cambridge (01223 248409; www.bydi.co.uk); The Schüller range, available from Grange Farm Kitchens in Royston (01763 209236; www.grangefarmkitchens.co.uk); This Shaker kitchen features colour accents on highlighted drawers. From £18,000 (0800 389 6938; www.harveyjones.com).
New COLOURS
WORDS ANGELINA VILLA-CLARKE
YOUR KITCHEN Whether you want a total overhaul or just a mini revamp, the latest design trends will inspire you to transform your kitchen into the hottest spot in your home...
34 | Property & Home Edition | October 2014
SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
The look of our kitchens is changing. Up until recently, a neutral palette – putty, beige, white and cream – have reigned supreme. While these colours may be the most sensible choices, they can lack imaginative flair. As a consequence, designers are increasingly working with new ‘takes’ on the neutral that can give a kitchen a bright, modern feel. Soft grey is one shade that is overtaking white in the popularity stakes. Effective on walls as it is on cabinetry, it’s a sharp neutral that gives a contemporary edge to a room. “We are noticing a shift towards greys that can range from cool through to warmer hues,” agrees Frances Hall, commercial director at Cambridgeshire-based David Hall Kitchen and Furniture Makers (01763 261010; www.davidhallfurniture.co.uk). “Grey is such a subtle colour and varies according to time of day, and even time of year. It is a fantastic neutral backdrop and can be dressed up with colourful accessories, or left clean and simple, to allow the lines and proportions of cabinetry to do the talking.” Tom Hinton, designer and proprietor of Cambridge-based Tomas Kitchen Living (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living. co.uk), has begun to offer a choice of ‘new neutrals’, such as light grey and pale green.
“Our new colour group ‘Haven’ features neutral greys and some interesting greens and is proving really popular,” he reveals. “These colours come to life with a splash of contrasting colour – bar stools in orange, for instance, or a bold statement wall.” A blue palette is also becoming in vogue, with a mix of azure, teal and cornflower blue used as a step up from a neutral, and splashes of rich Greek or indigo blue used as a bolder statement. Mixed with white, this strong colour can look surprisingly fresh and appealing. “We have definitely noticed an increase in demand for colour,” comments John Stephens, director at handmade kitchen specialist Rencraft (01732 762682; www. rencraft.co.uk). “I think people are starting to get bored of the paler, whiter shades and seem to be getting braver. As we hand paint everything ourselves on-site, customers can choose whatever colour they wish. Painted elements also give flexibility, as they can be easily updated to give a new look for a relatively small cost.” Emily Evison, designer at luxury kitchen makers Harvey Jones (0800 389 6938; www.harveyjones.com) agrees that there’s a move towards using bolder colours in the kitchen – such as olive greens and oranges
– calling to mind a retro 1960s feel. “The hottest colours within kitchens at present are updated neutrals like charcoal greys and putty-coloured tones teamed with accents of bright zesty colours, such as orange or lime. For those who don’t want to make a statement, the easiest way to introduce colour is by adding a splashback or picking out an element of the kitchen – an island, for instance – in a bold colour.” Before committing to a brand new colour scheme, it’s worth getting some advice. Cambridge-based Farrow & Ball (01223 367771; www.farrow-ball.com) are the go-to colour experts and can suggest the best shades and finishes that will work well for your kitchen. “The kitchen is the perfect place to introduce colour, whether it’s a soft accent or a bold statement,” says Sarah Cole, marketing director. “Green hues help to bring some of nature back in to the home, especially if your kitchen looks out to a garden. Mizzle is a beautiful grey-green that could be used on your cupboards to complement a neutral shade, such as Dimpse. Pigeon is another wonderful, easyto-live-with colour, with the same calm, grey properties and ideal for painting a kitchen island.”
