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Designers Kitchens

Hot trend: Darren Palmer talks metallic kitchens

One of the year’s hottest trends, metallics are big news across everything from fashion to homewares and now kitchens are having their turn too. “Metallics are one of the biggest trends of 2016 and kitchens are the perfect place to introduce a little bit of bling in almost any colour scheme,” says interior designer and The Block judge Darren Palmer.

And while door fronts, bench tops, kickboards and appliances are a kitchen’s staple items, it’s the inserts, insets, handles and tapware that can really make the space sing. “Any experienced designer will tell you the difference between a basic kitchen and a designer one is all in the details,” adds Darren.

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The white kitchen

If, like most people, your kitchen is white, you’ve got the perfect canvas on which to project your metallic desires. “A simple white kitchen will allow you to add drama in really any metallic you desire, whether it be gold, brass, copper, aged brass, chrome, stainless steel or bronze. The simplicity of the palette leaves you with myriad options to dress it up,” says Darren.

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The metal trend

While copper and gold have both been trending like mad for the last year, this year’s EuroCucina fair in Milan saw the return of metal as a key kitchen feature. “From shelving units to cupboard and drawer fronts to sheet metal forming the benchtop and sides of whole island benches, metals are at the forefront of modern kitchen design,” says Darren.

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Metallic accents

But for those of you that simply want dip your toes into the trend, small metallic accents may be just the ticket. “If the idea of a full metal kitchen is too much for you, handles in brass, chrome, gold or silver tones are an excellent way of introducing colour and personality into your kitchen space. Adding metallic pendant lights, accessories and serving ware is another brilliant way to add in that little something extra in the metallic department,” says Darren.

See more kitchen inspiration here.

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Kitchens

We reveal: Darren Palmer’s top four kitchen storage tips

If there’s one room in the home that should be uber functional, it’s the kitchen. Organised storage and easy accessibility to cooking ingredients and implements are key but given there is so much whizz-bangery available these days, we asked interior designer Darren Palmer to reveal his favourite kitchen storage solutions.

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“I’m a sucker for anything that has a surprise built into it. Think James Bond’s cars and watches, there was always something neat tucked away to get him out of bind or even just to give him the advantage. I know it’s a long bow to draw but it’s the same with the cool storage solutions we see in kitchens these days. Anything that pops up, sweeps open, swooshes up or spins around to reveal some cool hidden storage just gets my heart racing. It’s nerdy I know,” says Darren.

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Drawers & cupboards
Great storage is absolutely essential so when designing a kitchen from scratch consider what you already own (create a checklist) and then allow room for future purchases (Darren recommends 15-20 per cent). “This will not only ensure you have a place for everything but it will also allow you to decide when to use drawers and when cupboards may be more suitable. For example, deep drawers ensure that everything is visible and reachable however may not be suitable for larger appliances,” says Darren.

A massive fan of the island bench, Darren loves them chiefly for their entertaining and storage aspects. “Choose from a variety of design options to suit your space, needs and style. If you love to entertain, introduce an overhang for dining with space for stools at the front or sides and add storage at the back of the island. Alternatively, you can choose to design the back with deep storage and leave the front as a feature or double up with storage on both sides. You may also like to consider introducing wine fridges, wine racks, and appliances such as dishwashers and/or microwaves to your island bench to create more storage space on your back benches,” says Darren.

The pantry
“Whether built-in, butler’s, walk-in, or a combination; a well-conceived and designed pantry can transform the way that you organise and use your kitchen,” says Darren. Even better is a walk-in or butler’s pantry which is an excellent solution when entertaining – like a toy room, you can simply close the door on the mess when your guests arrive. Many of us are tight on space though and this is where a pull-out pantry comes into its own.

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Pull-out pantry

Lose the dead space
The corner cupboard used to be a dead space but there are lots of fabulous design solutions that ensure this is no longer the case. “One of my favourite space savers is Hettich’s Le Man Blind Corner Shelf System. Made up of two kidney shaped shelves which can hold up to 20 kilograms of items each, this system transforms a full cabinet depth void into a highly functional space, perfect for storing essentials like pots and pans in an otherwise blind corner,” says Darren.

