Check out these cool features for the kitchen

Sensor-Operated Faucets

Gone are the days of stubborn, stiff handles on your faucets – simply wave at the fixture and it will magically stream at your command! Brands like Delta and Pfister offer touchless sensor faucets that are easy to use for all the family.

Water Softener System

If you live in a hard water area, you’ll know the toll it can take on your hands when washing up and the bitter taste it has. Install a water softener system beneath your kitchen sink to get fresh, filtered, softened water flowing straight from the tap. Filter out potentially harmful chemicals and hard deposits from your home’s water supply and enjoy smooth, great tasting tap water.

Coffee Machine with Timer

The dream of having a hot, steaming cup of real filter coffee waiting for you when you wake up has ARRIVED. All the classic kitchen appliance brands (Russell Hobbs, Morphy Richards) now offer very affordable filter coffee machines featuring a timer that you can set for the best wakeup call ever. Nothing will have you jumping out of bed at 7am quite like it!

Smart Speaker

We’re seriously considering placing a pre-order for Apple’s new HomePod smart speaker – simply ask Siri to play any song in the world and have it fill the room in seconds, in amazing hi-fi sound quality, completely hands-free. This is especially great in the kitchen so that you can prep and chop food without pausing to fiddle with buttons to play music. Ask Siri to play your favorite playlist and dance around the kitchen as you cook! You can also ask it questions – what step comes next in the recipe you’re making? Alternatives to Apple’s latest gadget include the Google Home and Amazon Echo.

Boiling Water Tap

Another faucet-related tip: get instant boiling water from your faucet. Imagine making an instant brew after a hard day’s work and halving the time it takes to boil potatoes on the hob. These contraptions are available from all kitchen retailers nowadays, and customers who’ve installed them never look back.

Pull-Out Table

When living in a small space, like a bedsit or cozy apartment, utilizing space is key. Where you don’t have room for a dining table, consider a pull-out. It can be neatly tucked away inside a cupboard or otherwise out of sight when not in use, leaving you more space to prepare dinner. When it’s done, whip out your table and enjoy a sit-down meal.

Magnetic or Blackboard Wall

Kids especially will find these fun feature walls a highlight of the house. Stick up photos, lists, and your children’s artwork with colorful magnets for proud display; or scribble important notes, messages and doodles in chalk on your funky blackboard wall.

Kitchen Terrarium

Not a gadget or device, but a cute feature that will bring a little joy every time you see it. Terrariums have become the houseplant-come-décor of choice in modern homes, and you can make them yourself quickly and easily. Buy a few succulent plants from a garden store (available for just a few dollars each), a terrarium frame (you can even make these out of picture frames), and some decorative pebbles. Make at home for a fun activity.

Breakfast Master

Behold this feat of 21^st century engineering: these amazing all-in-one cookers fry your eggs, toast your bread, and make coffee at the same time! The microwave-sized contraptions fit on your countertop and ensure your food and beverages are perfectly cooked and ready to eat at exactly the right time. A range of manufacturers have begun to offer them, like Product Box in the UK and Elite Cuisine available from Amazon US. At just $30, you can’t really refuse.

The post 9 Modern Features You Need in Your Kitchen appeared first on .

Before you do anything, sit down and work out exactly what you need from your kitchen. For example, some people only use a kitchen for cooking, while others need it to double as a laundry. If this is the case, ask yourself whether you can configure the kitchen so that a separate, smaller area leads from it, where you can accommodate a washing machine, other laundry appliances, and items like an ironing board. If you are one of those people—or families—who spend a lot of time in the kitchen, eating or even socializing there, your approach will be quite different. You will need space for a freestanding table or, at the very least, a built-in counter with bar stools where you can eat.

Once you have decided on the function, you can move on to the approach you are going to take. This involves fundamental issues ranging from the basic layout of the kitchen to any style you may want to follow. From here, you can start costing items and deciding whether you are going to employ a professional kitchen company to do the work for you or whether you will tackle the hard work yourself. A compromise would be to get a professional company (or manufacturing outlet) to make custom units and for you to install them yourself. This can work well, provided you have the necessary skills. If you are going to employ the services of a company or individual specializing in kitchen installations, it is still a good idea to know what you want before you get quotations.

Exploring Ideas and Establishing Your Budget

If you’re stuck for ideas and really don’t know where to start, have a look at websites (like this one) that show photographs of different kitchens. You can also look for magazines and books that are well-illustrated, with up-to-date ideas. You’ll probably find that you instinctively like some ideas and not others. Another good option is to visit show houses and showrooms where you can see and touch what’s available. Try to gauge prices so you know what to expect and whether you can realistically afford what you think you want. It is essential to have a clear idea of your budget from the start, so you can ensure your new kitchen fits within it. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to decide whether you can increase your budget or find ways to cut costs.

Once you have established your personal priorities and have a fairly clear picture of what you want, it’s time to work out the costs. This is a vital part of planning a new kitchen. To do this, you’ll need to decide which appliances you need to buy and how you are going to fit out the kitchen. This means establishing the type of fittings—such as cupboards, cabinets, or open shelves—and their finish, as well as how many of each you’ll need.

