More than just a place to cook, kitchens have fast become the heart of the home – a space where families come together to cook, eat, work, study and entertain. As a result, much consideration has to be taken when designing a kitchen to ensure it delivers on the functional, design, and practical requirements placed on the space.
Our Kitchen Design Guide takes you through the crucial steps required to plan, design, and build a space that not only reflects your style but also delivers on functionality and practicality. If you’re in the process of designing your dream kitchen, follow the six steps below:
1. Planning
The planning phase is imperative when designing your dream kitchen. Some great questions to prompt your planning could include why are you renovating your kitchen? To improve functionality or simply the aesthetics of your space. If you’re designing a new home, think about the functionality and layout of previous kitchens you’ve used that have worked well for your family and lifestyle. Creating a short wish-list of functional and budget requirements will be a great base.
You can then start thinking about what you want your kitchen to look like – thinking about existing spaces and materials in the home, inspiration you’ve found online, on social media and in magazine.
You can follow us on Instagram and Pinterest for more Design Inspiration.
2. Budget
The cost of your new kitchen will vary depending on your renovation – are you focusing on aesthetic updates, are you wanting to change the layout of your kitchen including electrical and plumbing fixtures, are you wanting to move where your kitchen is located in your home? It’s important to be clear about your goals and priorities, so you can ensure you allocate budget to the important areas of your project.
If your renovation is mainly to refresh and upgrade the look of your kitchen – start thinking about your wishlist and what will be important to you? Natural Stone Benchtops, feature tile splashbacks and appliances can make a strong visual impact but can also become costly. A cost-effective way to create impact in your space is through cabinetry – using bold colour, rich textures and profiled cabinetry that enhance your space within a fraction of the cost. We have created some on-trend Palettes below to help you create your dream kitchen.
3. Storage & Layout
Before we jump to colour and material choices, the storage and layout of your kitchen is essential to ensuring you have a functional space. Create another wishlist for storage and layout – considering how much storage you need to suite your household and family. If you have limited space available, consider how you can maximise the area by using smaller appliances and sinks, and ensure you can move efficiently within your kitchen space.
4. Design – Style and Colour
Once you have nailed the functionality of your space, its time to think about design – colour, texture and style.
A great way to get inspiration on designs you would like to encapsulate for your space is to begin browsing social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram as well as by flipping through the latest issues of interior design magazines. Collect reference images and save them into one location. From here, start to find the commonalities between the images – which colours are you drawn to and what styles seem to catch your eye most. Do you prefer a more modern look, with bold colour and clean lines, or do you prefer a classic style that comprises neutral tones and traditional details?
You can visit our Instagram and Pinterest Pages for on-trend kitchen designs. We’ve also created some Design Palettes for you using our latest Range of SmartStyle Premium Profile Doors, Drawers and Panels below to get you inspired.
5. Materials & Fixtures
Now that you’ve finalized your chosen style & colour palette, it’s time to select materials and fixtures. While Aesthetics are important, functionality and durability should also be your focus points when selecting materials and fixtures.
When selecting materials, be conscious of your budget. If your budget allows, utilise sturdy natural materials like Wilsonart THINSCAPE Composite Slab Benchtops, top of the range tiles and hardwood flooring. If your budget is more restrictive using Wilsonart HPL (high-pressure laminate) for benchtops or Zenolite Acrylic Panels for Splashbacks can be a cost-effective way to achieve visual interest, while still durable for everyday wear and tear.
6. Bring your kitchen to life
After you’ve completed the above steps its time to bring your kitchen design to life. Ensure you engage with professional, licensed trade when it comes to design, build and installation of your kitchen.
You can find a range of professionals and visit their showrooms here to get started.
Design your Dream Kitchen
Farmhouse
Farmhouse-style kitchens combine the charm of rural traditions with a modern appreciation for simplicity. Although they may integrate contemporary elements, it’s best to maintain a focus on timeless qualities: prioritising simplicity, authenticity, and warmth.
Key features of farmhouse-style kitchens:
- Shaker-style cabinetry
- Natural wood floors, exposed beams, butcher block and farm tables
- Traditional appliances
- Mixed metal tapware and hardware
- Subway tiles
Color palette:
Farmhouse-style kitchens typically feature simple, earthy and neutral tones that have a timeless feel. A palette of crisp whites, rich navy’s, clean blacks and earthy woodgrains bring this palette together. Rich, traditional colours such as Sage Green, Mustard and deep Reds can be integrated into the palette as accents.
Create the look
Winchester in Seed Black, Supermatt Finish
Industrial
Drawing inspiration from edgy New York loft conversions, Industrial style finds its roots in the urban landscape. Characterised by large-scale, black-framed windows and exposed architectural elements like trusses, ceilings, and brickwork, Industrial design exudes an authentic urban vibe. These features not only evoke the origins of a space, real or imagined, but also contribute to its industrial aesthetic. Concrete-style flooring, benchtops, and weathered timber surfaces further enhance the industrial atmosphere, firmly establishing the space within the realm of Industrial style.
Key features of industrial-style kitchens:
- Exposed structural elements such as beams and brick walls
- Large black metal windows to maximise natural light and an airy atmosphere reminiscent of loft spaces
- Metal fixtures and finishes including stainless steel appliances, light fixtures and countertops
- Minimalist design emphasising functionality and simplicity
Colour palette: The colour palette of industrial stye kitchens is characterised by a balance of neutral tones, metallic accents, industrial colours, creating a cohesive and visually dynamic space that celebrates the raw and rugged beauty of industrial design. An industrial palette is based on bold cooler toned colours such as deep charcoals, gunmetal grey or matte black. These darker hues can be applied to cabinets, counter tops and accent walls to create a striking contrast against lighter elements.
