Tag: kitchen appliances

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Appliances Expert Tips Kitchens

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

Sponsored by Glem Gas

With summer and seasonal entertaining just around the corner (hooray for having visitors to our homes again!), many of you may be thinking about updating your kitchen or upgrading your appliances. Having your cooking zone work seamlessly when your menu production is in full swing is the holy grail of kitchen design, so here are some essentials to keep in mind when planning the main event.

A functional layout

Big ovens bring a lot of convenience when cooking for a crowd and if you are hosting Christmas, extra capacity is essential. While the trend of having multiple built-in ovens side by side on a wall continues, there are huge benefits in having one large statement cooker, creating an efficient all-in-one cooking zone that can easily accommodate large roasts or a mountainous pavlova in the oven, and multiple burners to juggle sauces, sides and other finishing touches simultaneously.

Most kitchens can fit a 60cm cooker into their layout, but there are also options to have a 70cm, 80cm or 90cm cooker for an even wider and more flexible configuration. A large oven allows you to roast a turkey and still have enough room to bake the vegetables or cater for small children who may have different food requirements. Everything comes out of the oven freshly cooked rather than having to do multiple batches.

The features that count

Big occasions like hosting Christmas or other large gatherings really put cooking appliances to the test. And for those who have a five-burner cooktop, this may just be the time to get them all firing at once. Gravies, boiled pudding, grilled seafood, and blanched veggies can all get the festive treatment as long as the design of the cooktop allows. A central wok burner, instead of one positioned on the side, creates ample space for other pots and pans to be placed around it, without bumping into each other.

Keep track of all your Christmas dishes in the same oven when you choose a large freestanding model from Glem Gas

And of course, big events call for big ovens! Glem Gas ovens have extra large capacity thanks to their internal design, so whether you’re baking a leg of ham, or roasting a 6kg turkey (or both!), you’ll still be able to close the oven door. Taking large trays of fish or vegetables out of the oven is also safer and more stress-free when there is extra space to place your hands on either side.

When cooking a large variety of oven dishes, it pays to take advantage of multizone cooking so that vegetables and trimmings can be placed on separate racks in the oven at the same time as the meat.

Catering to the clock

There are many benefits in having all your festive foods coming together piping hot at the same time with one large cooker. In addition to the size and flexibility of the cooker format, it’s also easier to monitor the progress of each dish in one location, rather than scanning multiple smaller built-in ovens, a separate cooktop and benchtop appliances.

Of course, coordinating the dishes so they’re all ready at the same time is key and requires some planning and precision. Here are some Christmas entertaining tips to take the stress out of celebrations:

  • Plan and shop ahead, setting a schedule (and menu) that works
  • Bake desserts a day or two ahead of time, leaving just the cream, custard or fruit to add on the day
  • Set your table the night before and always plan for extra guests 
  • Chop and prepare vegetables the night before so they’re ready (in separate containers) for quick assembly in the roasting tray
  • Use a meat thermometer for perfectly and safely cooked poultry.

For more information on Glem Gas’ range of award-winning and innovative ovens.

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…
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Appliances Design Kitchens

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.

Silestone Ethereal Dusk
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.

SMEG kettle
SMEG mixer

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.

Winning Appliances
The Bora 83cm X Pure induction cooktop with externally ducted integrated ventilation system
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…
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Appliances Expert Tips House Tours Kitchens

The 5 kitchen design elements Three Birds Renovations swear by

Bonnie, Lana and Erin are Three Birds Renovations, the serial renovators who transform suburban Aussie houses into stunning family dream homes. Their fresh take on modern living manages to be both practical and magazine-worthy with their latest project, House 14, the first of its kind for the design trio. 

Dubbed “Three Birds Dream Home”, House 14 brings together all the best design features from the Three Birds most loved homes, offering a breezy, open floorplan ultimate family home, perfect for indoor/outdoor entertaining – and it’s available as an exclusive knockdown rebuild package with Rawson Homes. 

And the heart of the home is the kitchen. Here, the renovation trio share their trademark five kitchen design elements, for you to replicate at home. 

1. Open plan layout 

The main reason we love open plan living is the fact that it brings everyone together. Don’t shut the kitchen away in a room of its own, instead merge it with the dining and living room, for one collaborative airy and open space. Whether you’re big on entertaining, or it’s just for your own family, we’re busier than ever these days and an open plan layout causes people to congregate in one space. The key to make it workable is to create distinct zones for different activities within the space.

