Kitchen Design Sittingbourne Kent

Here are some images of a recently completed kitchen design for a Kitchen Solutions Kent client in Sittingbourne, Kent. The range is Primo cream high gloss kitchen from Noblessa by Nobilia, their German kitchen supplier.

The customer was delighted with the finished kitchen which provides plenty of storage and looks great. There is a pull-out larder, deep pan drawers under the oven. A small kitchen appliance garage behind a roller shutter door. Bothe corners contain carousel units for ease of access and maximum storage. Underneath the induction hob are more deep pand drawers with a hidden internal culery drawer.






























































































The kitchen worktop is a stunning feature. It's a solid surface corian worktop that's 65mm deep and runs down the side of the breakfast bar. The white colour provides an interesting counterpoint to the cream gloss kitchen doors. The sink and drainer are moulded into the worktop providing an easy to clean, completely waterproof finish.

For more information on german kitchens or Corian worktops please visit kitchensolutionskent.co.uk

New german kitchens for 2011 from Nobilia

Here's a sneek preview of the new German kitchens from our supplier Noblessa by Nobilia. In keeping with the latest trends in kitchen design the number of handleless kitchens are increasing. The use of acrylic kitchen doors teamed with coloured and textured glass provides a stunning ultra high gloss quality to many of the 2011 kitchens.

Kitchen design features like wall cabinets completely manufactured from glass allow new possibilities in functional but beautiful kitchen design.







View the full range here. New 2011 german kitchens from Nobilia by Kitchen Solutions Kent

Kitchen Islands in 2011

Kitchen islands will become the icon of modern kitchens in 2011 and it's easy to see why.

Because it is true that "everbody ends up in the kitchen", a well-designed island offers a casual place for people to congregate, cook and just eat snacks.

Kitchen islands are functional. They save space, are accessible from all sides and serve the function of a variety of tasks. Space saving is such an important consideration these days when many people have very small kitchens and no room for the old big kitchen table and chairs. Kitchen islands can be designed for many different uses. It really depends on what you want to do.

Fitted with a kitchen sink, hob, warming drawers, refrigerator and a dishwasher, kitchen islands make food preparation and cleaning up more convenient and social. Positioned as a room divider, a kitchen island creates a galley kitchen and provides a serving area from for parties. Kitchen Islands also add beauty and architectural interest to the kitchen.

Kitchen islands can be fixed or moveable, curved, rectangular, square or circular in shape. Islands can be plumbed and wired for running water and lighting. You can incorporate appliances such as sinks, ovens and dishwashers. Finishes can include wood, stainless steel, laminate, stone, metal, eco-friendly materials etc.

Dimensions can be customized to fit your particular space. Worktops can be as for any cabinetry can include a breakfast bar, overhung worktops for eating at. Storage can be added for kitchen utensils, decorative items, books and wine racks. A conventional extractor can be mounted above the kitchen island if it contains your hob but these days downdraft extractors are becoming more popular. Downdraft extractors can be retracted into a base unit when not being used.

Kitchen islands work well in U-shaped and L-shaped kitchens because they shorten the distance of the working triangle traffic. Islands also add beauty and architectural interest to any and all modern kitchens.

Kitchen Fitting in Pimlico

Kitchen Solutions Kent were commissioned by a customer in Pimlico to refurbish their kitchen situated in a basement flat. Part of the requirements of the client was that an American fridge freezer be incorporated in the kitchen design. Fitting the appliance in the kitchen design was no problem, however getting the fridge freezer into the property was rather more challenging. It became apparent that the fridge was too large to get down the basement steps. Undeterred Kitchen Solutions Kent hired a crane which gingerly lowered the appliance over not only the cast iron railings but also over the cars that had parked in the specially reserved parking spaces. All part of the service when you use Kitchen Solutions Kent for your kitchen design and installation.

Interior Design | Interior Designer | Kent

Interior design is not straightforward. Getting the aesthetics of a kitchen, or any other room for that matter, right requires skill, flair and a level of confidence that many of us don't have. With that in mind Kitchen Solutions Kent are introducing an interior design service to supplement their free kitchen design offer.



A kitchen design from Kitchen Solutions Kent will always be free. Without paying any money and with no obligation, you can have the services of a skilled kitchen designer who will visit you at home, design your kitchen and provide you with photo realistic images of what your new kitchen could look like - all for free.

Increasing numbers of their customers are looking for more direction and advice about their home decor. It's fashionable now to blend the kitchen with other living space in the home, the lines between the kitchen, dining and living areas are becoming more and more blurred. This brings increased challenges for the kitchen designer and householder alike. Kitchen design is now often not just about the kitchen, more and more it's about colour, material, fabric and textures. That's why Kitchen Solutions Kent are introducing an interior design service throughout Kent, Essex, London and the South east.

For a modest fee an interior designer will work with the customer and the kitchen designer to deliver a complete new look for your kitchen, kitchen diner or even the whole of your home. Advice and guidance from a professional interior designer could save you significant amounts of money in the long run. For more information about their interior design service in Kent visit kitchensolutionskent.co.uk

Self Cleaning Oven - Beko OIM22500XP

A self cleaning oven that's stylish and practical, say goodbye to chemicals and rubber gloves

The multifunction 60cm oven has a large 65L capacity, slotting perfectly into the modern kitchen and is a welcome extension to the successful Beko Built-in range launched last year. As well as the simple cleaning programmes and four layer glass door to ensure a cool outside surface, the new ‘A’ rated Beko oven also boasts many other features, including a large display fully programmable LED timer, telescopic shelf system, large viewing window, interior light and fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish with a removable oven door to assist door cleaning.

