This article has been republished to include further content on kitchen renovation trends and top 6 key features that a good kitchen design must include. This recommendation has been made by our in house kitchen designers .

Kitchen renovation trends usually change slightly from year to year with no big changes seen in the coming years. It is easy to change certain elements within your existing kitchen to keep up with the new trends. For example if you have a traditional white kitchen and want a change then you can easily add a pop of colour by adding a  vibrant textured backsplash. If you are lacking in storage, then you could easily replace your existing island with a multi-functional kitchen island which could be used as a breakfast bar, storage unit as well as a cooking area.

What a kitchen means today for a family is very different from what they meant in the past. Traditionally kitchens have always been a place for cooking and cleaning only. Kitchens today are a place where most of the family congregates. It is a place that brings the family together whether it is in the form of a breakfast island bar or an open plan kitchen which opens into your living space.

In this article we will discuss the following:

1. the top 20 newest kitchen renovation trends for 2023
2. 10 trends that you should stay away from in the coming years. 
3. 6 Key Features that every good kitchen design must include – Recommended by our Kitchen designers

Here’s what we concluded as the top kitchen renovation trends for 2023

1. Smart Kitchens
2. Eco-Friendly Kitchens
3. Cabinet Colours: Dark Colours Are Finally Here & White Is On Its Way Out!
4. Streamlined Designs, Materials and Textures
5. Open plan Kitchens and Broken plan kitchens
6. Quartz is Still King
7. Effective Storage Solutions
8. Open Shelves for Small Kitchens
9. Kitchens with a bar island for entertainment
10. Hardwood Flooring is Still the Shining Star but Ceramic Tile is on its Heels
11. Single Level Multipurpose Kitchen Islands
12. Double Islands
13. Ceiling high larders
14. Backsplash Trends
15. Connecting With The Great Outdoors
16. Adding a Pop of Colour
17. Mix and Match Metals
18. Steel Hoods
19. Statement Accessories
20. Hanging cups, Colourful pans and Colourful Appliances
21. Welcome with a Sociable Kitchen
22. Embrace a Wood Resurgence
23. Layered Lighting
24. Handle less Designs
25. Create a Space for a Pantry

Technology advances and changing social dynamics have contributed greatly to the rise of the newest kitchen renovation trends. There is a far bigger focus on open concept homes that revolve around the kitchen so everyone can be together.

As with any modern design trend, clean and simple styles have become favourites for homeowners with natural light becoming an essential aspect of the overall look and function of the kitchen space. There are 3 fundamental things that make a great kitchen design and it doesn’t often change, the three things are:

Trend #1. Smart Kitchen Design

Technology has entered the kitchen in full force and not just in the form of fancy gadgets and appliances. Today, you can have a kitchen with technology integrated into every function and appliance–from the faucets to the fridge to lighting. This is what we call a smart kitchen.

Smart kitchens are an evolving aspect of design. In fact, a lot of kitchens today are built smart from the ground up. For older kitchens, sensors, smart gadgets and other devices can be added to add convenience.

Kitchen renovation trends in Massey: These ‘pop out power outlets’ were installed on the counter top which can be pulled up when needed and pushed back down when not in need

Read more…

Guru and Neeta’s Luxury kitchen renovation in Massey – Pictured above

Townhouse Luxury Urban renovation in Parnell

Easy add-ons are motion sense-equipped kitchen faucets that can sense the presence of hands underneath and will come on automatically or try a one-touch feature. Refrigerators that can alert you when your groceries items are running low or a coffee maker programmed to have your coffee ready when you wake up.

There is also a gadget that monitors your eggs, telling you which ones are almost going bad. Do not forget to update your lighting system–allowing you to control all the lights from your smartphone or tablet. Technology integrated kitchens are becoming more popular as homeowners experiment with novel technologies. This is one of the biggest trends going into 2023.

Trend #2. Eco-Friendly Kitchen Design

A growing kitchen renovation trends has been being eco-friendly. As the awareness around sustainability grows, people are getting more conscious about using materials that are environmentally friendly. Taking steps towards sustainability could include having built in recycling bins in the kitchen, installing an induction cook top to reduce energy waste, and installing a 3 in 1 hot water tap.

 

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Kitchen renovation in Parnell – the hot water tap is installed on the left side of the main tap fixture

 

Hot water tap is a great way of reducing water and energy waste. When boiling water we often boil too much water or use a kettle. When you install an instant hot water tap, you are using just the amount of water you need and less electric energy is being used to get the water to boil. This is also an added convenience to having access to instant boiling water for coffee or food preparation.

 

Trend #3. Cabinet Colours: Dark Colours Are Finally Here & White Is On Its Way Out!

Although white cabinets are a classic look that can be used in almost any kind of kitchen style, we are slowly starting to see them on the way out! We expect white to start declining in popularity throughout 2023 . To break up the monotony of all-white kitchens, expect to see islands in a variety of different paint colours or wood stain colours. The mixing of finishes creates a needed accent piece and additional pops-of-colour for the brave of heart.

Blue and green will be the most popular shades to add colour to your kitchen.  Apart from natural and neutral shades green, emerald, and other earthy tones will also be popular this year.

Kitchen renovation trends in Massey: Our client in Massey wanted black cabinets against white to give a luxurious feel to his kitchen. LED lights were also installed under the cabinet handles to add to the glamour of the kitchen.

 

Dark kitchen cabinets portray elegance and a deep rich luxurious atmosphere. You must however be careful that the dark accents or cabinets you use does not overpower the room as it could make the room feel perpetually dark or dingy. But more homeowners are getting bolder and opting for a kitchen with dark cabinet colours in 2020. Expect to see tons of black and darker colour shades in the trendiest home of 2020.

Trend #4. Streamlined Designs, Materials and Textures

• Cabinets

While styles like farmhouse and mid-century modern are still popular, homeowners are getting more streamlined in their overall aesthetics, designs and alternative materials for kitchens. Simple looks are all about modern clean lines. They will continue to be a huge hit throughout 2023.

Removing upper wall cabinets has become a growing trend in the last few years since it opens up the visual space making the kitchen appear much larger and brighter.  It allows you to utilise the countertop space more productively as most people cannot reach the top shelves anyway.

• Textures and Materials

A streamlined design does not equate to boring. It simply means that a design which is less cumbersome and more tasteful. Consider using materials with different textures. For example when using open shelving, consider rough cut wood as your material for a natural look or metal tubing for a more industrial look.

 

Kitchen renovation trends in Mangere Bridge: American Ashwood was used as the benchtop to add texture and a natural element to the kitchen. 

 

• Tiles as a focal point

Floor tiles in a natural stone or backsplash tiles that are sculpted, beveled, or stacked make for the perfect focal point.  These interesting textures are very different compared to the usual polished or glossy finishes we see everywhere. You may even want to consider a ceiling treatment to add another dynamic to your kitchen.

Kitchen renovation in Stanmore Bay: The Spanish tiles installed in this kitchen are a great design element that can be used to enliven a space.

