Personalised and Designer Kitchens – Fittings and Design
The kitchen is the focal point of many households. The kitchen doesn't only serve as a food preparation area, the room is a space for family and friends to come together and chat informally. It makes sense then that the design of a kitchen should combine both utility and function with elegance and beauty. Elements such as the fittings and fixtures of a kitchen are important in capturing the exact style and look you want to express. A designer kitchen should feature both functional utility balanced with structured aesthetics.
Kitchen fittings which create a 'designer feel' include the worktops, the cabinetry, the sink, appliances and the taps. Taps may seem like a small feature of a designer kitchen, yet when chosen well this hardware can create a powerful effect which changes the look of the entire room.
Characteristics of a designer kitchen
Worktops have seen a number of changes as fashions have changed over the years. These include linoleum, wood-chip coated in plastic and wood.
Presently, marble, soapstone, engineered quartz, concrete, stainless steel and chrome tops have gained popularity for their aesthetic appeal as well as functionality. Marble, quartz, chrome and stainless steel are not only crisp and minimalist, a very popular trend currently, but are also hygienic and very easy to clean. Durability is an important aspect of a good countertop as the surface can often take quite a beating from heated pots, chopping and other harsh conditions. These quality materials are built to last and are a very good value investment.
Cabinetry complimenting the counter-tops, taps, appliances and the sink can be created through small features applied to the materials from which the cabinets are constructed. Staining wooden cabinets can create a unique effect. Mounting cabinets without doors can also be instrumental in overhauling the appearance the room.
Freestanding cabinets are a very popular addition to designer kitchens. Cabinets with mounted wheels are useful as they can be moved and, when made of similar or complimentary material to the other cabinets, they can become a winning feature.
A kitchen sink need no longer be a bland steel or cracked porcelain basin. A sink made from glass, stainless steel or chrome looks great and is cleanly and long lasting. Matching designer taps will always add to the look.
Another important aspect affecting the look of a designer kitchen is appliances. The dishwasher, kettle, toaster, washing machine, refrigerator and stove should not compromise on quality. Stainless steel appliances are very attractive, especially when the model is combined with a splash of colour such as fire-engine red or royal blue.
Designer Taps
Taps made from high standard components such as chrome and stainless steel are best for use in a kitchen. Different styles of taps such as retro, modern or classic have different features to compliment a designer kitchen.
Modern tap design has become an art form. A popular feature of modern taps is the exclusion of handles, which increases hygiene and decreases effort. Taps can be manufactured with a sensor which can tell when hands or other objects are placed underneath, releasing water. Taps are available with other gadgets which can be used to scrub, spray and pre'rinse dishes.
'Mixers' are taps used in kitchens which use a single spout, instead of two. This is especially useful in a kitchen because one strong stream of water is often required and is much easier to use than controlling two taps especially when cooking and cleaning.
Designer taps are available in stainless steel, brushed nickel or chrome; highly fashionable materials which are of a very high quality and built to last.
A designer kitchen is a must for any home with a vibrant social setting. The kitchen fittings will make the difference between a standard and a designer appearance. Taps are a fitting which add to the unique appeal of each designer kitchen and are a lifelong investment.