With 12 cooking functions, the new Beko ‘Programme Clean’ Oven provides various cooking methods, including static, grill and fan. It is available in stainless steel and provides a simple approach to cleaning the oven, using extreme heat to oxidise the dirt. There are two cleaning functions to clean the oven interior, including a programme for lightly soiled ovens, as well as those with tough burnt on spillages. Any burnt-on dirt is carbonized and simply turned to ash which can be easily swept away at the end of the cleaning cycle, allowing you to keep your oven in pristine condition.

The Beko Built-in range of cooking, cooling and home laundry appliances has been developed to provide a stylish combination of durability, reliability and affordability; continuing their commitment to offering high quality products packed with practical features to meet the constantly changing needs of the busy household.

Glass Splashbacks Kent | Best Prices |

FOR GLASS SPLASHBACKS IN KENT - TRY KITCHEN SOLUTIONS KENT

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Painted glass splashbacks for your kitchen or bathroom at best prices in the South East.

Specially toughened low ion painted glass splashbacks in any colour of your choice.

Templated for a perfect fit around electrical sockets and a great fit between your kitchen worktops and units.

Professionally installed for a great finished look.

Glass splashbacks fully installed at only £190 per square metre!

Visit kitchensolutionskent.co.uk for more details

Kitchen Islands

The kitchen island that you can see part of in the above image was designed and built for a customer near Maidstone using kitchen units from our german kitchen partner Nobilia. The kitchen is in white high gloss and the kitchen doors are handleless. The kitchen island houses 2 hobs, one induction and a gas domino hob, a sink and drainer with instant hot water tap, a full waste recycling centre and, what you can't see in the picture, a seating area for four people at the right hand end of the island.

The kitchen island is 5 meters long and 1.1 meters wide. The units on the side nearest the bank of ovens are all deep drawer units and are 600mm deep and on the other side all the base units are 450mm deep. The amount of storage space the entire kitchen island provides is spectacular and the seating area works really well.

The worktop is in ice white corian and the high gloss white doors are set off with silver pilasters and panels. The overall effect is clean, modern and stunning looking.

There are not many kitchens that can house a kitchen island of these epic proportions but with the versatility of Nobilia's kitchen cabinets Kitchen Solutions Kent have designed kitchen islands that have worked equally well in much smaller kitchens. If I can find the picture that shows the whole kitchen island I will post it later.

Bespoke kitchens in Kent, Essex and London

Kitchen Solutions Kent are about to launch their bespoke kitchens available in Kent, Essex, London and the S E of England. To compliment their succesful german kitchen offer from Nobilia they are about to introduce a flexible kitchen offer which will allow kitchen buyers to specify the material they want their kitchen made from and the colour they want their kitchen finished in.

Kitchen doors will be available in solid woods, pvc wrap, high gloss, acrylic and laminates. Consumers will be able to specify any colour they wish, even painted kitchen doors will be available. The kitchens will be manufactured at a factory in Kent which means that lead times and transportation costs will be low.

Kitchen carcass construction is to a high standard and to suit traditional cottage style kitchens solid wood drawer boxes with dovetailed joints are available. The service will be launched in around 2 weeks time - check back for more details.

Modern Kitchen Design Trends

Nowadays the modern kitchen functions as a family hub of domestic activity and entertaining. They're well lit, open spaces. Modern kitchen design should meet your family's life-style and how your kitchen is utilised for cooking, eating and entertaining. Because the kitchen is required to fulfill more roles other rooms in the house they increased in size. Modern kitchen design is about creating open-faced kitchens - combining a dining area and family space.

Both purpose and style of a modern kitchen represent important parts when undertaking a kitchen design or refurbishment project.
If you're replacing an existing kitchen or planning a kitchen addition or a new home, here is some current kitchen design trends to bear in mind.

Among recent trends in modern kitchen design ideas is to combine the kitchen with an adjoining family room. To create this the wall dividing the kitchen and family room or dining-room is entirely removed producing a less constricted space centred on a large kitchen island or peninsula.
There are distinct rewards to enlarging ones kitchen. By opening up the space you make the kitchen and the other room appear spacious. Also since kitchen cabinets, worktops and appliances are good-looking articles of furniture in their own right you are able to showcase your new kitchen. Your budget won't really increase all that much by opening up the kitchen other than the price of additional cabinets. Anyway the added cost of the kitchen design should be more that setoff by the growth in the value of your property.

Furniture-style cabinets remain a popular trend in kitchen design . These furniture-style cabinets are particularly fashionable in the design of kitchen islands. Characteristics that lend cabinets a furniture-like visual aspect are legs and bun feet, pilasters inlays and mouldings.

As for kitchen colours finishes white and cream finishes continue to be popular, although kitchen designers and trendwatchers also see a growing interest in deep, rich browns and darker colours

Kitchen manufacturers and designers are beginning to design more individual and freestanding pieces of kitchen furniture instead of the usual built-in cabinetry for larger rooms. This is better-known as freestanding kitchen design first popularised by English designers and cabinetmakers. This leads to another trend of combining pieces of old or antique furniture with modern kitchen cabinets

Undermount sinks in cast iron or stainless steel are among recent alterations in kitchen design because householders prefer the clean fluid look which coalesces with modern designs. The advantages of an undermounted sink are that it is utilitarian, beautiful and very easy to install. The bowl is installed beneath a worktop. No sink rim shows above the worktop and there is no lip to accumulate water and catch dirt and crumbs. Instead detritus is conveniently swept into the sink so that the counter can be cleaned quicker.

Hot trends in modern kitchen design include:

Worktops: Solid surface worktops remain popular with the commonest being granite. Corian is another popular choice. Mixing different materials is getting much more common, using stone on some counters, butchers block or concrete on others.

