Get ready to check out our top 5 kitchen gadgets and appliances for 2013! Your socks are going to be knocked off by some serious cooking power tools.

1- Vitamix 5200 Blender

Fresh ice cream in minutes, quick hot fondue, finely milled flours, soups, body butters, bread dough is there anything the Vitamix 5200 blender can’t do? If you use your Vitamix right it’s quite possible you may never have to stir again, unless of course you want to.

 The Vitamix practically does the work of a few farmhands – churning your butter and your ice cream, kneading your bread dough and preparing your cheese fondue all in the small space of your kitchen counter.

2- Joseph Joseph Index Chopping Boards

Whipping up multiple dishes at once? Slice out having to stop and wash your knife and cutting board because this cute container has four colour-coded ones ready to go.

 Got some vegetarians in the household? Worried about getting salmonella on your bread? Joseph Joseph’s stylish multi-board product is great for those germ-a-phobes and convenience hungry kitchen folk that just love colour organizing!

3- KitchenAid Artisan KSM 150 Mixer Coutour Silver

The KitchenAid Artisan series of mixers takes multi-faceted kitchen gadgets to a whole new level. It combines classic design with true imagination. If you are ready to deliver miracles in the kitchen then this tool is for you. Check out all of these functions and attachments that are available:

• 10 different pasta attachments (and ravioli maker)
• Huge range of grain mill settings
• Custom meat processing: grinding & sausage-making
• Fresh ice cream, gelato and mouse
• Easy and elegant vegetable shredding, julienning & slicing
• Fruit pulping and citrus juicing
• And of course very powerful mixing, a planetary rotating whipper and super strong dough hooks!

4- Jamie Oliver Garlic Slice n Press

If you know Jamie Oliver, than you know he’s all about sexy cooking. He demonstrates how to prepare European food that is quick and easy with a “less is more” attitude reminiscent of fine Japanese cuisine.

 Oliver’s distinct style of cooking has given way to his design of a sophisticated line of kitchen gadgets. They not only produce top-quality results in the kitchen, they do it faster, healthier and easier.

 The Jamie Oliver Garlic Slice n Press is one of those tools. If garlic is an essential ingredient in your kitchen then this tool is for you. Why?

• Instant garlic slices
• Rapid garlic mincing (it actually shoots out)
• Solid, powerful construction
• Shimmery sleek design

5- Le Creuset Cobalt Blue French Oven Casserole Dish 26cm

The power of the French oven lies in the fact that it actually creates a “double ovening” effect while in high heat. This double insulation action actually allows you to cook food at intensely higher temperatures. It’s a similar effect to cooking in an outdoor brick wood-fired oven.

This is what makes a french oven so desirable in cooking and why it is such an integral part of creating traditional flavours. It replicates the effect of how many of our ancestors cooked, creating those savoury and rustic cuisines that almost speak to the soul.

Today’s recommendations come from Elle O’Connor of  Kitchenware Superstore, who carry a large range of kitchen gadgets, and the above mentioned products.

The post Top 5 Kitchen Gadgets for 2013 appeared first on Blue Tea.

Ducted Or Recirculating?

Whilst it is ideal to duct your range-hood so that it vents outside, it may not always be possible. If you are in a unit or flat, local council regulations or strata may prevent your from ducting your range-hood outside. But fear not, recirculating models are very capable. It’s important to remember is to keep the filters clean. You can clean them in the dishwasher, so it is easy to maintain. If you are going to duct your range-hood, remember to ask your appliance supplier for the ducting kit. Most models these days function as both. If you prefer to have your range-hood ducted, don’t forget to let your builder know before the building works start.

Integrated Range-hoods

An integrated kitchen range-hood will make your kitchen look sleek and contemporary. The range-hood is completely concealed with-in a wall cabinet, disguising it’s outside appearance. These range-hoods are my favourite to use as it gives your kitchen design flexibility without adding bulkiness.

Concealing your range-hood within the wall cabinets leads to an streamlined, free flowing kitchen. Integrated range-hoods suit minimal and contemporary kitchens.

Having no wall cabinets doesn’t mean your range-hood has to be a last minute thought. The wall in this kitchen is a feature and the range-hood is elegantly disguised with-in it.