Grey is a fantastic neutral backdrop and can be dressed up with colourful accessories or left clean and simple
SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Property & Home Edition | October 2014 | 35
INTERIORS
New SURFACES While granite will always have its place as one of the most popular materials when it comes to kitchen surfaces, there seems to be a growing trend of homeowners veering away from the more obvious choices in a desire to express individuality. “Bold, bright colours are enjoying something of an upturn,” says Peter Morrison, owner of Cambridge-based Granite Transformations (01223 843333; www.granitetransformations.co.uk). “These look great particularly for contrasting island units and warehousestyle apartments. Black is still a popular worktop choice but we’ve noticed more people looking for a little more sparkle and texture. Our Black Star recycled glass material contains mirror flecks, which creates an incredible sparkling effect and is one of our bestsellers. White, offwhite, brown and beige worktops are also on trend, particularly for minimalist continental-style layouts. Our latest Hydra White material is a recycled porcelain, hardwearing, incorporating mirror fragments for reflective pinpoints.” Recycled worktop materials are also growing in popularity – appealing to homeowners who have a desire for a new look coupled with a sense of responsibility for the environment. “Recycled glass and porcelain surfaces, made from post-consumer and postindustrial reject materials, are definitely in vogue,” says Peter Morrison. “As are composite granite and quartz composite surfaces. Granite Transformations agglomerate worktops are made from up to 78% recycled content.” Countertops in engineered stone and concrete, meanwhile, bring a raw, industrial feel while honed marble surfaces give a polished European look that works well against rougher textures, such as brick or raw-stone walls. Quartz is also on the rise and is a practical choice for families. Nonporous and resistant to heat, the material is BEIGE BE GONE Grey English Revival range (01223 811 111; www.eadonstone.co.uk).
ORGANIC DEVELOPMENT AlnoStar Dur kitchen in grey, from £20,000 (01284 724723; www.kitchenologyltd.co.uk).
FROM LEFT Granite Transformations reports an upturn in customers opting for bright surfaces, such as its Cristillano recycled glass surfaces in blue and orange, from £385 per square metre, including fitting (01223 843333; www.granitetransformations.co.uk).
resistant to spills and scratches making it a good all-rounder. “Low maintenance and practical performance should be top priorities for all kitchen worktops, otherwise you’ll be continuously cleaning or, worse, having to reseal or replace them,” advises Peter. “Consumers are getting wise to this and are turning toward surfaces that have recognised technical approvals.” Jennifer Shaw, design director at contemporary kitchen experts Kitchenology (01284 724723; www. kitchenologyltd.co.uk) identifies an organic trend capturing her clients: “We’ve noticed customers are wanting more organic finishes – glass, wood, ceramic or stone effects. They are opting for greys and neutrals, which are brought to life with a
splash of subtle colour, such as a metallic textured splashback or a statement central island in contrasting shades and materials.” Tom Hinton at Tomas (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk) agrees: “Mixing wood with grey quartz works really well and is a practical option.” Meanwhile, at Eadonstone Kitchens, based in Cambridge (01223 811 111; www. eadonstone.co.uk), marble, such as the Arabescato marble fabricated in the company’s own workshop, is proving popular, as is Silestone’s range of quartz. “Eadonstone is able to source the whole Silestone range,” says Dan Taylor, showroom manager. “It is the original manufacturer of solid quartz worktops. It combines the best of natural stone and cutting-edge design.”
Low maintenance and practical performance should be top priorities, otherwise you’ll be continuously cleaning SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Property & Home Edition | October 2014 | 37
INTERIORS
INTERIORS
SLEEK AND UNIQUE Trinity Contemporary range. Kitchens from £20,000 (01763 261010; www.davidhallfurniture.co.uk).
MARVEL AT MARBLE Marble such as this Botticino Marble (POA) has become popular (01223 811 111; www.eadonstone.co.uk).
New FIXTURES
New
INDIGO Aventos ‘hinge lift up’ cabinets offer clever storage and conceal the extractor fan (01763 261010; www.davidhallfurniture.co.uk).