Kitchen Appliances: Commercial calibre appliances particularly ranges, American fridge freezers and integrated dishwashers. Warming drawers, combination microwaves and steam ovens are also popular.

Putting saucepans and cookware into deep drawers. With heavy-duty drawer runners one can put large, heavy pots in drawers instead of cupboards, increasing ease of access considerably

Glazed, distressed and antique finishes are increasingly being usede to replace traditional ornate details once used on many high-end kitchencabinets.

Painted finishes are very popular and many kitchen manufacturers will produce kitchen doors in any colour of your choice.

According to kitchen designers as modern kitchens expand in size and complexity, "mixed orders" are getting much more commonplace. Kitchen islands, wet bars, baking centers and butler's pantries are regularly being incorporated into kitchen designs producing the requirement for more contrast in cabinet styles, colorus, types of wood and finishes.

James Dyson Awards include innovative kitchen appliances

A design competition launched by inventor James Dyson has seen several entries take the form of innovative kitchen appliances.

Among the designs submitted to the James Dyson Awards is a small gas hob that can be removed from kitchen worktops when not in use to save space, as well as a microwave that is able to connect to the web and play a video clip that lasts the duration of the cooking time, Relaxnews reports.

One other invention is a safety system that automatically closes the source of a fire - such as an oven - using wireless technology.

"Increasing population growth, urbanisation, environmental concerns and a greater interaction with the virtual world is leading to the creation of ever more innovative, space-saving, environmentally-friendly household appliances," Relaxnews says.

New kitchen appliances that have recently been launched in the UK include a dishwasher with three drawers instead of two and washing machines with a slim depth to fit into small kitchens.

Steaming hot water taps

As the kitchen sink continues to take centre stage in new kitchen designs, the demand for stylish, time-saving appliances like steaming hot water taps continues to increase. With convenience becoming a real buzz-word for kitchen design, since hitting the UK market steaming hot water taps have revolutionised the task of heating and using water in the kitchen and have become a popular alternative to the traditional kettle. But as the market develops, and consumer needs increase, category manufacturers will have to demonstrate both aesthetic and functional developments of these simple, yet stylish time-saving appliances in order to stay ahead of competitor ranges.

Brass and stainless steel still remain the most practical material for the majority of sink accessories, however the market is seeing the introduction of a wider variety of alternatives allowing designers greater creativity. There are now also a multitude of finishes on the market to help home owners find steaming hot water taps to match their kitchen and mixing taps. Our experience is that polished chrome and brushed steel continue to be the best sellers.

Because of the ease with which they can be mounted unobtrusively to either the work surface, or sink top, they offer a space-saving option whatever the tap's design. However, in line with predictions of increased demand for contemporary style kitchens, we envisage a trend, as for traditional taps, for much cleaner, simpler lines in steaming hot water taps.

Futuristic kitchens.

A recent report on futuristic kitchens , has revealed that by 2040 the kitchen will be so technologically advanced it will respond automatically to individual needs.

The independent Future Kitchen report, carried out by The Future Laboratory on behalf of IKEA, revealed that in 30 years time kitchens will be able to respond to energy levels, nutritional needs and moods of its users and even with this extensive use of technology will be sustainable and eco friendly.

IKEA has created three hypothetical kitchens of the future to reflect the findings of this report into social trends and factors that will influence our lives and homes by 2040.

The INTUITIV kitchen of the future features sensors that can read brainwaves and adjust the kitchen to suit the mood of the user. It even has aromatherapy infused walls that can be synced with the user’s calendar to calm you before a meeting or energise you before a gym session.

“The INTUITIV kitchen is a possible kitchen of the future with over one third of the population (41%) expecting that by 2040 we won’t even have to cook for ourselves,” said Carole Reddish, deputy managing director of IKEA UK and Ireland.

The report found that 44% of the people surveyed believed that the most important feature in our kitchens in 2040 will be energy saving. According to the survey, over two thirds of UK consumers (67%) currently try to buy energy efficient appliances suggesting that ‘green awareness’ is on the increase.

IKEA developed the ELEMENTRA back to nature kitchen that encourages you to grow your own food and be self-sufficient with a garden or mini allotment as a standard extension of the room. Food will be kept cool through larders and recycling facilities will be seamlessly incorporated into the kitchen.

With over 57% of people thinking that technology will boost our overall kitchen experience IKEA designed the smart kitchen, SKARP. This intelligent kitchen predicts the needs of its inhabitants using smart technology. Synchronised appliances will make everything happen at the touch of a button, communicating through iPad style devices, acting as the brain of the home.

For the 41% of Britons who expect that they will no longer need to clean their kitchens in 2040, the SKARP kitchen has smart surfaces creating self-cleaning kitchens.

SKARP also encourages energy efficient behaviour with devices like phone applications to control carbon emissions and thermostats which respond to voices and fingerprints.

“IKEA is constantly innovating behind the scenes to respond to changes and challenges to life at home so we can offer solutions that best meet people’s needs,” said Reddish. “We think that the economy, social changes, concerns for our health and especially the environment will greatly influence kitchen design in the future.”

The survey polled the opinion of 1,895 respondents aged between 18 and 65 years old living in the UK and was carried out as part of IKEA’s ongoing project focused on how best to provide for consumers’ lifestyle needs in their homes both now and in the future.

How does a Steam Oven Work?

Meile Steam Oven


Domestic steam ovens were introduced to th Uk in the early 1990's bringing around a revoloution in kitchen design and the use of appliances in the kitchen.

Used in professional restaurant kitchens long before, the domestic steam oven was adapted to provide a healthy means to cook for people in their kitchen at home. During the following 10 years, premium kitchen appliance brands added steam ovens to their consumer offer, but they were still viewed as specialist appliances.