Kitchen renovation in Parnell: We added textured 3D tiles as a backsplash for this client to add character and interest in the kitchen wall

For further ideas on using Tiles as a focal point in a Kitchen

Urban Luxury Kitchen in Parnell with 3d textured tiles

Spanish mosaic tiles as a feature in the kitchen in Stanmore Bay

Henry and Lynette’s kitchen in Bucklands Beach with dark hexagonal textured tiles 

Trend #5. Open plan concept and Broken plan concepts

The open plan concept for kitchens has been a growing trend for many years now. Today’s homes are mostly made of 2 working parents where evenings are the only times that families get together to spend quality time. Open concept kitchens allow families to spend time even if one person is in the kitchen whereas the others in the living. Open plan kitchens are easily achievable by tearing down a few walls that separate the kitchen from the rest of the living space.

An open plan Kitchen: The above picture is an open plan concept as the room is very clearly divided from the living room by a wall and from the dining room with some counters. There are still some breaks in the room which divide the room into specific areas. The above kitchen was renovated by us in Bucklands Beach. 

Broken plan kitchens are a trend of the next decade, taking the open plan concept to another level. Imagine a large room which has different zones for living, dining and cooking. These zones are not divided by any half or full walls. This makes an area look more spacious as there is little that is ‘breaking’ the large space or room.

Broken Plan Concept: The above is a good example of a broken plan kitchen. The room is a large space where there are allocated zones for different purposes. However, there are no walls making a specific ‘break’ between the different zones. 

Trend #6. Quartz is Still King

For high-end kitchen countertops, quartz still reigns supreme. The material is extremely hardy, can last virtually forever, is a breeze to maintain and is anti-microbial. Granite, the main competitor in the high-end bracket, requires slightly more maintenance.

When quartz countertops first came into the market, the main worry was lack of variety in terms of colours and finishes. But through technological advances, manufacturers can now provide a range of colours and patterns. You can even get quartz finished with elaborate swirls and large veining to imitate other materials like natural stone. These unique styles have become immensely popular.

 

Kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach: We engineered stone to look like black marble which was then infused  with shiny specs to add a touch of luxury for this kitchen renovation

 

But there is a notable trend toward softer and more neutral colours. More and more homeowners are opting for colours like grey, taupe, creamy or white finishes.  This follows the trend towards cleaner styles seen in most home spaces.

 

Kitchen renovation in Stanmore Bay: Engineered stone used to look like pattered granite. The pattern chosen by our client was Autumn Leaf. 

 

While we are still on the topic of countertops, it is important to mention the rising popularity of composite sinks. These are sinks made from the same material as the countertop.  This creates a cleaner uniform look and makes cleaning and maintenance much easier. However, it is going to be a tough battle against the still very popular stainless steel, ceramin and Silgranit sinks.

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Trend #7. Effective Storage Solutions

One of the biggest drawbacks with kitchen cabinetry is the unnecessary waste of space. The way the basic shelves and drawers are structured leaves a lot of wasted space. Worst of all, available space is often too small for some of your larger things or the opposite: it’s too wide and does not give you a way to properly and efficiently organize the space.

One of the foundations to a functional kitchen is kitchen storage. If it is inadequate or ineffective, you will be faced with endless frustrations and challenges.

To counter these storage challenges, homeowners are starting to look for better storage solutions within the cabinetry. These can include:

• drawer dividers for cutlery & utensils
• pull-outs for spices
• tray dividers
• roll-out trays
• magic corners for pots & pans
• wastebasket cabinets for garbage and recyclables
• deep drawers.

Pull out Rubbish and recycling bins

Custom built Pantry drawers to add convenience and maximise storage

Magic corners to utilise the space in corner cabinets

A different variation of a magic corner to effectively utilise corner space for cabinets

Custom built storage solution for cabinets to store condiments

 

 

The most popular storage solutions we have seen with our clients are the ‘magic corners’ as they effectively utilise the wasted space in the corners of the kitchen. The other popular storage solutions have been custom built cabinets with pull out drawers.

For more storage solution ideas…

• Lynette and Henry’s kitchen in Bucklands Beach
• Home and Kitchen renovation in Avondale
• Kitchen renovation for a young family in Papatoetoe
• Amber and Craig’s kitchen transformation in Hillsborough

Trend #8. Open Shelves for Small Kitchens

While Hidden storage solutions will always remain popular, they are not always feasible in a small kitchen. Small kitchens do not have the space for bulky cabinetry with storage drawers and hence need a different storage solution.

Open shelves for small spaces can provide effective storage solution and can also add a great design element. Following are some of the ways you can maximise storage in an open shelf for a small kitchen:

• Use magnetic holders for knives. These can be screwed on to the wall so you do not have a bulky knife holder on your counter top
• Laddle hangers and wall spice racks. Small hooks can be installed to hang all your spoons and laddles used for cooking. You can also find smart hangers where you can place your spice bootles.
• You can also create a wine glass hanger which would reduce the need for shelves.

 

Floating open shelves were added  to increase storage and add a design element to the kitchen

A great tip is also to buy colourful pots, pans, bowls etc which can be placed in the open shelves. This would create interest and also add a pop of colour to your kitchen.

Trend #9. Hardwood Flooring is Still the Shining Star but Ceramic Tile is on its Heels

Hardwood flooring is still very popular when it comes to kitchen flooring. But the second most popular option, ceramic flooring. Thanks to technology, ceramic flooring now comes in a wide variety of designs, styles and sizes.

For example, you can get ceramic tiles that look exactly like hardwood flooring. So if you want to retain the hardwood look but want a material that is easier to maintain, consider using ceramic tiles. In addition to wood, ceramic tiles can be designed to resemble a range of other materials including natural stone. Even the surface texture is changed to mimic these materials.

Kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach: Ceramic tiles which mimic hardwood were installed for easy maintenance and as a cost effective option

 

In terms of size, you do not have to go for traditional sizing any longer. It seems like the sky is the limit with variety and larger format tiles. You can get single plank tiles that resemble actual wide planks of hardwood once laid down on the floor. Or you can get custom cut tiles to create a uniquely patterned kitchen. Larger tiles make an are look bigger in space as compared to smaller sizes. This is because there are lesser grout lines and the area hence looks less ‘busy’.

Trend #10. Single Level Multipurpose Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are no longer an afterthought or something small to squeeze into the space. They have become the point and the hub of the kitchen. One of the changes emerging is the single level larger sizing, serving multiple uses. Large islands now also have ample shelving below to maximise storage.

 

Kitchen renovation in Blockhouse Bay: Custom built large island which doubles as a storage solution with cabinets and as a breakfast and prep bar

 

Kitchen renovation in Stanmore Bay: An island bar which doubles as a dining table and cooking bench

 

In the year 2023 large kitchen islands will become the jack-of-all-trades. They will have storage solutions and would be fitted with various under-counter appliances while also providing seating–serving as a casual dining and/or drinking bar. To accommodate the increased size, we are seeing a tendency for the kitchen island to extend into living room spaces in homes with open plan designs. This ensures the kitchen island can be multi-functional without cluttering up space in the kitchen.

 

Kitchen renovation in Massey: Kitchen island extending into the living room space to double as a bar that can be used for entertaining

Trend #11. Double Islands

If you have the space, then we would advice you to get two smaller island in your kitchen rather than 1 large island. Having 2 smaller islands improves the flow of the kitchen as well as the ease of movement. Having two separate islands also means that you could use of as a breakfast bar and the other as a counter top for preparation as well as installing a cook top.