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Maximise your corner cupboard space

Internal organisation
From spice racks and drawers to knife holders, towel rails and adjustable drawer dividers, there are so many internal organisers available that will optimise your kitchen space and make it so much more efficient. “Remember every single void area is an opportunity for storage. Kitchens are made more functional, effective, efficient and even beautiful by specifying a higher level of internal fittings,” says Darren.

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Visit Freedom Kitchens for more kitchen inspiration or to book a free appointment with one of their designers.

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Designers Expert Tips Kitchens

Darren Palmer’s pick of the hottest kitchen trends for 2016

As a barometer of interior trends for the forthcoming year, it doesn’t get much more instructive than the recent Milan Furniture Fair, or Salone Del Mobile, held in April this year. And when it comes to kitchen design trends, EuroCucina (held as part of the fair), is considered something of a savvy style predictor. Read on for Darren Palmer’s top trend picks from the event and see them illustrated with some fabulous Freedom Kitchens.

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Colour pops

Gone are the days of the all-white kitchen with pops of colour the order of the day. “Colour is back in a big way. You can use it in your kitchen in a variety of ways, from a pop of colour in a bank of cabinetry or splashback, through to layering different shades of one colour across various surfaces,” says Darren who notes blue and teal were the dominant colour tones at EuroCucina this year with red, raspberry, yellow and orange featured too.

“Soft, muted pastels appeared too – offering an injection of lighter colour to an all-white kitchen. They’re also useful for breaking up block colours to add a sense of balance,” says Darren.

The trick is in practicing some restraint by combining just a splash of colour with an otherwise neutral palette. “I love balancing a splash of colour with natural marble-inspired benchtops, coupled with white-toned cabinetry and integrated appliances. This creates a thoughtful and modern take on colour in the kitchen,” says Darren.

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Back to nature

“This trend focuses on a very simple and natural palette, stone or timber the hero in the kitchen space. At Eurocucina these looks were taken to new heights with large swatches being used in both cabinetry and benchtops,” says Darren who also sees timber as a great way to break up classic monochrome kitchen schemes of grey, white and black.

And as for specific timber shades, oak, warm walnut and cool grey tones are very on trend. “I love this trend, as timber adds instant warmth and texture to any kitchen space,” says Darren.

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Metallics

One of our favourite trends here at Interiors Addict, mainly for its ability to glam-up a space, metallic hues have finally found their way into kitchen design with gold, rose gold, brass and copper all featuring heavily at this year’s Eurocucina. “Metallics can add a heightened sense of glamour and warmth to your kitchen and they’re taking centre stage being featuring in sinks, taps and handles as well as being used as a treatment for door panels, benchtops, splashbacks and shelving. It’s also a good idea to add an accent through lighting, small appliances or décor to complete the look,” says Darren.

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Industrial

It’s turning out to be a pretty enduring trend and the industrial look once again featured heavily at this year’s Eurocucina – exposed brick, piping and metal were showcased alongside concrete and timber. “Thanks to the practicality and visual appeal of the industrial look, it works perfectly to set up your kitchen as the centrepiece. From here, you’re free to expand the style throughout the rest of your home. It’s also a look that suits those who want to create an eclectic kitchen space with a variety of different finishes, textures and features,” says Darren.

There’s plenty more kitchen inspiration here.

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Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Video: Scott and Nadia’s grand finale Hamptons-style kitchen

Scott and Nadia may not have won this week’s Reno Rumble grand finale, losing to Lisa and John, but they certainly pulled off a fantastic kitchen, and we have all the details for you here today in this video.

I personally loved the striking black cabinetry, window splashback and the use of my favourite Caesarstone Calcutta Nuovo. It certainly wowed judges Colin and Justin too. Justin said it was well planned and visually gorgeous, while Colin said it had one foot in the past and the other well and truly in the future.

Watch the video for all the details. Thanks to our friends at Freedom Kitchens.

All our Reno Rumble coverage.

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Interiors Addict

Video: All the Reno Rumble week 3 kitchen details!