Lately, steam ovens have become less of a niche choice and one that often competes with microwaves as an alternative second oven. In many kitchen designs Kitchen Solutions Kent fit a regular single oven, a steam oven and a combination microwave, oven and grill

This kitchen trend continues with new generations of multifunction ovens that incorporate steam technology. For us as kitchen designers and fitters, steam ovens form part of a compact kitchen appliance collection of similarly-sized ovens, and because 450mm is the most popular size for a dedicated steam oven, they can be fitted above a standard single oven or as part of a compact group.

Two 450mm ovens - a steam oven and a microwave combination oven will fit into a standard double-oven cavity.

Normally , steam ovens require no plumbing, meaning installers and kitchen designers to incorporate the appliance anywhere in the kitchen layout without the need for the appliance to be attached to mains water.

The effectiveness of a steam oven is greater than steaming steamer on the hob. Steam ovens retain vitamins and mineral salts in the food. You can steam separate food types together with no flavour contamination, so vegetables and puddings can be steamed together simultaneously in one appliance making steam ovens convenient and economic.

Research indicates that up to 90% of foods placed in a microwave oven can be cooked, defrosted or reheated in a steam oven, and unlike using a microwave, moisture is always retained.

In some kitchen designs space is at a premium. With that in mind, kitchen appliance manufacturers have begun to introduce multifunction ovens with steam functions, thereby offering the best of all worlds in a single appliance.

The steam cooking function works by using accessories with telescopic runners, a full-width stainless steel steam tray with glass lid that is filled with up to 400ml of water and then placed in the oven cavity.

Steam ovens look to be increasing in popularity steadily over th next few years

Quartz Worktops in Kent - Caesar Stone by Kitchen Solutions Kent

Quartz worktops are manufactured alternative to natural granite worktops. Made from quartz and bonding resins, the worktop is then coloured to suit. The colour range is limitless from black to white and almost every colour in between so it's a great material for kitchen designers and homeowners to work with.

As it's synthetic stone the finish and colour match is very consistent and the suface is non porous, getting around a couple of issues that natural granite has. Kitchen Solutions kent supply all types of quartz worktops. The viseo below details some of the advantages of Caesar Stone, just one of the brands of worktop that we use in our kitchen designs.

Granite worktops Kent - SPECIAL OFFER.

A special promotion on granite worktops in Kent from Kitchen Solutions Kent for summer 2010.


Star Galaxy or Nero Absolute granite. 2 x 2.7m x 620mm
Plus
hob cut out
Plus
7.2m of 100mm upstands
Plus
Undermount sink
Plus
Drainer grooves
Plus
Template and fittng

ONLY £1,250

Visit www.kitchensolutionskent.co.uk for more details.

Corian worktops and much more !

In the UK we tend to think of Corian in terms of solid surface worktops for kitchens and bathrooms but it's much more versatile than that. The video below illustrates how many other uses it has. A number of designers were asked to design and produce a unique object to celebrate a special anniversary for DuPont. It's clear to see that there is much more to the product than just Corian worktops for kitchens.

Kitchen Design using Planit

Kitchen design by Kitchen Solutions Kent.

Planit Fusion software allows customers to get a really good understanding of how their new kitchen will look when it's completed. As you can see in the video below it's possible to produce some really stunning visual representations of kitchens using this method.



Planit software is not restricted to just kitchen design, you can use it to produce plans and images for any room in the house with equally spectacular results.

It's great for kitchen fitters to as it produces technical drawings and plans with clear measurements and annotation which is important when it comes to actually installing the kitchen.

Cheap Glass splashbacks in Kent

Glass splashback in Kent from Kitchen Solutions Kent. Special offers on glass splashbacks for summer 2010.



6 metres x 500 mm low ion glass.
600mm x 720mm hob splashback.
4 x double socket cut outs.
Any colour.
Includes templating and fitting.
Only £1,180.00
ENDS 30st SEPT 2010
visit www.kitchensolutionskent.co.uk or call 01634 301962 for more details.

Corian worktops in Kent - Special Offer

Special offer on Corian worktops in Kent from Kitchen Solutions Kent

FREE 804 Corian cast sink.
FREE Caple Aspen pull out spray tap.
Worth up to £600 when you spend £2k on Corian worktops.
Ends 31/10/2011.

Visit www.kitchensolutionskent for more details.

Corian worktops, why every kitchen should have one.

The 1st matter to be mindful of is that Corian is the trade name, not a material or substance like Quartz. This may appear obvious, but a surprising amount of individuals do not understand that. Corian is a trade name that relates to a range of acrylate resin kitchen worktops, manufactured employing particular materials in a specific manner.

Corian worktops are deep down acrylic worktops, only they tend to be set away inside their own class for the plain reason that they outperform the criteria most acrylic worktops fulfil, in terms of durability, thickness, warranty, versatility, strength or range of colours.

There is not really a lot you can not undertake with Corian, and it's the triple combination of versatility, style and strength that has resulted in a lot new fitted kitchens, new build kitchens and re-designed kitchens being equipped with new, purpose-made Corian worktops.

The thought of having ones kitchen worktops purpose-made may appear a bit excessive, and although it's certainly accurate that Corian surfaces will not be found in A budget basement for inexpensive kitchen worktops, the cost is just 1 way of considering the value of a countertop constructed from Corian.

If you are going to have a Corian kitchen worktop, you may as well have it constructed to ones particular requirements, as its durability means there's every possibility it will be around in the kitchen longer than you are.