At this point, it’s back to the drawing board. If you’re using a professional company for the kitchen—or even just getting quotations—they should give you a preliminary plan of what the kitchen will look like based on your requirements. If you’re fitting the kitchen yourself, either from scratch or with knock-down units, you’ll have to draw your own plan. If you use common sense and follow basic design principles, you shouldn’t find this difficult.

The size of the kitchen and its shape will determine, to a large degree, how you will lay it out. Typical configurations include galley kitchens (long and narrow with units on opposite walls), U-shaped kitchens (using three walls), and L-shaped kitchens (with units along two walls that meet at right angles). The open-plan approach, where the kitchen becomes part of the general living space, can work with both U-shaped and L-shaped kitchens. Or, the entire kitchen can become a living room of sorts.

Most efficiently designed kitchens incorporate a work triangle, which involves a logical interrelationship between the cook’s three main aids:

1. stove,
2. refrigerator, and
3. sink.

All this really means is that whoever is working in the kitchen needs to be able to move between these three “aids” easily. They won’t always form a perfect triangle, however. For example, a sink and refrigerator may be positioned along the same wall with the stove on the other. In the case of a kitchen along a single wall, all three would be in a line, but not right next to each other. If your kitchen includes an island unit, it might be best to incorporate either the sink or a hob into the triangle for it to be effective.
Just remember that the stove and refrigerator should never be positioned right next to each other. This is because one is made for heating and the other for cooling, and placing them together will prevent them from operating at maximum efficiency. Also, it’s best to have some working surface on either side of both the stove and the sink.

Corners can be a particular challenge, especially when two cabinets meet at a corner, making it difficult to reach the space. Investigate what space-saving fittings are available, such as those that rotate.

Other factors to consider when planning a new kitchen include:

• making sure there is enough space for people to walk through the kitchen easily (even with a central island),
• positioning tall units at the ends of ordinary counters,
• checking the direction in which cupboard and cabinet doors open so they don’t get in the way of one another and open easily,
• making use of all possible wall space, either by hanging cupboards, using open shelving, or incorporating taller units or freestanding furniture like dressers,
• planning your work surfaces carefully so you have sufficient space for every task, and
• ensuring that essential services related to plumbing, electrics, and gas are correctly installed and in the right place.

The post Planning a New Kitchen – Cabinets, Sinks and Floors appeared first on .

For the purposes of this article, we are going to assume that you are starting with an empty shell of a room. You will need to work with the room’s dimensions, as well as all the other physical aspects, including the position of windows and doors.

If you are revamping a kitchen, you can still follow these very same guidelines, though you may be able to utilize some existing items, such as kitchen cabinets and lighting.

The first step will be to decide what type of kitchen you want, both in terms of style and decor, and what it will offer you in practical terms. An excellent way to assess this is to make a list or several lists. Here’s an example:

• lots of storage space behind closed doors,
• a dedicated cupboard for brooms and cleaning equipment,
• a dedicated cupboard for foodstuffs,
• easy-to-clean countertops with a marble-topped section large enough for rolling pastry,
• a built-in wooden chopping block,
• a double sink as well as a prep bowl,
• wall-hung plate rack for drying (wooden cottage style),
• an electric eye-level oven,
• centre island with a gas-powered hob,
• built-in microwave oven,
• combination refrigerator-deep freeze,
• above-counter lighting as well as general lighting,
• tiled floors (terracotta to fit the style),
• tiled splashback (maybe feature tiles in yellow and blue),
• all other walls painted with a good quality paint that provides a surface that can be scrubbed (pale lemon),
• pretty blinds,
• open shelving for the recipe book collection, and
• enough space for a small freestanding table for family meals (look for colonial-style or bentwood chairs to fit the cottage style).

Remember that this is your list, so you can change anything if you wish. For example, you might find some glorious old red and green tiles for the sink splashback and then decide that a stone-washed wall color will be better than pale lemon. You might also decide that the style you first thought would work doesn’t, and opt for another look completely. The point is that you need a starting point from which to begin working on designing your kitchen on a budget.

Once you have a good, basic idea of where you are going, you can start concentrating on specifics. Since storage is at the top of the list here, an important priority will be to find cupboards or cabinets that fit within your design scheme. Your budget will largely determine what you choose. If you can do a lot of the work yourself or persuade family or friends to help you, then you will save a lot of money by buying separate elements and assembling them yourself. You will need to establish the correct sizes (based on the basic dimensions of the room) and make sure that you have everything from hinges to handles. A slightly more expensive option will usually be to buy knock-down units that you assemble yourself. Here, the manufacturer will have included everything you need in the pack, but you will have to do much of the work yourself.

Whichever route you take, you will need to ensure that you meet your own needs, such as a broom cupboard and food cupboard. To do this, you need to decide on a suitable layout for the kitchen as a whole. The sink units will need to be plumbed in, so this is one of the first considerations. Electricity and gas supplies are equally important. Draw a layout to scale on graph paper that shows where these supplies and services are, and also show where all the door and window openings are. Make absolutely sure that the measurements you take are accurate. Mistakes can be extremely costly. Then make templates of the units you want and play with them on your layout. Don’t forget to include wall-hung units as well as those that will be fixed to the floor. Also, include freestanding items (table and chairs) and open shelving like that required for recipe books.