FUNCTIONALITY There’s no point having a sleek, fashionable kitchen if it isn’t practical. These days, homeowners want a kitchen that looks the part but also, more importantly, has all the latest tricks up its sleeve for practical living. From intelligent storage, such as concealed spice drawers and hidden larders, to in-built drinks cabinets and concealed work stations – there’s a growing range of add-on gizmos and clever features you can factor in when planning a new kitchen. One popular trend is the rise in base drawers, instead of standing cupboards. More functional than having to bend down and peer into a cupboard, a pullout drawer allows you to gain access in one simple motion and many can be customised with storage layers to fit dinner plates and bowls, etc. Hydraulic, easy-close doors are also de rigeur, with cabinet doors folding up and out of the way at the touch of a button – ideal for smaller kitchens. “Storage is important in any room, not least the kitchen,” says Hazel Boyd, designer at Eadonstone Kitchens (01223 811 111; www.eadonstone.co.uk). “Drawers in many ways are better for storage than cabinets especially for those who may find access difficult. When the aesthetics are important, hidden drawers provide a great way to maintain the balance of aesthetics with functionality.”
38 | Property & Home Edition | October 2014
Established luxury kitchen experts, such as Charles York Kitchens (available at Eadonstone) have ingenious ideas for those all-important finishing touches. Discreet pull-out shelves are handy for small areas while ‘appliance garages’ hide the unsightly coffee makers and toasters, thus keeping your surfaces clear. Vegetable drawers, bread drawers, utensil inserts, pop-up power ports and pull-out wine shelves are just a few of the other clutterfree ways to keep your kitchen looking show home perfect. “There are thousands of clever storage products on the market, ranging from a kitchen in a cupboard, an enormous choice of bins, corner units and drawer dividers,”
adds Frances Hall at David Hall Kitchen and Furniture Makers (01763 261010; www. davidhallfurniture.co.uk). “We have a pullout shelf system, allowing you to access the food you want without needing to pull out the entire wireworks. Another favourite is the 150mm wide bottle pull-out – ideal for small day-to-day cooking essentials.” Appliance technology is also making big leaps with ‘tablet know-how’ being applied to fridges, ovens and washing machines. Touchscreens and Wi-Fi connectivity will soon mean that appliances will be able to be controlled remotely by apps on smartphones. Other advances, such as practical hands-free taps, will no doubt be the norm in a few years’ time.
SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
The art of accessorising has come into its own in the kitchen of late. Previously the norm for living areas and bedrooms, design elements – such as choosing the right lighting and furniture for your kitchen – are proving all-important. What’s more, it’s all about being bold and dramatic. Choose unusual light fittings, such as Fritz Fryer’s Converted Gramophone Trumpet Pendant (01989 567416; www.fritzfryer.co.uk) or the Stag Horn Chandelier at Des Res Design (£3,815, 01386 793240; www.desresdesign.co.uk). Group pendant lights, such as the brass versions at Bert Frank, over a dining table (020 8737 0512; www.bertfrank.co.uk). Jenny Hurran, director of online boutique Out There Interiors (www. outthereinteriors.com), which stocks a range of unique lighting, advises: “It’s easy to become fixated on spots, strips and recessed lighting when it comes to kitchen design, and while these elements shouldn’t be overlooked, glamorous overhead lighting creates an unexpected impact in a kitchen. Try a trio of globe chandeliers over an island, or an outsized starburst pendant above the dining area for dramatic effect.” When it comes to sinks, forget stainless steel. Statement sinks in bright hues, such as the orange, green and yellow bowl sinks available at Aston Matthews (from £276, 020 7226 7220; www.astonmatthews. co.uk) are having a moment. And bogstandard extractor fans may be things of the past. Check out the glamorous crystal Celestial Cooker Hood by Elica (www.elica. co.uk), ramping up the luxe factor. For those lucky enough to have a dining area in the kitchen, bring it bang up to date with extra-long dining tables and statement chairs. Rough-hewn, rubbeddown tables have become supersized, with 14 seats or more. This raw ‘banquet’ look is
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Converted Gramophone Trumpet Pendant, £385 (01989 567416; fritzfryer. co.uk); velvet Paris Carver chair, £735 (020 8752 8938; www.thesofaandchair.co.uk); Stag Horn Chandelier, £3,815 (01386 793240; www.desresdesign.co.uk); brass pendant light at Bert Frank, £570 (020 8737 0512; www.bertfrank.co.uk); Bell Shaped Hanging Lamps, £78 (0208 0997 443; www.outthereinteriors.com).
