We have your bedroom storage all wrapped up!

We have your bedroom storage all wrapped up!

With Christmas fast approaching, many of us are looking forward to a jam-packed calendar of festive activities and of course, a pile of shiny presents! But, after all of that unwrapping, many of us struggle to find a place for all of our new things. With storage already being an issue in most households, when it comes to finding a place for everything we own, many of us struggle. After all, no one likes a messy, cluttered and untidy space, particularly in your bedroom. But don’t worry – there are a whole host of options available, many of which can be found in the most unexpected of places. We’ve complied a list of some of the ways you can integrate innovative and functional storage opportunities into your bedroom, leaving it clutter free and organised… Fitted wardrobes – optimise your wardrobe space Fitted wardrobes are widely recognised as one of the most effective bedroom storage solutions, allowing you to create a bespoke space that has been designed to meet your exact requirements. From integrated shoe racks that are able to accommodate your ever-growing shoe collection to specialist shelving, drawers and clothing rails, there are a whole host of bespoke design opportunities that will ensure that all of your favourite clothes, accessories and jewellery have their own space. Available in a wide range of designs, sizes, and finishes, if you’re looking to optimise floor space and concealed storage, fitted wardrobes could be the ideal solution for you. Under the bed storage The space under your bed is one of the most under-utilised spaces in your bedroom – think of all that...
A new year, a host of new kitchen trends.

A new year, a host of new kitchen trends.

As 2015 slowly draws to a close, 2016’s key kitchen trends have already made their way onto our radar and, if you’re planning on changing your kitchen in the new year, it’s definitely worth taking note! With each year comes a catalogue of exciting and inspiring trends that will allow you to open your door to a all manner of new colour ways, finishes, and designs. And, when it comes to updating your kitchen, 2016 looks set to bring with it a whole host of innovative and exciting design opportunities that will allow you to truly utilise one of the most used rooms in your home. And, of course, changing your kitchen will not only improve your day-to-day living, it can also significantly increase the value of your home! So, we’ve complied a list of some of our favourite kitchen trends that are set to be huge in 2016… Innovative storage For many of us, our kitchens are at the very heart of family life. And, with people cooking, socialising and congregating all day long, it’s easy for your kitchen to become messy and cluttered, particularly if everything doesn’t have its own place! 2016 is all about embracing super storage opportunities, allowing you integrate your appliances and extra storage into the design of your kitchen. From multi-use appliances built into your kitchen, to hidden cupboards and drawers, one of next season’s key trends is concealing your everyday appliances, utensils and other kitchen necessities in a bid to optimise space. So you can rest assured that over spilling cupboards will definitely be a thing of the past! Embrace open plan...
Things to think about when you’re changing your kitchen worktops

Things to think about when you’re changing your kitchen worktops

Your kitchen worktops are one of the most used surfaces in your home. And, whether it’s preparing food, cleaning or baking, it’s important that they are able to withstand the demands that come hand in hand with daily use. Your worktops are also an integral part of your kitchen’s design and can have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of the space. But, with countless designs, colours and finishes to choose from, it can sometimes be difficult to choose the most suitable worktops for your kitchen. Whether you choose wood, laminate, marble, quartz, or granite, we’ve complied a helpful list of things you should think about when you’re changing your kitchen worktops. We hope you find it helpful! Aside from considering whether your new worktops are durable, practical, and able to meet the demands of your family’s needs, there are lots of other factors that you must take into consideration. Will they work with your existing décor? Depending on your existing décor, some worktops will work in your kitchen and others won’t, so it’s important that you understand which worktops will complement your space. For example, corian worktops sit perfectly alongside contemporary décor, whereas wood surfaces will complement both traditional and modern spaces. Do you have little ones? If your kitchen is a constant hive of activity and you have a busy household, you might want to think about the practicality and durability of your worktops, especially if you have kids. After all, you don’t want your new worktops to be susceptible to marks, scratches, and the other wear and tear that comes hand in hand...
Creating the ultimate hangout space for your teenager