2. Island bench

A great place for friends and family to congregate, the kitchen island is a Three Birds signature, a family mecca for homework, dinner prep and a wine after work. What makes it stand out is the curved design and custom cabinetry. We also love a dishwasher that can be integrated into the island bench and the Electrolux Built-Under Dishwasher with MyTime comes with an inverter system that means it’s ultra-quiet so it won’t disturb your post-dinner TV watching. Just add barstools and statement pendant lighting. 

3. Butler’s pantry 

A Butler’s Pantry, or BP in Three Birds shorthand is great as a place for meal prep and hiding mess so that the main kitchen remains inviting. In House 14 we added a butler’s pantry to increase the kitchen storage space and to have a separate area in which to prep meals and keep the small appliances, without cluttering the benchtops in the main kitchen.

4. Open to the outdoors

Us lucky duck Australians love indoor/outdoor living and we love an easy flow from the outdoor entertaining area to the kitchen, so that the chef is part of the entertaining action. In House 14 this meant doors opening directly from the kitchen onto the patio. 

5. Great design and functionality

Make your kitchen a space that looks great and functions well, so that you want to be in it. When we’re designing our kitchens we always position the dishwasher next to the sink for easy loading and the cutlery and crockery drawers are close by for easy emptying. Plus, we love custom cabinetry as it gives you all the freedom to choose your desired layout, profile and colours, while ensuring your appliances fit perfectly into the space. In House 14 it allowed us space for family favourite the big 609L capacity Electrolux French door fridge. 

The big kitchen reveal

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…

My new navy and gold laundry revealed: before and after

Our kitchen was the very first room we renovated in this house, almost four years ago. It was a case of “I’m not buying the house unless we can afford…
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Appliances Expert Tips Kitchens

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 when it comes to functionality, how you like to cook, what you want to spend and how it will look. For this reason, it’s a call you should make early on, and having done your research.

There are those who want to make a statement with their cooker and those who prefer it to fade into the background. Those who cook a lot and love it, and those who really don’t care. These are the more over arching considerations, but there plenty of finer details and questions to ask yourself too, which can help you make this sometimes tricky choice!

“Cookers hark back to the tradition of the fireplace being the focal point of the kitchen when it was the beating heart of the home; a source of light and warmth,” says David Gilmore, managing director of Glem Gas Australasia, a leading Italian-made freestanding cooker brand. “Modern cookers become the focal point of a kitchen in the same way the wood-burning stove and fireplace were before them. There is something comforting about a freestanding cooker in a kitchen; a warmth and familiarity that hints of times past.”

In more recent times, the built-in oven has allowed a more minimalist and less attention-grabbing approach. This can allow our kitchens to seem more like other rooms, where the appliances blend into the background. But if you’re a serious cook and the kitchen is your happy place, you may want that cooker to be a showstopper! It’s really all a matter of personal taste.

If freestanding is your vibe, Glem Gas, with their 60-year history, have a huge range of width options. They cater for 99% of kitchen cavities with all major sizes covered in the range. So freestanding cookers are no longer just for big kitchens.

Somewhere else they stand out, with something you may not have heard of before, is their Doppio range, which allows you to cook with electric or gas. And while you may think you already have that, with what’s known as dual fuel, this is something altogether cleverer!

The Doppio (Italian for double) oven concept allows home cooks to bake and roast using a choice of two energy sources. At the flick of a knob, they can switch from gas operation to cook with a steam heat (ideal for retaining moisture in meats), to electric operation to produce a dry heat (perfect for crisp pastries). All within the same oven cavity. This unique functionality came from an idea generated right here in Australia, then brought to life by the manufacturer in Modena, Italy. 

“This feature doubles the cooking possibilities and adds a flexibility previously only possible by having two separate ovens,” David says. “Integrating this technology into Glem Gas Bi Energy cookers improves the cooking experience and optimises results for both sweet and savoury foods.”

With the arrival of Doppio, Glem Gas now offers three Bi Energy cookers, including a 90cm cooker in a stainless steel or black finish, and a 70cm stainless steel design for more compact kitchen layouts. Matched with five gas burners, (and a centre wok burner on some models), cast iron trivets and multifunctional gas and electric oven operation, the quality and cooking versatility are truly maximised. 