Maximizing Space and Efficiency in a Budget Kitchen

When you are designing a kitchen on a budget, be sure to remember the kitchen triangle. This is an extremely simple concept that links three main service areas:

1. cold storage (your refrigerator and deep freeze),
2. wash-up (your sink), and
3. cooking area.

As old-fashioned as some people consider this to be, it does work. But it isn’t always as simple as a three-point (triangular) plan. Go back to your list and you will see that there are three cooking appliances required, as well as two sinks. The refrigerator and freezer could be separate appliances. But the important thing is to make them work together. Also, it is never a good idea to locate cold storage next to cooking appliances—the one heats and the other cools, so they don’t work well right next to one another. Keep cooking units close to each other, but don’t worry too much about the other appliances. For instance, a freezer can be located away from the main working area, and a prep sink can be closer to the living area than a sink used for washing dishes.

You will also need to accommodate the required marble slab and chopping block within whatever countertops you choose. If this isn’t possible, you can always use loose slabs or blocks. Shop around for off-cuts and remember that someone else’s throwaways can be bought for a song! For example, some people install marble counters throughout the kitchen, and there will often be slabs left over. Otherwise, look for what suppliers call seconds—items with scratches and dents or dings that aren’t likely to worry you since you are designing your kitchen on a budget.

It is also possible to find appliances that have been marked down because they are shop-soiled. Remember, you don’t have to compromise on quality. A scratch down the side of a refrigerator won’t matter if it is going to be lodged between cupboards.

Another basic element will be the floor tiles, and you can save a bit of money here too by looking for special offer goods at cheaper prices. You shouldn’t be tempted to buy lesser quality products, but end-of-range or special promotion products can help you cut your budget considerably.

Once you have worked out all the basics, start looking at other details. The best way is to work progressively through your lists until you achieve a finished product you will be happy with. Do as much as you can yourself, and enjoy the challenge.

The post Designing a Kitchen on a Budget – How to Keep Costs Down appeared first on .

Kitchen Layout

It was once believed that there must be a flow between the sink, oven, and refrigerator to create the ideal kitchen triangle. This layout was suggested as the best for ease of cooking and working. While the kitchen triangle may still be the general idea behind kitchen design, it has evolved with homeowners seeking better ways to create flow in the space.

To achieve this “flow,” most new kitchens are designed with large work areas suited to each need. Bar sinks in kitchen islands to wash vegetables, fruits, and meats; dishwashers located next to the primary sink and garbage compactors for easy cleanup after meals and cooking; and ovens, microwaves, and stovetops located in the same station for quick cooking and multitasking.

The introduction and growing popularity of islands have been primarily responsible for the changes in kitchen layouts over the past five years. Now, most people want the kitchen island to serve as a workspace with easy access to the sink, refrigerator, and oven. What was once a triangle has now become a rectangle to accommodate these new productivity desires.

Appliance Trends

Although stainless steel appliances have been one of the most popular styles, this trend is starting to shift. Stainless steel still has a prominent place in the modern kitchen, but many homeowners now prefer appliances that are built into the cabinets and hidden away as part of the cabinetry. While this can be an expensive upgrade, it works beautifully in almost every modern kitchen design.

Ovens and stovetops are no longer typically installed as one oversized unit. Instead, they have been condensed and mounted separately to maximize kitchen space. Ovens are often installed on the wall, sometimes with double units to cook two separate items at once. Stovetops are becoming sleeker with modern glass tops, mounted in countertops to create a flush, seamless look.

Dishwashers and trash compactors have come a long way since their introduction about twenty years ago. Over the past five years, they have addressed many features that frustrated homeowners. Today, most dishwashers and trash compactors are whisper-quiet, energy- and water-efficient, and offer larger capacities to increase productivity.

Cabinetry Trends

Custom cabinetry is rapidly gaining popularity as homeowners recognize the benefits of having cabinets designed to suit their personal style. Some homeowners choose this option to accommodate larger upper cabinets for storing special occasion dishes, lower cabinets for extra or specialized cooking appliances, or custom-built cabinets to suit appliances that are now often built into cabinetry.

Traditional wooden cabinetry is being overtaken by more modern materials that are not only recyclable but also more environmentally friendly. These eco-friendly upgrades are a major inspiration behind new trends in kitchen design. Metal, man-made materials, and especially bamboo, are increasingly featured in new kitchen designs. These materials can be painted to add color and reduce the monotony of traditional cabinetry. Cabinets are no longer just a necessity; they now play an integral role in the kitchen’s design.

Hideaway cabinet hinges are also becoming popular to create a sleek, finished look. These hinges are installed on the inside of each cabinet door, eliminating bulk on the cabinet face.

Sink Trends

To many homeowners’ surprise, the kitchen sink has now become a focal point in most new kitchen designs. What was once simply a necessity has now worked its way into a prime spot in setting the kitchen’s mood. With this newfound popularity comes the choice of top-of-the-line apron front sinks. These sinks are installed into the sink cabinet with a large “apron” on the front that is visible from the outside of the cabinet. To showcase this style’s potential, many homeowners are opting for custom designs etched into the apron to add a unique flair to their kitchens.

