Tag: appliances

Australian kitchen trends: The latest high-tech oven and fridge

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date November 30, 2022
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From the latest high-tech ovens and fridges to hit the market to beautiful stone-look porcelain panels, building the kitchen of your dreams has never been easier.

Artedomus MAXIMUM porcelain panels: An expansion to an existing range, the latest MAXIMUM porcelain panels range from complex and intriguing burgundy veining, to warm, golden tones and earthy textures. Comprised of four new designs (Viola, Damascato, Roccia and Luna), these panels recreate the beauty of natural stone in a highly durable, low-maintenance finish that can be used on walls, floors and surfaces making them ideal for the kitchen.

Artedomus MAXIMUM porcelain panels in Luna

AEG 90cm SensePro PyroLuxe Multifunction 16 Oven in matte black: With built-in assisted cooking (the oven comes with a food sensor that you can insert into your food ensuring maximum precision), you can control how you would prefer food cooked and this oven will do the rest. Self-cleaning, this oven also allows you to scroll through menus, select a food category and the oven will generate the correct settings for the dish. Amazing!

Essastone: A new range of European-inspired engineered stone has joined the Essastone collection and it celebrates classic looks through intricate veining and luxe finishes. The new range includes Warm Taupe (a light taupe with a speckled appearance), Vena Grigia (a creamy white enhanced by grey veining), and Light Concrete which is suggestive of classic concrete with its restrained texture and off-white background. Like all Essastone products, the new finishes recreate the appearance of natural stone while remaining cost-effective and durable.

LG Fridge: With home entertaining on the rise, LG has just launched its latest French Door refrigerator range and it features the LG Craft ice maker which creates slow-melting ice balls ideal for cocktails. Water flows straight from the fridge door and we love the LG InstaView™ Door-in-Door® feature which, with two quick knocks, illuminates the fridge’s sleek glass panel allowing you to see inside.

Methven: With the kitchen considered the heart of a home, it’s no surprise that renovating or building a new kitchen will reach record highs in 2022 according to the HIA Kitchen & Bathroom Report 2020-21. The kitchen mixer is a key component to any fabulous kitchen and, from space saving to pull-out goose neck iterations, there’s one for every space at Methven.

Methven taps — Methven Urban pull out sink mixer

The Methven Kiri sink mixer is a great space-saving alternative

ARKE: In a market dominated by plastic gadgets, Swedish design company Aarke has just launched a sparkling water maker in stainless steel with glass bottle. Called the Carbonator Pro, the stylish kitchen accessory is practical too – you only need one hand to use it.

Scarabeo Ceramiche UP sink: Available locally from Paco Jaanson, the UP sink features eye-catching raised edges and was inspired by ancient ceramic design. It’s available in a smooth matte black or glossy white finish and features antibacterial properties too.

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A closer look at The Block 2022 kitchen trends

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Appliances Interiors Addict Kitchens Shopping

Get the pink fridge of your dreams with new customisable range

Post author By Jekyll Chau
Post date July 12, 2022
No Comments on Get the pink fridge of your dreams with new customisable range

LG bring a pop of colour into the kitchen with the release of their new LG Objet Collection, a line-up of new refrigerators and freezers sporting a range of colour panels. Available in French door, single door and upright freezer formats, the collection embraces a modern, minimalist design language that responds to the growing consumer demand for stylish and functional spaces in the home.

With customisable colour panels available in various colours and finishes including silver, green or black stainless steel or beige, silver, pink or mint mist glass, the fun range allows you to set the mood and style of your kitchen.

“Our new LG Objet Collection gives the traditional Australian kitchen a chic level-up by putting a stylish twist on the growing personalisation trend,” says Shannon Tweedie, marketing manager for home appliances. “I love the idea of making the refrigerator a statement piece with colour blocking.”

Modular flexibility

The modular set up and minimalist design means that consumers can simply add another fridge or freezer from the collection to build the desired kitchen configuration to suit their needs. The zero-clearance hinges allow the upright freezer and single door refrigerator to be installed flush against the cavity, integrating into the existing spaces.

Built for performance

On top of its stylistic flair, the LG Objet Collection also delivers on functionality with innovative features that work together to maximise food freshness.

The InstaViewfeature lets you see inside with two quick knocks of the sleek glass panel without having to open the door, while SurroundCooling circulates cold air from both the front and the back of the fridge to keep food fresher for longer.

Additionally, the Moist Balance Crisper helps keep fruit and vegetables stay crisp longer with a lattice-patterned box cover that maintains their ideal moisture level, while Multi Air Flow vents located in the rear can provide fast circulation of cold air.

More info about LG

Black appliances, rangehood free kitchens & more Australian kitchen trends

From Australia’s first smart fridge (it even lets you order groceries via a touchscreen!), to SMEG’s miniature retro appliances and…

Tags appliances, fridge, LG, refrigerator

Appliances Expert Tips Kitchens

How to prep now to get your kitchen ready for Christmas entertaining!

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date November 4, 2021
No Comments on How to prep now to get your kitchen ready for Christmas entertaining!

Freestanding cookers: why to choose one and the new option you may not know yet!

Sponsored by Glem Gas When it comes to planning your new kitchen, the kind, look, and size of cooker (incorporating your oven/s and stove) are some of the biggest decisions…

Black kitchens: Top tips on how to create one

Written by Anne-marie Burian Once considered a daring choice, fast forward to 2021 and black kitchens are becoming an increasingly popular option for those wanting an elegant statement at the…

Tags appliances, christmas ebtertaining, entertainers kitchen, entertaining oven, freestanding cooker, freestanding oven, kitchen appliances, large oven

Appliances Design Kitchens

Black appliances, rangehood free kitchens & more Australian kitchen trends

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date September 30, 2021
No Comments on Black appliances, rangehood free kitchens & more Australian kitchen trends

From Australia’s first smart fridge (it even lets you order groceries via a touchscreen!), to SMEG’s miniature retro appliances and the rise of the rangehood-free kitchen, spring is shaping up to be a fabulous season for kitchens.

Silestone Ethereal collection: Comprised of four new designs (Ethereal Dusk, Haze, Glow and Noctis), the latest surfaces from Silestone include subtle touches of grey and gold veining against white backgrounds. The elegant collection is due to launch on October 18.

Cosentino Silestone — Silestone Ethereal Gold

Samsung 9000 series Family Hub French Door Fridge: The most high-tech fridge we’ve seen, Australia’s first smart refrigerator has just launched and it features a home screen that allows you to access recipes ideas, meal plans, order groceries and even watch TV or listen to music.

The model also features a beverage centre, with an auto-fill infuser jug and water dispenser, located inside the door. Available in black, the fridge features recessed handles and a fingerprint resistant finish. From $4,999.

Samsung Family Hub fridge — Samsung has just launched Australia’s first smart fridge

Fisher & Paykel black appliances: Black appliances are still trending in a major way in the kitchen, and Fisher & Paykel certainly have the look sewn up. From fridges to cooktops, ovens and dish drawers, the brand’s wares are stylish and minimal and all of them come in matte and glass finishes.

Fisher & Paykel freestanding duel fuel cooker, 90cm black — Fisher & Paykel freestanding duel fuel cooker in black

Tope Street apartment by Carole Whiting. Photography: Shannon McGrath — The Tope Street apartment by Carole Whiting features black Fisher & Paykel appliances. Photography: Shannon McGrath

Balwyn House by Robson Rak. Photography: Dave Kulesza — Black Fisher & Paykel appliances feature in Balwyn House by Robson Rak Architects. Photography: Dave Kulesza

Antolini Nero Imperiale collection: Continuing on the black theme, this new Italian granite features light specks and a three dimensional texture that makes it appear slightly coarse. It’s a great option for natural stone fans.