juxtaposed with glamorous dining chairs in velvets and suedes, like those available at The Sofa and Chair Company (020 8752 8935; www.thesofaandchair.co.uk). Tom Hinton gives his tips for furniture to stand the test of time: “We’ve recently started stocking the iconic Danish brand
Glamorous overhead lighting creates an unexpected impact in a kitchen. Try a trio of globe chandeliers
‘Republic of Fritz Hansen’, as part of our furniture and lighting collection,” he reveals. “Buying a piece of quality furniture from classic designers such as these is the perfect way to make a statement. Invest in Jacobsen’s Drop Chair, which has just been relaunched or his classic Seven chair. Another iconic designer – Carl Hansen – has just launched a beautiful special edition Wishbone chair with Paul Smith fabric – it doesn’t get any better than that!”
SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Property & Home Edition | October 2014 | 39
INTERIORS
New TEXTURES With kitchens becoming increasingly sleek and luxurious, there’s a danger they can become monotone and, dare we say it, boring. Bring your space to life by adding in a few artisanal touches – think copper taps, arty open shelving and textured tiling. Rob Whitaker, creative director of Fired Earth (01223 300941; www.firedearth. com) agrees: “Tiles and wood flooring are an ideal way of adding a sense of texture or understated pattern to a kitchen. Herringbone and chevron designs are particularly popular at the moment and they work equally well in contemporary and traditional schemes. For example, solid oak flooring such as Fired Earth’s Parquetry in Herringbone Seashell has a timeless look and a subtle decorative finish that make it a perfect choice for a dining area. “The naturally textured surfaces and colour variation of stone and slate complement classic kitchens perfectly,” he continues. “For a more modern take, look for crisp, diamond-sawn slate and marble – using the tiles on walls as well as floors – or use brick format limestone, which can have an almost industrial feel. Moorish tiles such as those in Fired Earth’s Marrakech range can also create a lovely sense of texture.” Open shelving, meanwhile, is one of the easiest ways to introduce personality into your kitchen. Providing a clean and contemporary look, floating shelves can make a space look bigger by drawing the eye along the wall and are a lovely way of showing off interesting pieces of crockery, ceramics and cookware. As an alternative to streamlined shelves, consider a series of modular box shelves, such as the solid oak Modbox Creations by Tomas, available at Tomas (01223 300858; www.tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk), which can be built in to a fitted kitchen or deployed as free-standing furniture. While displaying kitchen items on shelving has undoubtedly become fashionable, remember that this look only works if the items on display are fashionable too! Clear out the clutter, and arrange plates and bowls in colourcoded piles (all-white is very effective), with the odd quirky piece, a frame or antique glass, added in for interest. Source vintage kitchenware, old signage and one-off pieces from floral tea sets – but
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Bespoke kitchen specialists Langtry Fitted Furniture can make minimalist-style kitchens to order for that perfect streamlined look, POA (01353 725380; www.langtryfurniture.co.uk). Invest in Sainsbury’s stylish, indigo-blue crockery (from £3, 0800 636362; www.sainsburys.co.uk) and its new range of oak and white tipped kitchenware (from £3.50).
don’t overdo it – you want it to look sophisticated, not cluttered. Hannah Mallett, kitchen shop buying manager at Sainsbury’s (www.sainsburys. co.uk), gives her insight into how you can affordably accessorise your space: “You can create a classic, timeless look with our new range of oak and white-tipped kitchenware which brings a natural, elegant look. Organic brush strokes and
a space look bigger by drawing the eye along the wall 40 | Property & Home Edition | October 2014
origami-style patterns on glassware and ceramics make for stunning, eye-catching pieces. The design encapsulates oriental simplicity, bringing a sophisticated look to the rich, jewel-coloured palette in the indigo blue trend.” Having the last word is Jenny Hurran of Out There Interiors: “I’m all for open shelving. Why buy lovely crockery then hide it in a cupboard? I also advocate using your best stuff every day. Tastes and trends change so quickly so don’t wait for special occasions. Enjoy your favourite things now.”
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