Feature Range-hoods

Feature range hoods can look great if the space is right. One thing to note, a 600m feature range-hood will not look amazing (they look too squashed and short) so you really need to go for a range-hood that is atleast 900mm. You can choose to have a modern looking range-hood or one that more traditional.

Modern

Modern feature range-hoods look great when they have their own space on the wall, and are not overcrowded with cabinets. A modern looking range-hood in the right space can look quite classic and elegant.

Range-hoods can also go above a kitchen island if necessary. These can make quite a statement, but you will need to be careful with your choice as it will be a dominant feature in your kitchen.

 Glass range-hood models are a popular choice as some of the bulkiness is eliminated with the glass. They suit modern kitchens.

Traditional

Traditional or country-inspired kitchens tend to make a feature of the canopy range-hood. Sometimes the feature is the range-hood itself or sometimes it is the plasterwork and mouldings that is the feature.

 This french-style kitchen above makes use of plasterwork moulding which define this kitchen.

 Be brave and make a feature of your range-hood. This one steers away from the typical stainless steel that we are so acustomed to seeing.

Bench-top Mounted Range-hoods

Bench-top mounted range-hoods are perfect for kitchen islands where you want to keep the ceiling free from obstruction. They work electronically, the range-hood lifts out of the bench-top when needed. They are powerful despite their small size.

The range-hood sits behind the cooktop, and is operated by a sensor touch system.

 Budget Option

Slide-out range-hoods are a perfect option for any modern kitchen. If you are going for this option, keep the cabinets on either side the same height as the range-hood so your kitchen is streamlined. These range-hoods start at around $200.

Slide out range-hoods are inexpensive and unobtrusive.

Choosing a range-hood is not a typical place to start your kitchen design adventure. However, it’s beneficial for the whole design process if you know what your options are what you prefer. From integrated to feature range-hoods, the options are vast and can be worked in to compliment any kitchen design.

The post Kitchen Range-hoods: What You Need For A Stunning Kitchen appeared first on Blue Tea.

1. Understand Your Kitchen Renovation Needs

A kitchen renovation is a significant investment. Make sure your new kitchen lasts the test of time. Be clear about your needs upfront by asking yourself:

• How many people will be using the kitchen and how will they use it? This impacts on thoroughfares, the amount of bench space and appliances needed. Where will you position that side-by-side 700L fridge? Will a single door 321L fit your needs and your space better?
• How often will you be entertaining? Will a standard 60cm oven suffice or would a larger 90cm oven be better for your lifestyle? And would a four ring cooktop suit your cooking needs or do you need five rings?
• How often will the kitchen be used? If you’ll be cooking every day or have children, consider more durable materials like Quantum Quartz or Caesarstone. Marble is stylish but its porous nature can attract stains. Likewise, while stainless steel can look sleek, it scratches easily.

An open design with spacious bench space, a large oven and kitchen stools can make entertaining easy and sociable.

2. Dare To Be Different

Your new kitchen won’t just add value to your home, it can also really lift the décor. Aim for an exceptional kitchen renovation, not just a safe one. Creative design solutions can express your style and make the most of the space. Injecting colour into your splashback or bench top can make a tight kitchen look larger. And bold or unusual light fittings can transform a kitchen, giving it flair. Consider how including imaginative design elements in your flooring, ceiling, splashback or lighting could take your kitchen renovation to the next level.

Don’t forget about the floor! Its large surface area can impact your overall design considerably.

3. Consider Storage Space

In all the fun of picking a new design, it’s easy to forget about the practicalities. Make sure you plan your storage solutions up front. Outside of your dinner sets and cookware, you need to think about your appliances. You’ll probably want the appliances you use daily (like your microwave or coffee maker) to have a place on the bench top or within a custom made alcove. But what about other appliances—toaster, slow cooker or bread maker? Make sure the depth of shelving in your cupboards will cater to your needs. If you have limited space, utilising drawers and pull out pantries will multiply your storage.

Drawers, whilst more expensive, will increase your storage space by up to 30%.