Lighting Trends

Sleek and simple is the name of the game when it comes to kitchen lighting in modern kitchens. Inset lighting has become very popular, providing soft, ambient glows throughout the space, while pendants above islands light up work areas when necessary. Large, overdone chandeliers and track lighting are quickly becoming things of the past. Instead of flooding the entire kitchen with one bright light, the space is now illuminated in stages to create just the right mood for each area.

Dining Trends

Eat-in kitchens have come and gone in kitchen trends over the past thirty years. In modern designs, having an eat-at bar is a must. As people become busier with work, socializing, and taking care of their families, they seek the quickest and most efficient ways to complete daily tasks. Children enjoy breakfast at the bar, with mom and dad preparing them for the day while tidying up after the meal. A kitchen bar is an excellent way to entertain guests and family while handling cooking and cleanup responsibilities. Guests can sit, enjoy appetizers, and chat with you while you prepare the main course.

As breakfast bars gain popularity, the eat-in breakfast nook is quickly disappearing to make better use of the available space. Most homeowners prefer a larger island, more counter space, and less wasted floor space. By removing the breakfast nook, they can expand the kitchen, adding room for more cabinets, a larger island, and a better layout for the growing number of appliances.

The concept behind new kitchen design trends for 2009 is “wide-open cozy.” While this may sound contradictory, modern design offers many options to make a space feel open and free while still being intimate and serene. All these different elements of kitchen design, along with current trends, help make this an attractive, functional style for modern homes.

The post New Trends in Kitchen Design appeared first on .

An important consideration when choosing colors is how specific colors make you feel. How do they impact your mood? For instance, does the color green evoke feelings of peace and the outdoors, or does it remind you of something like green peas, which you dislike? Does blue soothe you with thoughts of the ocean and summer skies, or does it trigger stress from memories of your unstable blue car? Every color affects you in either a positive, negative, or neutral way. Understanding how each color makes you feel will help you make informed choices for your kitchen.

Understanding Your Preferences

Before you begin, consider whether there are any colors you simply don’t like. Remove these from your list of options. On the other hand, if there are colors you love, make sure they are at the forefront of your selection process. As you explore color samples at your local home improvement store, keep the ones that appeal to you the most. Take them home to see how they look in the lighting of your own kitchen. Colors can look different depending on the lighting and location, so it’s essential to test them out in the space where they will be used.

For a more dynamic kitchen, try incorporating more than one color. Even if you choose a primary color, consider using other colors as accents. This will help to create an engaging and lively environment, as a monochromatic room can sometimes feel flat. If you’re unsure which colors complement each other, check out a color chart at your local craft store. This chart will provide a full spectrum of colors, making it easier to identify complementary hues. Once you’ve selected your colors, give yourself some time to reconsider. If, after a few weeks, you still like your choices, then you’ve likely found the perfect combination for your kitchen. Remember, others may have different opinions, but it’s your kitchen—make sure you love the colors you choose.

Choosing the right type of paint is just as important as selecting the perfect color. Don’t settle for the cheapest option. While it’s sometimes possible to find a reputable brand on sale, very inexpensive paint usually leads to poor results. Cheap paints are often too watered down, requiring many coats to achieve full coverage. Also, flat paint isn’t ideal for kitchens, where surfaces need to be cleaned frequently. A semi-gloss finish, such as a satin water-based paint, is better suited for a kitchen. This type of paint allows you to wipe down surfaces easily, keeping your kitchen looking fresh. It’s also a good idea to save some of the remaining paint in a clear jar with a tight-fitting lid for touch-ups or any problem areas in the future.

There are many books available that describe how colors can affect emotional responses. While these books offer general guidelines, it’s important to remember that individual reactions to colors can vary. Dark colors tend to make a room feel smaller, while lighter colors can make a space appear larger and more open.

As you prepare to paint your kitchen, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. It can be frustrating to get excited about painting, only to realize you forgot to buy a paint pan. You’ll need a drop cloth to protect the floor, a few good brushes for edging, a couple of paint rollers, and paint pans. An edger is also helpful for working around windows and corners. Have some clean rags on hand to wipe up any spills, and don’t forget the masking tape—this will protect areas like woodwork from getting paint on them. If you have high ceilings, an extension pole for your roller will make the job easier. Paint rollers are typically disposable, but brushes can be cleaned and reused for future projects. Before you begin, make sure to remove any outlet covers.

Enlisting the help of a friend or family member can make the job go more quickly and add an element of fun to the process. Make it a date night—send the kids to Grandma’s and enjoy a quiet evening painting your kitchen. Be sure to open a window to air out the room, as the smell of paint can be strong and may affect young children, the elderly, people with allergies, or pets.

All in all, picking a paint color for your kitchen is a creative and rewarding experience. When the job is done, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful, personalized space you’ve created. Now that you’re an experienced painter, you may start to look at the walls in the other rooms of your house in a new light—imagining how they would look with a fresh, exciting color.

The post Picking Colors For The Kitchen appeared first on .

Getting What You Want
Whether you plan to manage the renovation yourself or fully hire out the work, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional with interior design experience. For starters, a professional designer has tools that assist with design decisions, saving both time and money. Many designers use software programs that can take your current floor plan, calculate measurements and other basic requirements, and demonstrate various remodel options.

