When it comes to kitchens you really want to get it right!  It’s such a big investment and a major selling point for your house.  What's the trick?  There probably isn't just one but keep in mind the kitchen is not an isolated room, it should reflect the entire interior.  

Think about finishes in relation to everything else in the space.   If you have an idea of what you like, how do you interpret your picture into your space?   Where do the finishes go?  The most successful kitchens keep it simple.  Try to stick to only 2 or 3 finishes.  Think about using the benchtop on the splashback for a seamless design.  The design and finishes should be resolved in unison.  When it comes to the line - don't break it.  If there is a window, line cabinets up to suit.   Try a 700mm wide benchtop over the standard 600.  Its looks so much better and give you more allowance for the cooktop.  Choose appliances first so that you have the exact specifications and dimensions for the designer to work with.

When it comes to design, we're seeing a trend in either really thin benchtops (6-10 mm) or really thick (80 mm).   We've seen the standard 20-40 mm benchtops used for about 30 years - it might be time for a change.

So what about those finishes? Matt is where it’s at.  Combine a nice stone with a matt finish and add some Metal like brass or brushed nickel tapware.  Black looks sharp for trims like kickboards and finger pull details.  What's a finger pull you ask? Its the gap where you put your fingers in to open the cabinets.   You'll see some examples below - if you're using a more traditional handle try something amazing with a leather finish.

While modern streamlined kitchens are on the rise, there is a trend for the more traditional in the form of shaker cabinets and v grooved doors.  These look great when combined with a modern colour palette and nice stone benchtop. 

Think natural finishes, concrete,  marble, brass, steel, timber and you're on the right track. Or come see us at Concept Design Colour Finish and we'll draw up your kitchen and take you through a range of finishes that will work beautifully in your space.   

Beautiful raw industrial style kitchen. Matt Black with a concrete benchtop. Try Quantum six for concrete look tiled panels that look like the real deal. Heatproof impervious surfaces that can take a pounding. We love the custom range hood.

Warm inviting design by David Flack Interiors - handpick your marble. When you have timber floors try using 2 pack on the island so that you don't overload on timber. It breaks up the kitchen. If you have one design feature - don't compete with it. Let it talk.

Funky angles and quirky tiles for those who like to have fun with design.

Simple yet classic. Island bench's that are framed look great.

Shaker cabinets with subway tiles for a more traditional kitchen. Matt white stone benchtops and beautiful grey 2 pack doors give this look a modern edge.

Black + White + Terrazo +marble = Sharp.

Custom Handles by Made Measure add to any kitchen. We Love them.

Monolithic shapes look great in large spaces. Make use of the island for storage if you don't need the seating.

Clever use of framing. The island is its own unique piece of furniture. Works well with the concrete floors.

Panelling love.

Once your dream kitchen is built, accessorise - have you faves on hand.

All this talk of kitchens is making me hungry. What we do in the kitchen is to create food to serve the people we love. Why not enjoy being in that space as you cook away. It's a place to congregate, share your stories. When I think about all of the great conversations I had in my kitchen, it makes me nostalgic. Give your kitchen a lift and enjoy.