SMEG small appliances: An extension of the brand’s 50s style small appliance collection, miniature versions of the SMEG hand mixer and kettle have just hit the market. The diminutive appliances were created for those with kitchens on the smaller side but they’re also ideal for those cooking smaller portions. The two designs are available in seven colours including black, white, red, cream, pastel green, pastel pink and pastel blue. $189 each.

Winning Appliances latest trends: With the ABS reporting that Aussies are currently spending one billion dollars a month on home renovations, Winning Appliances has noticed a number of key kitchen reno trends.

Induction cooktops, with downdraft, are becoming increasingly popular – a rangehood isn’t required ensuring a seamless look. Furthermore, with an integrated downdraft, there is no rangehood to obstruct your view. The handle-less oven, with automatic open and close, is fast becoming a hot trend too.

The chic handle-less Gaggenau 60cm 400 Series pyrolytic built-in oven

Metallic and marble: Bespoke materials star in award-winning Sydney kitchen

Part of a contemporary new build located in North West Sydney, this kitchen caught our eye this week – the combination of deep blue joinery, traditional stone and warm oak…

Tags appliances, interiors, kitchen appliances, kitchen trends, kitchens

Appliances Design

Australian kitchen trends: Summer 2019 edition

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date December 19, 2019
No Comments on Australian kitchen trends: Summer 2019 edition

Caesarstone Empira White — Deb and Andy's winning kitchen on The Block 2019

When it comes to kitchens, summer seems to be the season of the surface. There’s a new marble-look finish from Caesarstone, five new colours from Laminex, new glass splash backs and a collaboration that makes pairing your kitchen bench top and paint colours even easier.

Stegbar splash backs: Stegbar has collaborated with interior designer and trend forecaster Marylou Cafaro to launch the Stegbar Create Splash backs Series, including mirror, metallic and colour collections. “The aim was to create understated refined spaces that speak to quality and longevity. A decade ago splash backs stood out, but now they need to blend in with the whole home design and be an integral part of the joinery and space,” says Marylou.

Stegbar 'Metallics' splash back range — Stegbar ‘Metallic’ splash back range

And while the glass splash back has fallen out of favour of late there’s no denying its appeal; a single pane of made-to measure glass per surface, the Create Splashback Series offers a seamless look, free from grout lines. Also, a special coating repels oil and water, removing the need for harsh chemicals and reducing cleaning time too.

Stegbar 'Mirror' splash back range — Stegbar ‘Mirror’ splash back range

Caesarstone Empira White: The new Caesarstone quartz finish ‘Empire White’ is the brand’s latest interpretation of authentic white marble and combines a white base with shadows and fine black veins. But unlike marble, it is scratch, heat, chip and stain resistant.

The finish was used in the recent series of The Block where Deb and Andy combined it with shaker-style matte white cabinetry, brass fixtures and natural timber; a combination that resulted in the couple winning the competition’s kitchen category.

Smeg: One for the Dolce & Gabbana fans, Smeg has just expanded its ‘Sicily my love’ range (created in collaboration with the iconic Italian fashion designers) to include a stand mixer, slow juicer, and four slice toaster. Each piece is emblazoned with Sicilian symbols including golden yellow lemons, fiery red cherries and the intense cerulean blue of the Sicilian sky.

smeg X Dolce & Gabbana toaster — Smeg X Dolce & Gabbana toaster, $999

Smeg X Dolce & Gabbana stand mixer, $1899

Laminex: Laminex has added five new colours to its ever-growing collection with two new woodgrains, two minerals and a reclaimed shade in the mix. The new colours include ‘Black Birchply’ (a very dark timber), ‘White Painted Wood,’ ‘Avenza Bianco’ (a classic Italian-style marble),’ ‘Urban Pezzato’ (concrete look) and ‘Reclaimed Denim Fibre’ which looks as it sounds.

Laminex 'Avenza Bianco' — Laminex’s new ‘Avenza Bianco’ is inspired by classic Italian-style marble

Of the line-up, ‘Reclaimed Denim Fibre’ is an interesting one given it’s made with offcuts from clothing production and captures the classic indigo look of denim jeans. Reused denim makes up 60 per cent of the finished product and the texture is jean-like too.

“Laminex is committed to sustainable and innovative design practices. In moving towards a waste-less future, we welcome the challenge to transform something that would otherwise have gone to waste into a value-added material with its own design aesthetic,” says Sacha Leagh-Murray, general manager of marketing at Laminex.

Samsung: Samsung has expanded its fridge line-up with a new side-by-side range available in a choice of silver stainless steel or matte black. Interestingly, in response to consumer insights, the brand now offers over 20 black refrigerators across its range.

The fridges feature flat door designs, recessed handles and Samsung’s SpaceMax technology which uses high-efficiency insulation to keep the internal walls thin, thereby creating more storage space inside the fridge without increasing external dimensions.

There’s also the option of a non-plumbed water and ice dispenser model which is perfect for Aussie renters. You simply fill the 4.5 litre water jug inside and you’re good to go! Prices start from $2,099.

Caesarstone & Wattyl: Given that visualising colour and surface pairings can be a tough gig for the novice, Caesarstone quartz surfaces and Wattyl paints is the latest Australian interiors duo to collaborate in a bid to reduce the associated guesswork.

Wattyl 'Mermaid's Smile' paired with Caesarstone 'Airy Concrete' — Wattyl ‘Mermaid’s Smile’ paired with Caesarstone ‘Airy Concrete’

Homeowners can access a diverse selection of Caesarstone and Wattyl pairings alongside metallic tapware finishes from Sussex and door cabinetry from Polytec. The palettes range from crisp white and soft grey to neutrals, dark charcoals and black. Wattyl has also provided a couple of saturated hues, for the more adventurous.

Wattyl 'Turbine Grey' paired with Caesarstone 'Black Pearl' — Wattyl ‘Turbine Grey’ paired with Caesarstone ‘Black Pearl’

“Consumers can lack confidence in their ability to pull a successful colour palette together. They want something that expresses their personality and has the sophistication of a designer-led project – but they are unsure of how to get there. This collaboration has enabled Wattyl, Australia’s longest standing paint brand, to give some really creative – and practical – examples of customised colour pairings. Ones that are foolproof and yet inspirational,” says Sarah Stephenson, colour expert and Wattyl senior brand communications manager.

Australian kitchen trends: Spring 2019 edition

Tags appliances, Australian kitchen trends, caesarstone, kitchens, laminex, samsung, Smeg, Wattyl

Appliances Design Designers Interviews Kitchens

Real reno: Green wall stars in Albert Park kitchen

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date August 20, 2019
No Comments on Real reno: Green wall stars in Albert Park kitchen

The result of a collaboration between Cantilever Interiors and DesignOffice, this new kitchen (titled the Tableau) was part of a recent whole home renovation in Melbourne’s Albert Park. Home to developers Ross and Pauline Troon of Milieu, the stylish space features a dark, slick palette that is complemented by a gorgeous self-watering green wall that forms the room’s stunning view.

“It’s all about extending the space out from the inside but bringing the outside in too. I love how the wall’s colour changes from season to season. Ultimately, I think it’s a nice detail – bringing nature into the space,” says Travis Dean, co-founder of Cantilever Interiors who explains that the original 1980’s-era kitchen had great potential but needed a major refresh in both aesthetics and function.

Green wall aside, it’s the lovely curved details that really elevate this kitchen and are unique to its design. “The Tableau is our latest kitchen system and it was designed in collaboration with DesignOffice. It’s based on free-standing pieces of furniture that once grouped together form a complete kitchen,” says Travis. Lovely furniture details feature in the space – the curved edges and bespoke ‘loop’ style handles really do give it a unique feel.