Double islands have become a growing trend in the last year and are seen to be on the rise for large kitchen spaces as well as open plan living.

Trend #12. Ceiling high larders

Kitchen is not just a functional space these days. With the rise in open plan kitchens, it has become important to make kitchens aesthetically pleasing along with good functionality. Many people now prefer to have open shelves in their kitchen rather than bulky cabinetry as it makes kitchens look more spacious. Buy some colourful pots and pans and you have a beautiful focal point full of colours and textures.

The same logic applies to larders. The trend in 2023 is seeing a rise in larders that are open and built up to the ceiling. This gives you more storage and will also add a beautiful design aspect to your kitchen. To access the higher shelves on your larder, consider buying a trendy movable ladder that you can rest against your larder.

The above is a great way to built an open larder with trendy storage containers and a larder to access the higher shelves. Add some light within the larder and you have a great focal point for your kitchen.

 

Trend #13. Backsplash Trends

First things first, subway tiles are out! Okay maybe not completely out, but they are no longer popular in the ‘white brick’ size. People are moving on to larger slabs of tiles with various textures and patterns.  Adding a bright and vibrant backsplash will add the much needed character in a neutral kitchen. Neutral patterns with natural texture is another option for those looking for a classic look.

 

Kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach: Hexagon shaped black and grey textured tiles were added as a backplash to add interest, drama and texture to the kitchen

 

Another big change we’re seeing in tile backsplashes are their size and the portion of wall they cover. More people now opt for larger tiles to make the area look less ‘busy’.  These slabs can be made to look like marble, quartz, wood, copper, stainless steel, glass…. the list goes on forever!

Trend #14. Connecting With The Great Outdoors

As discussed above, open plan living and kitchen has been a popular trend for a while now. In New Zealand we love Bbqs and entertaining our guests outdoors. This way of living in NZ has given rise to the trend of connecting the kitchen/dining area with the deck or outdoor area. Some of our previous clients have also used their outdoors as an extended kitchen area.

This is mostly done by building a covered outdoor area equipped with grills and cooking equipment which can be accessed from the kitchen through french doors.

Trend #15. Adding a Pop of Colour

As mentioned above, white will always be a popular colour for kitchens as it is a versatile colour to work with. In past people have always gone for a traditional look for kitchens with either white surfaces and cabinets or dark wood. The trend has now been changing towards adding colour to otherwise white kitchens.

 

A sky blue backplash was added to add some colour into a neutral themed kitchen in Papatoetoe

 

People are now looking at ways to add colour to their kitchens. We spend most of our time in this area of the house, entertaining our friends and family, so why not put our favourite colour in the space? We have and will be seeing this on cabinets, islands, hutches, and feature walls.

The colours predicted for these spaces are inspired by the elements with blues, earthy tones of green and red.

Trend #16. Mix and Match Metals

We get this question a lot: is it okay to mix metals in the kitchen? The answer is YES! Mixing metals adds character in the space, especially if it is done correctly. We will be seeing more of an eclectic style in 2023. Overly matched and coordinated spaces is a trend that is slowly fading.  If you love gold fixtures, but don’t want it all over your kitchen, add a soft gold faucet with black or nickel hardware.

Light fixtures can be a completely different metal altogether, while having hints of the same metal you are using elsewhere. These pieces are the finishing touch to the space. Make them stand out! Another way to mix in metals, would be in your furniture selections for kitchen tables chairs or island stools. These can be easily interchangeable when you want to change things up a bit!

 

Kitchen renovation in Stanmore Bay: Textured Brass sink and tap fixtures added metal elements to this kitchen in Orewa

 

Textured metals that are the same colour as other pieces in the kitchen are a nice way of adding a different element, while not getting too crazy.

Trend #17. Steel Hoods

In 2023, we will be seeing homeowners focus on their hood designs. This piece can be a major focal point in the space, especially depending on the layout of the kitchen. Most of the time, we design the space with the range and hood on a wall that is seen from other rooms in the house. Why not make this piece a statement?

The Steel hood above adds a certain drama to the kitchen

 

Custom steel hoods are a way to add in a breaking point to a long row of wood cabinetry. These are a nice feature, but they do come with a cost. Custom steel hoods can range anywhere from $5-7k, but they sure do make a beautiful addition to your new kitchen, so make sure you budget for this correctly. Let’s get rid of those boring matching stainless hoods and be creative with your space! This is also your chance to add metal as a component to your kitchen.

Trend #18. Natural Wood Tones in Kitchen Design

Stained, treated or imitation wood has been used in kitchens for more than a decade. Natural wood is making a come back in the next year as natural forms of wood brings warmth into a kitchen and gives it a nice rustic feel.

Kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge: Natural wooden counter tops treated with Epoxy Urethin Vinyl to increase durability. 

If you have a white toned kitchen then adding either a wooden island, drawers or counter-top will add a vintage charm to your kitchen. In order to increase durability of your natural wood elements in the kitchen simply apply Epoxy Urethin Vinyl Coating on your counter tops. Natural wood however can be used in its true form as a nice rugged looking breakfast bar.

Trend #19. Statement Bronze Accessories for your Kitchen design

Installing statement is a great way to liven your kitchen up and give it a unique design element. Use statement taps and fixtures like brass to give your kitchen a rustic look or industrial look.

Brass sink and tap-ware added for our client to create a rustic look for this kitchen we renovated in Orewa

 

If you have a kitchen which is mostly designed in neutral and white colours then use black for all your taps, fixtures and cabinet handles to instantly make it a classic black and white kitchen without making any drastic changes.

Rustic looking bronze hanging lights also added to the rustic feature of this kitchen in Orewa

Trend #20 Plate racks, Hanging cups and colourful appliances

As mentioned above, a great way to spruce up you kitchen aesthetics is to bring some colour into the kitchen. If you are not looking for a big change then putting colourful crockery on display is a great idea to add some colour.

The above kitchen looks dramatic and bold due to simple red utensils and black cabinets. The red utensils create a lot of interest to an otherwise monochromatic kitchen.

 

All you have to do is add some hooks for colourful cups or add a wall mounted plate rack complete with pattered plates to create interest into a drab kitchen.

Another example of adding colour to a white toned kitchen.

If you are not afraid of colour, then add colourful appliances like a SMEG fridges or accessories can add some fun elements to your kitchen without having to renovate.

Trend #21 Welcome With a Sociable Kitchen

One of the kitchen renovation trends 2023 is the use of curved design elements to enhance the ergonomic benefits and functionality of the space. Rounded kitchen islands are becoming popular as they facilitate socialising and movement in open-plan kitchens with multiple entry and exit points. This kitchen renovation trend encourages smooth transition between spaces and is perfect for entertaining guests.

Modern full home renovation in Greenlane 

Trend #22 Embrace a Wood Resurgence 

Wood kitchen cabinets are becoming popular and may be part of kitchen renovation trends 2023. Using wood cabinets like walnut or oak kitchen cabinet ideas provides your kitchen with a timeless or classic look. A popular option amongst homeowners.

Trend #23 Layered Lighting 

A major kitchen renovation trend 2023 is layered lighting to create a well-designed and functional kitchen. Instead of relying solely on task lighting in specific preparations area, layered lighting will create a more balanced and visually appealing look. This kitchen renovation trend of layering lighting is a key aspect of designing a successful kitchen.