4. Get Savvy With Your Budget

Your dream kitchen renovation comes with a pesky anchor: your budget. While it’s important to consider all costs, there are always ways to make your money go further. Some things to consider are:

• Kitchen design – Ask the pointy questions. Does your kitchen company charge for design? Are the designers paid a wage or a commission? What is their margin on the manufacturing and installation costs?
• Cabinetry and materials – Sometimes small modifications can bring the cost down but still achieve a great look and the right functionality. Leave out fancy pull-out items if you are aiming to keep the cost down. Ask your designer for options and then decide which elements you’d be happy to compromise on.
• Appliances – You’ll be using these daily. You don’t need to go for top-end appliances, but it’s worth spending a little extra for trusted brands. Find out what their servicing policy is and whether you can pay for an extended warranty. .

5. Insist On Custom Manufacturing

Every space is different and there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to kitchen cabinets. When planning your perfect kitchen renovation, be sure to check that your kitchen will be custom manufactured to fit your space. There is a difference between custom manufactured kitchens and “custom designed kitchens”. Some companies use modular cabinets that need fillers or panels to adapt them to your space. This not only looks bad, it’s also a waste of space.

Your kitchen renovation will look best when it is made to fit your space precisely.

6. Plan Your Bench Space Carefully

Nothing is more frustrating than feeling cramped and disorganised in your kitchen. Consider what works and what doesn’t about your current bench space. This is your chance to improve it. Try to allow work space on each side of your cooktop – around 800mm each side is a good guide. Plus you’ll want a larger work area for food preparation – at least 1200mm if you can.

While it is not always possible to control the amount of bench space in your kitchen, there are a few practical things you can do to make it function better. Keep the microwave clear from the bench top and use a smaller sink if you are tight on space. You can also consider forgoing a pantry a traditional pantry to maximise your bench space.

A small sink will increase bench space in your new kitchen design. There are other solutions to standard and sometimes bulky over-head storage solutions such as these open shelves.

7. Remember Your Waste Disposal

It’s easy to overlook small but important things like waste disposal. Depending on your budget, out of sight functional solutions work best. A small slide out bin under the sink works well, as it utilises otherwise wasted space. Dedicating a whole cabinet to garbage disposal, however, may be too excessive if space is limited.

This Hafele bin is perfect for under-the-sink waste solutions. 

8. Remember Lighting!

Your kitchen renovation should make the most of natural light. But because natural light isn’t always available, you can use LED lights in your wall cabinets to brighten your bench space and add ambiance to your new kitchen. Preparing meals is easier if the light falls in front of you so no shadows are cast.

Get clever and creative with your lighting solutions to provide both practical and ambient lighting for your kitchen renovation.

9. Don’t Forget Ergonomics

Your custom kitchen should be a joy to use. But a sink, cupboards and benchtops that are at the wrong height can cause unnecessary strain on your back. A good reference point is your current kitchen – is it comfortable to use? Would it make your life easier if the surfaces were a little higher or lower? The right height can and should be factored into your new kitchen design. But remember, slight differences make a big difference when you are changing the bench height so err on the side of caution.

Also consider the space between your bench tops and vertical surfaces. Allow enough space for thoroughfares through-out the kitchen.

10. Functionality Is The Key To A Successful Renovation

While your new custom kitchen should be stunning, it’s nothing if it’s not practical. Before finalising your kitchen renovation design, ask yourself:

• Can I open the fridge without hitting a wall or blocking a walkway?
• Is there enough space to stand directly in front of the oven with the door open?
• Are the cooktop, fridge and sink intuitively positioned to make food preparation easier?

Can you access your fridge easily without cupboards or appliances, such as the dishwasher or oven, getting in your way?

Planning a positive and successful kitchen renovation is easy if you remember a few key points; design your new kitchen to be beautiful and functional, choose a supplier that custom makes your kitchen, listens to and understands your needs.

The post Kitchen Renovation: A Beginners Guide To Success appeared first on Blue Tea.

Sky Blue Wonder

With the oppressive humidity vanishing from the summer months, autumn in Australia brings crisper, cooler weather with stunning, endless blue skies. Colourful kitchen accessories in sky blue bring a calm, clean and fresh feeling to your kitchen.

The above tapware is designed by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba of  Zucchetti. Changing your kitchen tap is only a minor change, but this lovely sky blue tap changes the focal point of your kitchen.