A design professional can help incorporate your desired elements into the remodel more efficiently and effectively than you might have thought of on your own. Often, people are unaware of how design decisions are influenced by existing issues in their kitchens, such as the location of a sink hookup or gas outlet. They may also not realize structural elements that can’t be moved. A professional will help you navigate these challenges to ensure that all your design ideas can be integrated.

One of the greatest benefits of working with an experienced professional is their ability to save you time and money. Designers are typically more aware of cost-saving opportunities that first-time renovators might overlook. For example, the sequence in which to order custom elements such as countertops, cabinets, and appliances is important. These items need to be completed in a specific order to avoid the extra cost of repeatedly bringing contractors in at different intervals. By knowing the right order of tasks, you can save significant amounts of money.

How to Find a Good Professional

Nothing is more helpful than a personal reference when choosing someone to work on your project. Seeing their work firsthand or receiving feedback from others can provide insights you might not have otherwise. You can also find interior design services at home improvement stores. These services may not be as custom or creative as independent professionals, but they usually offer basic services and advice on measurements and products available in-store. Independent designers, on the other hand, offer more unique style options and a wider selection of products.

There are also online sources that recommend reputable design professionals and warn against those with poor track records.

The type of kitchen you want to create also plays a role in selecting the right professional. Some designers specialize in specific styles, such as traditional, modern, or French country kitchens. Others focus on specific product types, such as imported materials or recycled design products. If you’re unsure about the design style you want, involving a professional early on will ensure you get the best results for your renovation.

Saving Money by Spending Money
While design consultations are often free, actual services during the renovation will require a fee. Although it might feel counterintuitive to pay money in order to save money, a professional designer can help homeowners maximize the value of their renovation. Design professionals often have industry contacts that enable them to procure items that may not be readily available to the general public. They also have the expertise to anticipate issues that less experienced renovators might not know about.

Another benefit of professional assistance is maximizing your kitchen renovation for resale value. If you’re renovating to prepare your home for sale, a design professional familiar with the market can recommend upgrades that will appeal to potential buyers. While it’s easy to personalize your renovation for your family, it’s not always as simple to select renovations that will attract a broad base of buyers. Industry professionals can offer insights into current trends and suggest changes that will save you money while still making your home more attractive to buyers.

What You Should Look For
When choosing a design professional, there are a few key factors to consider that will help you gauge the quality of their work. First, they should have a web presence that includes photos of actual kitchens they’ve worked on. If the photos seem generic or like stock images, the designer may lack the experience needed for your project. Be sure to interview your designer, just as you would anyone else you plan to hire. A professional will usually have a portfolio of completed projects and sample materials that showcase their style and approach.

Hiring a kitchen designer should be a well-planned process for your renovation project. It’s key to saving time and money in the long run. An experienced designer has access to resources and tools that can make your project more cohesive and professional, while their expertise ensures you maximize the value of your renovation investment.

The post Hiring a Kitchen Designer – It Could Save You Money In the Long Run appeared first on .

The kitchen table can become a pivotal point in any kitchen design, either on its own or through the way you decorate it. So, don’t let it become just another surface cluttered with junk.

First, consider the table itself. Some tables are built into the kitchen design, like a bar countertop or a surface that folds out from an adjacent counter. Others are freestanding pieces of furniture. Freestanding tables range from simple to beautifully crafted designs, typically made from wood or steel. Wooden tables may be crafted from local or exotic timbers, with straight planed legs or intricately turned legs. Steel tables are often welded together and may feature glass tops that add to their decorative appeal.

Well-made tables can be decorative in their own right, no matter how functional they are meant to be.

But it doesn’t matter whether your table is beautiful or not; a little creativity in decorating it can add charm and appeal to the room that a bare table simply can’t achieve. You can leave the decor as is every day, or change certain elements whenever you like.

Day-to-Day Décor for the Kitchen Table

One of the simplest ways to decorate a table any day of the week is with flowers. These can be fresh, dried, or even artificial. Don’t dismiss artificial flowers—today, there are many beautiful options available, from cheerful plastic to beaded wire or even carved wood. But fresh flowers—the real thing—can look stunning, especially when you’ve grown and picked them yourself.

However, it’s not just the flowers you need to consider. The vase is just as important, if not more so, when decorating with flowers. Think about the size, shape, and color of the container, and consider assembling a small collection of vases that you can rotate, so your table never looks exactly the same.

Clear glass vases can look amazing, and you can add character by filling the base with glass chips, marbles, or even seashells. Just be sure to clean these items whenever you change the arrangement, or they may become slimy and unappealing in a short period of time.

Another lovely way to decorate a table is with fresh fruit and vegetables. The beauty of this approach is that you can change the arrangement as you cook and eat them. Just be careful not to include fruits and vegetables that deteriorate quickly outside the refrigerator, like tomatoes, peppers, or overly ripe bananas and avocados. Lemons, onions (a mix of white and red), apples, and garlic last for a good while, and you can also add green tomatoes or bananas and avocados that aren’t quite ripe yet. If you have young children, filling the bowl with nourishing fruits will encourage them to eat healthily.