Creating the ultimate hangout space for your teenager

Your teenage years – a time when you are old enough to crave your independence but still heavily reliant on mum and dad for emotional and, dare we say it, financial support! And, when it comes to spending time with the family, it’s typical of many teenagers to want their own space where they can kick back and relax with their friends, without imposing on the rest of the household. As soon as they enter their teenage years, many youngsters crave their own den or hang out space, where they can play, socialise, and chill out. After all, creating a place where they love to spend time is better than having them roaming the streets, right? There are lots of ways that you can create a cool, chill out zone in your teenager’s bedroom. We’ve complied a list of some of our favourite ideas that are perfect for giving them their very own space. Fill the space with all of their favourite things The majority of teenagers are in to the latest everything… from trainers and gadgets to the hottest TV programmes, they are pretty easy to please, despite popular belief. So, when you’re creating the ultimate hangout space, bare this in mind. For example, when it comes to wardrobe space why not dedicate an area to their favourite trainers so that they can place them on display? Or even integrate a media centre into the design, so that their favourite electrical equipment is easy to conceal when its bedtime? This is also a great way to save floor space. Kenneth Installations are specialists when it comes to creating...
How to make your bedroom a luxurious retreat

How to make your bedroom a luxurious retreat

For many of us, our bedroom is a space where we seek refuge after a long, hard day at work. It’s a space where we can kick back, relax, and forget about the world whilst sinking into a realm of tranquility! So when it comes to creating the perfect retreat, it’s important that your bedroom is comfortable, accommodating and able to meet your exact requirements. If you’re looking to transform your bedroom into an inviting, luxurious retreat, we have lots of ideas to help you along the way. From fabulous storage solutions to desirable additions such as freestanding bathtubs, nothing is off limits! Light up your bedroom Lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of an entire space, and it can certainly make the difference between an unwelcoming space and a soothing sanctuary. With this in mind, when you’re revamping your bedroom, think about integrating lots of different sources of light. For example, a large focal light fixture is great for when you require maximum light but, when you’re unwinding and relaxing, table lamps and dimmer lighting tend to work much better. Dimmer overhead lighting in particular allows you to control the brightness and ambiance of your room, allowing you to take the atmosphere from bright and vibrant to soothing and romantic. Bathtub in your room There are a whole host of desirable features that you can integrate into your bedroom, and a bathtub is definitely one of them. Allowing a bathtub to take centre stage in your bedroom is far more accessible than you might think, especially if you have plenty of space. When it comes to...
Unexpected additions to your bathroom

Unexpected additions to your bathroom

When it comes to design, the possibilities are truly endless and nothing is off limits if you are brave enough to explore new ideas and concepts. For many of us, our bathroom is a space we retreat to when we want to kick back, relax, and forget about the worries of the day. However, when it comes to bathroom design, many of us tend to opt for function over style. But who said that you had to compromise? There are plenty of fun and unexpected ways to bring your bathroom space to life, transforming it into a room that exudes character, personality and, most importantly, style! We’ve complied a list of some of our favourite unexpected additions to your bathroom that are sure to turn heads, for all the right reasons of course! We hope it inspires you to think outside the box to create a home that reflects your individuality. Unexpected furniture Like any room in your home, it’s up to you how you fill and decorate your bathroom. And it’s often the case that, when you think outside the box, you are able to create the most appealing, attractive and functional rooms of all. Aside from the typical units, cabinets, and fixtures that populate your bathroom, why not integrate a bookcase, dressing table, or piece of lounging furniture? This will instantly make your bathroom feel more like a luxurious spa. A comfy upholstered chair is a great option! Of course, if you are considering incorporating a bookcase into the design of your bathroom, you need to ensure that the space is well ventilated and that you have...
How to childproof your kitchen