How about a collection of blue plates as a feature in your kitchen. Plates don’t need to be traditionally displayed in glass cabinets or on top of cupboards. These blue plates make a stunning wall feature. (originally sourced from Remodelista).

You can always rely on good ol’e Kitchen Aid to brighten up your space.

 Tea towels bring colour into your kitchen with minimal cost. Match tea towel colours and patterns with other kitchen accessories to complete your new look.

Boysenberry Beauty

Rich, warm boysenberry glimpses can be found in the changing autumn leaves. Add colourful kitchen accessories in this tone for a cosy, dramatic and bold approach that will leave you feeling warm and gooey.

Adding wallpaper to your kitchen space will  change the look and feel, even if you only have a small wall—or left-over part of the wall—to fill. Here is one printed on eco-friendly paper hand made in India.

Kitchen Aid delivers when it comes to colour, style and functionality.

How about adding a Persian rug to your kitchen? It is not the most practical choice, but it certainly will add colour to your kitchen and is 100% transportable if your mood changes.

You can always brighten your day and add a touch of colour with freshly cut flowers in the kitchen.

A Little Lime

Brighten your kitchen with the beautiful tones of leaves transforming from green to yellow using these colourful accessories.

Check out where you can source these little goodies here.

This Falcon oven is is sure to be the stand-out feature of your kitchen, if you are bold enough to use it!

 Your toaster and kettle are often left on the benchtop, so make sure they are a handsome feature. This Bodum toaster comes with a matching kettle and coffee maker.

Why not add colour in your kitchen stools. These ghost chairs would look amazing in any kitchen.

Colourful kitchen accessories transform the look of your kitchen without emptying your pocket. Changing your accessories allows flexibility so that you are not tied into a colour scheme for years. Introduce our Autumn colour palette into your kitchen with tea towels, toasters and beyond for an uplifting change.

The post Colourful Kitchen Accessories appeared first on Blue Tea.

Gold Kitchens

French Designer Jean Louis Deniot designed this gold kitchen. The kitchen is opulent and luxurious, without looking over the top. The cabinets are not ultra glossy. Instead, their hammered effect gives them textural body. It also contrasts nicely with the Calcutta marble splashback and floors. The kitchen is small but memorable.

Designed by Tom Dixon in collaboration with Lindholdt Studio, this gold kitchen is minimal and bold. Made out of brass, there is nothing average about this kitchen.

Make A Punchy Gold Statement

Love gold but want a less dramatic effect? Why not just design the finishing touches with gold? That will give you the glamour, the look and feel of gold without over-committing to it. Below are image collections of gold used in kitchen spaces.

For a subtle approach to gold, choose small gold handles and emphasise this theme with the kitchen lighting. Here the grey cabinets look stylish with the addition of gold handles and pendant lighting.

This light would look amazing in any kitchen from the ultra modern to traditional.

How about pendant gold lighting to glam up your kitchen space. These, like the above lighting, would work well in any kitchen style.

A brass sink can be challenging to find, but this unique addition can really make your kitchen stand out.

Isn’t this 24k gold plated hand dipped cutlery gorgeous? Sourced from Anthropologie for only $38 a set, it’s an inexpensive way to bring the opulence of gold into your kitchen space.

How about adding gold accessories to your kitchen space like this sweet, little teapot. We love the combination of concrete, timber and gold.

If you are not game to go for gold cabinet doors, you can always add the door details in gold. This look would suit a classic kitchen full of class and elegance. Gold can make an average kitchen look outstanding.

The look above is more dramatic than the previous picture with contrasting gold and black doors. It is  formal, serious and glamorous.

You can achieve many different looks by adding gold to your kitchen space. From soft and feminine gold accessories, to bold and dramatic gold kitchens, it can be used in both modern and traditional kitchen spaces. Blue Tea predicts we will be seeing a lot more of this colour in 2013 kitchen designs.

The post Gold Kitchen Love appeared first on Blue Tea.

2013 promises to be an exciting year for kitchen trends where experimentation with materials and design elements prevail. Look for designs to move away from glossy, white reflective cabinetry to kitchens with depth, texture and variety. We will see a Scandinavian design influence and a move towards better designed cabinetry details.