Because Corian worktops are fabricated from an acrylic resin resin material that possesses a remarkably high tensile and impact strength and durability they could be formulated in a number of disparate processes. Corian may be cut, shaped, glued and even vacuum moulded, meaning that if you are able to conceive of it, a Corian countertop can be produced to your specification.

A lot individuals have utilised this advantage to aquire Corian worktops that comprise additional components traditionally added separately from the countertop, like splashbacks and drainage ducts for the kitchen sink. Corian worktops can easily be manufactured with curves or different third-dimensional structures, so having a curved back plate or splashback is easily accomplished, and not merely appears beautiful but importantly increases the cleanliness and hygiene of ones kitchen.

A different benefit of Corian is that there don't seem to be any seams or joints. Frequently it's the seams or joints within kitchen surfaces that are most inclined to harbouring bugs and bacterium that may present a health hazard.

But as different parts of a Corian worktop are connected together the material or bonding agent applied is the exact equivalent polymer resin employed in the fabrication of the worktop itself. This means that the consequence is a seamless joint, improving both the visible appearance of the worktop as well as getting rid of a possible health risk.

Corian worktops come with a 10 yr guarantee, which constitutes peace of mind in itself, but it's likewise comforting to think about the method in which a Corian worktop may be restored to keep it appearing as good as new. The material is exceptionally strong, and it would need a significant effort to harm the finish of a worktop formed from Corian.

All the same, kitchens are all but warzones, with weighty pans barging in to the surface, sharp knives slicing across the top and all fashion of tools or utensils exposing the work surface to a lot risks and perils.

In almost all cases when a worktop acquires a scratch, gouge or chip it's a matter of merely living with it, or replacing a big segment of countertop, that might not be a perfect match against existent surface sections.

Nevertheless, attributable the nature of the fabric employed, Corian surfaces can be mended just by employing the same polymer resin from which it's comprised, and which is used in the joints and seams, filling in the chip, abrasion or dent, polishing the surface and leaving the worktop as good as new, without any obvious join or discolouration.

For a kitchen that excels visually, and holds its own against the forces of a ferocious cook, Corian worktops give versatility, durability and style; if you are able to conceive of it, Corian can normally make your dream kitchen come true.

Kitchen Design 1950's Style

Kitchen Solutions Kent recently had a customer who was inspired by 1950 style American kitchen diners and wanted to recreate the look and feel of one in her own kitchen design, but have all the benefits that modern kitchen cabinets bring with them.

They used red high gloss base units on cream kitchen carcases and cream gloss kitchen wall units with retro style glass kitchen cabinets. The kitchen handles are in clear acrylic. The dining area gives a nod to a 50,s style dining booth.

Behind the kitchen doors there is a waste recycling centre, hidden internal kitchen drawers, pull out larders, deep pan door storage and the z ends offer easy access to the kitchen diner.

The factory assembled kitchen carcases came with all the internal fitments in place and doors attached for easy kitchen fitting.

So - what do you think - are there echoes of a 1950 style american kitchen diner in the kitchen design or not?

Kitchens and music equals a great recipe.

Kitchens and music, when combined, can sometimes amount to more tham the sum of their parts. This video is very clever. I especially like the reference to tinned salmon about 2 thirds of the way through. This blog is still very much about kitchen design but sometimes it's good to have a diversion

Illuminated Glass Splashback

LiteTile Illuminated Glass Splashback

We like this alot! This illuminated glass splashback has inset, low cost LED lighting and produces a truly stunning effect in any kitchen.

Traditional glass splashbacks are available in any colour and look great. They can be used in certain areas of the kitchen or on all the kitchen walls. They are easy to keep clean, provide a water tight barrier and with carefully chosen colours really set a kitchen off. The only drawback with them is that if you get fed up with your original choice you have the expense of replacing them

LiteTile illuminated glass splashbacks get around this problem, you just use the remote control to change the colour of your splashback whenever you want. In plain white light the splashback provides an interesting and unusual solution for task lighting in the kitchen. You can use other colours to suit your mood or set the tone in your kitchen as you please.

LiteTile is available in three options:

Option 1: Single colour, eg white, red, blue, green etc.

Option 2: White and colour-changing LEDs

Option 3: Colour-changing only

If you are reasonably handy you can fit this splashback yourself but if Kitchen Solutions kent is installing your kitchen they can also undertake the installation of your illuminated glass splashback.

Kitchen Design

Kitchen design has a number of challenges for the consumer. What style and colour of kitchen to have, what materials to use for your worktops etc. One of the hardest things for homeowners to do is visualize how there new kitchen design is going to look before finally deciding on some of those other things. At Kitchen Solutions Kent they use state of art kitchen design software from Planit who are based in Ashford. The graphics are superb and it means that their customers get a realy good idea of how there new kitchen is going to look before they commit to making a purchase. Not only does it provide great pictures of kitchen designs like the one above, it also produces a Quicktime movie so that people can have a virtual walk around their new kitchen and make sure that they are completely happy with all aspects of the kitchen design.

Sexy kitchen extractor hood from Franke

Franke today features the latest Swing extractor in a whitened glass finish as well the dark glass finish. Offering an audacious statement which compliments the monochromatic colour scheme, the Swing exhaust hood supplies a modernistic and cosmopolitan style. The original hood has a chromium steel outer façade which sweeps open in the centre to show bold, inset Illumination.

Internally, similar attention to detail is apparent. Its eight-speed motor – with it's ‘intensive’ setting alternative – touch control hood has superior technology, including optional remote-controlled function (making it ideal for open-plan kitchen-diners and those with particular needs). Additionally, its 24-hour perpetual ventilation system renders a steady stream of fresh air in the kitchen all day long.

Franke also provides aluminum cassette grease filters, that may be easily removed and placed in the dish washer, along with elective charcoal filters – the really most effective answer for controlling smells when installing the extractor in recirculatory mode.