Glem Gas continues to manufacture products tailored to Australian kitchens. Known as the ‘specialisti in cottura’ (cooking specialists) – the company approaches product development with a deep understanding of user-friendly design, multipurpose functionality, high performance and reliability.

If you’re set on a freestanding oven and aesthetics are as important to you as functionality, Glem Gas suggest you ask the following questions:

  • What is the profile of the front edge of the hob? Will it match the profile of the standard 40mm benchtop?
  • Does the height of the control panel line up with the drawers to create a consistent horizontal element in the kitchen?
  • Is the kickplate under the cupboards able to continue across the bottom of the cooker?
  • Can the cooker height be adjusted so the cooker is integrated precisely into the kitchen?

These are all the sort of little things Glem Gas have considered in their designs and, you guessed, it, they can say yes to all the above! You know what they say about good design being a combination of all the little details!

For more information online or visit your nearest Harvey Norman.

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Appliances Design Designers Interviews Kitchens

Real reno: Green wall stars in Albert Park kitchen

Cantilever Interiors 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.

Cantilever Interiors kitchen

“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.

Cantilever Interiors

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.

Curved details
The kitchen features lovely curved, furniture-like, edges

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.

Open shelving
The gorgeous open shelving provides a personal touch

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!

Image: e&s
Image: e&s

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.

Image: e&s
A external water dispenser may be an important factor to consider for your household. Image: e&s

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.

Image: e&s
An integrated Liebherr fridge. Image: e&s

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.

Image: e&s
French doors are a great, practical option if you have the space. Image: e&s

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 Interviews Kitchens

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

Gaggenau integrated dishwasher
Gaggenau integrated dishwasher

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.

Integration

Gaggenau integrated dishwasher
Gaggenau integrated dishwasher

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.

AEG PyroLuxe Pyrolytic built-in oven
AEG PyroLuxe Pyrolytic built-in oven

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.

Bold colour

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.”

Sub Zero fridge
Sub Zero fridge

For more | Darren Palmer’s top laundry design tips

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Appliances Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Australian kitchen trends: Summer 2018 edition

Smeg wine cellar
Smeg wine cellar

From LG’s new matte black range to Smeg’s new white appliances and fabulous wine cellars, there’s plenty to love in our latest round-up of kitchen finds.

LG Matte Black appliance range: With matte black a solid trend at present, LG has released a range of complementary on-trend appliances. The range includes a microwave, dishwasher and fridge with a unique ‘InstaView’ technology. You literally knock twice on the fridge door and the glass panel on the front of the fridge turns transparent to reveal the inside of the fridge. Not only is it obviously super handy, it reduces cold air loss and temperature fluctuations too. From $379.

LG matte black range

LG matte black appliances

Smeg white collection: For a company that rose to fame on the back of colour, it’s ironic that Smeg’s latest offering sees an expansion of its white line-up. Not only has it introduced a white option for its iconic Victoria freestanding cooker, but the brand’s retro blender is now available in white too. $299 (blender) and $6290 (cooker).

Smeg Victoria oven white
Smeg’s iconic Victoria oven is now available in white

Smeg blender white
Smeg blender in white

Caesarstone: Inspired by carbon fibre, fire and dust, the latest Caesarstone finishes feature deep black shades, bold charcoal and midnight grey and are a response to global trends. “Kitchens, for example, will take inspiration from carbon fibre, those materials that come naturally from fire and dust. It’s a new way of looking at beauty and dark, dramatic colours will be used in bathrooms to create a more sophisticated, hedonistic ambience too,” says trend forecaster Li Edelkoort of the new range.

Caesarstone rugged concrete
Caesarstone’s new ‘Rugged Concrete’ finish

Caesarstone Vanilla Noir
Caesarstone’s new ‘Vanilla Noir’ finish

ILVE SuperINOX cooktop: Made in Italy from stainless steel, ILVE’s latest cooktop is available in two sizes – 77cm and 90cm and the best part about it is that the edges are bevelled making it look like it’s part of the bench top. It’s a nice alternative to a flush mounted design. From $2199.