Candlesticks also make great table decor, as long as the arrangement doesn’t resemble a shrine. You can mix and match colors and shapes, or use candlesticks that are decorative in themselves.

The position of the table in the room also plays a role in how you decorate it. For example, if your kitchen table is in the center of the room, or at least away from any walls, the focus will likely be on the center of the table. If it’s against a wall, your approach might be different. In this case, you may want to create a small collection of items, such as recipe books, decorative tins, or even vinegar and olive oil bottles, which can look wonderfully decorative. Pot plants or potted herbs are another option, provided there’s enough sunlight to keep them healthy. Be creative and don’t feel bound by current trends.

Décor for a Table in Use

Whether you’re eating as a family or entertaining friends, never overlook the appearance of the table. Your approach can range from as simple as covering it with a colorful cloth to making it look stylishly sophisticated with silver cutlery, fine china, and crystal glasses. Even if you’re using the table for a casual meal, you can still make it look great and a feast for the eyes.

Traditional table settings used to follow very strict rules, but these have become less common today. However, this style can still be incredibly decorative, and even if you don’t use all the cutlery, it can add an element of elegance to your meal.

A wonderful book, Anyone Can Bake, published by the Royal Baking Powder Co. (New York City) in 1929, offers two fascinating examples of table settings: one for a formal luncheon and the other for an informal supper. The settings include plenty of knives and forks, drinking pitchers, glasses, and flowers, as well as table mats and napkins, completing the picture.

Although traditional table-setting rules are less emphasized today, a well-set table will always look decorative. For instance, forks are placed on the left, knives on the right, and spoons either next to the knives or at the top of the plate or bowl. The side plate should be on the left of the forks, or, according to royal tradition, above the tips of the forks, with glasses always positioned to the right, above the knives.

Traditional decor for any meal includes candles, flowers, and fruit. Rolls or bread can also contribute to the decor, as can salt and pepper shakers or containers for vinegar, oil, and salad dressing.

The casual table might have a pile of knives, forks, and spoons, usually separated, with plates nearby for guests to serve themselves. However, it should still look just as decorative as the tables at top restaurants.

Ultimately, when decorating the kitchen table, the goal is to create a pretty, personal arrangement that appeals to you. Remember, this isn’t décor you need to live with forever—you can change it frequently, as often as you like.

The post Decorating the Kitchen Table appeared first on .

Whether you’re renovating a kitchen or installing a new one, staining solid wood cupboards and cabinets is a fantastic option. Unlike painting, staining preserves the natural beauty of the wood grain and offers a wide range of color choices, from classic wood tones to more vibrant hues.

Preparing the Surface

For the best results, start with raw wood. If your cupboards are painted, varnished, or sealed, you’ll need to strip the existing finish. If they’re already stained, darkening the stain is possible, but removing an existing stain is challenging and may require bleaching.

To lighten the wood before staining, consider using oxalic acid, available at pharmacies. This toxic substance requires caution—wear gloves, avoid inhaling fumes, and mix the white powder with warm water to form a runny paste. Apply it to the wood, let it sit, then rinse thoroughly with water and allow the surface to dry completely. Alternatively, use a two-part bleach or household bleach, ensuring the wood is clean and dry before staining.

For new, uninstalled cupboards, stain them before assembly. Remove hardware like handles and hinges, labeling each piece for easy reassembly. If possible, detach doors and flat panels to work on a flat surface, which is often easier than staining vertical surfaces. You can also seal the surfaces before installing cabinets or re-hanging doors.

If staining installed cupboards, protect your kitchen floor with a drop cloth or newspapers to catch drips. Wipe up any spilled stain immediately to avoid damage.

For older cupboards, ensure the surface is clean and smooth. Sand if necessary, starting with coarse sandpaper to remove material and finishing with fine-grit paper for a smooth surface. Clean all dust thoroughly before staining.

Selecting and Applying the Perfect Stain

When selecting a stain, consider both color and product type. Stains are typically water-based or solvent-based, affecting how you clean brushes (with water or a solvent like mineral turpentine). Some stains require proprietary solvents—always use the recommended product, as substitutes can cause issues.

Diluting a stain is an option if you’re unsure about the desired darkness, allowing you to build color gradually. Keep in mind that darker finishes can make a small kitchen feel smaller, so lighter shades are ideal for compact spaces, especially in homes with children or pets where surfaces may get dirty. Manufacturers often provide sample boards showing stain results on different woods. If unavailable, test the stain on a scrap piece to avoid mistakes on your cupboards.

Staining Your Cupboards

Before starting, read the product instructions carefully, as each stain has unique requirements. Shake bottled stains or stir canned stains thoroughly to ensure even color distribution. Incomplete stirring can result in a lighter color initially, darkening as you reach the pigment at the can’s bottom.

Apply the stain with a brush, sponge, or cloth, wearing gloves to protect your hands. Work in the direction of the grain, ensuring the stain reaches all crevices, especially in moldings or raised panels. Wipe off excess stain before it dries to avoid uneven results. For added depth, consider leaving extra stain in crevices to create natural highlights and shadows. Apply multiple coats if needed for the desired effect, allowing each coat to dry fully.