How to childproof your kitchen

The kitchen is often considered to be the heart of the home. It’s a space where family and friends tend to gather to catch up, indulge in good food, and cook. However, with so many dangerous electrical appliances, chemicals, and utensils within arms reach it can be a hazardous environment, especially if you have little ones. Let’s face it, those inquisitive minds are into everything and anything and it’s so true what they say, you definitely have to have eyes in the back of your head when you have kids! Like many spaces within your home, when little ones arrive, it’s important that you childproof those hazardous areas that could prove to be harmful to your favourite little people. And that particularly applies to your kitchen. Here are our top tips on how to make your kitchen child-safe. We hope you find them helpful… Appliances Your kitchen is often a hub of activity. It’s a space where meals are prepared, cooked, and enjoyed together as a family. But when you have a curious toddler running around, those appliances can pose a threat to your little people (especially if they are already turned on). However, there’s lots you can do in order to kid-proof your appliances including ensuring that all of the cords are out of reach (make sure you consider this in the design of your kitchen) and that any heavy appliances such as coffee machines, microwaves, and bread machines are positioned out of reach. Obviously, it also helps if you ensure that your appliances are turned off after use. Cover electrical sockets It goes without saying that this...
Things to consider when buying a bathtub

Things to consider when buying a bathtub

After a long hard day at work or a hard session in the gym, there’s no better feeling than sinking into a red hot bath and drifting into a coma of relaxation. Ahhhh the very thought brings a warm smile to our faces…. However, when it comes to buying a bathtub, it can often be more of a headache than a pleasurable experience. Mainly because you don’t just have to think about the needs and requirements of your bathroom design, but you also have to think about practical considerations to accommodate your personal needs. Bath tubs come a vast array of shapes, sizes, materials and finishes, and since the advent of new technology, many now incorporate their own sound systems, Jacuzzi jets and whirlpools, and even their very own TV screens! Yes, bathtubs have come a long way… And, although many of us welcome the opportunity to choose from a host of different styles and sizes, it can often make the task of choosing the perfect bathtub far more difficult than it should be. But don’t worry, we’ve complied a list of some important questions that you should ask yourself before taking the plunge and purchasing a bathtub. We hope that you find them helpful! What do you intend to use your bathtub for? Yes, this may seem like a silly question but not everyone uses their bathtub for a standard soaking at the end of the day! For many people, their bathtub is a retreat of relaxation, where they can kick back and relax and forget about the world. With this in mind, you might want to include...
The hottest bedroom design trends 2015

The hottest bedroom design trends 2015

With any new season comes a catalogue of new and exciting trends for us all to explore and discover, and this season, it’s no different. As we wave goodbye to the warm sunny days that populated the summer months, our thoughts naturally turn to preparing our wardrobes and homes for the long, winter ahead… yes, all good things must come to an end… But to distract you from the depressing thought of cold, dark winter days, we’ve complied a list of some of the new season’s hottest bedroom design trends, which will allow you to create a haven of tranquillity, calm and relaxation – perfect for escaping from those cold winter days when all we want to do is stay snug and warm under a big, fluffy duvet! After all, your bedroom is the one space in your home that should reflect your own personal tastes and style choices, so there should be no compromises when it comes to designing a space that meets your exact needs and expectations. Discover your rustic side… This season, it’s all about blending rustic charm with contemporary style, allowing you create a space that reflects two completely different style eras. Think beds with iron frames, exposed wood surfaces, striking antique style chandeliers, and distressed wood flooring to truly embrace this look! And, when it comes to integrating effective storage solutions that reflect one of this season’s key trends, there’s lots of options available including fitted wardrobes, free standing rustic chic drawers, and exposed shelving. Bring the outside in This is a trend that is perfect for capturing the magic of the outdoors and...
How to integrate seating into your kitchen