ILVE inox

Smeg Dolce Stil Novo wine cellars: Dolce Stil Novo, Smeg’s luxury kitchen appliance range, introduced two new wine cellars recently. There’s a 450mm high built-in model and an 820mm under bench option and they offer precise controlled temperature (between 5˚C and 20˚C), ideal humidity, perfect air quality, UV protection and are vibration free. Made with black glass, each option is paired with copper or stainless steel detailing and they complement the collection’s other appliances. From $2190.

Smeg wine cellar
Smeg wine cellar

Smeg wine cellar
The built-in wine cellar complements other appliances in the Dolce Stil Novo collection

The Sommelier drawer is available in the under bench option
The stylish Sommelier drawer is available in the under bench option

Cosentino Dekton industrial collection: Cosentino has introduced four new colours in its Dekton Industrial collection that are inspired by aged and oxidised metals, stones and cement and are perfect for creating a strong, urban aesthetic.

Cosentino Dekton in 'Soke'
Cosentino Dekton in ‘Soke’

Cosentino Dekton in 'Laos'
Cosentino Dekton in ‘Laos’

Spring 2018 kitchen trends

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Appliances Kitchens Shopping

KitchenAid 100 year anniversary edition: be quick!

The creation of an Ohio based engineer Herbert Johnson, KitchenAid’s iconic stand mixer celebrates its 100 year anniversary soon and the company have added a limited edition heritage-inspired Misty Blue iteration to commemorate the occasion.

There are only 1000 of the gorgeous ‘Misty Blue’ commemorative mixers available

Herbert came up with the design in 1919 after watching a baker mix bread dough with a heavy, iron spoon and aside from hugely assisting commercial bakers, the design had a massive impact on the home cook who, until that point, had to mix baked goods manually.

Kitchenaid stand mixer 1937

The other thing that really stands out about KitchenAid is the way in which the brand embraced colour – a tradition that dates back to late 1930’s. It was on the eve of World War II that the brand’s iconic colour palette came about, forever changing the world of white goods. Colours such as ‘Sunny Yellow,’ ‘Island Green,’ ‘Satin Chrome’ and ‘Petal Pink’ were popular in the 1950’s while the 1990’s saw the introduction of bolder hues such as ‘Empire Red,’ ‘Hunting Green,’ ‘Cobalt Blue’ and ‘Majestic Yellow.’

Kitchenaid 1955

Aside from the stand mixer, the brand launched a dishwasher in 1949, a fridge in 1986, a food processor in 1993 and an induction cooktop in 2008.

Kitchenaid food processor
KitchenAid expanded into food processors in 1993

KitchenAid dishwasher
KitchenAid’s first dishwasher hit the market in 1949

kitchenaid dishwasher
The 1970’s saw the introduction of yellow and green coloured dishwashers

To celebrate the anniversary, the limited edition ‘Misty Blue’ colour is a nod to the brand’s roots – a soft blue with a hint of green, the gorgeous hue recalls one of the first colours that KitchenAid ever introduced. “Misty Blue brings back a definitive style that will spark nostalgia across generations, while also continuing to inspire in the kitchen. As we commemorate the brand’s past, we want to celebrate all the passionate home cooks who have inspired our innovation for the last 100 years,” says KitchenAid’s general manager and managing director Asia-Pacific, Kay Oswald.

Kitchenaid stand mixer
With only 1000 available, you’d better get in quick!

Shop online | Our favourite coloured kitchen sinks

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Appliances Kitchens

Smeg’s new cold-press juicer looks super hot

(Pardon the pun but we couldn’t resist!).

Cementing the brand’s position as purveyors of super stylish kitchen appliances, the latest outing from Smeg has our design-hearts racing. With the slow (or cold-pressed) juice movement sweeping the world it was only a matter of time before the retro-styled brand joined in.

Smeg Slow Juicer LS 1 Panna Cr
The Smeg Slow Juicer sits alongside the brand’s traditional blender

The Smeg SJF01 Slow Juicer will cold press fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts to create nutritionally dense cold-pressed juices and it’s ultra-quiet too. The slow juicer offers a much gentler approach to the brand’s predecessor in the category – the centrifugal juicer – and uses a single gear system to replicate the action of an old-school manual squeeze.

SJF01BLAU
The Smeg Slow Juicer in black

The slow juicer has a host of fabulous features including a juice density regulator that allows you to customise the amount of fibrous pulp in the finished product – basically the more pulp, the thicker the juice. And one aspect we really like is that, unlike centrifugal juicers, the juice doesn’t separate within a few minutes of being pressed. Conventional centrifugal juicers use blades, spinning at high speed, to pulverize fruit and vegetables and the heat (from the friction of the blades) destroys many of the nutrients. Traditional juicing methods also produce high levels of froth and pulp that quickly separate from the liquid which can adversely affect the taste too.