This week was definitely the week for the kitchens and bathrooms to shine. In fact, Dane and Leanne’s kitchen was probably my favourite room of the week. Judges Colin and Justin gave it 19 out of 20, while Scott and Nadia’s teal kitchen also scored highly with 16. While the majority of Australians still love a white gloss kitchen, I love seeing something different or contrasting, and these two rooms certainly delivered!

Watch the video for chats with Dane and Leanne and Scott and Nadia and all the inspiration and details behind their kitchens.

Thanks to Freedom Kitchens, official supplier to Reno Rumble, for sharing these behind the scenes.

Dane and Leanne's kitchen
Dane and Leanne’s kitchen
Scott and Nadia's kitchen
Scott and Nadia’s kitchen

Which was your favourite?

Read the rest of this week’s coverage and see the rest of the houses.

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Kitchens Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Is this the perfect chef’s kitchen?

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

With butcher’s block, deep fryer and chargrill plate, this kitchen is perfect for any chef — professional or otherwise!

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We love this kitchen from Freedom Kitchens. Not only is it stylishly designed but is a family kitchen with a unique purpose at heart—to create a space with everything a real chef needs to cook up whatever their heart desires.

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Installed are a butcher’s block, deep fryer and chargrill plate, as well as two sinks. Appliances include an industrial strength rangehood and freestanding cooker. The microwave and dishwasher have been strategically placed out of sight.

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One of the challenges of this kitchen design was determining where to place all the built-in appliances to allow plenty of room for meal preparation, entertaining and the right amount of ventilation.

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Ambience was created through a moody colour palette and lighting. Other design elements include Alaskan Gloss Black cabinetry with streamlined linear handles for a sleek appearance. The black and blue mirrored splashbacks make for real statement pieces and allow ease of cleaning.

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Freedom Kitchens offer in-home design consultations with professional kitchen designers. To book, call 1800 113 733 or visit www.freedomkitchens.com.au. For more kitchen inspiration, follow on Instagram and Pinterest.

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Expert Tips Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Interiors Addict TV: Carly & Leighton’s top scoring kitchen

Carly and Leighton were super excited to get started on their homeowners’ kitchen brief of contemporary Australian this week, and the result, with its super-sized Caesarstone bench, brought tears of joy (as well as a top score of 19.5 out of 20)! The amazing indoor/outdoor space would probably have to be my favourite kitchen reveal yet!

Judges Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill loved it too, with its clean and warm look thanks to contrasting but subtle textures. The black tapware made a bold and modern statement, tying in with the black powder coated windows.

Freedom Kitchens helped the couple with design ideas, and additions such as brand new handles made sure it was absolutely on trend and cutting edge. Carly and Leighton were keen not to repeat anything that had already been showcased in the competition.

Watch our exclusive video interview with Lauren Ellis above for their top tips for Interiors Addict readers!

Watch all the episodes of Interiors Addict TVRead all our Reno Rumble coverage on sister site Reno Addict.

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Expert Tips Interviews Kitchens The Block

Interiors Addict TV: Josh & Jenna’s Reno Rumble chef kitchen

Another week, another fantastic kitchen from ex Blockheads Josh and Jenna on Reno Rumble. Our Interiors Addict TV reporter Lauren Ellis chatted to the popular couple about what they did to create a room which certainly impressed judges Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill and the homeowners.

The space, designed with the help of Freedom Kitchens, is chock full of features which made it a real chef’s kitchen. Timber cabinetry and tiles added gorgeous texture and warmth, while the use of symmetry kept it clean and fresh looking. I personally loved the use of open shelving.

Watch the video to get Jenna’s top tips on creating a chef’s kitchen at home.

See all episodes of Interiors Addict TV.

Read our Reno Rumble coverage on sister site Reno Addict.

 

 

 

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Design DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Get the look: two perfect kitchen scores on Reno Rumble

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

This week on Reno Rumble saw two perfect scores awarded to two very different Freedom Kitchens; an edgy Industrial style versus an elegant Hamptons kitchen. The judges couldn’t find fault with either! Let’s delve into how both the Redbacks and the Blue Tongues did it…

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Carly & Leighton’s kitchen

Industrial: Blue Tongues Carly & Leighton were briefed to transform Tara’s outdated 1940s kitchen into one with a relaxed industrial aesthetic and plenty of storage.