Sealing the Stain

Once the stain is dry, seal the cupboards to protect the finish, then reattach hardware. Varnish is a traditional sealer, but it may yellow over time, altering the stain’s color. If you prefer to preserve the stain’s true hue, choose a non-yellowing sealer. While sealing isn’t mandatory, it’s recommended for durability, as scrubbing unstained surfaces can unevenly remove the stain. Sealers provide a smooth, scrubbable surface in either a shiny or matte finish, depending on your preference.

With careful preparation and application, staining your kitchen cupboards can create a stunning, long-lasting look that enhances the beauty of the wood and transforms your kitchen.

The post Staining Kitchen Cupboards appeared first on .

What this really means is that you need to think smart. There are two primary ways to achieve this:

1. By finding fixtures and fittings that can help you save space, and
2. By being imaginative and creative with the space you have available.

Useful space-saving fixtures and fittings range from clever shelving to custom-made units designed specifically to make the most of tricky areas. Generally, the best units are those that fulfill a particular need. For instance, pot drawers should be large enough to accommodate pots and pans, while shelves for spices (whether hidden or not) should be spaced closely together to avoid wasting valuable space.

As you can see, effective storage requires careful planning and organization. Here are some popular space-saving ideas for kitchens:

• Pull-out chopping boards,
• Pull-out ironing boards,
• Fold-away tables,
• Revolving shelves for corner cabinets,
• Wall-hung plate racks that double as drying racks,
• Plate racks within cupboards to store plates vertically,
• Drawers that are divided to accommodate different types of cutlery,
• Wire baskets that slide like drawers for storing vegetables out of the refrigerator (keeping them fresh longer),
• Deep drawers that slide out from under counters instead of static shelves,
• Narrow spaces where trays can be stored,
• Island and peninsula units fitted on both sides for easy access,
• Units cut at an angle to make use of every inch of space,
• A decent-sized counter that can double as both an eating and preparation area,
• A breakfast nook with benches that lift up to store items like tablecloths or even cleaning equipment,
• Doors with storage mounted on the inside (ideal for herbs and spices), and
• Narrow shelves within cupboard doors for organizing groceries in sections.

Creative Storage Solutions for Awkward Spaces

The latter option is particularly useful, yet surprisingly few kitchens incorporate this clever idea. Imagine a tall cupboard with shelves at the back of the unit. Hinged within the cupboard is a central section with shelves that “closes” against the back shelves and opens up at right angles. Thin slats of wood across the front of each shelf keep items in place and prevent them from falling out. The door itself also provides a third storage section, with additional shelves mounted inside.

Another similar idea is to install vertical pull-out tiers for storing groceries, particularly jars and cans. The most effective models are narrow and pull out to reveal a series of shelves, making it easy to see what’s inside. Two units stacked on top of each other will take up less space than a broom cupboard while providing ample room for daily groceries.

When it comes to being creative, start by assessing your current kitchen and exploring how you can improve your options. Look for areas that are underused, such as narrow spaces beside the refrigerator or an unused area beneath a built-in hob. These areas can often be repurposed with a little innovation. For example, “dead” corners can often be utilized with a carousel unit.

If you don’t have enough space to store everything behind closed doors, consider displaying attractive items, such as gadgets or pots and pans. With some creativity, you’ll find areas you can use for open storage that might not work for conventional units—like behind the stove or even on top of the refrigerator.

Overcoming Storage Challenges
Kitchens with awkward layouts, multiple doors, or too many windows often pose storage challenges. Sometimes you can close off unwanted openings, but this isn’t always possible. Plus, most people are reluctant to remove windows, as they bring in natural light and prevent the room from feeling dark and cramped. If you’re lucky enough to have a bay window, you might be able to turn the space in front of the window into a small table or seating area with hidden storage.

Tiny kitchens, in particular, can be a tough challenge and often require compromise. One approach is to install units that offer countertop working surfaces, and then fill the walls with rows of shelves, making every inch count. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can store on shelves and racks than in standard-sized wall-hung cupboards. While custom-made shelves are a great option, shop-fitting shelves are another suitable choice.

For bachelor flats with open-plan kitchens, one innovative idea is to turn the kitchen into a cupboard. Simply open the doors to reveal the essentials, and close them to hide everything away.

Another solution for small open-plan areas is to suspend a shelf from the ceiling for open storage. Just ensure there’s a solid timber beam in the ceiling at the right location to attach it.

Areas beneath fitted hobs are often wasted space but can easily be converted into deep pull-out drawers for pots and pans.

Organize for Functionality
Everybody’s storage needs are different, but it’s essential to relate your specific requirements to the key work areas of your kitchen—whether it’s for cooking, washing up, eating, or serving. Consider the objects and utensils you use most often and ensure they’re easily accessible. Divide groceries into categories—such as tins, dry items, bottles, and baking ingredients—and store them accordingly.

Finally, don’t forget about waste management. Ideally, conceal a small bin inside a cupboard (perhaps under the sink), and keep a larger bin outside the kitchen. Always remove rubbish promptly to avoid unpleasant odors!

The post Ingenious Space Saving Ideas for Kitchens appeared first on .

This article will provide an overview of the various models available, along with optional features. While refrigerators are utilitarian and necessary for modern living, they also contribute to your kitchen’s decorative scheme, helping define the look, feel, and overall style of the room.