The bespoke 'loop' handles — The bespoke ‘loop’ handles

The kitchen also features an enviable array of Gaggenau appliances including two ovens, a coffee machine, induction cooktop, grill, rangehood, fridge/freezer and deep fryer. The bespoke sink is paired with a Phoenix tap, Zip mixer and Insinkerator.

Appliance wall — This tall block, painted in two-pack Dulux Black Caviar, was once the site of a walk-in pantry that was removed during the renovation process

Another standout area, and something of a Cantilever Interiors design signature, is the kitchen’s open shelving that provides a wonderful spot for personalisation. “We always try and bring in open shelving. It’s nice to have a space in which the client can add their own individual touches,” says Travis.

The kitchen features a Aggregato Saliscendi pendant light from Artemide — The kitchen features an Aggregato Saliscendi pendant light from Artemide

Photography: Haydn Cattach

For more on Cantilever Interiors | How to make an open-plan kitchen flow with your interior

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Appliances Expert Tips Kitchens Shopping

Buying a fridge guide: From size to design & more!

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date August 5, 2019
1 Comment on Buying a fridge guide: From size to design & more!

Easily one of the most important appliances in the home, a fridge is a significant purchase for any household which can make choosing one a rather overwhelming process.

Depending on your cooking and entertaining needs, the ideal model can range from a French door, a four door, a top or bottom mount, or a pigeon pair. And then there’s the extras like an external water dispenser that may be a non-negotiable? If you’re suffering with decision fatigue when it comes to a fridge purchase, you should know that you’re not alone. We caught up with e&s recently for the complete lowdown on all the things to consider when in the market for a fridge upgrade.

Household size
A young couple will have different household requirements from that of a growing family, and this is especially the case when it comes to the fridge. Every family arrangement will have different cooking, storage and entertaining habits and requirements.

Ideally, your fridge’s capacity should align with the number of people in your household which usually means that younger apartment dwellers can typically choose a smaller capacity fridge to that of a family and vice versa.

Available space
The emergence of apartment living has led to kitchens shrinking in size, with butler’s pantries giving way to a more open aesthetic that brings together living, dining and cooking areas into one cohesive space. As a result, a standard top or bottom mount fridge might not always be the right fit for the kitchen, with modular options better suited when space is at a premium.

Of course, French doors, pigeon pairs or traditional top or bottom mounts are ideal choices when the kitchen has ample space for the fridge.

Design direction
Form and function go hand in hand, and once the household’s needs have been considered, design should be next on the list. Freestanding fridges are usually the mainstay in classic kitchens, while their integrated counterparts are ideal for contemporary spaces, concealed behind cabinetry when not in use. Looking to infuse a pop of colour in the kitchen? Coloured fridges are the way to go.

An integrated fridge always looks seamless. Image: e&s — An integrated fridge always looks slick. Image: e&s

Extra features to consider
Once considered a futuristic vision, modern technological innovations have ensured fridges are more efficient than ever before, with a slew of features simplifying use and enhancing convenience. External water dispensers and glass display doors are a great way to reduce how often a fridge is opened, while sliding shelves make it easier to store and access items.

The Sub-Zero PRO Series fridge has glass doors. Image: e&s — The Sub-Zero PRO Series fridge has handy glass doors. Image: e&s

Newer models also come with airflow systems that help maintain consistent temperatures no matter how often the fridge is opened. And those looking for a model that is easier to clean and maintain can choose from a range of black options too.

Shop e&s online | Australian winter 2019 kitchen trends

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Appliances Design Expert Tips Shopping

Laundry ideas: Small space design solutions

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date June 20, 2019
No Comments on Laundry ideas: Small space design solutions

Kitchen aside, there’s no denying the laundry is one of the most integral parts of any home. And with space increasingly at a premium (apartment and townhouse living is becoming the norm in many cities), it really pays to make the laundry as smartly designed as possible. Not only will clever design and the right set of appliances make the space more efficient and enjoyable to use, but it will also reduce the time you spend doing laundry which sounds like a win in our books!

From making the best use of vertical space to integrating appliances, here Victorian appliance retailer e&s shares its top five solutions for making the most out of a petite sized laundry.

Consider washer & dryer placement
Side by side washer and dryers are more accessible and generally larger, while stacking your appliances has great space saving capabilities. If you aren’t certain on your layout, opt for front loaders over top loaders, as they can be stacked or installed under an existing bench, making more room for a folding station.

Maximise vertical space and use open shelving
Include overhead storage and a wall mounted ironing board so it’s out of the way when you don’t need it. A suspended drying rack utilises ceiling space that would otherwise go unused. Open shelving along with storage boxes and baskets make for an open, airy aesthetic. Cane or wicker baskets are durable, have great storage capacity, and can hide away cleaning products or dirty clothing from sight.

Use the back of the laundry door for storage
An over-the-door ironing board is an effective and practical solution when your laundry is lacking storage and floor space. Lighter and less fiddly than traditional ironing boards, over-the-door ironing boards are affordable, space-saving, and always conveniently hidden out of view when you aren’t using them. Mops and brooms can also be hung in over-the-door holders when space is tight.

Integrated cabinetry for appliances and storage
If you don’t have a dedicated laundry room at all, integrated cabinetry ensures appliances and products are all tucked out of the way and out of sight when you have people over.

Save space with a washer-dryer combo
If you don’t have room for a standalone dryer, consider a washer-dryer combo. It’s perfect for homes without a dedicated laundry room, doing the job of two appliances, while taking up the footprint of one.

For more on e&s | Kitchen & laundry design: 2019’s top 5 appliance trends

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Kitchens

Australian kitchen trends: Winter 2019 edition

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date May 29, 2019
No Comments on Australian kitchen trends: Winter 2019 edition

From chic vintage inspired ovens to the arrival of Australia’s first domestic blast chiller, Aussie kitchen design is looking more interesting and stylish than ever this winter.

Bertazzoni cooking appliances: The company was founded in Italy in 1882 and the Bertazzoni range features stylish, high-quality appliances unlike anything we’ve seen before. While there’s a ‘Professional’ and ‘Modern’ series, it’s the vintage styled ‘Heritage’ oven collection that really piqued our interest. Available in matte black, charcoal and ivory with chrome and stainless steel or copper trims these are seriously chic ovens. $2,299.

Freedom Kitchens: Created around the idea of the ‘anti-kitchen,’ the new Freedom Kitchens cabinet colours are designed to push the boundaries of traditional ‘neutrals’ and help the kitchen meld seamlessly with the rest of your living space. The colour palette features five on-trend moody shades including two deep blues (French Navy and Oxford), two grey tones (Stone Grey and Fox) and a gorgeous green (‘Green Slate’).

Freedom Kitchens' new 'Green Slate' cabinet fronts — Freedom Kitchens’ new ‘Green Slate’ cabinet colour

Freedom Kitchens' new French Navy cabinet colour — Freedom Kitchens’ new ‘French Navy’ cabinet colour

Dekton by Cosentino: Cosentino has introduced two new dark matte Dekton surfaces to their Natural and Industrial collections, ‘Bromo’ and ‘Milar.’ Reflective of the dark and moody kitchen trend, the material can be used for façades, kitchen and vanity bench tops, floor tiles and wall cladding both indoors and outdoors. It’s also available in 8, 12 and 20 millimetre thicknesses, and large-format sizes that allow for continuous surfaces without cuts or joints.

Dekton by Cosentino's new 'Bromo' surface — Dekton by Cosentino’s new ‘Bromo’ surface

A contrast to the above, Dekton also recently released the ‘Stonika’ range of surfaces too. Comprised of seven colours, the range has striking veined patterns and textures and draws inspiration from natural stone.