Containing Franke’s top-end PRO drive, this hood is configured to be exceptionally muted without compromising on power. Kitchen Solutions Kent can supply kitchen appliances from any manufacturer of your choice.

What's new in kitchen appliances?

Whenever you are in the market for brand-new kitchen appliances, you might be thinking to yourself: What is the latest technology available in kitchen appliances?

There is one simple answer. Modern kitchen appliances are fashioned to be significantly more energy efficient which will definately save you money whilst bringing down the amount of pollution generated by the energy needed to run the appliance.

Appliances that are 10 years old are already obsolete when it relates energy consumption. Surveys have demonstrated to power ones ordinary fridge may consume more than as fifteen% of ones home’s day-to-day consumption. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calculates that a billion a year is spent on energy bills. Calculate fifteen% of this and you will draw an approximation of how much the UK is expending to keep refridgerators functioning. Only the latest fridges are specifically designed to use a good deal less energy than these.

What is new for kitchen appliances? Let’s put it this way. The biggest and most significant alteration to the method appliances are constructed and traded is that all major kitchen appliances presently sold in shops are compelled by law to meet minimum energy conservation specification determined by the Department of Environment (DOE). This has been a body of work ongoing since 1992 when the Energy Star programme was initially brought in by the DOE and the EPA as a means to encourage energy efficiency.

Dishwashers are also produced in a different manner than they were barely a decade ago. Modern dishwashing machines employ booster heaters which heat up the water supplied by the water feed to greater temperatures. This brings down the need for domestic boilers to be at full power.

Historically gas cookers have been substantial energy gulpers although they made a more effective job cooking the food and represented the selection of the most adept home cooks. Earlier examples possessed a pilot lamp that was continually alight. Current gas stoves possess primary electronic ignition systems that preserve approximately thirty% more power than the more aged gas cooker models.

Electric hot-plate ovens are slowly going the way of the dodo bird. Not merely do they appear very unstylish, but they tend to consume more power to cook food kind of unevenly. Hobs with induction elements are a great deal more energy effective. Induction elements on hobs transmit electromagnetic energy direct to the pan where heat is called for. This expends well-nigh fifty% less energy than normal electric coils.

Other new kitchen appliance features you might have observed are that side-by-side doors are getting fashionable on ridges. While convenient, these sorts of refridgerators expend 10 pct more energy than the orthodox freezer on top examples. If you have a small household or live alone, then a newer more energy-efficient variant of the conventional refridgerator will be a more proficient choice.

German Kitchen Design Tips

Whenever you are looking for a modern German kitchen you'll want to create the most effective potential design that's delivered promptly and within budget. These 3 design tips may arm your kitchen planner with the right information so they're able to advise you and deliver the best possible design for your particular needs.

There are 3 crucially significant things one should weigh over;

Illumination – What sort of lighting ought you to consider? Storage – How much do you require? Purpose – What's the primary function for your kitchen?

After scanning this article you'll be in a much more favourable position to achieve the kitchen design of your dreams. Let’s consider those important points in a bit more detail.

The function and form of your kitchen is exceedingly individual to you. Are you the sort of person who wants to entertain mates each weekend or do you favor something a little more intimate. It is wise to consider when you will be utilising your kitchen and what for. Commonly there are 3 work areas in the majority of kitchens, preparation, cooking and cleaning or sink area. Additionally many kitchens will have a serving up or dining area. Thinking about these details may make a difference in the plan and layout as will ones storage requirements.

Storage room has become much more than merely an afterthought particularly when it pertains to German designed kitchens. Whenever you spend any measure of time looking at German design you'll come to recognise that ergonomics are all important. The aim here is to allow for outstanding practical storage space and concurrently to deliver style and great aesthetics.

You'll need storage for things like cookery utensils, pots and pans and they should be placed adjacent to the range in order that they are handy during cooking.

Kitchen drawers and kitchen units may be improved with specialised organisers that make better usage of space and store everything neat and tidy. Talk to your designer regarding the diverse types of materials that are now obtainable.

Expert utilisation of Illumination in a kitchen can create a monumental difference to the whole space. There are 2 fundamental sorts of lighting to chew over.

Task lighting in food prep regions is evidently essential however so is Illumination within kitchen cabinets. Incidental or ambient lighting will help produce the right climate. If you have a dining table in the kitchen it is sometimes a beneficial idea to have a dimmer switch, this will help to maintain the illumination a bit gentler and give a nice atmosphere as you desire.

Now that you understand these 3 tips you can assist your designer in furnishing you a with cracking kitchen and one which you'll be proud of. One final detail, please provide a budget. Kitchens come in all types of sizes, materials and equipment levels. Having a budget can ensure you obtain the best optimised design and will save a lot of time in the long run

Kitchen Designing Tips

Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, which explains a lot of their challenge -- and much of their appeal. Similar kitchen units, appliances, and worktops may appear completely different in somebody else's house than in yours. Standard kitchen units could be customized with literally inexhaustible specialty finishes and a modification of hardware. If ones wallet can stretch to bespoke kitchen units, ones options are yet wider. Worktop materials come in an enormous array of options, but they may be tailored yet further with particular routing or inset strata of some other colour or material. The same applies to flooring, walls, and kitchen dining furniture. Therefore even if ones kitchen is modest and unexceptional, it's not hopeless!

You'll be able to transform it into a noteworthy room different to anyone else's. Cabinet makers and kitchen designers have experienced it all, and the outcome is that you are able to possess every last the conveniences you require and even in a small kitchen. Cool, space-saving solutions are on hand for the owner of the apartment-size flats, co-op, or townhouse kitchen. You will discover that practicality is not exclusive to only large kitchens.