Trend #24 Handle Less Design 

The modern kitchen renovation trend 2023 is focusing on multi-functional, open-concept spaces with a minimalistic aesthetic. With the advancement of push-open and close doors, handle less kitchen cabinets are becoming increasingly popular as it provides a sleek and streamlined look. This trend emphasises simplicity, placing emphasis on the detail of cabinetry for a clean, uncluttered look.

Read – Contemporary Kitchen Renovation with Rustic Features 

Trend #25 Create a Space for a Pantry 

Pantry cupboards are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes as they provide a convenient and organised solution for food items. This kitchen renovation trend 2023 emphasises the importance of having all food goods in one central location, instead of scattered around various wall cupboards. This not only makes it easier to keep track of groceries, but also creates a more orgnaised and functional kitchen space.

 

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10 Kitchen Trends to avoid in 2023

It is always a great idea to not renovate your kitchen wholly after one trend. This is because some trends start becoming an eye sore after a time. We mostly recommend our clients to go for classic designs and use elements of upcoming trend to complement the kitchen as opposed to wholly changing the kitchen to suit a ‘current fad’.

We have compiled a list of trends that do not work well anymore and that you should avoid.

Trend #1 Themed Kitchen design

Kitchens that are fully renovated to emulate a certain time period or style can quickly run out of style, leaving you with a kitchen that you no longer like. An example of this would be a kitchen would be a retro themed kitchen. If you like retro styled kitchens then think about perhaps using a few elements from that era in an otherwise classic or modern kitchen.

Trend # 2 Kitchen desks and workstations within a kitchen design

Kitchen desks were very popular a few decades ago. The birth of kitchen desks came from an era where there was no internet or online accessibility of recipes. People used these desks to work on their menu and store recipe books. However, kitchens is a space which is prone to getting messy and you do not want your desk to bear the brunt of it. Re-locate your kitchen desk to another area of the house and instead add an extra pantry in the kitchen area.

Trend # 3 Dark wooden cabinets

Unless you have a large kitchen, dark cabinets can make your kitchen look bulky and cumbersome. It will close the space up and make your kitchen look dated. Opt for a lighter wood to open your space up and add a modern clean touch to your kitchen.

Trend # 4 Over the range microwave

Older kitchens mostly feature a space above the counters for microwaves. Not only is this cumbersome but it is also inaccessible sometimes with food being split or dropped ever so often. Instead, make a space for your microwave which is below eye.

Trend # 5 Tile Counter-tops

Tiled counter-tops may be cheaper compared to other materials but they are not easy to maintain. They are prone to chips and grouting stains which can become unsightly very soon. If marble or granite is not an option for you then try using engineered stone which can be made to look and feel like marble. They are a whole lot easier to clean and maintain.

Trend #6 White Subway tiles

Subway tiles have been used over and over again in the last decade or so. It is almost an overkill to use them when renovating a kitchen. Try glass, acrylic, stone or tile instead. If you do however like the ‘subway’ look then try colourful subway tiles instead so they add pop of colour to your kitchen.

Trend #7 Closed kitchens

As discussed above, closed off kitchens just do not suit our contemporary tastes anymore. Sure there is a pressure to keep your kitchen tidy in an open plan concept however, no one parent or two want to cook the evening away in a closed off kitchen while kids are hanging in the living room.

Trend #8 DIY backsplashes and cabinets

Doing a DIY job of either painting your cabinets or installing them will never give it the finish that you desire. If you are not a professional then stay away from doing a DIY job as it will only give you problems in the future.

Trend #9 Ornate Styles

If you prefer a rustic, classic or traditional kitchen then that is completely okay! Modern kitchens with sleek lines is not everybody’s style. Even if you are after a traditional kitchen, do not go for ornate decorations on cabinets, doors or oddly shaped islands. Ornate designs on wood etc make a kitchen look dates and unappealing. Instead, make the use of colours, wood and other accessories to bring out the traditional style.

Trend #10 Mismatched styles

When you think about renovating your kitchen it is always a good idea to see what the overall feel of your home is. If your home reflects a more classic traditional style then renovating your kitchen to a sleep modern kitchen would make it look like an eye sore. Instead you could have a traditional kitchen with modern elements to still maintain the theme of the rest of your house.

Trend #11 All White Kitchen 

Minimalistic kitchen designs are trending, but to avoid a barren look, it’s important to incorporate neutral colours in addition to white. Incorporating colours such as tan, grey and black into a white kitchen can add depth and interest while maintaining a minimalistic aesthetic. This kitchen renovation trend 2023 focuses on simplicity and clean lines, so be sure to avoid having an all white kitchen.

Read – 10 Mistakes to avoid in your kitchen by our kitchen designers 

6 Key features to incorporate within your Kitchen Design

There are several features that you can incorporate within your kitchen design when renovating a kitchen for comfort, functionality and aesthetics. A well planned kitchen design includes key features that maximise the space for the lifestyle of the homeowners. The good news is that there are several innovative solutions available today  that work within small as well as large spaces. We spoke to our Kitchen designer and she listed the top 5 features that a good kitchen design should include.

#1 Layout is important for a Kitchen design

Deciding a layout of your kitchen will depend on the space available and how much your family uses the kitchen. If your kitchen is a high traffic area with various family members cooking together then your kitchen design should include a substantial amount of bench space. We have listed the most common layouts below:

One walled kitchens

These kitchens are best suited for smaller units or apartments in Auckland where space is limited. Units and apartments mostly feature open plan living. With one walled kitchens you can make a small area look less cumbersome and you get the flexibility of having a small dining area and a nice living room space.

Galley Kitchens

This layout works good for small spaces as well as it is a lean layout which is ideal for 1-2 person households. The galley kitchen layout features two walls or countertops running parallel to each other with a walkway in between. If you do have a small unit and a one wall kitchen does not provide ample space then a galley kitchen is the right type of layout for you. You can also use one of the countertop area as an island with bar stools and skip on a dining table. This will give you extra counterspace as well as an area to eat your meals.

L-Shaped Kitchens

U-shaped Kitchens

U shaped kitchens have counters or cabinets in three walls of a kitchen making a U shape. They work best for larger spaces and traditionally have worked best for kitchens that are not open plan. However as more people are leaning towards open plan living concepts, this U-shaped design has evolved to include an island instead of counters on all three walls. The modern version of U-shaped kitchens includes an L shaped kitchen along with an island. This also allows for easy foot traffic throughout the kitchen.

Islands in a Kitchen

As discussed above, it is possible to include islands within most layouts when designing a kitchen. The size of the island should however be in proportion to the space that you are working with. If you do have a one walled kitchens then you are probably working with a small space which means that the island that you install should be sleek and no overcrowd the space.

Peninsular Islands

Peninsular islands can be seen as an extension of an L-shaped kitchen. They are attached to a part of the L shaped kitchen to form a U-shaped kitchen. Below is a great example of an Peninsular island that we designed in a full kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach.

Read – Our complete 2021 guide on Planning the right Kitchen Layout for your kitchen

# 2 Storage

Storage is one of the most important aspects of achieving a functional kitchen. The first thing that we recommend all our clients is to draw up an inventory of all their large utensils and kitchen appliances. If there is anything that you do not use regularly then this would be a great time to get rid of them.