# 1. A Mix Of Textures

Glossy surfaces and glossy splashbacks dominated 2012. In 2013, we will see a move away from the polished kitchen to varied and diverse designs. Expect a mix of textures in kitchen cabinetry:  Natural finishes and materials (such as timber veneers) mixing with flat finished polyurethane and stainless steel. Bronze details will also make a statement.

Home of landscape architect Rick Eckersley Australia.

Mixing it up with a timber island, raw brick flooring and white cabinetry

Expect flat finishes to favour over gloss in 2013. In the kitchen above, black satin cabinetry, white-washed floors and concrete walls create a beautiful palette.

Hints of brass-like finishes, a polished concrete floor and exposed brick walls make up this kitchen.

Look for a combination of timber veneers and polyurethane satin finishes to rise in popularity in 2013.

A mix of surfaces and finishes gives this kitchen warmth and ambiance.

This kitchen design features a striking bronze mirror kitchen island.

This kitchen’s dramatic appeal comes from its black textured wall.

# 2. Cabinetry Detail

In 2013 we will see more emphasis on cabinetry details. Expect to see more attention to details such as the way the cabinet is joined and the junction between cabinetry and stone benchtop.

Detail-focused kitchen spaces are subtle but awe-inspiring.

Kitchens in 2013 will take inspiration from furniture design. The Scandinavian-designed buffet unit above is one outstanding example.

This kitchen showcases attention to details with cabinets that sit flush with the benchtop.

Details in the kitchen include void spaces, too.

# 3. Scandinavian Simplicity

Kitchen trends in 2013 will come from the simplicity of Scandinavian designs—pared back and minimal, elegant and unique.

This Italian kitchen has all the sleek lines of a Scandinavian inspired kitchen.

This minimal kitchen is uncluttered and follows the Scandinavian aesthetic.

A simple, classic kitchen is timeless.

Minimising kitchen cabinets can open up the space. Keep it simple, and think outside the box when it comes to floor plan layouts.

The dining table is an extension of the kitchen in this Scandinavian inspired home.

Open shelves keep this kitchen elegant and simple.

Flooring, lighting and ceiling design will become an integral part of the new kitchen in 2013. Look for textural and rich kitchens, incorporating the whole kitchen space rather than only the cabinetry.  Subtle and subdues surfaces and finishes will create the sleek and desired kitchen trend for 2013.

The post Kitchen Trends for 2013 appeared first on Blue Tea.

Play with Textures

The nature of a rustic kitchen allows you to think outside of the square. You can abolish traditional and standard kitchen materials and finishes and opt for more unusual ones. You can use recycled timber or even hanging textural cloth as a replacement for polyurethane or laminate doors.  In some cases you may even decide to get rid of the kitchen door entirely.

Open shelves can also be a option for your rustic kitchen. Instead of having items stored away, you can create a story with your personal belongings displayed on shelves.

 This kitchen uses long panels of linen as pantry doors. They contrast with timber-framed glass pantry, a black ceiling and kitchen island.

Notice the plentiful texture in this kitchen. Rustic doors and timber benchtops compliment glossy subway tiles and dark grout. The farmhouse-style sink completes the look.

The doors in this kitchen are substituted with cloth that slides open. A polished concrete floor is highlighted with a Scandinavian rug and kitchen table. The room is finished with a timber ceiling and a bold lighting for added personality.

Recycled timber doors, parquetry flooring, an unusual kitchen island and industrial pendant lighting combine to create a dramatic appeal in this rustic kitchen.

Accesorise With Your Own Charm

If a complete rustic kitchen is not ideal for your space, you can accessorise with rusting fittings and features. In time, you can add, change and develop your style. These kitchens below have their own styles created by using eclectic pieces.

A kitchen can be dressed up with rustic fittings and accessories that are not structurally permanent. The stools, lighting, table wear and ladder give this kitchen a down-to-earth and modest appeal.

This tiny rustic kitchen is loaded with personality. Open shelves display a collection of personal crockery.

A unique stool can complete your rustic kitchen.

Don’t forget the Ceiling!

The ceiling is often a forgotten space. If you want to create a modest, warm and rustic kitchen, consider the ceiling treatment. From warm timbers to darker ceilings, personalise your space by adding pizazz to your ceiling.

More on the side of an industrial kitchen, the timber ceiling adds warmth and character to the space and contrasts with the sharpness of the stainless steel.