Inspired by the industrial warehouse living of Manhattan, they opted for strong matt black cabinetry and brought in timber elements to create a sense of warmth. The butler’s pantry and integrated dishwasher kept appliances hidden from view, whilst the added textures of Caesarstone benchtops, transparent glass splashback and metal factory pendant lights ensured a tightly edited result.

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Carly & Leighton’s kitchen

Tara says it’s a completely different dynamic at home now: “I can entertain, whereas I didn’t enjoy it before because using more than two pots at the same time caused space issues! With the central bench family and friends can now sit there whilst I finish cooking which is perfect. It’s a much more social and beautiful space.”

Kyal and Kara's kitchen
Kyal and Kara’s kitchen

Hamptons: The Redbacks, Kyal and Kara, were tasked with turning Cathryn’s dark, pokey and very uninviting space into one with the sophisticated, country charm of the Hamptons.

Their perfectly executed design featured a neutral colour scheme of classic white Shaker doors and Clam Shell Caesarstone benchtops. Detailed open shelving, vintage inspired pendants and plenty of natural light were the finishing touches for this relaxed yet sophisticated Hamptons kitchen.

Kyal and Kara's kitchen
Kyal and Kara’s kitchen

Cathryn says her new Freedom Kitchen is now part of the living and dining area and has opened up the whole space. “I didn’t enjoy being in my old kitchen, but I love being in the new one. I can now cook and still talk to my daughter and visitors.”

— To get the Reno Rumble look, visit your local Freedom Kitchens showroom. For a free, in-home kitchen design appointment, visit freedomkitchens.com.au or call 1800 113 733. And follow Freedom Kitchens on Instagram @Freedom_Kitchens.

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Appliances Kitchens RENO ADDICT The Block

Interiors Addict TV: Carly & Leighton and Kyal & Kara chat about their impressive Reno Rumble kitchens

In the latest episode of Interiors Addict TV, our reporter Lauren Ellis chats to Reno Rumble contestants, Carly & Leighton and Kyal & Kara, about their knockout kitchens. Both teams received perfect scores of 20/20 for their respective relaxed industrial and Hamptons style kitchens!

[contextly_sidebar id=”OcBu1XWPDt7s5R8SBP9NFnf7f5owsUXY”]Learn how they got the look with the help of Freedom Kitchens and see the homeowners’ heartwarming reactions to the reveal. Also hear the judges’ positive feedback and the couples’ top tips for designing a kitchen when you’re poor on space!

Read more of our Reno Rumble coverage on sister site Reno Addict.

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Kitchens RENO ADDICT The Block

Interiors Addict TV: Josh & Jenna chat about their kitchen

Ex Blockheads, the ever popular Josh & Jenna, made a bold statement with their blue cabinetry and leather handles on Reno Rumble this week. Lauren Ellis chats to them about their light and bright kitchen design in the latest episode of Interiors Addict TV. Were you a fan?

[contextly_sidebar id=”S12SdeLQhA0rCcjyRtiVGeaWVmM7bRJ5″]The couple talk about how they created a warm, textured, vintage look in the U-shaped kitchen and their love of Caesarstone tops. And how Freedom Kitchens helped them make quick decisions on the design and incorporate some custom elements.

Read our Reno Rumble latest on sister site Reno Addict.

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Interviews Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Interiors Addict TV: Reno Rumble’s Chris & Nick talk kitchens

In the latest episode of Interiors Addict TV, our reporter Lauren Ellis chats to Reno Rumble contestants, brothers Chris and Nick, about their contemporary coastal kitchen. Learn how they got the look with the help of Freedom Kitchens and see the homeowner’s tearful reaction to the reveal.

Find out how they made the most of every inch of space for clever storage and the judges’ positive feedback. And hear the brothers’ top tips are for creating a family friendly kitchen.

Read more of our Reno Rumble coverage on sister site Reno Addict.

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Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT

How to make a white kitchen pop with Darren Palmer

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

Is white boring and predictable? No! It’s timeless, sophisticated and sharp — especially when designed correctly. Darren Palmer shares his secrets of how to make a white kitchen pop!