Next think about your pantry and how much groceries do you store on a regular basis. Do you need a larger pantry or are you satisfied with the current one? These questions are important before a renovation so your kitchen can be custom built according to your family’s functionality.

When working within tight spaces we incorporate space saving designs such as ‘magic corners’ for corner cabinets, pull out cabinets, pull out rubbish bins and pull out pantries. Such designs help save space, and maximise storage when not a lot of it is available.

# 3 Durable Benchtop

Benchtops need to be durable in any kitchen whether it is used often or now. Most times benchtops cannot just be changed without changing the carcass of your cabinets as well. This means that it is vital that your benchtops survives atleast 25 years. Most older homes in Auckland have durable benchtop made of laminate which are not prone to cracking or breaking but they are prone to staining. Laminate benchtops get stained very easily and hence start making your kitchen look shabby.

Stainless steel is a very durable benchtop as it will not stain and has a long life. Stainless steel is not for everyone though as it can make a kitchen look cold and more like a commercial kitchen. Stainless steel is not the best option if you are going for a traditional or classic kitchen. Stainless steel can work well with industrial, modern and contemporary styles.

Quartz is another material that works great for countertops as it comes in various designs and is very durable. Due to its versatile option in design, it can be used in all types of kitchen styles. It is however an expensive choice for benchtops which might not be right for everyone’s budget.

Engineered stone has become one of the most popular choices for our clients as it is durable as well as cost effective compared to quartz. Engineered stone is exactly as it sounds, it is engineered in the factory. It can be made to look like marble or any other material which makes it a versatile design choice. It is also not as expensive as marble or quartz and does fit into most budgets. Engineered stone does not stain like laminate and is a very easy to clean material.

# 4 Good durable Flooring

The floor of the kitchen can easily get dirty and messy. Most people live busy lives and cannot spend a long time cleaning and maintaining the floors. Tiled or Acrylic floors are the easiest to maintain when it comes to kitchens. Tiled and Acrylic floors now come in various textures, designs and patters and can be made to look like wooden floors or any other type of flooring. This means that you do not have to compromise on style and aesthetics. They are also very easy to maintain and do not get damaged with any water spillage.

Carpets and Real hardwood floors are easily the hardest to maintain. Carpets are easily stained and can be a nightmare to maintain in a kitchen even with a kitchen mat. Real hardwood floors can begin to rot overtime if there is constant water spillage which is often not avoidable in a kitchen. If you have real hardwood floors then a good idea will be to protect them in order to avoid them getting damaged.

We have renovated old bungalows in Auckland where our clients chose to keep their timber floors and we preserved them by taking the following steps:

• All the floors were cleaned thoroughly and then sanded
• All the rows of nail holes were fixed
•  3 coats of commercial grade water Born Polyurethane was applied on the floors
• After 5 days we then applied a satin finish of moisture cured and water based polyurethane.

# 5 Good Quality Fittings

If you’re considering which items to spend more on in your kitchen, it’s worth paying attention to the fittings. A standard cabinet can be lifted by a beautiful handle, while a basic sink can look high-end with the addition of a well-chosen tap.

The fittings in your kitchen are going to be used a lot, so it makes sense to invest in quality to ensure they’re strong, durable and nice to touch.

It is important to use good quality fittings when renovating a kitchen whether it is a DIY project or through a renovation company. You are not going to be renovating your kitchen every 5 years or so which means that the fittings you choose should be lasting you at least 15-20 years. It is better to put off your renovation for a few more years in order to save enough to invest in good quality fittings for your kitchen renovation.

Your fittings will be used a lot and quite regularly so there is a high chance of wear and tear. The materials you choose for your cabinets, benchtop, sink and door handles should be durable and sturdy.

# 6 Easy to clean splash back

A well chosen splashback can transform your kitchen in terms of design as well as reduce the time it takes you to clean while cooking. One of the key functions of a splashback is to protect the wall from the splatters made while cooking. Hence decide on a sleek tiled splashback without many grout lines or a glass splashback.

If there are too many grout lines or if the tile used is rough or textured then cleaning the splashback will be harder. If it is a smoother tile without too many grout lines then it would be a whole lot easier to clean your splashback.

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Featured Projects

Urban Luxury Kitchen renovation in Parnell

This townhouse was centrally located in Parnell but the kitchen was tiny and lacked counter space. We completely changed the layout of this kitchen by first moving it from the left side of the area to the right. We then added cabinets in the dining area as an extended storage space. This cabinet featured shelves with internal lights which could be opened when required. To see Before and After pictures and project specifications see more

 

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Entertainer’s Dream Kitchen and Bar 

Guru and Neeta from Massey had a closed off kitchen which did not let them enjoy an open plan living. They wanted to renovate to introduce a feel of luxury but also make it an open space which could double as an entertaining space. We opened up the space for them and also extended the kitchen counter towards the lounge to act like a bar. The black and white see more

 

Kitchen, Lounge and Dining room renovation in Massey

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Cottage Style Kitchen in Mangere Bridge

This was a special kitchen as it was about incorporating natural elements into the kitchen to reflect our client’s country surroundings. The kitchen was dated and was transformed into a chic country style kitchen complete with treated real wood as bench-tops, butler’s sink, floating shelves and cabinets that were wrapped in Dezignatek Thermoform with a ‘Ronda’ pattern to give them cabinets a vintage look see more

Full kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Auckland

 

Already have all your own trades and you’re comfortable managing them for your kitchen renovation?

Although we don’t recommend if you haven’t renovated a kitchen before and/or you don’t have trades people you can trust, most renovations if not all comes with it’s own surprises because not all homes are the same – this is where experience/project management plays an important role in minimises risks to maintain costs/delays giving you higher certainty of outcome/quality backed by associated guarantees and warranties.

However, if you do intend to manage the kitchen renovation yourself, it does work out more cost effective to contact a kitchen cabinetry manufacturer directly to get the kitchen cabinets designed, manufactured and installed – leaving you to manage the other trades such as flooring, demolition, painting, plastering, splashback/tiling, electrician, plumber, and sometimes a carpenter/builder.

 

Try Little Giant Interiors cost calculator below to see what you can expect to pay for cabinetry.

• New Kitchen Cabinetry Cost Calculator
• New Laundry Cost Calculator

 

 

Further Resources for your house interior design

1. Ideas for Bathroom renovations in our bathroom renovation gallery of bathrooms we have renovated in Auckland
2. Ideas for Kitchen renovations in our kitchen renovation gallery for kitchens we have renovated in Auckland
3. Featured projects and Client stories to see specifications on some of the projects.
4. Real client stories from Auckland.

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How much does a kitchen renovation cost?

Kitchen renovations start from 23K and can go up to 50K depending on the level of customisation and the type of range you use for products. If you are looking at a basic kitchen renovation with minimal change in layout and use mid range products/fixtures then you can get a fully renovated kitchen in 23K. However if the level of customisation is high and products used come from our premium range then it can cost anywhere above 30K

How do I budget for my kitchen renovation?