Create the look
Cambridge in Alcove, Supermatt finish
Urban Industrial
Inner Urban style embodies the essence of buildings nestled within the heart of the bustling city centre. It begins by embracing a palette steeped in history, drawing from the charm of old-school brickwork, weathered plastered walls, expansive warehouse-style windows, and the character of beautifully aged timber or concrete floors. What sets Inner Urban apart from its InnerUrban counterpart is its cleaner lines and a departure from organic finishes. This style thrives on layering, infusing pops of colour and contemporary-inspired furniture.
Key features of industrial-style kitchens:
- Industrial elements such as exposed brick, concrete floors or countertops and metal accents
- Clean lines emphasising sleek and streamlined design
- Mixed materials like wood, glass, metal and concrete
- Neutral palette infusing pops of colour and matt finishes
Colour palette: The colour palette of industrial stye kitchen is characterised by a balance of neutral tones, metallic accents, industrial colours, creating a cohesive and visually dynamic space that celebrates the raw and rugged beauty of industrial design. Bold accent colours inspired by urban street art and industrial machinery like deep blues, rich greens and burnt oranges can be used to add interest and contrast to the space.
Create the look
Somerton 20 in Bayleaf, Supermatt finish
Vintage Eclectic
Vintage Eclectic design blends classic, timeless design with modern functional living. Combining different design elements and periods creates a unique and personalised look – breaking the rules to mix and match different colours and styles to create visually interesting space. This style celebrates elements from times gone by to create a contemporary eclectic feel.
Key features of Vintage Eclectic kitchens:
- Embracing different textures like stone, wood and fabric
- Mixing different styles such as pops of colour along with traditional furniture and lighting
- Contrasting metals including brass and stainless steel add interest
- Experiment with pops of bright colours among a neutral background
Colour palette: Inspired by mid-century modern and art deco styles, Vintage Eclectic Colour Pallets includes pops of bolder colour ranging from deep blues, rich mustards and yellows, rosy pinks to sage greens. Bold colours can be paired with other similar muted tones or with woods and neutrals to create contrast.
Create the look
Somerton 20 in Fjord, Matt finish
Contemporary
Contemporary kitchens embrace minimalist elements highlighting shades of greys, beiges and whites. This style focuses on function and simplicity, creating a cohesive and seamless design.
Key features of contemporary-style kitchens:
- Simple, seamless cabinetry
- Cutting-edge appliances and smart kitchen technology
- A clean, neutral colour palette with use of subtle texture such as stone, concrete and marble
- Undermount sinks and integrated appliances
- Use of soft matt and satin like finishes create a soft, airy feeling in the space
Colour palette: While white is a great base for a contemporary kitchen, varying neutral shades can be selected to elevate a contemporary palette. The use of cooler toned greys or soft, warm beiges that pair seamless with other materials in the space can take this palette to the next level.
Create the look
Somerton 20 in Vongole, Supermatt finish
Modern
Capturing the dynamic essence of our ever-evolving lifestyles, Contemporary designs are vibrant and innovative, integrating surprising elements seamlessly into their compositions. Drawing inspiration from history, they revive ancient concepts and retro aesthetics while infusing spaces with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Throughout the past century, various interior styles have emerged, all reflecting the hopeful spirit of a post-war era. Softened features, flowing contours, and crisp lines are all emblematic of the charm and structure inherent in the contemporary style.
Key features of farmhouse-style kitchens:
- Minimalist design emphasising clean lines, sleek surfaces and uncluttered spaces
- Concealed appliances, such as built-in refrigerators and dishwashers, to maintain a seamless and streamlined appearance
- Statement lighting such as contemporary pendant or track lighting features
- Stainless steel and matt black tapware and hardware
Colour palette:
Modern kitchens feature predominantly neutral shades with varying tones of white, grey or beige to create a clean foundation and minimalist backdrop. Matt finishes in neutral or muted tones, such as matt grey or black add a modern touch and create a sense of depth. Metallic accents add a touch of luxury and sophistication while natural materials such as wood or stone add texture and warmth.
Create the look
Barrie in Drafted White, Satin finish
Scandinavian
Originating from modernism, mid-century Scandinavian design embodies simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. Its essence lies in a restrained palette of timber and white, occasionally punctuated by soft pastels and geometric motifs, accentuating its clean lines. Evolving into one of the most sought-after styles globally, its versatility allows for seamless transitions between spaces and effortless integration with furniture and cabinetry components, creating visually appealing layers.
Key features of farmhouse-style kitchens:
- Clean lines and seamless cabinetry
- Utilising natural materials such as wood, stone and marble
- Minimalist décor with a focus on functionality and practicality
- Integrated lighting and appliances for a sleek look
- Stainless steel and matt black tapware and hardware
Colour palette:
Scandinavian Kitchens feature a predominantly white or light-coloured walls, cabinetry and countertops to embrace brightness and create an airy atmosphere. Natural materials such as woodgrains are used to add warmth and texture, while plants and large windows can be used to amplify a sense of space and connection to nature.
Create the look
Cambridge in Drafted White, Satin Finish
For more inspiration, to browse our SmartStyle range and
order samples click here.
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