How to integrate seating into your kitchen

The kitchen is a room that is considered as being the heart of the home. It’s a space where families naturally gather at the end of the day to talk, indulge in good food, and relax in each other’s company. It’s also a space that we tend to spend most of our time in, which has paved the way for many kitchen designs to incorporate comfortable and accommodating seating solutions, allowing families to cook, relax and spend quality time together. From relaxed breakfast bars to formal seating areas, there are lots of ways to integrate inviting seating solutions into the design of your kitchen! From corner tables that take advantage of unused space, to seating that can be built into your kitchen island, the possibilities are endless when you think outside the box. We’ve complied a list of some of our favourite ways to create inviting and comfortable seating solutions into your existing kitchen design. And you don’t even have to worry about your seating area imposing on the look and feel of your space – many of the solutions featured in our list actually save and make the most of the space you already have available! Seating built into your kitchen island Kitchen islands have continued to increase in popularity, especially in larger kitchens where space is not so much of an issue. Kitchen islands are not only perfect for providing extra preparation and cooking space, they also naturally attract social activity, particularly when you’re entertaining. But your kitchen island’s functionality needn’t stop there… you can extend one side of the island by incorporating comfy bench seating to...
How to choose the right bedroom storage for you

How to choose the right bedroom storage for you

In an ideal world, we’d all like to live in a clutter free home, right? But realistically, ridding your home of the mountains of clutter that you have accumulated other the years is harder than you might think. Let’s face it, the very thought of throwing our favourite keepsakes is a sure fire way to trigger an instant feeling of panic and dread… And your bedroom is a magnet for clutter, after all, it’s the room in your home that contains the most of your personal possessions. If everything doesn’t have its place, your room can quickly resemble a car boot sale rather than a clutter free haven of tranquillity. But if you struggle with mess and clutter, there are lots you can do to create an inviting, liveable bedroom space by simply integrating effective storage solutions into your home. Here at Kenneth Installations in Glasgow, we are experts when it comes to integrating clever storage solutions (often in some of the most unexpected places) allowing you to create a personal and intimate space that you will want to spend time in. But first and foremost, it’s worthwhile writing a list of the items in your bedroom that could benefit from extra storage. From handbags, shoes and clothes through to electricals, bed linen and towels, this will help you to establish a clear understanding of the types of storage that you and your bedroom will benefit from most. Fitted and walk in wardrobes Fitted wardrobes are one of the most popular, space saving storage solutions (you’ll be amazed at how much you can pack into one space!). And, they’re...
What you should consider before renovating your bathroom

What you should consider before renovating your bathroom

When it comes to renovating your home, there are lots to think about, especially when taking on large and costly renovation projects such as changing your bathroom. With many of us only renovating our bathrooms a handful of times in a lifetime, it’s important that you carefully consider every step of the process to ensure that your exact requirements are met. After all, your bathroom is one of the most used rooms in your home, so it’s important that it is comfortable, functional and in keeping with the look and feel of the rest of your home! And of course, it’s not all about functionality – your bathroom should also look good too. Let’s face it, for many of us, it’s often our first port of call after a long hard day in the office – a haven of tranquillity where we can kick back and relax! However, like any home improvement project, it’s important that you take the time to explore all of your options when it comes to developing a bathroom suite that will meet your requirements and of course, the demands of everyday life. Storage space Sometimes it’s difficult to find a space for everything in your home, particularly in rooms such as your bathroom, which naturally accumulate mountains of products, lotions, potions, and other necessities. However, this can inevitably leave your bathroom feeling untidy and cluttered. So, when you’re re-designing your space, you should also think about taking advantage of the available space by integrating effective storage solutions. Cabinets that can be hung to the wall are great for saving floor space, and there are...
How to prepare for a bathroom refurbishment