First you should make a list of why you want to renovate your kitchen. Is it to increase functionality by including modern amenities and changing your layout? Is it to make minor upgrades as things are starting to look old? Is it to convert a closed of kitchen into an open space living? Is it to upgrade a rental property to yield better rent in the market? These questions will largely affect your budget. If you are looking at upgrading an investment property to either add value or yield better rent should be getting a basic renovation with little customisation with the use of medium range supplies. However, if your intention is to increase functionality and add comfort then you can use our mid-range to premium suppliers and customise your kitchen to the extent that your budget allows.

Do you have finance options for my Kitchen renovation?

Yes we do provide finance options for people wanting to renovate their kitchen with us. We realise that it is not always possible to put aside a huge chunk of money for your renovation and we have hence partnered with Linda from Loan Market to provide finance options for our clients. To understand more about our finance options, visit our page: https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/guide-to-financing-your-home-renovation-in-nz-by-superior-renovations/

Does a Kitchen renovation increase the value of my home?

Kitchens and Bathrooms are the two main parts of your home that will increase the over all value of your home. Kitchens especially have become a focal point for buyers when choosing a home. This is because kitchens of today are a lot more than just a place for cooking. They are a place where the family congregates, a place for interaction and entertainment. Hence when buying a home, kitchen is mostly a first property for buyers.

Where can i find help to design my kitchen?

Renovation companies like ours that provide a full 'design to build service' will include design in to their process which means that you do not have to find your own designer. Having a designer in the same team as the rest of the renovation company is an added benefit as you do not have to liaise with two different companies.

Do i have get my own plumbers and electricians for my kitchen renovation?

This will depend on the company that is carrying out your renovation. Renovation companies that offer a complete 'design to build' service will include everything from designing your kitchen, demolition of previous kitchen, disposal of rubbish, supply of products like flooring/bathroom fixtures/showers,vanity, installation process, all the different trades involved and project management of the entire process and trades involved. The costs for kitchen renovation will include all the above. However there are kitchen manufacturers that focus only on manufacturing a kitchen and installing it. They would not provide any electricians, tilers, plumbers etc. Do your research to see what fits you best

What are some Kitchen backplash trends?

A backsplash can really change the look of your entire kitchen. Whether it is pop of colour that you want to add in an otherwise white toned kitchen or make it into a sleek modern kitchen by adding a glass splashback. You can read our article on newest trends for kitchen backsplash for 2020 and 2021 here: https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/how-much-do-kitchen-splashbacks-cost-in-nz/

throom fixtures/showers,vanity, installation process, all the different trades involved and project management of the entire process and trades involved. The costs for kitchen renovation will include all the above. However there are kitchen manufacturers that focus only on manufacturing a kitchen and installing it. They would not provide any electricians, tilers, plumbers etc. Do your research to see what fits you best. ” image-5=”” count=”6″ html=”true” css_class=””]

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Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations

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WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation 

Or call us on   0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

 

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This blog has been updated with additional information to ensure you create a functional kitchen design. 

If you are planning a kitchen renovation, then you must be looking for kitchen design ideas that works best for the space that you have available. Not everyone is able to build a brand-new house to live in. This means that most people have to renovate their existing kitchen and have to decide on a kitchen design that transform their current space into something that is functional and works for their family.

Our kitchen designers often work with our clients to custom built a kitchen within their current space. We spoke to our designers and they said that deciding the right type of design does not just mean deciding on a U shaped, L shaped or galley kitchen. There are a few technicalities that need to be kept in mind before deciding on a layout for the kitchen. They work by 7 rules that go into designing a kitchen that works for our clients.

In this article we will discuss the following:

1. 7 core technicalities to keep in mind when designing your kitchen layout

2. Kitchen Ergonomics 101

3. 7 tips to keep your kitchen functional

4. 6 Most popular kitchen layouts – which layout is right for your kitchen design?

1.Foot traffic and designated storage areas

One of the top priorities in your kitchen design should be to ensure that you have a clear primary pathway throughout the kitchen without obstructing the oven or dishwasher doors when opened.

Kitchens are almost always a high traffic area in any household. Your kitchen design must include clear designated areas where you will be storing your appliances, which will be your living area and where you will be doing most of the cooking. Make a list of all your big appliances, your cutlery, your regularly used utensils, your washing area, your cooking area and make sure that your kitchen design includes a designated area for these things. An example below shows a rough drawing of how the areas should be designated in your kitchen designs.

2.Distance between all your fixtures

It is important for your kitchen area to not be too cramped. There are many kitchen designs that include all the amenities, but they end up having very little space between fixtures. This means that in reality when you are working in the kitchen it will not be a very functional space.

Hence think about the distance between your cooking area and your sink for example. You also do not want your fridge to be too far away from your stove because it will end up becoming inconvenient. Your dishwasher should also be in an easy distance from your sink so that you can rinse and easily load your dishwasher.

3.Distance between your island and cooking area

If you have an island in the kitchen then you should make sure that there isn’t too much or too little space between the island and the cooktop. Islands are usually a great area to prep your meals which means that if its too far from the cooktop then it will complicate things.

This L-shaped island from our renovation in Blockhouse Bay is installed a good distance from the counters

L Shaped Kitchen from our Stanmore Bay renovation with a large island with  bar stools and a hob

 

On the contrary if there is too little space between the island and the stove then you cannot have more than 1 person comfortably cooking and prepping in the area. Also, most island do have storage cabinets built into them and they should be able to comfortably open and not collide with the parallel countertops or yourself.

4.Place the Cooktop and Kitchen first within your kitchen design

A good rule of thumb is always to figure out where the sink, cooktop and the dishwasher goes before deciding on other designated areas. The sink and cooktop are the areas where most of the action happens in the kitchen. Designers often first decide on these elements before designating areas for preparation of storage cabinets. Also ensure that there is ample room around the sink and cooktop. If you have a large island with quite a bit of surface area, then you can install your sink on it as it could provide you with lots of area to work with.

Everything should comfortably open and not obstruct the pathway or any other fixture in a functional kitchen design (Image courtesy Room Sketcher.com: https://www.roomsketcher.com/blog/kitchen-layout-ideas/)

5.Be smart about where you place your cooktop

Ventilation is very important in kitchens so that there is not too much moisture in the kitchen. Too much humidity and moisture in your kitchen will end up making your walls mouldy and ruin your furniture especially if its an open plan setting. You can install a cooktop on your island, but it will be expensive to install a good ventilation system and you will have no splashback to catch all the splatters. Hence, we recommend our clients to install their cooktops on an exterior wall where installing a ventilation system becomes easier, plus you will be able to install and splashback.

6.Keep Vertical Storage in Mind

Storage is one of the most important components of a functional kitchen design. A kitchen can be beautifully designed but if it lacks storage then it makes for a bad kitchen design. Not everyone has the choice of having large and spacious kitchens with numerous storage cabinets for storage. However, a lack of space however does not have to equate to lack of storage in small kitchen designs. You can consider installing wall-mounted vertical storage that is reachable by kitchen ladders. A moveable ladder can be included into your kitchen design, and you can store products that you use regularly in the top cabinets. In order to give your kitchen design more depth, you can also place hooks and open shelves on the walls.