SJF01PBAU_6
The Smeg slow juicer (shown in blue) & its range of complementary accessories

Aside from juice, this little beauty will also produce nut and soy milks and the fibre that is collected in a separate container (via a second funnel) can be used to make soups, cakes and bliss balls too. Available in four colours – black, red, pastel blue and the brand’s signature panna (or cream) – the Smeg Slow Juicer retails for $499.

Click here for more information.

 

 

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Appliances

Smeg releases retro style built-in cooking appliances

Just as Smeg’s iconic fridge complements just about any style of interior, their new range of built-in cooking appliances will too with its classic lines and chic colour ways. “Devotees of both contemporary design and vintage style will covet the deliciously timeless aesthetics of the Victoria built-in that looks equally at home in contemporary loft-style apartments as it does in a country cottage,” says Smeg.

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The collection comprises 60cm sized single and double ovens (both with the option of pyrolytic cleaning), 45cm high compact models and warming drawers too. The design builds on Smeg’s original freestanding Victoria range but features an expanded colour range that includes white and stainless steel. The collection is also available in black and panna too – two classic Smeg colours.

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A standout in the range is the compact Victoria Speed Oven which boasts some pretty impressive technology allowing you to cook a whole chicken in just half an hour. Circulating microwave power works with traditional convection functions to dramatically reduce cooking times making it ideal for those who are time-poor. The 60cm multifunction pyrolytic oven is another highlight of the collection – it offers 16 cooking functions, including proving and Sabbath, plus 20 SmartSense menus and a soft close door too.

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A bank of Smeg Victoria appliances

Designed to be installed within a bank of appliances, the Victoria Compact Ovens, including the Speed Oven and Combi Steam Oven, are 45cm high and designed to integrate seamlessly with the 60cm models in terms of aesthetics and dimensions. Our personal favourite, the 15cm high warming drawer is one appliance we would love to have at home. Boasting a ‘push to open’ function, it’s great for entertaining as it keeps plates, serving dishes and prepared food super toasty before serving.

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The handy warming drawer

See here for more.

 

 

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Appliances Kitchens

Dolce & Gabbana and Smeg create a statement fridge

Dolce & Gabbana will soon bring their heavily embellished aesthetic to the home appliance world, with a unique collaboration with Smeg.

If you’re after a statement piece for the kitchen, this partnership more than delivers and it’s a look that’s certainly not for the faint-hearted. Smeg’s iconic retro style FAB28 refrigerator has been reimagined as a grand Italian fresco emblazoned with hand-painted, vibrant patterns and colours and striking depictions of Sicily’s past.

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Think uniquely Sicilian symbols of lemons, the trinacria (a reference to the triangular shape of the island of Sicily), cart wheels, medieval knights and battle scenes, all hand-painted by Sicilian artists including brothers Antonio and Guiseppe Bevilacqua and mother and daughter pair Adriana Zambonelli and Tiziana Nicosia.

With only 300 produced, these beauties are likely to be highly sought after and will quickly reach instant heirloom status. They’ll be unveiled shortly at Milan’s design fair, Salone Internazionale del Mobile.

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See here for more.

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Appliances Kitchens

ILVE now offering custom-coloured ovens

When it comes to kitchen design, the sky really is the limit in terms of cabinetry and bench top options, but the same couldn’t be said about ovens until now. As of this month, premium Italian kitchen appliance company ILVE are offering their most popular oven collections in almost 2,000 custom colours. Ah-mazing!

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“We are delighted to be able to offer this new service to our customers. I know how important it is for them to have a kitchen that is completely unique, therefore we can’t wait to launch this new service,” said Daniel Bertuccio, Eurolinx marketing manager.

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From zesty yellow to bold blue and everything in between, the colour choice is virtually infinite which is great news for lovers of bespoke interiors. Also, the feature will be available across three of the brand’s oven ranges – the Quadra (the brand’s bestseller), the Majestic and the Nostaglie.

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Handmade and highly regarded, ILVE ovens have always been customisable in terms of size and configuration too. Plus, they offer some great features like a space-saving storage drawer for kitchen essentials.

