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Have you ever seen a fab reno job or a great design idea, and really wanted to know what they did or how to achieve it?
Whether you are just curious, or you secretly want to steal the look (shhh.. we won't tell), this is for you. Here is a breakdown of the designs and clever ideas behind a selection of awesome kitchens. May you be inspired!
THE CONVERTIBLE KITCHEN
How to achieve it:
Encase the kitchen with glass, with windows on one side atop a half-wall. Go for bi-fold windows, which will allow you to slide and stack them all to one side for a clear opening. Get a counter installed against the half-wall, so it can double as a kitchen island when the windows are open.
Tip:
Using aluminium for the window and door frames is a cheaper choice (compared to mild steel), and also ensures that the fixtures are kept light and easy to open and close.
THE ALTERNATIVE UTENSIL RACK
How to achieve it:
Pictured is perforated storage boards simply installed on the wall. Get preferably stainless steel ones to resist rusting or paint the panels to protect it. Just add simple S-hooks and you're good to go. It acts as a hanging rack for cookware and tools, as well as a decorative element in a simple kitchen.
Tip:
If it's above the sink or hob, be sure to still have a suitable backsplash material installed so that the uncovered parts of the wall don't get stained.
THE UNIQUE COUNTER
How to achieve it:
For the design of this customised kitchen island cum dining table, the designer used steel beams for the L-shape frame and technical wood for the surfaces — unexpected materials for the kitchen! The best part is that it has relatively straightforward construction, due to the absence of typical cabinet doors or drawers. The casters are fixed, but they give the kitchen island the effect of lightness and mobility.
Tip:
Make the technical wood surfaces more resistant by applying varnish or a protective coat on them.
The HIDEAWAY PANTRY
How to achieve it:
You'll need a very strong support for the door, especially if it is very wide (and heavy). A pivot hinge is best, as it relies on the strength of the floor to bear the weight, and not the structural frame of the carpentry. On the inside of the door panel, install rows of stainless steel U-channels that are wide enough to house condiments. As for the pantry itself, it's good to have a generous depth so you can store bigger items. Don't forget about lighting so you can see everything easily!
Tip:
You can install stainless steel rods to hang pots and pans (like pictured), or simply buy a standalone utility rack or shelf and place inside instead.
THE ASYMMETRIC COUNTERTOP
How to achieve it:
There should be no obvious joint lines on a countertop surface, as dirt and bacteria can get trapped in them. For a sloping, angled design such as the one pictured, your best bet would be solid surface, as the material is virtually seamless and can be moulded into any shape.
Tip:
It's best to keep to a maximum of three heights, so that the counter remains usable and ergonomic. Play around with the standard counter heights (85-90cm) and bar counter heights (105-115cm).
THE SCRIBBLE WALL
How to achieve it:
If you want a chalkboard wall that is also magnetic, install a magnetic metal sheet (definitely more effective than coats of magnetic paint) and spray it with chalkboard paint. A simple, but clever 2-in-1 idea!
Tip:
You don't just have to stick to typical black and green. These days, chalkboard paint is available in a variety of colours!