7.Create a Floor Plan and Visualize Your Kitchen in 3D

Once you have decided on materials, dimensions, and aesthetics of your kitchen, make sure that you create a 3D plan for your kitchen. Most renovation companies like ours provide 3D drawings for clients so that the client can visualise the kitchen before manufacturing and installation begins. Even if you are doing a DIY project, it is always a good idea to generate 3D drawings for a kitchen via an app or a designer.

7 Tips to Keep Your Kitchen Functional 

1. Vertical Wall Storage 

when planning your kitchen layout design, you’d always want to consider a functional kitchen design. Having storage in your kitchen plays a huge part in making your kitchen functional. Create organizational central by using magnets, hooks, and rods. use vertical wall storage in your kitchen as it’s a great idea for any size kitchen and there are a variety of customisable layout options.

2. Live On The Big Island 

in your kitchen plans NZ, always plan for an island if possible. A kitchen island is a place where everyone gathers and can act as extra storage space. Consider a kitchen island in your kitchen layout design as it makes your kitchen more functional.

3. Hidden, Not Forgotten 

Our kitchen designers Auckland recommend that you think about installing a two tiered carousel to free up counter space and make the most of corner cabinet storage. This is a great idea to consider in your kitchen layout ideas NZ as you can store both often used and infrequently used goods hidden away but within easy reach.

4. Clean Lined Cooktop 

For your designer new kitchen, think about using a flat glass ceramic cooktop if your kitchen has limited counter space. This kitchen plans NZ works regardless of which kitchen style you’re after, thanks to it’s streamlined shape, and complements the kitchen.

5. Spiced Up Organisation 

Creating a functional kitchen design may be tricky as there are many elements to consider. Purchase small containers to fill up drawers with all the different spices you own. Have a designated drawer that is dedicated to only spices that would take your organisation to the next level.

6. Keep Continuity In Mind

You don’t need to spend big to get the functional kitchen design you’re after. To get a unified, finished kitchen layout design, opt for kitchen appliances covered in integrated doors that complement your cabinets.

7. Illumination Innovations 

Nobody likes fumbling around in the dark for something, even if it is to find a flashlight. In your kitchen plans NZ, purchase some plug in lighting strips with motion sensors to install into your drawers. To create a functional kitchen design, having good kitchen lighting is the way to go.

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6 Most common Layouts for your Kitchen design – Which one is right for your space?

Now that we have discussed the essential dimensions and distances required for a functional kitchen design, lets discuss the 6 most popular kitchen design layouts of today.  A good layout will help you maximise the space available to give you a functional kitchen for your family.

A kitchen is different from all the other rooms in a home as ergonomics has a huge role to play in its design plan. Getting the right heights and distance between objects is important for its functionality.

1.U-shaped kitchen

U shaped kitchens work well if you have a lot of space available. U-shaped kitchens have counters on three walls of the kitchen forming a U shape. These types of kitchens offer ample space to eat, cook and entertain. Larger U-shaped kitchens can also accommodate an island in the middle to provide additional bench space.

U shaped kitchens are usually found in a standalone room of itself or in the corner of a large room. The modern U-shaped kitchen has evolved from being made on three walls into an L-shaped kitchen with a disconnected island to for a U shape. This allows people the flexibility to enjoy an open planned living which is the most popular style today.

 

 

Project specifications + Photos – Guru and Neeta’s modern U-shaped Kitchen Project

If you do have a small kitchen then a U shaped kitchen is possible to have but opt for the modern U-shape design with an L-shaped kitchen and a narrow island that can double as a breakfast bar.

Project specifications + Photos – Amber and Craig’s U shaped Kitchen renovation in Hillsborough

5 Ideas for U Shaped Kitchen Designs

1. Central Dining Table 

If your kitchen layout design has enough space, consider adding a kitchen island in your kitchen plans NZ. Having a kitchen island adds additional storage and can be used as a gathering point. If you happen to have a large kitchen, instead of adding a kitchen island, add a dining table. Having a dining table might be more comfortable than gathering around an island.

2. Add Depth With Paint 

Having a U shaped designer new kitchen can become too boxy. In your kitchen plans NZ, include some dark paint on a singular wall. If you happen to have a kitchen island add dark paint to the base of it. This will help create a focal point in your kitchen and add depth to the space.

3. Pendant Lighting 

Having a large kitchen requires you to consider lighting as you’d want to ensure the kitchen is well lit. Our kitchen designers Auckland  suggest that you hang some pendant lighting in the middle of the room to above a dining area. This way it will help define the area and make the kitchen more welcoming.

4. Open Shelving 

In your kitchen layout ideas NZ, plan to have some floating/open shelves to replace some cabinet spaces as it will open the room. To create an inviting atmosphere, be sure to add décor elements and keep the space orgnaised.

5. Create An Entertaining Space 

Creating a functional kitchen design has many elements to it before it becomes functional. A kitchen has always been somewhat of an entertaining space. If you’re a fan of hosting parties at your house, make sure there is space for you to converse with guests while cooking or preparing meals.

2.L-shaped kitchens

An L shaped kitchen is great for small spaces like apartments and units. They are different from U-shaped kitchens as they have one less wall where you can put counters and storage. It is great for small families, couples or single inhabitants of a house.

While there is less counterspace and storage available in an L-shaped kitchen, it is a more cohesive design for smaller spaces. With ingenuity and some innovation, you can maximise storage by building storage vertically and reach these spaces with a trendy kitchen ladder.

Project Specifications + Photos – L-shaped Kitchen design + Large island in Blockhouse Bay renovation

L shaped kitchens are also great if you have a corner that is not being used and if you are looking at maximising this space. If your kitchen is in an open plan living, kitchen and dining area then you can potentially build a small island that can double as a dining and do away with a dining table all together. This will give you more bench space and you will not be stuck with a dining table that you do not use.

5 Ideas To Maxmise Your L Shaped Kitchen

1. Link With Materials 

To create a cohesive look in your kitchen layout design, try to link sections in your kitchen by matching materials. Consider using the same surface material, cabinetry paint, and hardware. This will not only give the area a coherent aesthetic, but it will also make the room appear larger because your attention won’t be drawn to anything different elsewhere in the space.

2. Balance Your Storage 

Storage space is highly important in your kitchen, ensure you have enough storage space in your kitchen layout design. In a L shaped kitchen, you’re able to have storage up high and down low. Our kitchen designers Auckland suggest that you paint your high cabinets the same colour as your walls, as it will give the impression that the space is bigger without sacrificing storage space. Paint your lower cabinets a lighter, brighter tone.

3. Create A Practical Workspace 

A functional kitchen design consists of having a practical workspace which is why you should always keep in mind of the working triangle in your kitchen layout ideas NZ. To have a successful functional kitchen, you’d want everything to flow smoothly.

4. Balance The L Shaped With A Window

If possible, try to position your L shaped kitchen under a window as it will help you balance out the kitchen. This designer new kitchen will give equal function to the other part of the L shaped kitchen. Having windows in your kitchen will lighten up the room.

5. Store Vertically 

As mentioned before, storage space is an important factor that you should consider in your kitchen layout design as having enough storage space creates a functional kitchen. Use an entire wall to have floor to wall ceiling cabinets if possible as it will utilise your kitchen space. Take your kitchen layout ideas NZ a step further by adding a magnetic rail to hold knives.