Dekton Stonika 'Bergen' finish — The Dekton Stonika ‘Bergen’ surface channels Portobello stone

The Dekton Stonika 'Olimpo' finish is inspired by Carrara marble — The Dekton Stonika ‘Olimpo’ surface is inspired by Carrara marble

Smeg: Featuring a range of ovens and cooktops as well as a coffee machine and a wine cellar with sommelier drawer, the latest outing from Smeg (the Linea collection) boasts a clean mirror finish and simple yet sleek lines. The range is available in black, white and silver.

smeg Linea collection — Smeg Linea collection

The brand also launched the Dolce Stil Novo Blast Chiller recently, Australia’s first domestic blast chiller that allows for the sort of home of home cooking, storage and food preservation that was once only available to chefs. The appliance has eight functions including rapid deep freezing, quick and even thawing, low temperature cooking, delay start programming, temperature holding, fast beverage chilling, proving and sanitising modes. $7490.

Australian kitchen trends: Autumn 2019 edition

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Appliances Kitchens

Australian kitchen trends: Autumn 2019 edition

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 18, 2019
No Comments on Australian kitchen trends: Autumn 2019 edition

kaboodle's new 'Bluepea' cupboard fronts

From Smeg’s statement green ovens to an array of new bench top and cupboard front colours from kaboodle kitchen, Autumn is shaping up to be a vibrant season for kitchen design.

kaboodle kitchen: The DIY kitchen brand has recently introduced six new colours to its collection of doors and panels. Matte black, smoked grey, a rich green, deep navy and two concrete looks round out the trend-driven line-up.

kaboodle's new 'Vivid Basil' cupboard fronts — kaboodle’s new ‘Vivid Basil’ cupboard fronts

Kaboodle has also introduced a range of modular and cut to measure laminate bench tops in a host of finishes from marble to stone and timber. The range of modular laminate, bamboo and timber bench tops are available in matte and gloss finishes and in standard depths of 600mm or 900mm, with various profiles depending on colour.

Kaboodle kitchen's new 'Enoki' bench top — kaboodle’s new ‘Enoki’ bench top

kaboodle's new 'Mayonella' bench top — kaboodle’s new ‘Mayonella’ bench top

Smeg latest: In what is possibly a nod to the sustainability trend, the latest Smeg ovens are available in two shades of green for a real kitchen statement. For the brand’s iconic ‘Victoria’ model there’s a soft, vintage pastel green and the ‘Portofino’ oven is now available in a deep, rich olive green inspired by the Italian Riviera.

Smeg oven in pastel green — Smeg Victoria oven, $10,490 in pastel green

And if you like your kitchen statements to be of a less permanent variety you might be interested in Smeg’s new blender created in collaboration with the Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana. The latest offering is part o the ‘Sicily is my Love’ collection that includes a toaster, kettle and citrus juicer too.

Smeg blender — Smeg ‘Sicily is my Love’ blender, $1099

Bosch Series 8 oven: An existing design for the German brand, the Series 8 oven is now available in black. Like the original stainless steel version, the new finish also offers 10 pre-set automatic cooking programs and a pyrolytic self-cleaning function. From $2699.

LG Slim French door fridge with InstaView in matte black (570L): Testament to the popularity of black for kitchens at present the latest offering from LG is a slim matte black fridge with fabulous InstaView technology. Fitting inside an alcove of just 850mm, you simply knock twice on the sleek glass panel to see inside the fridge without opening the door. Aside from being rather fun to use, this reduces cold air loss which helps keep food fresher for longer. $3799.

Australian kitchen trends: Summer 2018 edition

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Appliances Interviews Kitchens

Kitchen & laundry design: 2019’s top 5 appliance trends

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date January 28, 2019
1 Comment on Kitchen & laundry design: 2019’s top 5 appliance trends

The kitchen and laundry appliance space is an ever-advancing one. It’s easy to forget that the generations before us did everything by hand that we can do with the simple push of a button. And home technology progress shows no sign of abating with 2019 looking set for even bigger innovations.

“Over the next 12 months, we will see more households around the nation further embrace seamless design, new technologies, bold colours and appliances that help preserve the quality of food and wine for longer. Australians will invest in making their laundries as beautiful and seamless as the rest of their homes, become more conscious of the benefits of the latest laundry appliances and will also become more comfortable using automated programs when it comes to cooking,” says Jordan Rogers, Winning Appliances senior category manager who shares his top five appliance trend predictions for 2019 with us today.

SMEG Dolce Stil Novo oven — Smeg Dolce Stil Novo integrated ovens

Integration
With minimalism such a strong design trend it makes sense that appliances are increasingly integrated for a truly seamless aesthetic. “Integration has become a buzzword as more Australians want their kitchen to have an aesthetically pleasing look, without the clutter of appliances breaking up the design. Integrated appliances such as the Fisher & Paykel Column Fridge have been hugely popular, as well as integrated dishwashers, which are also in demand,” says Jordan.

Attainable technology & automation
While more and more household tasks are becoming automated, access to the technology is improving too. “More leading appliance brands are using the latest and greatest technologies which means that even though design and quality will vary, more Australians will now enjoy the benefits of the latest technologies at any price point. Consequently, automated appliances will become more prevalent, as people become comfortable using programs that not only make life easier but also deliver quality restaurant food,” says Jordan.

From ovens with countless automatic programs (the ASKO 60cm Pyrolytic Built-In Oven has a whopping 87 automatic programs!) to ovens with food sensors (the AEG 60cm PyroLuxe Pyrolytic Built-In Oven with SenseCook), food preparation is becoming increasingly automated which can only make life easier right?

Bold colour
While black has been enjoying an extended moment in the kitchen design spotlight, colour has been making its way back in too. “Bold colours will continue to make an appearance, with Australians embracing bright hues to make a statement in their kitchens. Coloured upright ovens from Smeg and Ilve are being included in different style kitchens and coloured taps and sinks from the likes of Abey, Oliveri and Franke ensure that even the wet area of a kitchen has some style,” says Jordan.

Laundry tech advances – say goodbye to hand washing!
I’m sure I’m not the only one that finds handwashing one of the most tedious household tasks but you may be able to avoid it entirely with the help of the latest laundry tech. “Hand washing delicate items in a laundry tub will become a thing of a past, as the latest hand wash functions mean that you can even wash quality silks in a washing machine. There will be more of a focus on the laundry this year, as more Australians look to upgrade and take advantage of the latest programs and steam technology,” says Jordan.

Laundry-adora-stacked-washing-machine-and-dryer — Adora stacked washing machine and dryer

Food preservation
The war on waste continues inside our kitchens and I don’t just mean when it comes to recyclables – the astronomical price of food means people are looking to preserve as much of it as possible. “Australians are becoming more interested in how they can preserve food. Products such as Smeg’s residential blast chiller has food preservation qualities which don’t affect or alter the taste and quality of the food,” says Jordan who cites the new Fisher & Paykel column fridge as a great new innovation on this front too. “It was created to be fully customisable, with four separate temperature zones – the most notable one is called ‘soft freeze’ which allows you to take portions at a time without needing to defrost or struggle with frozen solid food,” says Jordan. “Sub Zero fridges also help with food preservation by cleaning the inside air every 20 minutes, absorbing odours, bacteria and ethylene.”

For more | Darren Palmer’s top laundry design tips

Tags 2019 kitchen appliance trends, 2019 laundry appliance trends, appliances, kitchen appliances, laundry appliances, winning appliances

Appliances Design Designers Kitchens RENO ADDICT Styling

Three Birds Renovations’ six top kitchen design rules

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date November 12, 2018
2 Comments on Three Birds Renovations’ six top kitchen design rules

Three Birds kitchen — I love this Three Birds Renovations kitchen - the green cabinetry is an inspired choice

“Of all the spaces you renovate, the kitchen can be the most challenging. It’s usually the heart of the home and whether you’re a master chef or reluctant one, it’s a major feature of your space, so you want it to look good,” says Three Birds Renovations’ Bonnie Hindmarsh, who explains that designing a kitchen is a high-stakes enterprise.