To create a individual room, your 1st step is to consider ones kitchen to discern what could serve as a focal point. A big window, bay, or lengthy wall could be the start. Capitalize on a bank of fine-looking windows with a beautiful counter that ranges the duration of the window wall. If you enjoy to entertaining and are fortunate enough to possess copious room, look at adjusting your room up to include 2 consecutive kitchens; one with a large cooking stove, a fridge, hob, and a sink, and the other with an ice-maker, a wine cooler, a 2nd sink, a mini-fridge, and a microwave oven, with an abundance of storage. Practically anything you concoct may be accomplished with the assistance of a gifted designer. It's up to you!

Whether ones room is big or minuscule, and whether the outcome you want is pretty or pretty wild, you will do best if you adhere to the following elementary recommendations.

* Attempt to keep the straight-line length between the sink, refridgerator, and hob between twelve and twenty-three feet.

* Place the sink between the other 2 appliances, because it is used a great deal. (It's position may depend upon pre-existent plumbing.)

* Leave thirty-six inches of worktop to the right and thirty inches to the left of the cooker and sink if practicable; if not, allow for a lower limit of twenty-four inches and eighteen inches.

* It is tempting to locate a tall refridgerator and built-in oven adjacent to one another, but strive not to; both need setting down room on either sides of the appliance for safety.

* Seek to include a lower limit of ten linear feet of both base kitchen units and wall cabinets.

* Employ turntables to make possibly wasted corners fully functional.

* Use extendable drawers instead of unimaginative cabinets for maximum convenience. If you are retro-fitting existent kitchen units, have pull-out trays installed.

* Look at barrier-free design and solutions. They make life more comfortable for youngsters, pregnant women, and OAP's in addition to as people with disabilities. They will also contribute to the longevity of your kitchen.

German Kitchen Cabinet Quality

Here is a reminder of the quality of the German kitchens available at Kitchen Solutions Kent.
The cabinets they supply are from Nobilia and they are completely factory assembled.

Each kitchen unit is supplied in one cardboard box, complete with doors, drawers and internal fixtures already assembled. The handle holes are pre-drilled at the factory to comply with the choice of handle the customer has specified. The adjustable feet are pre set to a determined height at exactly the mid point of the 2.5cm adjustment available.

All of this goes to explain why fitting a German kitchen from Nobilia is significantly quicker, cleaner and more cost effective than the products supplied by other kitchen manufactures. You open a box, position the cabinet against the wall, open another box and position that cabinet next to the previous one and clamp them together. Continue to do this until you have completed the length of that wall and then level the units using a spirit level and the adjustable feet. Screw the kitchen cabinets together and then fix them to the wall.

This is not over simplifying the skill and work required to fit a kitchen, after all there is still the plumbing, electrics, worktops cornice, pelmet etc to fit and a high degree of skill is required of the kitchen fitter. However further assistance from Nobilia is available in the form of factory cut mitres for kitchen worktops, cornice and pelmet so one can easily see that from both a kitchen fitter and a kitchen buyers point of view, the installation suddenly becomes much quicker and significantly cleaner, if mitre saws and routers, are not required to be used as much in the householders kitchen.

So save time, money and cleaning bills next time you change your kitchen. Fit one from Nobilia supplied by Kitchen Solutions Kent.

High gloss kitchen ranges

I thought we would run a series of videos featuring some of our German kitchen ranges. So above you can see a selection of the high gloss kitchens available from Kitchen Solutions Kent. High gloss seems particularly fashionable at the moment and it is certainly the finish that we have supplied most of during 2009 and so far in 2010. Particularly hot is a cream or white high gloss finish without handles, teamed with a Corian or granite worktop. We have installed some beautiful kitchens using these combinations.

German kitchen design, Feng Shui and wealth.

Well, what do you know. It seems that Good kitchen design practices are consistent with Feng Shui principals. It seems that the working triangle, commonly used by kitchen designers to site the sink, fridge and hob in appropriate locations in the kitchen, compliments the principals of Feng Shui. Fire water and ice when placed in the correct areas of your kitchen either indicate wealth, or perhaps can bring wealth. So have your kitchen well designed and who knows, perhaps your finances will pick up as well.

German Kitchens, design influences.

German kitchens and kitchen design conjure the words words sleek. innovative and modern. You could take these principals and implement them in your new kitchen by following some fundamental guidelines. The following are some of the things we take into consideration when creating a modern German kitchen design for our clients.

The secret of German kitchen design lies in having a general understanding of the work of Walter Gropius who founded, in 1919, a 'house of building' or 'building school' more commonly known as Bauhaus. Gropius was an architect influenced by the modernist movement. It's core beliefs were radically simplified forms, rationality and functionality and the view that mass production was compatible with an artistic free spirit. If you look at other entries in our blog you will see that Nobilia kitchens continue with this ethos to the present day. Beautifully styled German kitchens produced in a high quality, cost effective way. So. when creating a kitchen in the German style your mindset should be firmly planted in achieving a balance between functionality, architecture and aesthetics. The successful combination of these should result in a look that is part industrial, part domestic and characterised by clean, straight lines, the use of different heights and angles.
Materials used in the kitchen design and manufacture will commonly be high gloss laquers, steel and glass.

Base colours in the kitchen will probably be neutral enhanced by a palette of complimentary, not contrasting, suitable accents. The decor for the kitchen should be there to provide the backdrop for the kitchen furniture. In German kitchen design it is the cabinetry and worktops that provide the drama and contrast unlike the more comfortable, together look that you might strive for with a farmhouse kitchen for example.