The unfinished roughness of this ceiling adds a strong visual impact to this kitchen space.

A rustic kitchen can be anything you want it to be. From dressing the kitchen with old, worn and unique pieces, to structuring the kitchen from rustic materials, your kitchen will surely be loaded with personality.

The post Rustic Kitchen Design appeared first on Blue Tea.

Choose A Vintage Table

Many kitchen designs these days are modern and streamlined. Choosing a rustic or vintage table adds contrast and character to your kitchen space. The timber brings an element of warmth, and creates a cosy area for dining at.

This lovely table contrasts with the white cabinets and white flooring and is an elegant yet casual area for dining at.

 The wear and tear in this table adds to the charm of the kitchen space. This kitchen table has a thousand stories to tell.

This vintage table is matched with colourful chairs and looks timeless and effortless.

Mix and Match Your Chairs

Adding variety with your kitchen chairs will certainly add interest and diversity to your space. You can choose to keep the style consistant and vary the colour. You can also add an eclectic mix of chairs to create a vibrant atmosphere.

 A mix of benches and different chair styles works superbly with this vintage table. The space is warm and eclectic, and it contrasts to the coolness and crispness of the stainless steel kitchen. I want this kitchen!

 Choosing random chair styles works best in a kitchen that is pared back and modern. It can be quite stimulating to have many different chair styles, so enjoy choosing your chairs but take care not to overdo it. While the above chairs are all different, the combination remains elegant.

 Equally as striking, you can achieve a different look and feel by mixing modern chairs.

Use Accent Colours

If you are not bold enough to choose a strong colour in your kitchen design, you can have fun choosing one for your dining area. A bright colour will add energy and personality to your space. It is also not a huge risk if you get it wrong, compared with selecting a strong colour for your kitchen cabinetry.

 A bright green kitchen table is fun and quirky. The colour scheme is neutral here except for the table which makes a bold statement.

Why not choose your favourite colour to make the space pop? You can choose to add colour in the dining table, or the kitchen chairs to give your space a joyful and energetic atmosphere.

Choosing your kitchen table can be a fun experience where you can be creative with different syles and colours. If you are naturally drawn to a particular style or colour, don’t resist it! Whether you opt for a vintage table, or choose to add personality with colour, your kitchen table will be unique to you and your space.

The post Choosing A Kitchen Table appeared first on Blue Tea.

Decorative and Task Lighting

Task lighting is essential in your kitchen. Many new homes have down lights in the ceiling to flood the kitchen with practical light. LED down lights are a good choice as they are energy efficient, and last longer than halogen lights. LED’s are also  a popular choice for under-mounted wall cabinetry lighting. They don’t overheat the cabinet above, and can come as strip lighting or down lights. Fluorescent lighting is ideal for the kitchen as it is flat and doesn’t throw any shadows, but beware as many fluorescents are a cool light and can be rather harsh. If you opt for fluorescent lighting, make sure to opt for a warm bulb.

Decorative lighting embellishes your kitchen space, giving it personality and flair. Though beautiful, decorative lighting can be practical, too. Pendant lighting, for example, can be directional, highlighting a specific areasuch as an island benchtop at the same time it is used to create ambiance. To create a soft and ethereal atmosphere whilst entertaining, turn off the the main lights and use the subtle light from your feature lighting. A combination of task and decorative lighting is ideal in your new kitchen design.

The lighting in this kitchen uses a combination of decorative and task lighting. Down lights, canopy and pendant lighting intertwine to make this kitchen a functional and beautiful space. The high ceilings allow the pendants to drop low over the table.

Feature lighting creates mood, and turns your kitchen into a powerful design statement.

Natural light

If you have the flexibility to do so, incorporating natural light into your design makes the space feel clean and open. If you plan to resell, many prospective buyers will view your property during the day. People are drawn to a light, open and airy kitchen, so keep this in mind!

Natural light is abundant in this kitchen, keeping the space open and fresh. The pendant lighting adds a focal point to the kitchen — its vertical element gives the kitchen structure and draws our eyes through the space.

If your kitchen doesn’t receive much natural light, think about adding a skylight.