“There are ways to renovate a kitchen on a budget, but it is still usually one of the most expensive rooms in a home, so you need to be happy with the end result. And if all that wasn’t pressure enough, we know that kitchens sell houses, so this is a real reno moment where you can add some serious value,” says Bonnie who, along with her business partners Erin Cayless and Lana Taylor, abides by six golden rules when it comes to designing a kitchen.

Timeless design
“There are two places you can start – how it works or how it looks. Truth be told, it doesn’t really matter which of the two options you start with because both intersect pretty quickly as you move through the design process. You’ll need to toggle between these two things constantly,” says Bonnie who is a big proponent of using a vision board to formulate her ideas.

“We like to bring to life the overall vision for the home in the kitchen, referring back to our vision board for finishes, cabinetry style plus the colour, thickness and profiles of the bench top and splash back.”

Be selfish
“Design your kitchen for you, not others. How will you, as the owner, live in the space? How do you like to cook every day or entertain? Everyone is different so meet your needs,” says Bonnie.

Quality appliances
“A builder is only as good as their tools and the same can be said for the appliances in your kitchen. Choose appliances that look good, fit into your layout and offer the functions you need,” says Bonnie who specified an Electrolux integrated dishwasher in this kitchen so as not to break up the lovely green cabinetry of the island bench.

The integrated dishwasher ensures a seamless finish

The Three Birds Renovations team also selected an Electrolux induction cooktop, steam and pyrolytic oven, a built-in microwave oven and French door fridge for this kitchen.

Alfresco access
“The best kitchens will meet our outdoor connector test. All kitchens should be connected to, or very close to the outdoors, even if it’s only a courtyard,” says Bonnie who likes to be able to pass food from the kitchen to the outdoors with ease. “It doesn’t matter if it’s through a window or a door – you just need to have that access. That’s the test. An indoor/outdoor servery is a great solution for this and suits our Australian lifestyle perfectly,” says Bonnie.

Natural light
“We are skylight obsessed. They’re great practical additions that bring in another layer of light and no room in the house benefits from this more than the kitchen, which requires both ambient and task lighting. We can’t tell you how much a skylight changes the absolute look and feel of any room,” says Bonnie.

Beautiful styling
“A place for everything and everything in its place is our rule. In other words, don’t let your lovely new kitchen become a dumping ground for paperwork and overflowing fruit bowls, and fruit flies! A great kitchen has a place for everything – even your mail pile, bills included,” says Bonnie

For more | Check out the Electrolux appliance line-up

Tags appliances, design, electrolux, interior design, interiors, kitchen, kitchen design, styling, three birds renovations

Kitchens RENO ADDICT Smart Home The Block

Julia & Sasha share kitchen, mudroom and laundry

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date March 14, 2018
4 Comments on Julia & Sasha share kitchen, mudroom and laundry

Photography by Marcel Aucar

Last time we caught up, our kitchen and laundry had just been installed but the finishing touches were a mere pipedream. Fast forward to 2018 and we’re done and dusted. If we’d ever questioned the notion of love at first sight, we don’t anymore. These spaces have far exceeded our expectations and we’re walking around with all the heart eye emojis. If you’re not yet familiar with our design and installation process, you can read about it here. Go on… I’ll wait.

Kitchen

Now we’re on the same page, it’s time for the fun stuff. We’ve always loved the process of fixing stone bench tops as it pulls the entire look together and adds an element of luxe. We opted for Caesarstone in Calacatta Nuvo for its marble-like appearance and ability to blend classic meets contemporary. It’s also extremely low maintenance and more cost-effective than natural stone. At this point in the renovation, any saving is a good saving and we’re thrilled to bits with the end result. We opted for a frontal waterfall on the island as it defines the sink from the prep area and looks bangin’ to boot.

There’s still more than enough room for three stools and ample space to hang about. Our island measures 3000mm x 1200mm, the maximum when using only one slab of stone. We’re not big fans of longer benches as they require multiple slabs, resulting in an extra join on the surface.

We stuck with the same stone for the splashback in the kitchen but changed it up in the butler’s pantry. The zone opened up ten-fold by using a smoked mirror and we love how it defines the spaces. There’s still a seamlessness as the cabinetry and bench tops are consistent but the use of mirror adds depth and interest. It’s also really easy to keep clean which should always be the MO in any prep area (or so I tell a very messy Sasha).

Among our favourite things are the soaring Sierra cabinets in Matt White from Freedom Kitchens. The Sierra range is a beautiful Shaker-style profile which looks modern yet classic at the same time. We love a generously proportioned space and one of the best ways to achieve this is by taking joinery sky high. The upper cabinets are readily available and measure 1250mm. There’s more storage than you can poke a stick at and they make the room feel infinite. It’s a great trick to implement if you have limited floor space but want to increase the grandeur of your kitchen. You can thank us later, alligators.

Drawers were always big on our list of must-haves and we crammed in as many as we could. They’re so much easier than cupboards when storing everyday items like crockery, containers, and pots and pans. I once did my back while searching for a mixing bowl which was very inconvenient as I had a party to attend and wound up sitting at the dessert table with my friend’s grandma all night. There’s no chance of that happening at Little Willow as we have drawers for days! Freedom Kitchens are clever folk and added some nifty storage solutions like cutlery dividers, a walnut knife holder, and our amazing spice rack. We could buy all the spices from the supermarket and still have room left over. Clever, indeed.

Of course, cupboards are still handy for those things used less often and they’re in abundance in the butler’s pantry. I’m crazy for the corner carousel shelves they installed in the corner cupboard, previously known as the place ‘where things go to die’. It makes such perfect sense and is also really fun to play with. The added depth of our island made way for extra storage in the seating area. Big props to our designer Jack for working so hard to maximise functionality by utilising every inch of available space.

Another big hit are the white sinks. When we settled on the gold tap, we knew we had to skip the standard stainless steel as it can be hard to mix metals. White was a natural alternative and the effect it has is seamless. The sinks are made of composite granite so they’re durable and virtually scratch-resistant. We’re more than happy to share the love so if you need one in your life, head to Reece and ask for the Franke Impact Granite Undermount in White.

On The Block, we were lucky enough to work with Gaggenau and we loved them hard. We didn’t think it possible to develop an affinity with any other appliance brand until NEFF came along. Golly gumdrops, they’re amazing! Our oven stack is so impressive – the doors actually tuck themselves away when you open them. If you haven’t seen them in action, hit up our Insta for a Boomerang demonstration. Our stack includes an in-built Coffee Machine, Compact Oven with Microwave, Slide&Hide Combi-Steam Oven, and Slide&Hide Vario-Steam Oven. That’s a lot of ovens for one house so the new owners best enjoy cooking. The piece de resistance is of course the FlexInduction Cooktop with Integrated Downdraft. Rather than going up into a regular rangehood, steam is sucked down into the vent. How’s that for forward thinking?!

The kitchen is complete with two NEFF dishwashers and our double fridge/freezer from Bosch. Where are they, you ask? Hidden behind four integrated panels right near the island bench. It’s such a great way to dress large appliances and something we’ll be doing in every property moving forward.

We utilised the working triangle when designing this kitchen and it really does make a difference. The general rule of thumb is there should only be a few steps between your sink, cooktop, and fridge. Ours are positioned just so and the space sings because of it.

Of course, we’re all about lightness and brightness so we decided to splash out on three VELUX skylights. They let in a phenomenal amount of natural light and we can’t recommend them enough. Even if you’re not doing a full renovation, it’s worth considering adding a few throughout your home as they truly offer bang for buck. They’re such a focal point and amplify everything in the space, including our White Smoked boards from Royal Oak Floors. Together, they bounce the light around and are a match made in Heaven.