Appliances lean toward industrial steel and the use of stainless steel or glass splashbacks is common. Often the splashbacks cover the entire extent of the kitchen walls, not just the areas behind the hob and sink. Kitchen worktops also tend to have industrial undertones, we often use steel, granite or Corian in our German kitchen installations.

Functionality is a key part of the mix and, for lots of our customers, the versatlie use of space and ease of access to every kitchen cupboard or drawer is one of the biggest attractions of Nobilia German kitchens.

For more information or advice or to arrange a free design visit and see how we would plan your German kitchen visit our main site at kitchensolutionskent.co.uk

Modern or traditional country cottage style kitchens from Nobilia.

Modern, high gloss or traditional kitchens - what are my choices? I thought that I should draw you attention to the more traditional, country cottage style kitchens manufactured by Nobilia and available from Kitchen Solutions Kent as most of the content posted so far has emphasised the other end of the spectrum. Not only do we have fantastic gloss and glass finished modern kitchens in exciting colours but we can offer a comprehensive range of more traditional styles.



Our country kitchens are made to the same exacting standards and have all the features of modern kitchens but with a traditional accent. So you can achieve that farmhouse or rustic look with in your kitchen and still have magic corners, hidden recycling centres, pull out pharmacist cabinets, hidden cutlery drawers and integrated appliances to name but a few of the practical design options we offer.
Teamed with granite or stone worktops our traditional kitchen ranges give as rustic look as you want to achieve but with all the mod cons you need to make your life in the kitchen easier.

Nobilia Kitchens manufacture and quality control methods.

I have refered to the quality of Nobilia kitchens in previous posts. The video below goes some way to explaining why we have almost no problems with our kitchen installations when using this german kitchen brand. It is very rare for us to encounter any missing or damaged items and we hardly ever have any problems with delivery deadlines. For anyone with any experience of kitchens, either as a consumer or as someone working in the industry, you will know that this is unusual in itself! Anyway the video shows the high level of automation and quality control checks that are used at the Nobilia factory. As authorised distributors of the product kitchen Solutions Kent can vouch for the fact that their methods work.

Kitchen Planning - How to properly measure a room.

Kitchen design and planning often goes wrong in the earliest stages. Usually people get carried away with the sexy designer aspects of the project and overlook the need for accurate measurement. They think they have measured the kitchen properly but they did not do it systematically and overlook a niche, alcove or some pipe work. The first time this oversight reveals itself is when the new kitchen is delivered and the fitting is underway. In other words at exactly the most inconvenient,and potentially expensive, moment. Below are some basic steps to follow to ensure this won't happen to you should you be thinking about renewing your kitchen

1
Make a sketch of your room on a large sheet of paper, this doesn't have to be a work of art, and it doesn't need to be to scale, all you need to show is the shape of the room. Stand in the centre of your kitchen and imagine it as an empty box. Don't draw in existing cabinets or appliances but do include any alcoves. Is your room an 'L' shape, a square, or a simple rectangle? Something else?

2
Now take measurements of the room, in imperial or metric, and transfer them to your sketch. It's best to use a steel tape measure, and make sure you measure into every corner. If you can, get a friend or partner to help you with this step. Don't forget, walls aren't always perfect squares - measure them at the top, middle and bottom.

3
Now measure your windows, doors and serving hatches, including any frames. You might want to do this on a separate piece of paper. Don't forget to include the frames in your measurements. You want your kitchen cabinets to sit alongside the
frames, rather than cover them!

4
Now measure the height your ceiling in several places to ensure it's level and add these figures to your notes. Does your ceiling have any special features? Measure all the dimensions of any slopes or bits that 'jut out'. If in doubt measure it!

5
If you are thinking of keeping any of your old kitchen appliances or other items, don't forget to measure all three dimensions, height, width and depth. Note these separately.

6
Note on the sketch the approximate location of any sockets: cooker, phone, electric, TV, and so on. Also note where
the light switches are.

7
Next make a note of any boilers, gas and electricity meters on your sketch, and then show measurements to include height, width, depth and location. Don't overlook pipe work running from boilers to other parts of the kitchen.

8
If there are radiators in the room measure their height and width. Don't forget to measure how far the stand proud of the wall. Mark them on your sketch.

9
Is your water mains stop cock in the room? If so, show its position on the sketch. Also take into account any other supply taps, such as gas.

Lastly re-check your measurements. It's laborious and tedious but could save you significant time and money in the long run.

Kitchen splashbacks in glass.

Preparing a sleek clean kitchen environment with the provision of colour, interest and enhanced light is a challenging task. However, the task of decorating the kitchen becomes easier when the latest trend in kitchen decor, that is glass splashbacks are used. We all have a rough idea about the beauty of stainless steel and enamel splashbacks, which offer a practical if rather dark solution. But with glass, the level of impact and interest can be outstanding.

There are various colour options available from a beautifully clean and sharp zest green, to the deep and the seductive tone of fuschia pink, subtle calming sea blue to the elegant statement made by shimmering gold or silver; and many colours in between. In fact at Kitchen Solutions Kent we can get your splashback manufactured in any colour you specify.

Glass splashback panels are available in a variety of sizes to suit standard cooker widths and sit neatly behind the hob. They are siliconed to the wall, making them extremely easy to fit. Moreover, they are formed in very strong glass, which also makes them incredibly difficult to break!

You can fit glass splashbacks on the entire wall space of your kitchen, around electrical sockets and light switches to give a completely sealed, stunning looking finish to your kitchen. This is achieved by making a template ,once your new kitchen has been installed, and then having the splashback manufactured at the factory. Once this has been done fitting is simple and takes only a couple of hours.

Visit our site for more details. Kitchen Solutions Kent a German kitchen specialist.