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Shop here.

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Appliances Homewares Kitchens

SMEG bench top appliances get a candy-coloured makeover

We were pretty excited when SMEG expanded their offering beyond their fabulously iconic fridge, to include super cool retro-inspired bench top appliances.

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But now, in even better news for those with a weakness for kitchen eye candy, the range of stand mixers, blenders, toasters and kettles is available in candy pink and pastel green shades.

Smeg Toaster 2 PinkToaster, two-slice, $179

Designed in collaboration with Italy’s Matteo Bazzicalupo and Raffaella Mangiarotti of Deep Design Studio, the collection is a nostalgic homage to 1950’s design and the new candy inspired tones really put the retro into overdrive.

SMF01PGAU_3Kitchen mixer, $799

And while the collection sports a fabulous retro aesthetic, there’s nothing antiquated about its functionality. From the mixer’s pasta-making capabilities to the toaster’s extra wide slots, reheat and bagel settings, the appliances really deliver on the functionality front too.

Smeg Blender BLF01PKSABlender, $299

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We’ll have one in every colour, please!

The range is available nationally from David Jones, Myer and Harvey Norman stores.

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Appliances Homewares Kitchens

Iconic kitchenware brand Pyrex celebrates its 100-year anniversary

Marking a century of innovation, Pyrex is releasing a selection of stylish limited edition 100-year anniversary products, including the iconic measuring jug, pie plate and dot themed glass storage containers.

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Since its invention 100 years ago, billions of Pyrex glassware pieces have been sold worldwide, including more than 65 million in Australia. The brand has stood the test of time with an estimated one in five Australian households owning a Pyrex product.

The ultimate collectors’ items, the limited edition selection will be available in a variety of sizes and colours, including blue, white, green, turquoise and signature red, inspired by popular and classic Pyrex designs from across the decades. Made from Pyrex’s celebrated and durable glassware, the selection is oven, microwave and dishwasher safe.

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Pyrex’s 100 year anniversary limited edition collection is a must-have for avid bakers and cooks alike. Available in David Jones, Myer, Big W, Woolworths and selected independent retailers, prices range from $9.95-to-16.95 per piece.

For more information.

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Appliances Kitchens RENO ADDICT The Block

Olivia visits The Block’s kitchens and shares her opinion and all the product details

So I’ll let you in on a little secret. A couple of hours before The Block reveals air, we get the photos of all the rooms. The problem is, we don’t get the judges’ comments, so I spend a good 30 minutes trying to decipher who wins. I must say I’m normally pretty accurate — though I will admit I did not see Josh and Charlotte’s 30/30 score for their master bedroom coming!

But my guessing game went into overdrive last week, when I got to see The Block’s kitchens in the flesh (days prior to the reveal). Judge Shaynna Blaze led the tour, and though I attempted on countless occasions to get her opinion out of her, she kept mum (you should be proud, Channel 9)!

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Shaynna and I

So below are all my views and all the product details, should you wish to try and replicate the kitchens in your own home.

Ayden and Jess: Modern traditional

Looking at the kitchen alone and ignoring how it fitted into the surrounding space, it was my favourite. I liked pretty much all of it bar the glass-fronted cabinets. I just don’t see them as realistic. People have mismatched dinnerware; it just seems so messy!

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On-trend and functional, the profiled cabinetry in a Stone Grey brought an element of sophistication and the benchtop choice of Silestone Lyra added a natural feel to the classically styled kitchen. Designed and built to entertain, Jess and Ayden opted for Electrolux appliances throughout the kitchen, as well as Breville small appliances and Oliveri taps and sinks.

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Dea and Darren: Urban glam

While I later found out how different my opinion was to the judges, the Double Ds produced my second favourite kitchen. And if you looked at the space as a whole (so the kitchen, living and dining as one), well then it shot straight to my favourite. Yes, the ‘goalposts’ were weird, but it was the only townhouse that actually had open plan living.

These 'goal posts' got a LOT of mentions and not in a good way!

The kitchen is really the social hub of the home, executed through smart and functional design without compromising on style (though that mosaic tile splashback was a bit OTT). With Silestone benchtops in Cemento Spa and Pulsar, the appliances included an integrated Vintec Wine Fridge, a Bosch 762 litre French Door Fridge, a Bosch warming drawer, Oliveri sinks and taps and Breville small appliances.