White is the most popular choice for consumers looking for a new kitchen, but there’s no need to settle with a lifeless kitchen devoid of contrast. To make it pop, you need ‘wow factor’ and a little luxury appeal. Here are a few tips, along with the beautiful examples from Freedom Kitchens, on how to do it.

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White cabinetry

White cabinetry is the little black dress of the home, but as anyone knows it’s the things you wear with the LBD that take it in a certain direction and add drama, interest and class.

For a kitchen, those interest-adding things aren’t shoes or earrings, but benchtops, splashbacks and a little bling with things like lighting and appliances. Door handles can transform a basic kitchen from drab to fantastic – just like the right kitchen tap can add interest and functionality to the kitchen sink.

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Door and drawer front profiles

Door and drawer front profiles can add an edge to a white kitchen, with different profiles fitting with differing styles of homes. The Shaker style door for instance lays the foundations for a Hamptons or French Provincial setting, whilst a super matt finish like the Iceland range from Freedom Kitchens, is sleek and modern.

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Benchtops

Benchtops have got to be the biggest ticket item in kitchens, but there is no questioning the impact of a beautifully chosen benchtop, like a stunning Caesarstone top or satin-smooth Portfiino solid surface top. Freedom Kitchens’ professional designers can help you choose the right colours and textures, or a combination of dual-tone benchtops, to give your white kitchen a designer finish.

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Layered lighting

Layered lighting is the key to creating ambience and it is also an opportunity to bring in colour. Balance necessary task lighting with undermount or LED strip lighting, and choose beautiful hanging pendants as a statement against a white backdrop.

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Splashbacks

Splashbacks are far more than just colour-backed glass. Look to stone, tiles with texture, pattern, colour or even mirror to add a sense of luxury and space.

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Furniture

The last item for attention is the furniture. Bench stools add a little designer element, while accessories like a toaster, small appliances, bowls, books and tea towels can all be layered into your beautiful white kitchen for colour and interest.

The kitchen is one of the most expensive investments in your home. A white kitchen gives you a blank canvas to play with, so use accessories to reflect your personal style.

— To view the latest product range and kitchen displays, visit your local Freedom Kitchens showroom. For a free, in-home kitchen design appointment, visit freedomkitchens.com.au or call 1800 113 733.

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Design DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Kitchen design tips for small spaces

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

Small kitchens often conjure images of inadequate bench space, a cramped work triangle and precious little space for appliances. With space at a premium, designing with every square centimetre in mind is paramount.

A professional designer can help you make your small space not only look good but maximise the storage space and layout, so you never have to compromise on functionality. Freedom Kitchens share five strategic design tricks to create the impression of a larger kitchen in a small space.

1. Light and bright

A neutral palette will help achieve a seamless, uncluttered look. When choosing materials, gloss finishes will help bounce light around the room and glass and mirrored splashbacks will reflect surrounds, creating the illusion of space.

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2. Fuss free

Handles on every cupboard door can be too busy for a small kitchen. Consider fitting them only to the base cupboards, and opt for handle-less touch catches on the upper cabinetry.

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3. Double up

Ensure every centimetre of space counts by making it work hard, for instance, incorporate a breakfast bar at one end of the preparation space, then utilise space underneath for additional storage. Also, choose a sink that comes with a range of accessories, such as an integrated chopping board, to make food preparation easier.

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4. Storage solutions

Deep drawers make items more accessible and are a more space-efficient option than a standard cupboard. Then take your upper cabinetry all the way to the ceiling to maximise storage and minimise dust.

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5. Downsized appliances

Appliance companies have responded to the growing demand for inner-city and apartment style living with compact appliance solutions. Downsized dishwashers, ovens and fridges will keep a small space from feeling cramped and allow for more cabinet space.

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Make the most of your small space and book a free in-home design appointment with a professional Freedom Kitchens designer. Visit freedomkitchens.com.au or call 1800 113 733.

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DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Kitchens: get the designer look for less

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

Most of us don’t have the luxury of an endless budget for home renovating but there are several ways to bring a high-end look to your home without the high price. Get started creating your dream kitchen with these tips from Freedom Kitchens.