How to prepare for a bathroom refurbishment

Home renovation projects can be extremely exciting (and daunting!), especially when it comes to making significant changes such as renovating your bathroom. Although it can be an exciting time, a home renovation project can also cause significant distribution to your daily routine, especially when you are changing rooms that you use daily. Disruption is difficult for anyone, however it can have even more of an impact if you have little ones or a large family. But you’ll be pleased to hear that there are lots of things you can do to prepare your home and family for your bathroom renovation project. Prepare your bathroom Before your new bathroom is fitted it’s important that you make sure that you have removed all of your belongings from your bathroom. From toiletries and towels, to free standing units, make sure you remove anything that could get in the way when your new bathroom is being fitted. It’s vital that the team who are fitting your new bathroom have room to work freely. Contingency plan Whilst your bathroom is being fitted, it’s important that you and your family are aware of how it will disrupt and impact upon your daily routine. After all, whilst your bathroom is being gutted and re-built you wont have access to any of its facilities so it’s vital that you think about how and where you will get washed etc during this period. Work with a team you can trust When it comes to welcoming professionals into your home to carry out construction work, it’s important that you can trust that they will do a good job. After...
Investing in fitted wardrobes

Investing in fitted wardrobes

When it comes to optimising storage space in your bedroom, fitted wardrobes are a practical, stylish and extremely versatile solution. Available in a variety of styles and finishes, they are perfect for adding a whole new dimension to your bedroom space, whilst opening your eyes to innovative storage solutions that have been especially designed to work around your needs. Whether you lack the necessary storage space for your shoes, clothes, accessories or even spare bedding, fitted wardrobes are perfectly equipped to meet the storage demands of your everyday life. We’ve taken a look at a whole host of benefits that come hand in hand with fitted wardrobes. Storage space It goes without saying that fitted wardrobes are perfect for optimising all available space in your living space, providing the ideal opportunity to integrate shoe racks, drawers, bespoke rails and pull out drawers. With a whole host of design options available, you’ll be able to store away your personal belongings in a way that works for you. But that’s not all, built from floor to ceiling and wall-to-wall, they are also great for adapting to the shape and size of your room. Bespoke designs Unlike traditional wardrobes, fitted wardrobes can be built around your needs, and, with a whole host of additional features, finishes and styles available, they demonstrate how function and style can work together seamlessly. Perfect for awkward spaces Bedroom spaces come in lots of different shapes and sizes, and this can often make it difficult to find suitable furniture. From difficult alcoves and nooks, to low ceiling beams, space can easily become unused and wasted. The benefit...
Simple ways to change your bedroom

Simple ways to change your bedroom

Home renovation projects can be costly, especially if your plans involve completely transforming a space. However, it is possible to transform the entire look and feel of a room by making small yet high impact changes. A bedroom that feels un-inspiring, cluttered, and unloved, can often make it  difficult to relax and unwind, especially when doing the things that you love. After all, your bedroom is one of the rooms you use the most in your home, whether it’s for sleeping, reading or snuggling up with your little ones, it should be a space that acts as a natural retreat and, most importantly, is an environment that you actually want to spend time in. The good news is, it’s pretty affordable to update and re-vamp your bedroom without it costing the earth. We’ve complied a list of small changes that can have a huge impact on the entire look and feel of your bedroom. Does your furniture fit? Furniture that does not fit the size of your room can have a significant impact on its overall look and feel. Not only can oversized furniture impose on your floor space, it can also overpower your room, making it feel cluttered and small. By choosing appropriately sized furniture that complements and enhances your space, it can instantly transform your room. Fitted wardrobes and integrated storage solutions can be a great way of injecting striking focal points that are as stylish as they are functional. Whether you are drawn to contemporary or traditional design, remember to always make sure that your furniture is matching. Brighten your room Lighting can have a significant...
Planning a kitchen renovation

Planning a kitchen renovation

When it comes to kitchen design, the possibilities are truly endless – nothing is off limits and it is possible to create a kitchen that is able to accommodate your family’s exact requirements. And, with so many people only renovating their kitchen a handful of times in their lifetime, it’s important that you invest plenty of time and thought into what will work for you and your home. After all, a new kitchen is not only a smart investment if you are looking to increase the value of your home, it can also dramatically improve your standard of living. However, before you embark on any renovation project, it’s important that you understand exactly what you want to achieve, in order to ensure that you gain high quality results that meet your expectations. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a helpful list of things that you should think about before deciding to renovate your kitchen… Understand what you want to achieve Before you embark on any home renovation project, it’s important that you have clear goals in terms of utilising the space that you have available. It’s also important to think about the needs of your family, your lifestyle requirements, and the functionality of your kitchen, as this will be a major factor in its design. After all, a kitchen designed specifically for a large family will be different to a kitchen designed to accommodate a single person or smaller family. With this in mind, it’s important that you have a clear vision of what you want to achieve. Be inspired All home renovation projects are exciting; after all, it’s...
Creating Space in Your Bedroom