Laundry and Mud Room

If there’s beauty in simplicity then this is it. We carried through the Sierra profile to maintain consistency and added functional shelving to break up the look. Our penny round tiles from Beaumont work so well with the Intense White bench top from Caesarstone. The gooseneck tap from Sussex pops against all the white and marble and collectively elicits the most serene vibe. There’s a high chance I’ll be rolling around in dirt just so I can use this space. (OK, maybe not rolling around but I won’t crack it if I spill coffee on my white dress, that’s for sure).

It’s hard for me to admit but Sasha’s mud room came up trumps. Originally I wanted a whole bank of cupboards but she insisted on creating an Insta-worthy space so I relented and let her at it. It’s such a usable zone with outdoor access so there’s no reason for muddy footprints to be dragged through the house. After endless harping, I managed to get my way with tropical wallpaper and I love how it pops against all the white.

I’m calling it – of the four kitchens and laundries we’ve created, these are my absolute favourites. They’re so striking and functional. Some people think all-white spaces are boring but I truly believe there is nothing better. They have an elegance all their own and give off a feeling of light. As Bill Murray said, ‘There has to be a lightness; you have to be as light as you can be and not get weighed down and stuck in your emotion, stuck in your body, stuck in your head. You just want to always be trying to elevate somehow.’ Sure he was talking about something deeper than kitchens and laundries but his advice rings true. We have all the lightness there is and I hope you love our spaces as much as we do.

Our sincere gratitude to all our suppliers for working tirelessly with us. Their knowledge and commitment has made all the difference and we’re forever indebted for the time, energy, and care they’ve shown. There’s something extra special about companies that not only supply product but eagerly anticipate the end result. That kind of enthusiasm is hard to come by but they have it in spades.

Until next time,

Julia xx

More kitchens and bathrooms | Jen’s kitchen reno

Tags appliances, blockhead, bosch, caesarstone, freedom kitchens, julia and sasha, kitchen, laundry, little willow, mud room, NEFF, renovation, the block

Expert Tips

Kitchen reno budgeting: how to stay on track!

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date February 28, 2018
No Comments on Kitchen reno budgeting: how to stay on track!

Haymes Paint Chinchilla Fur used in Jen's kitchen

Where to start, how to plan and how to stay in budget according to ILVE’s Daniel Bertuccio.

Start with research
The most common thing that is often forgotten is research. With so much excitement that happens around renovating, people tend to walk into a store ready to start picking fixtures and fittings without deciding what they actually want and how the space will work. To avoid wasting time and blowing budgets, set a brief and list what you want to achieve. The average household will renovate their kitchen every 10-to-15 years and there are a lot of trends that will come and go in that time, so get an idea of what you want, first. Are you upgrading, are you making it bigger, are you changing the style, do you want a better cooking experience or do you want something open plan? Once you can answer a lot of those questions, you can start making concrete decisions.

Map out the space
We all would like a walk-in pantry but is that realistic? When planning to renovate the kitchen, know the space you are working with. For new homes, map out with spray paint the kitchen measurements on the floor, so you can visually see the space you are working with and the cost that comes with it. For renovating existing kitchens, map it out with string or a tape measure. It’s best to get a grasp on the size and location of various sections first.

Decide your budget
Be ambitious but stay in your lane. This lends itself to doing your research first and measuring out the space. Reason being, if you have searched everywhere for what you like the look of and what you want the size to be, it’s likely that you have figured out what is beyond your price point and what sits nicely within it. Keep a live document where you list your outgoings, track what is blowing and what is under so you know where you can splurge.

Find cost effective alternatives
A gold plated sink would be amazing, but will it break the budget? Probably. If you see something you love, there is most likely an alternative finish that will look very similar. There are a lot of styles, textures, finishes and ways to create a glamorous kitchen space that are not only cost effective but as durable as some of the more expensive finishes. Shop around and don’t commit till you know you’ve checked everywhere.

This gold sink bargain was from Bunnings

Essential big ticket items
Keeping within budget is the goal, a great way to do so is to plan out all the necessities or ‘big ticket items’ that you absolutely need. Be sure these are planned for at the beginning, as they will make or break your whole kitchen experience. Over-allocate funds to these bigger items and if you under spend, it can go to the extras you’d like to have.

A 90cm induction cooktop was a must-have for Jen

–Daniel Bertuccio is marketing manager for ILVE. Jen used ILVE appliances in her recent kitchen renovation.

Tags appliances, budgeting, Daniel Bertuccio, induction, kitchen budget, kitchen planning, kitchen reno, live

Appliances Jen's reno RENO ADDICT

The lowdown on all the appliances in Jen’s new kitchen

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date January 25, 2018
No Comments on The lowdown on all the appliances in Jen’s new kitchen

The big kitchen reveal

Impressive Ultra in classic oak beige in my own kitchen

Photography by Jacqui Turk

I am so excited to finally share my new kitchen with you today! Seeing these beautiful pictures makes the last two months of mess and chaos seem more than worth while!

They say the kitchen is the heart of the home and in this house, it really is. Not just because everyone hangs out in this room, but because it really is in the middle of our home. And the light here is the best in the house. It used to drive me nuts that people gravitated towards this room because of the light when it was unrenovated, as we had much nicer spaces to entertain in like the living room! Now I am no longer embarrassed of my kitchen, I am happy for people to congregate in here and admire it whenever they want!

This really is my dream kitchen. I’m going to blog about some of the finer details separately, but today’s post is just the first overview of what we chose, what we did and why. In terms of layout, this has not changed drastically, but we did get rid of the back door (see before pix at the end of this post) to allow the cabinetry to go right to the end of the kitchen. We were also able to move our fridge freezer into the kitchen (it’s the little things, right?!) because previously there was nowhere to fit it and it lived in the dining room!

The starting point for this room was the cabinetry from Freedom Kitchens. I always knew I wanted white shaker style doors so when I found out this was possible using their new, more affordable flatpack option, the Essential range, I was thrilled. I saw flatpack as an opportunity to make great savings, which would allow me to still have the other things I dreamed of like stone benchtops.

My good friend, TV interior designer James Treble, sketched me out a rough layout I loved over dinner one night and we were off! I then worked with Freedom Kitchens design consultant Nina Hughes to turn that sketch into a detailed plan, taking into consideration the flatpack options available. This in-home service is included for everyone buying from their flatpack range, as well as a site check to make sure nothing has slipped through the net, before your cabinets are made. This really made me feel confident. I think buying a kitchen off the shelf with no professional advice or checks would have made me worry myself sick!

The next thing I chose were the handles. Anyone who knows me or has been to my home knows I just love a brass accent! I was always going to have gold handles and I sourced these from Kethy (available through The Block Shop) after seeing similar in Julia and Sasha’s beautiful Block kitchen. It was a winning combo from the start. I didn’t look at another handle so this proved to be one of the easiest decisions!

Then benchtops: through my job, I know Caesarstone by reputation and I loved their designs. I had three samples on high rotation but I finally went for the most subtle, Noble Grey, for a few reasons. I liked the contrast of the grey with the white cabinetry, and while the Calacatta marble-look designs have been hugely popular recently, I wanted something a little different. Then I saw blogger Briar Stanley from Sunday Collector use Noble Grey in her amazing kitchen and that sealed the deal.

Of course, then I needed to decide on a complementary splashback. I absolutely love tiles but trying to choose some left me paralysed by indecision! There were just too many amazing choices. I could have opted for subways, and I am a fan, but again, I wanted something a little different. So I decide to carry the Caesarstone up the splash as well; a decision I have not regretted for one second! The splash behind the cooktop is really quite deep so it makes a real feature. When the light through the opposite window hits it, it really shows off the veins in it. I also think the streamlined look it has created has allowed me to add my other, more bling touches, without it feeling cluttered or over the top.