Be inspired

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Browse magazines, showrooms, home design blogs and sites like Pinterest or Houzz to gather inspiration. Take note of the kitchens that catch your eye and what it is that you like most about the design.

HOT TIP: Start a list of what you think are the ‘must haves’ versus the ‘nice to haves’.

Cabinetry solutions

2 Cabinetry Solutions

Bespoke, high-end kitchens will feature custom cabinets, however you can achieve a similar look at a fraction of the cost. For example, Freedom Kitchens offers flexibility with its extensive range of door styles, colours and finishes and will create a kitchen to suit any style.

HOT TIP: Stick to cabinets rather than drawers. This is much more cost-effective and will leave some extra cash to spend on other luxuries within the kitchen.

On the surface

3 On The Surface

How you use your kitchen will determine the benchtop you use. Avid entertainers may place more emphasis on achieving an aesthetic centrepiece, whilst an investor may see value in choosing a more economical yet hard-wearing surface.

The most common styles are outlined below:

  • Solid Surface – allows for a seamless finish and is hygienic, non-porous, and resistant to stains and heat. It comes in many different colours and is available in matte, semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes.
  • Caesarstone – is the most durable stone benchtop. It has the look of natural stone and is highly resistant to staining. Quartz surfacing is low maintenance, non-porous and very hygienic.
  • Laminate – is a durable and economical alternative available in a wide range of colours, finishes and textures many of which replicate the current stone colours and timber tops available on the market today.

HOT TIP: Get a designer look by combining two contrasting benchtop colours, materials, heights or thicknesses. The variation will pique interest whist providing the opportunity to include that feature top if it’s on your must have luxury list!

Customise with colour

4 Customise with Colour

Create visual interest and make your kitchen look bespoke by adding some colour. Whilst a white kitchen is safe and timeless, play around with a few colour combinations on Freedom Kitchens Kitchen Customiser and see how swapping sections of white cabinetry to black, woodgrain or a bright coloured will take your kitchen from white to WOW.

HOT TIP: Interesting pendant lighting or decorative tiled splashbacks will bring in colour, letting your personality and style shine through.

Get professional help

5 Get Professional Help

It’s easy to be tempted with extras during the kitchen design process, so work with a professional designer to set and manage the budget. They can help determine areas to invest and where to cut back. They will help you create the most efficient and spacious layout, as well as offering economical ways to replicate any coveted luxury looks.

–As you can see, there are many ways to trim back by mixing lower-end with upper-end materials without sacrificing your dreams or savings account! To view the latest product range and kitchen displays, visit your local Freedom Kitchens showroom. For a free, in-home kitchen design appointment, visit freedomkitchens.com.au or call 1800 113 733.

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Design DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Kitchen layout options — what’s right for you?

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

Getting your kitchen layout and flow right is the foundation for good kitchen design.

Your existing space will play an important part in determining the layout of your kitchen. However, don’t be limited by what you have now – a good designer can see beyond the current layout and come up with a solution that best suits your needs.

Firstly, let’s take a look at three popular kitchen layouts:

  1. U-shape: This is an ideal choice for larger spaces and allows two people to work together without interfering with each other.

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  1. L-shape: This provides plenty of work space and storage space and can work well in either small or large kitchens. A large L-shaped kitchen can also be combined with an island or a dining table.

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  1. Galley: The galley layout is perfect for narrow spaces and apartments where space may be limited. This is an efficient kitchen layout, with all storage, appliances and work spaces close at hand.

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Work triangle

Once you’ve determined the layout, pay special attention to how the three main work areas of the kitchen relate to each other. The “working triangle” of the sink, cooktop and fridge will work most efficiently when located within comfortable distance of each other – too close and you will be struggling for comfortable work space; too far apart and you will find yourself walking around the kitchen most of the time.

Other considerations include having bench space next to the ovens and cooktops for placing hot items, putting the dishwasher near the sink for easy clean up and the pantry near the fridge so all food storage is close together.

If you get your layout right, moving around the kitchen, cooking and entertaining will be a most enjoyable experience.

