NHIC SPRING 2003/ KITCHENS
Home is where the kitchen is
These days, home life revolves around the kitchen. It's no longer
a place merely to prepare meals and then wash up, it's the hub
of the house, writes Graham Hayden, chief executive of the Kitchen,
Bathroom, Bedroom Specialists Association. Ask most families what
activities take place in their kitchen and the list will be surprisingly
long.
The kitchen is a blank canvas on which a householder can “paint”
an arresting display of creative flair – a showpiece for the home.
Depending upon the style of the house, the cupboards can be traditional
or modern but, of course, they are susceptible to fashion. For
instance, out are cathedral arch doors, so too are multi-panel
doors, white oak and limed oak. Also, any fussy detailing is currently
a no-no.
The demand for painted cupboards in broken paint effects such
as dragging and rag-rolling has diminished, too, but kitchens
painted in a flat finish are still popular, with cream being a
leading colour.
Most certainly is the Shaker-look with its simple frame and flat
panel doors, and light woods such as maple or beech are also best
sellers. Indeed maple is currently the most popular wood. A mix
of wood and painted cupboards is also currently fashionable.
Stainless steel is a major trend in both modern and traditional
kitchens and it is likely to remain so for some time to come.
Many kitchen manufacturers are offering stainless steel or stainless
steel effect plinths and accent cupboards as well as handles and
knobs, to accompany the trend in stainless steel appliances.
Modern life demands that a kitchen has a comprehensive selection
of efficient electrical appliances. Indeed appliances have almost
stolen the show from furniture, with freestanding models taking
centre stage in the form of retro fridges or huge range cookers,
otherwise known as cooking theatres.
Making the cooking area the focal point is an excellent way of
creating maximum impact and ensuring that a new kitchen really
is the hub of the home. Today's range ovens are popular for their
looks and cooking flexibility. Modern or traditional, they often
offer two ovens (or at least a separate oven and grill) plus five
burners/hot plates or four burners and a griddle on top. Many
of the duel/fuel models include a wok burner in response to increased
home cooking of Asian dishes. Even single ovens can be flanked
by small drawer stacks or columns and topped with a focal point
cooker hood and splashback to give the impression of size.
If you’re thinking of buying a new kitchen, make sure it’s a real
showstopper. Ask your nearest KSA retailer for help and you won't
regret the decision.
Further information: Graham Ponting, NHIC. Tel 020 7828 8230
FEB 2003