Speaking of bling, the gold tap is from Meir and I am so in love with it! Taps really are like jewellery in a kitchen. You can’t miss them so you might as well make a statement! Their new Tiger Bronze colour was released at just the right time a few months ago and I was lucky enough to be one of the first to get my hands on it! Would a gold sink as well prove too much? I must admit, I did really worry about my decision, but in the end, it all came together beautifully. And nobody can believe that sink came from Bunnings!

Of course, a kitchen can (and should!) look beautiful but it needs to function too! Having room for a fridge freezer was a great start! But I needed to think long and hard about the appliances, which I chose from Italian brand Ilve. I was really excited to get an integrated dishwasher from an aesthetic perspective but this one works brilliantly and even has a light inside, plus one which shines onto the floor so you know it’s on (being that it’s hidden behind a cabinet door). I just love how it seamlessly blends into the kitchen.

Choosing an oven was a lot harder than anticipated and something I’ve never done before. I eventually decided on a 90cm electric oven and having that extra space is already proving a Godsend when entertaining. I can’t wait to give it a really good workout on Christmas Day.

Then of course you have to match that with a 90cm cooktop even though I’m not sure I’ll ever use all six burners at the same time! We first wanted gas but had a delay finding out if we could get connected, which led us to opt for induction. I’m so glad we went this route because I bloody love it! I cannot believe how quick it is to heat up, it’s a dream to clean and, importantly, it’s safe, which when you have an adventurous climbing toddler around is one less thing to worry about. I’m also thrilled with our hidden rangehood which allows me to have an uninterrupted row of overhead cupboards.

So, we had the bones of a great kitchen, but there were two other things I needed to achieve: replacing the dated sliding door to the laundry, with a modern take on a barn door and black hardware was the first. I wanted the door to have VJ panelling so we did this by cutting Easycraft panels (I’m in love with this product) to size and fixing them to the front of a very cheap, plain door. We then decided what the hell, why not panel the entire wall and wow, wasn’t that the best call? This wall has become a real feature of the kitchen. We also did the back of our breakfast bar in the same paneling and colour.

Secondly, I wanted to tie in the dining area, which adjoins the kitchen and previously had a cork floor, much better. I did this by adding VJ wainscoting to this room and painting it in the same grey (the panelling is in Haymes Paint Chinchilla Fur and the walls are Haymes Paint Greyology 4). It has made a huge difference. Of course, having the same floor helped massively too.

The icing on the cake of all this was our new Quickstep Impressive Ultra laminate floor (more on that next week) which we have also laid in the living room, hallway and my home office. Once that went down, we were finally finished!

A few other things I’m really glad we did and are worth a mention were:

adding bulkheads for a more finished, streamlined look (and no dust or clutter accumulating on top of the overhead cupboards)
putting a power socket in the back of the pantry so I could hide the Nespresso machine and toaster away in there
making sure there was a space for the microwave under the breakfast bar out of sight, so it didn’t have to use precious benchtop space
making one of the five powerpoints (you can never have too many) a USB one (we use this every day to charge a phone or laptop and it has proven really handy)
opting for a pullout double bin under the sink so there’s no ugly bin on show or in the way (I obviously need to get out more but I really love this!).

I could rave about my new kitchen all day but I’ll focus on some other aspects in future blog posts.

Overall, I am thrilled with kitchen and that it is finished before Christmas! I’m just waiting on my blinds (Romans) and looking for the perfect new kettle! A huge thank you to our friends at Integriti Bathrooms who helped project manage this reno.

Now, we could finish this without taking a look back at the before photos!

What do you think of the transformation? If you have any questions, please write them in the comments below and I’ll get back to you.

Want more? Take the VIDEO TOUR with Jen.

Listen to my husband Damian interview me about our kitchen reno in this podcast!

More kitchen and bathroom inspo.

The Block

The Block series 13 kitchen week room reveals!

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date September 18, 2017
No Comments on The Block series 13 kitchen week room reveals!

It’s always a popular week on The Block! We all know the kitchen is the heart of the home and we are continually told that kitchens sell houses. On top of that, there’s a lot of work involved and that usually means tight timeframes and a fair amount of, you guessed it, drama! I got to tour the kitchens last week so it was extra interesting to watch the judging this week, having seen them for myself. And I would agree with the top two scorers, for sure!

It was an extra exciting episode, with the countdown on to see if Jason and Sarah would finish (start even!) their master suite as well as their kitchen (or face being sent home) and they did. And well! The judges were blown away. Onto the judging…

Jason and Sarah (second place with 28.5 out of 30)

First, the judges saw last week’s master suite, which they weren’t being scored on. Darren and Neale agreed they could have been in with a chance of winning last week if they’d produced this then. Shaynna said: “You are kidding me? I want to shake them. If they can do this in a week and the kitchen, they gave up last week. This is amazing.” Neale said it was the best Block comeback ever.

Onto the kitchen, the judges were equally impressed. “Beyond back in the game, this is incredible,” said Shaynna. They liked the metallic surfaces on the cabinetry. Darren said everything about the functionality, the materials and handles was perfect. And Neale said the built in shelf behind the cooktop was simply genius. I loved that too!

The judges also loved the mix of materials in the benchtop, using two different Caesarstones. Neale said he thought the kitchen would feel as fresh a decade down the track as it did now.

Darren summed it up as super successful and while Shaynna said the paintwork needed attention, she added buyers would fall in love with the kitchen because it works so well with the rest of the house. Having seen it, I agree.

Our picks to buy: Taburet bar stools from Life Interiors and LEDlux Strix LED pendant from Beacon Lighting.

More details of cabinetry, benchtops and appliances

Hannah and Clint (last place with 26 out of 30)

Shaynna loved the mix of finishes saying it had a beautiful, layered feel.

Darren noted they had a bigger dining table and more chairs and the size of the island bench was fantastic. Shaynna loved the placement of the sink, bins and dishwasher. They were let down by size of the fridge however. Ultimately this lost them valuable points and saw them come last.

Neale thought a study nook would have been a much better better use of space than a bar in a family home. And Shaynna said while there were some big ticks, the too-small fridge and the cocktail area were overshadowing how she felt about it.

Despite this, the judges said the room was contemporary and sophisticated and will impress the buyers.

Our picks to buy: Encore stools from Freedom and Organic Choice cleaning products.

More details of cabinetry, benchtops and appliances.

Ronnie and Georgia (third place with 28 out of 30)

Shaynna said it felt really sexy and loved the new Caesarstone concrete island. Darren called it absolutely beautiful.

He also loved the size of the kitchen sink, the double integrated fridge and the fancy benchtop exhaust. He noted the use of black and how it tied together with the rest of the house, cutting through the grey.

There weren’t enough powerpoints though and this may have led to them coming third instead of second. But the judges loved the study nook, especially the pocket doors.

Shaynna said it felt like the right kitchen for the rendered walls of the living area. But she said it felt a little bit cold and they needed to add some accent colours in. “It needs a little bit of a lift.”

Darren said it was what a modern luxury palette should be and the kitchen was just knockout.

Neale said there was a lot for a buyer to get very, very excited about.

Our picks to buy: Franke Impact undermount sink in onyx from Reece, Sussex Scala curved sink mixer from Reece, Therapy kitchen candle and marble cookbook holder from Williams Sonoma.

More details of cabinetry, benchtops and appliances.

Stick and Wombat (fourth place with 26.5 out of 30)

Luckily, Sticks returned this week after the birth of his baby!

Darren said “this is beautiful,” loving the solid chunk of Caesarstone intersecting with the timber laminate.