First, we’ll consider five basic models, then look at various options and features available. Finally, we’ll discuss how to choose the model that’s right for you.

Basic Refrigerator Models

Side-by-Side Models
Side-by-side kitchen refrigerators are extremely popular because they can fit into tight spaces. Of all the basic refrigerator models, they offer the most features. The side-by-side design refers to two vertical doors: one hinged on the right for the refrigerator section and one on the left for the freezer.

Popular features found in side-by-sides include automatic icemakers with large storage bins, through-the-door ice and water dispensers, and bins with individual temperature controls. A significant amount of space—more than in other models—is allocated to the freezer compartment. However, high, narrow compartments make items easy to find in the front, but harder to locate at the back of the appliance. Large items, such as a turkey, sheet cake, or watermelon, can be difficult to fit. Side-by-sides range from 32 to 36 inches wide, with a capacity ranging from 20 to 30 cubic feet. About 65% of the freezer compartment’s capacity is usable. Due to their extra features, side-by-sides are usually more expensive.

Top-Freezer Models
Top-freezer models feature wide shelves and bins, making it easy to store large items. These models are less expensive, utilize space more efficiently, and tend to be more accessible than side-by-side models. The wide shelves make it easy to access food in the back of the compartment, while the eye-level freezer provides easy access to stored items. However, food can get lost in the back of these models, and reaching bottom shelves and drawers may require stretching and bending. Top-freezer models typically have a capacity ranging from 10 to 25 cubic feet, with freezers offering about 80% of their listed capacity. Large items fit nicely on the main shelves, and the compartments on the side of the refrigerator door provide convenient storage for condiments, eggs, butter, and drinks.

Bottom-Freezer Models

Bottom-freezer models reduce bending and stretching when retrieving and storing food in the refrigerator section, but more bending is required when accessing the freezer. This means less stooping overall, as only the pullout freezer bin requires bending. The overall capacity of a bottom-freezer model is usually smaller than a top-freezer model. The usable freezer space is also somewhat less than in top-freezer models, but more than in side-by-side models. These models typically range from 30 to 36 inches in width, with a listed capacity of up to 25 cubic feet. Bottom-freezers are slightly more expensive than top-freezer versions.

Built-In Models
Built-in kitchen refrigerators usually utilize either the side-by-side design or the bottom-freezer style. These refrigerators, typically 25 to 26 inches deep, are designed to fit flush with counters and cabinets. The compressor is usually stored in a cabinet above the unit. Although built-ins offer fewer features than standard side-by-sides, their wide-door design makes access easy. Built-in models are available in 42-inch and 48-inch widths, which are wider than the more common 36-inch width. Many of these models come in a variety of finishes and allow for custom-look panels to be inserted into the refrigerator and freezer doors.

Cabinet-Depth Models
Although cabinet-depth refrigerators are freestanding, they have the appearance of built-in models. These refrigerators, which are less expensive than built-ins, are typically available in side-by-side styles and often offer a choice of custom-look panels. Cabinet-depth models are stylish but offer less usable space compared to other freestanding refrigerators.

Features and Options
Refrigerator manufacturers continue to focus on making the interiors of their models as flexible as possible. Adjustable shelves, door bins, mechanical elevator shelves (which can be cranked up and down without removing stored items), and split shelves (that can be independently adjusted to different heights) are common in many models.

Other options include wine racks, adjustable brackets on door shelves, and easy-to-clean glass shelves with raised rims to control spills. Slide-out shelves, pullout freezer shelves, and bins improve access to food and drinks, while see-through drawers help you keep track of food.

Digital displays and touchpad controls for temperature settings, ice and water dispensing, and temperature displays offer convenience and ease of use. Many models feature specific temperature and humidity controls, including drawers and bins that are individually regulated to extend the freshness of herbs, vegetables, fish, and meats.

An automatic icemaker can produce several pounds of ice daily but reduces freezer capacity by about one cubic foot. Some models place the ice bin inside the freezer door rather than in the primary storage area, helping to expand the main unit’s capacity. Ice-and-water dispensers are commonly found in side-by-side models. Many kitchen refrigerators include a water filter that reduces chlorine, lead, and other impurities in the ice and water.

Refrigerators are available in various colors and finishes, with nearly every manufacturer offering a classic stainless-steel model, which costs significantly more than standard models. Finishes include satin, wood-look finishes, and bright candy colors.

For those who can’t live without entertainment, high-tech refrigerators with built-in, cable-ready, remote-control LCD TVs and FM radios are available. These built-in media centers, found in some side-by-side models, help save counter space while keeping you informed and entertained.

How to Choose Your Refrigerator

When choosing a refrigerator, there are several factors to consider, including initial cost, energy rating, capacity, features, and size. Décor and style are also important factors in your decision-making process.

Before making a purchase, talk to friends, relatives, and co-workers who have recently bought a new refrigerator to gain insights into various models. Reading consumer reviews and performance reports for any refrigerators you’re considering will also help you make an informed decision. Take your time to shop around—after all, you’ll be living with your new refrigerator day in and day out for many years.

The post Choosing a Kitchen Refrigerator appeared first on .