Creating Space in Your Bedroom

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a large bedroom, but that doesn’t mean that you should have to compromise on space, style, and functionality, as there are lots of ways of making the most of the space that you do have. Like any interior design project, making smart choices (and injecting a little imagination!) can instantly change the look and feel of a space, especially when it comes to small living environments. After all, your bedroom should be a haven of relaxation and a space that you actually want to spend time in. We’ve compiled a list of helpful, space saving tips that will help you to create a sanctuary that is uncluttered, organised and, most importantly, inviting. Maximise your wall space When you have a small space, it’s important to optimise all corners of the room, from the walls to the floor and even the ceilings – this will allow you to maximise floor space. Fitted wardrobes and storage solutions will not only make a stylish addition to your bedroom, it will also allow you to integrate highly functional and versatile storage without it dominating the room. Scale down your furniture When you’re thinking about furniture, it’s important to consider shape and size, as curved or oversized furniture often takes up more space than necessary. Sleek, simple lines always work best in smaller spaces. When you have a small bedroom, large furniture can be extremely overpowering and instantly limit your space. With this in mind, think about scaling it down – opt for a small bed and only invest in the essentials. Storage solutions If you’re a...
Top 5 bathroom trends 2015

Top 5 bathroom trends 2015

It’s highly likely that you will only renovate your bathroom a handful of times in your lifetime, due to the scale of the work involved. So, when the time comes to change your bathroom, it’s worth doing well… Changing your bathroom can be extremely exciting but equally, when it comes to choosing a new suite, it’s vital that you pick out a bathroom that will complement and enhance your home for years to come. It’s always a good idea to do your research before embarking on any home interiors project, but in particular, before starting those jobs that you will only tackle a handful of times. We’ve put together a list of some of the hottest bathroom trends for 2015, in a bid to open your eyes to a catalogue of trends, which will allow you change the entire look and feel of your bathroom. So, if you’re thinking about renovating your bathroom in the near future, this might be a very good place to start… Freestanding bathtubs Freestanding bathtubs have always been popular, but this year they have appeared on countless hottest trend lists for 2015. Not only are they super stylish, spacious and intriguing, they will also instantly inject an element of nostalgic style into your bathroom. Perfect for integrating a striking focal point into your home, free standing bath tubs are extremely versatile and come in an extensive range of interesting sculptural designs, colours and sizes – meaning they are perfectly suited to both traditional and contemporary bathrooms. However, before making a final decision, make sure you consider whether or not you have the space to...
Optimising space in your bedroom

Optimising space in your bedroom

Your bedroom should be a serene, tranquil environment where you can relax and sleep in comfort and style. After all, a bedroom that is messy, cluttered and untidy will not only make you want to avoid it at all costs, it can also lead to a disturbed sleep – they do say “tidy space, tidy mind.” When it comes to organising your bedroom space, it can often be difficult to allocate sufficient storage space to accommodate your endless collection of clothes, shoes and accessories, leaving your bedroom feeling unorganised and messy. However, this needn’t be the case as there are a host of clever storage solutions that your can integrate into your bedroom, whatever its size, allowing you to create a stylish, spacious environment that you will want to spend time in. We’ve complied a list of some bedroom storage ideas that are perfect for complementing and enhancing both contemporary and traditional spaces, opening your eyes to innovative design that is sure to add a functional yet stylish dimension to your home. Wardrobe space This is the one area of your bedroom that has the greatest capacity to provide a unique storage solution that will allow you to make the most of your available space in your bedroom. Available in a wide variety of colours, finishes, and designs, fitted wardrobes can be designed to meet your exact requirements, providing a practical space that is able to accommodate your lifestyle (and your clothing!). With the ability to incorporate drawers, shelves, rails, and shoe space, the possibilities are truly limitless when it comes to wardrobe design, allowing you to create a...
How to make the most from your small kitchen?