Neale thought the Ceasarstone on the splashback was “bloody beautiful”. Shaynna loved it too and the concrete-look cabinetry. She didn’t like them together though, because they were both features and in her opinion, cancelled each other out. I totally agree on this point and although I love the Caesarstone, I don’t like its use over the rangehood. I think it looks clunky. I do love the mix of finishes, the timber accents and the warm feeling and personality this space has though.

The judges loved the secret door, the whiskey bar and the workmanship of the timber by Sticks.

Shaynna said it had lots of personality and Neale said they’d delivered on their style, and very well too. “They’ve got their signature love of timber but they seem to know how to bring it into a contemporary context. They do raw luxury so well.”

Our picks to buy: Rachel Bainbridge resin homewares and Bailey bar stools from Life Interiors.

More details of cabinetry, benchtops and appliances.

Josh and Elyse (first place with 30 out of 30)

It was 10s all round for the youngest contestants whose kitchen stood out for many reasons. Changing the profile of their stairway earlier gave them an amazing, large hidden butler’s pantry. And facing the island bench out towards the garden was another point of difference.

Darren said it was beautiful. “It looks a million dollars.” Neale said it felt very, very special and sociable. Shaynna said the layout, and the continuation of the timber floor and the styling, meant it engaged with the dining and the lounge, as well as connecting to the garden. Neale said it had a beautiful warmth and sense of community that people will find really appealing.

All the appliances got ticks. Shaynna’s face when she found the butler’s pantry said it all! The judges couldn’t find anything to fault in the execution; the paintwork was spot on and the styling “perfection”. Darren said everything was just so!

And here’s the biggy! Shaynna said up until this point she had Ronnie and Georgia pegged as the frontrunners for winning, but after today, she thought these two! Controversial! (And I’m inclined to agree).

Our picks to buy: Lacey light shades from The Family Love Tree, paddle cutting board from west elm and Sorrento cuddle mugs from Freedom.

More details of cabinetry, benchtops and appliances.

We’ll have many more details of the kitchens throughout this week from the main suppliers at Freedom Kitchens, Caesarstone, Bosch and Neff.

All our Block coverage.

Tags appliances, caesarstone, darren palmer, freedom kitchens, josh and elyse, judges, judging, kitchen week, neale whitaker, room revels, shaynna blaze, the block

Jen's reno Kitchens

The plans for my new kitchen revealed (and the before!).

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date August 17, 2017
6 Comments on The plans for my new kitchen revealed (and the before!).

In partnership with Latitude Financial Services

I feel like I’ve been planning my new kitchen for months. Oh yeah, I have been! It’s been five months since we moved into our new (old) home, affectionately called the “nanna house” due to the old lady who lived here for three decades before us. We have been slowly but surely bringing her into the 21st Century but the first major job on the list was the kitchen and now the wheels are finally in motion. We are looking at an imminent demo, so any tips for surviving without a kitchen for a few weeks, will be gratefully received in the comments (thanks in advance!).

So here’s what we’re dealing with now. A very original kitchen which had a little spruce-up prior to the house going on the market. We’re talking old school solid timber cabinets installed long before soft close doors and smooth drawer runners were invented. They’re not even tall enough for most of today’s mod cons, like the Vitamix and the bigger wine glasses, for example. I haven’t unpacked more than the essentials because despite much scrubbing, you can only get that orange floral lining paper (which has become one with the cupboards) so clean. The laminate benchtop is actually in amazingly good condition and the brown oven and electric coil cooktop still work surprisingly well. But the museum piece dishwasher keeps tripping the electric and leaks every time we use it. But at least we have a working dishwasher!

We’ll be replacing those sliding dining room doors with French doors

Then there’s that random half-wall three quarters of the way down on the lefthand side. On the other side of that is, well, dead space! And the beautiful sliding door to the laundry.

The design was always going to be relatively straightforward: maximise use of space by removing the half-wall and bricking up the back door (we have two others!) and move the breakfast bar back into the kitchen as it is currently encroaching on our already-narrow dining room. Making space for a modern fridge-freezer (ours currently lives in the dining room because there’s nowhere for it!) was also pretty important!

While I had a pretty good idea what I wanted to do, when you have talented friends, you’d be mad not ask their advice, and I have several! So when interior designer James Treble (from Channel 10’s The Living Room) was at our place for brunch one day, I made him earn his food by drawing me up a quick plan! And it suddenly all clicked into place.

Poor James wasn’t actually expecting me to publish this when he scribbled it down in 5 minutes!

We than had a designer from Freedom Kitchens come out to tell us what was actually possible, using the drawings as a rough guide. This was really helpful as there were plenty of things I hadn’t considered. She explained everything really well and I felt much more confident in what we were doing after that. Some plans were produced, which I was happy with, and we are now waiting for a site check and measure this Friday before we can go any further. I am dying to lock in my trades and get going! Our friends at Integriti Bathrooms (they did our beautiful bathroom reno at the old place) are coordinating the trades with me (thanks guys, I wouldn’t trust anyone else!) and this has been a huge learning curve for me too, but it was about time I learned a bit more about the process!

So, what will be be doing in here? I’m going for classic with a touch of glam!

Shaker-style cabinetry was always going to be my choice. Due to a very tight budget (we maxed out on our mortgage!), we decided to go with Freedom Kitchens’ new and very affordable flatpack option, The Essential Kitchens Range. My handyman will assemble the cabinets, even though it’s apparently a piece of cake. That stuff just isn’t mine and Damian’s forte!

As this is a longterm home, it had to be a stone benchtop. I’ve chosen Caesarstone’s Noble Grey as a nice contrast to the white cupboards while still being quite light (I had dark benchtops in my last place and hated them). I’ll be taking that up the splashbacks too. Our kitchen is flooded with natural light, the best light in the house, so I wanted to keep it all light and bright in here.

Against many people’s opinions on what will date or what is on trend, I am sticking by my decision to go with brass handles from Kethy, a gold Zip tap and even (wait for it) a gold undermount sink. Controversial!

Personally, I think brass is a classic look. Rose gold, I’d agree, may be having an extended temporary moment, but when you think about it, brass has been around in interiors for a really long time! I don’t have resale in mind as we intend to live here for at least a decade so I’m taking the opportunity to specify what I really want. This is one flatpack kitchen that is being seriously pimped!

To add a little colour, pattern and texture, I’m considering a Roman blind made from some kind of navy-based textile (you knew there’d be navy, right?) and some navy rattan stools like these from Naturally Cane.

I love this kind of look. Image: blinds-2go.co.uk

Or I might add the colour and pattern with wallpaper (away from any water or potential oily splashes, don’t worry!) and have plantation shutters instead. Lots to think about!

Appliances were a learning curve! I’ve chosen mine from Ilve and after dreaming of a freestanding cooker for a really long time, at the last minute, I decided a more streamlined built-in look would be better for our kitchen. What I knew I needed though was quality that would last and something big enough to cope with entertaining and a growing (no, that’s not an announcement!) family. I’ve gone for a 90cm oven, a 90cm induction cooktop, a concealed rangehood and an integrated dishwasher. I won’t pretend this European brand’s style credentials didn’t sway me too!

Flooring is still up in the air after a supplier let me down at the last minute (yes, this happens to media too!), but we are looking to replace the floor everywhere bar the bedrooms (which are newly carpeted) as soon as the kitchen’s finished.

I look forward to sharing this journey with you over the coming weeks!

–Looking to renovate your kitchen? Get some tips on how to finance it from our partners at Latitude Financial Services.

Tags appliances, barr handles, blinds, caesarstone, flatpack, freedom kitchens, ILVE, interiors addict reno, james treble, kitchen, kitchen design, kitchen makeover, new kitchen, zip tap