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Tim and Anastasia: Modern monochrome

I found Tim and Anastasia’s kitchen layout quite bizarre, what with it being almost like two galley kitchens attached in an L-shape. Standing in it was very cramped, though that said we were 50 or so people there! However, what I did really like was how they connected their kitchen to the terrace with bi-fold windows; perfect for indoor-outdoor living.

The Block in Melbourne

Using contrasting colours and textures of black and white and gloss and matt, the kitchen focused on modern elements like handle-less cabinetry and used soft greys — of the Silestone benchtops in Lagoon — to help balance the monochromatic scheme. Appliances included the Delonghi oven and built-in combination microwave, with a Samsung 636 litre fridge, Breville small appliances and Oliveri taps and sinks.

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Josh and Charlotte: Minimalist

I totally agreed with the judges on this one. In person, I couldn’t get over the huge blank space behind the timber bench. It looked so unfinished and cold. Josh and Charlotte’s style is minimalism — which can be great — but I think this time it was taken too far.

The Block in Melbourne

Using crisp white cabinetry, offset by a raised cafe style timber bench and Titanium drawer fronts, the kitchen also included subtle marbling in the Silestone benchtop in Helix. To complement this, Josh and Charlotte used Fisher & Paykel appliances, with an integrated fridge and a gas and ceramic cook top, Breville small appliances and Oliveri sinks and taps.

The Block in Melbourne

Finally, a special thanks to The Good Guys for flying me to Melbourne and giving me a behind the scenes look at The Block. I loved it!

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Appliances

Samsung’s world-first Water Wall dishwasher

In a cleaning first, Samsung’s new Water Wall premium dishwater creates a powerful sweeping wall of water that extends to even the hardest to reach places.

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Designed to provide users with versatility and a range of cleaning options, the Samsung Water Wall features up to six wash programmes and a high temperature rinse cycle, giving users the option to wash dishes at 65°C, helping to effectively clean those tough or tricky to clean dishes. The Water Wall FLEXTRAY continues to make life easier by allowing users to simply lift and insert from the top rack to easily stack and unpack cutlery straight into the drawer.

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With an Energy Star rating, the Water Wall features a flexible half-wash option, a function that gives users the convenience of selecting just to have the upper or lower half of the dishwasher cleaned. A drying system, a first for Samsung, is also included, with the dishwasher door automatically opening after washing, allowing for steam and condensation to escape and assist with the drying process.

The Water Wall boasts a sophisticated design with stainless steel pocket handles and Star Display featuring blue LED lighting, to help ensure this dishwasher elegantly fits into every kitchen. Available now from Harvey Norman in two freestanding variant options, White and Stainless Steel, prices start from $1599.00. For more information.

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The Block

10 ways to maximise kitchen storage as seen on The Block

Customers today demand more than just good looks in their kitchen. It’s got to work efficiently, it’s got to make life easier and there’s got to be lots of storage! The Good Guys’ kitchen design consultants offer their top 10 tips on how to maximise storage in the kitchen, just like the couples on The Block Glasshouse.

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  1. Design drawers that are deeper and wider in order to save space and allow for easy access to hard-to-reach pots and pans.
  2. Metal runners in drawers allow for a silent, soft-close system and deliver added strength and durability.
  3. Trays and dividers can be added in drawers to further maximise storage and keep items organised inside.
  4. Drawers under the sink and oven are excellent solutions for maximising these often under-utilised spaces.
  5. Walk-in or butler’s pantries will suit larger spaces and can house everything from small appliances to wine fridges and secondary preparation spaces.
  6. When everything has a place in the kitchen, it becomes more functional and thereby an enjoyable place to spend time.
  7. Keep in mind that there is an endless range of accessories available to help with organisation in the kitchen, from dedicated spice drawers for the avid chef to under-sink caddys for storing unsightly cleaning products.
  8. Today there are numerous solutions for keeping your pantry clutter at bay. Pull-out baskets and shelves are convenient inclusions, keeping items within easy reach.
  9. A great idea for keeping benchtops clear of clutter is to include a dedicated appliance cupboard.
  10. Either house everything behind a roller shutter, or include a pull-out carousel in corner cupboards – a great use of traditionally hard-to-reach space.

– Find more information on The Good Guys’ products and expert advice here.