How to make the most from your small kitchen?

Just because your kitchen is small, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be stylish, functional and spacious – in fact, far from it… From compact yet highly spacious cabinets, through to innovative shelves, units and movable islands, the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to making the most of your available space. And there’s lots of ways that you can utilise all corners of your kitchen, from floor level to the ceiling, by taking on board some of these helpful tips. Take your storage to new heights When you have a small, compact space, it’s important to utilise every last corner of it.  And it needn’t be a chore as it can be extremely fun identifying new ways in which to integrate unique storage solutions into your home. A kitchen that is small, cluttered and compact can be extremely overpowering, so it’s important that you make the most of every last inch of storage space available to you. So, when picking out cabinets and shelving, take your storage right up to the ceiling. This will allow you to keep your kitchen utensils, accessories, and equipment out of site. Top shelving is also a great option as it not only provides a functional storage solution, but it also lends itself perfectly to the decorative display of pots, plates and pans, all of which can add a quirky yet practical decorative touch to the room. Movable islands Incorporating a movable island into the design of your kitchen is a great way to instantly add counter and storage space that doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture. Moveable islands are great...
Things to consider when renovating your kitchen?

Things to consider when renovating your kitchen?

When renovating your kitchen, it can be difficult to know where to start. There are so many things to think about and so many decisions to make, that it can often be overwhelming. And, as a project that most of us undertake relatively infrequently, it’s important that you get it right. So here are our top points to consider before starting your renovation… Renew or replace? The first thing to consider when planning your kitchen renovation is whether you are going to update your existing kitchen with new worktops, cabinet doors, and finishings, or whether you are going to rip it out completely and start from scratch. If you’re happy with your existing layout and simply want a cosmetic update, it might prove more efficient and cost effective simply to renew rather than replace. On the other hand, if you’re going to need to move fixtures, fittings and appliances, it can often be better to start a-fresh. How do you use your space? What do you need it to do? There’s no denying that the look and feel of your finished kitchen is really important – you want it to look its best and complement the rest of your home. But it’s not all about aesthetics. Your kitchen should be practical, functional, and durable and, most importantly, it should cater to your individual needs and requirements. Appliances When it comes to appliances, there are so many options out there, that it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Firstly, think about which appliances you want (and need!) in your kitchen. Secondly, do you want your appliances to be integrated and concealed? Or...
Kitchen Trends 2015

Kitchen Trends 2015

When it comes to redesigning your kitchen, it needs to be functional, versatile, and durable, but equally as stylish. After all, this is a space where many families spend a great deal of time, so it’s important that it looks its best. Of course, unlike other rooms in the house, it’s unlikely that you will complete a kitchen renovation project more than once or twice in any given property so you need to ensure that your chosen design is timeless – that’s not to say you can’t incorporate some of this year’s hottest kitchen trends, however. So, whether you’re about to embark on your long-awaited kitchen transformation, or you are simply collecting ideas for when the time is right, let’s take a look at some of this year’s top kitchen trends. Colour Accents Gone are the days of all white or strictly neutral kitchens. For 2015, it’s all about adding splashes of rich, statement colours. Channel the bold, vivid colours that you might find at a spice market or a bazaar – mustards, scarlets, royal blue, and dusty pink – adding just the right amount to set off your kitchen. Try introducing the trend using tiles or cabinet doors, or maybe even a statement wall – it’s all about making the trend work for you. Open Plan Open plan kitchens are nothing new, but they are becoming increasingly popular, which is perhaps not surprising given that it tends to be the most social room of the house. Embrace this trend by reducing the amount of cabinets in the room – this will make the space feel much more open...