Choose a Statement Piece

You don’t have to make every feature in your kitchen grand. Instead, select a single statement lighting piece to make your kitchen stand out.

A modern chandelier is sure to attract attention. The horizontal element elongates this kitchen space. This lighting is delicate and fragile, but makes a bold statement.

An over-the-top chandelier may not be to everyone’s taste, but many would find such a gesture impressive and opulent. A grand chandelier needs high ceilings, but it’s possible to achieve a similar look on a smaller scale too.

Play with a Dropped Ceiling

A dropped ceiling often defines and separates living spaces. Lighting in a dropped ceiling can have backlit or exposed lighting.

Here the lighting is minimal and streamlined. The whole area becomes elegantly illuminated by lights set into the dropped ceiling. This simple, understated approach to lighting and design is appreciated by the modern at heart.

Stick to Your Budget

It is easy to get carried away with glamorous and expensive options for your lighting. Remember your end goal and stick to your budget.

Here the lighting is minimal and streamlined. The whole area becomes elegantly illuminated by lights set into the dropped ceiling. This simple, understated approach to lighting and design is appreciated by the modern at heart.

You can pick up these exposed designer bulbs for only $39.00 each.

Buy Now!

Kitchen lighting can change the entire dynamics of your kitchen space. Getting your kitchen lighting right can make your space appealing, warm and interesting. Use a combination of task and decorative lighting to achieve amazing results.

The post Kitchen Lighting Ideas appeared first on Blue Tea.

Quality Over Quantity

Before you cram your kitchen full of cabinets, remember: the more cabinets you add, the more money you pay. Instead of buying more, focus on quality in the cabinetry and hardware. Keep the cabinet count down, but use quality hinges and runners. Buyers look for features such as soft close drawers and custom made cabinetry. Do not opt for modular units that have filler panels, or ill-fitted cabinetry that screams cheap kitchen. Buyers want their new kitchen to look tasteful and expensive.

While internal fit outs—such as pull out pantries, pull out bins and numerous other space-saving fit outs—are practical additions to your personal kitchen design, the cost of adding them will not always reap rewards. They tend to be pricey and are best kept for kitchens that you plan on using yourself for many years to come.

Less is definitely more when it comes your kitchen renovation. It is not always necessary to crowd your kitchen with cabinets. Keep the cabinetry count down and aim for an overall design impact to increase your property value.

This kitchen is a beautiful example of using minimal cabinetry. The design is appealing and simple.

Style

While it may be tempting to design the kitchen to your specific tastes, you will be in a better position if you design it for the likes of many people. In Australia, this generally means keeping the kitchen bright, light and open. Use lighter colours to make the space look bigger and more open. Many people like White kitchens, even if it’s not the most daring option.  White gives the kitchen a spacious feel. White kitchens are also timeless, which is another plus if your buyer may be thinking of reselling down the track.

Aim for symmetry in your kitchen renovation. This creates a calm and appealing sense of integrity. If possible, keep wall cabinets the same size. Our eye is naturally drawn to repetition and symmetry. If you use many drawers, try to ensure they have the same configuration. For example, if you use a skinny drawer on the top and two pot drawers underneath, repeat this configuration.

White is a universally appealing colour for kitchen renovations. The space looks fresh, open and inviting, making it attractive to potential buyers.

Aim for symmetry in you upper and lower cabinets. With its wide sets of long drawers, the kitchen feels elongated and expansive. The wall cabinets are the same dimensions adding visual integrity.

Design Layout

The trend in Australia is to have an open plan layout for your kitchen renovation. This means kitchen/ dining/ living spaces are often combined. Buyers want a kitchen that is multifunctional. They want a space to prepare and cook in, but also a place where they can socialise, where the kids can do their homework, and where they can relax for a casual glass of wine.

If you have a generous floor plan to allow for it, a kitchen island is generally well sought after by buyers. You will need a generous floor plan. If you have the flexibility on deciding where your kitchen is going, aim for a part of the house that is open and has a nice view. People don’t want to see a kitchen that is tucked away in a dark corner of the house.

Aim to place your kitchen in a space that has a pleasant outlook. If people imagine cooking becoming less of a chore and more of a joy, you have a higher chance of selling to them.

Kitchen islands with multifunctional spaces particularly appeal to prospective buyers.

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