To view the latest product range and kitchen displays, visit your local Freedom Kitchens showroom. For a free, in-home kitchen design appointment, visit freedomkitchens.com.au or call 1800 113 733.

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Interviews Kitchens RENO ADDICT The Block

As they prepare to go back on The Block, Bec & George show us their new kitchen

Bec and George will be back on our screens soon in The Block Triple Threat. It’s fair to say they’ve been busy living a whirlwind life since starring in The Block Sky High in 2013 and being crowned the public’s favourites. Since filming wrapped up, they certainly haven’t put down the hammer and nails. The couple, who’ve been together for 11 years, recently finished construction on their latest home in Melbourne. They called on Freedom Kitchens to help design their kitchen. Here, Bec shares a few of her design tips.

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Tell us about your latest renovation project.

This is one of two townhouses we’ve built in the Inner West suburb of Spotswood, five minutes from the CBD and five minutes from Williamstown beach. We’ve always loved this area and bought into it years ago before the boom! The project has taken us two years to plan and 18 months to build; a long process of ever-changing decisions and long days of work.

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The kitchen renovation in particular is very elegant. What was your design brief?

I love to cook and entertain, so the main brief for the design was that I could oversee the dining, living, alfresco and backyard areas, as well as have a large space to prepare food. Clean lines, crisp white and plenty of storage were also key elements! Every detail was thought through.

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What were your key objectives when working with your Freedom Kitchens designer to create this kitchen space?

Our main objectives throughout the design consultations, were to make sure we ticked all the boxes: functionality, ample preparation space, plenty of storage and something that won’t date quickly.

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What materials have you selected and why?

We went for Freedom Kitchens’ Alaskan White Gloss cabinetry so that it would absorb all the natural light and really make the space feel light and airy. We added features like white shadow lines to be consistent with the all-white cabinetry. The integrated appliances just enhanced the symmetry and made the space look more complete.

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You’ve essentially created an all-white kitchen but given it some serious wow factor. What are your tips for taking a white kitchen to the next level?

The great thing about having such a neutral base is you can really dress the area up with accessories and styling. The beauty of white is anything you add to it will just pop — like timber, metals and greenery.

You have a great eye for fashion and design. Of the current trends out there at the moment, what have you included and why?

The integrated appliances add such a modern touch to the kitchen. I also wanted to complement the white cabinetry with marble benchtops — this adds another texture to the space. My favourite element that is very on-trend at the moment is the copper pendants. I think they complement the space perfectly. We decided to add a butler’s pantry because I absolutely hate clutter on my bench! I like everything to be away. So this was the perfect solution.

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How can people incorporate the latest trends without creating a kitchen that will date too quickly?

I think the best thing about adding accessories to dress the kitchen is that they are interchangeable. If copper goes out of fashion in a few years’ time, I can change over the pendants. Sticking with neutral colours and finishes will give you more time before having to do a revamp. You don’t have to necessarily go with all-white, but maybe an oyster grey. Steer away from bright colours like reds and don’t make the kitchen too heavy with something like all black.

–Book a Freedom Kitchen design appointment online. They’re having a one-day sale on 14 February. More details on their website.

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Interiors Addict

Freedom Kitchens bring Miami chic to the Big Brother House

I’ll be the first to admit I have absolutely no interest in Big Brother, but when I caught a glimpse of their Miami-inspired kitchen, well let’s just say things got a lot more interesting!

Big Brother 2014 - House

With 16 housemates, the emphasis of the kitchen is on regular entertaining as well creating practical and durable spaces. Designed by Freedom Kitchens, it features sweeping stain-resistant benchtops, a 900mm cooktop, large eat-in island bench and plenty of room for traffic flow between busy workstations.

Classic Shaker doors in White Matt complement the dual benchtop selection of Caesarstone’s new Clamshell (a soft fusion of light grey and white) and Laminex 180º FX Carrera Marble for a sophisticated base. Offsetting the neutrals are zingy citrus accents for furnishings and accessories, with a lush feature wall creating a glitzy, coastal look.

If you fancy recreating this look, call Freedom Kitchens on 1300 885 435 to book an in-home design consultation.