The kitchen is at the heart of many homes these days, and you’ll want to make sure yours is perfectly suited to your unique needs and requirements.
Read on to find out more about fitted kitchens and how you can customise them to create a unique space for you.
What is a fitted kitchen?
A fitted kitchen is designed to maximise living space in a way that perfectly matches your individual requirements. Fitted kitchens offer a personal touch and provide a flexible design process that will accommodate a lot of room for customisation.
A fitted kitchen design normally removes the free-standing equipment you would find in a traditional kitchen and replaces them with integrated appliances such as built in fridges, dishwashers and ovens. This adds a sleek, modern look to any interior.
What are the benefits of a fitted kitchen?
Greater control
When you choose a fitted kitchen, you have control over every single element of the design. While overseeing the design process, you’ll be able to create a look that’s fully customised to your tastes and budget. Only you know how you use your kitchen, so with your input you’ll be able to keep functionality in mind. You can decide on what is needed within your kitchen and plan where everything should be placed.
The perfect fit
One of the benefits of fitted kitchens is that they provide the perfect fit for your kitchen. As you’ll have precise measurements made to the exact shape and size of your kitchen, the end result will be a seamless and sleek fit. This will enhance practicality within the room, as by utilising the space of your kitchen correctly you’ll be able to use spaces which were unavailable previously.
More kitchen storage options
Fitted kitchens are designed to maximise space, with convenient layouts and clever storage options. Fitted kitchen designers will have to go into your home and measure everything, making sure that you’re making the most out of your space for all the elements that you want to incorporate. Installations are designed and built to be compact where the appliances are concealed into cabinets so that they won’t be in your way. Bespoke storage options like this are one of the key appeals of fitted kitchens.
A long-term investment
A fitted kitchen offers a premium touch to any house and can therefore boost the value of your property. All appliances and cupboards will be stuck to the floor and walls of your house which means it’s going to be permanent - many buyers find a beautifully fitted kitchen very appealing. It will serve as a great selling point if you decide to put your house on the market, making it a useful long-term investment.
How can I personalise my fitted kitchen?
Consider your layout
When planning and personalising a fitted kitchen, you’ll need to think about layout first. In your layout try to configure your sink, refrigerator, hob and oven within easy reach of each other and then consider what storage to put in this area. Think about installing cabinets and pull out drawers near the oven that are usually best suited for cooking oils, pots and pans, while reserving the space near the sink for dishes. It’s also wise to consider natural light in your layout planning – remember that seating areas are best placed near windows.
Here’s some common kitchen layouts that can help you decide on a suitable option:
● Galley kitchens involve a central corridor surrounded by your kitchen cabinets and appliances. They’re a strong contender for those looking for small kitchen ideas, as they give efficient storage and workspace for the footprint you have available.
● U shaped kitchens are great at maximising floor space while getting plenty of cupboard storage in return.
● L shaped kitchens have two cabinet runs at right angles of adjacent walls and can help make very efficient use of the space you have available.
● I shaped kitchens are great for small spaces. These kitchens are fitted against one wall in your space, meaning you can use the rest of your space for dining or combine your living area into the kitchen for open plan design.
Decide on cabinetry choices
Your cupboards and cabinets can have a big impact on your kitchen. You’ll want to balance practicality and aesthetics - you need to make sure everything is going to fit. From granite to frosted doors, there’s a lot of options to choose from. It’s a good idea to think hard about what you want to install, as it will be permanent.
Here’s some style ideas you can take inspiration from when considering cabinet design:
● Traditional kitchens offer classic charm, placing a strong emphasis on natural tones and materials to create a homely feel.
● Shaker kitchens take a minimalist approach. Their clean lines and simple appeal are particularly well-suited to country kitchens.
● Modern kitchens are a popular choice. For a contemporary look, choose a flat (or slab) fronted kitchen. These kitchens look exceptionally sleek in a gloss finish, adding a touch of sophistication to your room.
● Handleless cabinets create a minimalist design with edgy detail, ensuring your kitchen has a futuristic, polished finish.
Think about cabinet hardware
While it may seem insignificant, cabinet hardware can really make or break your look. Here’s some examples of knobs and handles you’ll want to think about:
● Pull handles are used via a straightforward pulling motion when you want to open your kitchen cabinets and drawers. Perfect for tall or heavy doors and easy to open drawers, you can choose from bar, cup, and arch designs, available in an array of versatile shapes, sizes, and materials.
● Knobs are also available in a selection of shapes and sizes, from round and mushroom to square and bar, and add a unique touch to any room. Often found in traditional properties, the bulbous design offers bold decoration to your kitchen.
● Cremone bolts offer additional security and peace of mind that your kitchen cabinets are completely closed with no chance of swinging open. Simple but efficient, cremone bolts are essentially a little rod that is effortlessly pushed into a casing fixed to the top or bottom of your frame.
Add an island
A kitchen island can serve as a striking focal point of any room. This added feature is the perfect spot for family and household members to socialise, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just winding down on a week night - they also make a great breakfast bar. You’ll often get smart storage space and there’ll be plenty more seating options for guests.
Come up with a colour theme
Incorporating a vibrant colour scheme is a great way to make your kitchen stand out from the crowd and can ultimately make it totally unique to you. This can make your space appear bigger and brighter, so don’t be afraid to break out the brushes. Or, if you prefer a more understated look, go for neutrals. It’s also worth thinking about the finish - gloss or matte?
Feature an interesting faucet
Faucets are a small and inexpensive way to upgrade your kitchen. An interesting faucet at your sink can actually make a striking difference to your interior and attract the attention of your guests. You’ll find a range of taps available in many shapes, sizes and colours. Whether you’re after simple features or want to branch out to more decorative options, you’re bound to find something perfect for you.
Pay attention to lighting
Lighting is a certified way to transform your kitchen. From layered lighting to accent lighting, you can choose a style that suits your kitchen best. Adding a new lighting element can set the atmosphere of your kitchen by making it appear cosy, intimate or natural - you’ll be able to create whatever tone you want. It’s wise to opt for bright ceiling lights, such as spotlights, that won't be obstructed by a shade. Add lights under your kitchen units to brighten up worktops. Additionally, extending a window to bring in plenty of natural light can make your room appear a lot more spacious.
Contact your local kitchen furniture company
If you’re interested in investing in a fitted kitchen, your best course of action is to contact your local kitchen furniture company. At M.D.C - The Mirror Door Company, we offer an unmatched fitted kitchen service that will see your dreams come to life. The expert kitchen designer responsible for your kitchen furniture design will work with you to create the bespoke kitchen you’ve always wanted, working out how to balance storage, functionality and style in a way that meets your requirements. Contact us today to book a free survey.
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