The kitchen. It’s the heart of the home, and at times, the battleground for many post-dinner wash-up arguments. But what makes the perfect kitchen? I’ve got some tips to help you get started.
The kitchen triangle is alive and well in this glorious space with the stove, sink and fridge within easy reach Image: Tim Turner
Space planning
This is all about observing the way you use the space. Are you an entertainer? Does your family share the kitchen throughout the day? Or do you hate cooking and prefer to UberEats your dinners four nights a week?
Whichever category you fit into; functionality must be front of mind. At a minimum, you should start with the Kitchen Triangle. Referring to the position of the three most important features in any kitchen – the fridge, cooktop and sink – the Kitchen Triangle enables you to perform day-to-day tasks with ease and flow.
An island bench with seating is perfect for the entertainer’s kitchen Build: VAND Builders Image: Nic Stephens
Define your style
In this stage, your Pinterest boards come to life and become your source of inspiration. It’s also worth looking to your home for direction. Think about whether you want to complement or contrast the bones of the home. If you want to retain the ornate features of your Victorian home, shaker-style cabinetry would complement it perfectly. Otherwise, a contrasting modern kitchen with clean lines and integrated appliances would create a bold statement.
Sleek cabinetry and industrial features emphasise the grandeur of this modern kitchen Build: Truform Construction Image: Tim Turner
Storage is king
The biggest investment you can make in your kitchen is with ample and accessible storage. A combination of drawers, cupboards and overhead cupboards are ideal in the kitchen. Don’t forget to take advantage of the height of your room. Although tall cabinets might be hard to get to, they’re great for storing party platters and other items you occasionally need.
Talk about having ample storage! Image: Big4 Wye River
It’s all in the finishes (and sinkware)
From the benchtop to handles, tapware, sink and the splashback, there are so many ways to inject personality into your kitchen. While things like cabinetry and benchtop colours are important, the one thing I do stress is taking the time to choose a sink fit for your needs. Some households might benefit from undermount sinks, while for others, a sink with a drainer could be a non-negotiable. No matter which sink you choose, ensure it is durable.
Our clients opted for a black Schock double bowl sink with a drainer to suit their needs Joinery: SCLK Geelong Image: Pam Hutchinson
Consult the experts
Whether you’re renovating or starting a new build, take the time to look at your layout and make a rough plan of the changes you’d like to make. Then be sure to consult the experts to talk through your ideas and work out if they’re possible or not. Cabinet makers will have all the answers for the structure of your kitchen, and we’ll look after the rest (note: the fun stuff).