3.Galley Kitchen:

Galley kitchens have two parallel walls with countertops and a walkway in between them. Traditionally galley kitchens often feature in standalone rooms of their own. This style is very popular in older Auckland homes with more people choosing to remove one of the walls to integrate the galley kitchen into an open plan living space.

Galley kitchens work best if you have a narrow room and prefer your kitchen closed off from the rest of the house. A galley kitchen can easily be converted into an open style kitchen by demolishing the wall between the kitchen and the living space. If you are demolishing a wall that has countertops adjacent to it then you can convert this row of countertops into a long island instead. This way you can keep the storage and work bench space. Another great way to integrate a galley kitchen into your living space is making a large open window without a glass pane on the wall that has one of the countertops adjacent to it.

Photos and Project specifications  – Open style Galley Kitchen (or one wall + island Kitchen) in Epsom

5 Galley Kitchen Design Ideas 

1. Add Lighting 

Allowing natural light in your designer new kitchen is ideal but if you’re unable to let natural light in, opt for good lighting fixtures in your kitchen layout design. In your galley kitchen layout ideas NZ, take into account lighting options such as worktop spotlight and properly positioned pendants. Shiny materials like tile, metal, and glass will reflect light to give the impression that the room is bigger.

2. Keep It Simple 

In your designer new kitchen, keep it simple as it will make your space feel airy. Choose sleek, click close doors that don’t have handles. Skip the colour scheme and stick with monochromatic, light neutrals. Choose a unique rug or a high end faucet for your kitchen if you’d like to make a statement in your kitchen layout design.

3. Open it up 

Creating a functional kitchen design for your galley kitchen can be tricky. The easiest way to create more functionality in your kitchen is by adding a kitchen island for food preparation and storage. As it can allow for casual dining, including an overhang and stool seating.

4. Hanging Storage

Counter space is important no matter what style kitchen you have. In your kitchen plans NZ consider having some hanging storage options as an alternative if you’re low on cabinet or counter space. Our kitchen designers Auckland always recommend hanging storage solutions to hang your pots and pans where they can be easily accessible. Another alternative is to have floating shelves to display anything you like.

5. Clear The Contents 

Our inhouse kitchen designers Auckland suggest that you keep your kitchen countertops clear if possible. As this will provide your kitchen with an airier look and make the space look clean. Consider installing a microwave drawer to get the appliance off your counter. Provide goods with a home by having tall storage, especially if you don’t utilise them frequently.

4.Island Kitchen:

Kitchens in the past always featured islands which were predominantly used for prep work in kitchens. Islands phased in the past few decades as the space available for them became lesser and other kitchen designs provided more storage.

This however has changed in the past decade as islands of today feature storage cabinets on all sides, they provide extra prep space and act as a small breakfast nook. Installing an island is not possible for all spaces but there are more sleeker styles available today. It is possible to incorporate a an island in L-shaped, U shaped and Galley kitchens as long as there is enough room to move around all the counters.

Read – 20 Top Kitchen design trends for 2021 and 10 trends to avoid

5 Island Kitchen Design Ideas 

1. Squeeze In A Moveable Island If Space Is Tight 

To create a functional kitchen design, it’s been proven that having a kitchen island plays a huge part in making your kitchen more functional. Having an island may only seem like it’s possible only for a spacious kitchen but that’s not the case. Think about having a portable island as it can be easily moved to different areas of the kitchen when needed as it can provide as additional work surface and seating options.

2. Refresh The Kitchen With A Splash Of Colour 

Kitchen designers Auckland advise that if you have a neutral kitchen, use your kitchen island as a space to add a splash of colour in your kitchen plans NZ. In your designer new kitchen, consider painting the island a contrast colour as it offers a quick and simple update that can work wonders in the kitchen without you having to commit to a full kitchen renovation.

3. Incorporate Extra Storage At One End 

Kitchen layout ideas NZ for your island, ensure you take advantage of your island by adding additional storage to it. Put this unused area to better use by including a set of shelves rather than the typical end panels. Make sure it has a thin gap that might be used as a spice rack or a place to store condiments and oils, as it should be at least 10cm deep to create a functional kitchen design.

4. Position Appliances Away From Entertaining Space 

If your island is in an open-concept kitchen, you probably want to create a lively and appealing environment for entertaining. in your kitchen layout ideas NZ, you might want to consider placing cooking appliances on the inside of your kitchen island. Our kitchen designers Auckland highly advise this as having cooking appliances on the outside of your kitchen island is not a good idea. To create a more inviting atmosphere, incorporate your oven and hob onto the island facing the social area.

5. Make Sure Your Kitchen Is Well Lit 

Lighting is extremely important as if you have an island, it will become a focal point. Ensure you have the right lighting in your kitchen plans NZ so that your kitchen has sufficient lighting. As your kitchen island will be a primary location for food preparation and entertaining, it needs to be adequately lighted. Keep this in mind in your kitchen layout ideas NZ.

5.Peninsula Kitchen:

In peninsula kitchens your island extends from the rest of your kitchen. This type of island provides more benchtop space or a dining area when there isn’t much space available for an standalone island. This works especially well for L-shaped kitchens as seen in one of our renovations below. Lynette’s family really wanted a breakfast nook in their kitchen design but did not have the space for an island in the middle of the kitchen. Hence we created a peninsula design for her kitchen which allowed her to have her breakfast nook without making the area cumbersome.

Project specifications of the above Kitchen

3 Peninsula Kitchen Design Ideas

1. Add Banquette Seats On The Back

Many kitchen designs that have been completed by our kitchen designers Auckland express how important it is to create a space for seating where the family can all get together. If your open-plan peninsula kitchen has room, you might want to think about installing banquette seating there. This kitchen layout ideas NZ is an excellent approach to fit more people around the table as it will create a social space for entertaining and serve as a kitchen extension in your designer new kitchen.

2. Open Shelving

Like many designer new kitchen, you’d want to create a perfect kitchen layout ideas NZ to open your kitchen and make the space appear lighter and larger. Open shelves make it simple to reach for necessary appliances when working in the kitchen and lets more light into the room.

3. Add Light Fixtures 

Remember to install lighting over your peninsula. It not only brightens up your workspace, but it also gives your house more visual appeal. You can add pendent lighting to the space to offer visual contrast in your kitchen plans NZ.

6.Two Island Kitchen:

This type of kitchen is only possible for a kitchen design which has a large space to work with. You can create a lovely 2 island kitchen which can be installed in the middle of the kitchen design with a pathway in between them. You can use one of the islands for prep work and in the other you can even install a cooktop and make that your cooking area. Two islands of a smaller size work better than one large island in the middle as there is more accessibility available with two small islands. It is also better for walking around and the general flow of your kitchen.

 

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Featured Projects

Urban Luxury Kitchen renovation in Parnell – An open plan U-shaped Kitchen

This townhouse was centrally located in Parnell but the kitchen was tiny and lacked counter space. We completely changed the layout of this kitchen by first moving it from the left side of the area to the right. We then added cabinets in the dining area as an extended storage space. This cabinet featured shelves with internal lights which could be opened when required. To see Before and After pictures and project specifications see more

 

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Entertainer’s Dream Kitchen and Bar – A modern U shaped Open plan kitchen

Guru and Neeta from Massey had a closed off kitchen which did not let them enjoy an open plan living. They wanted to renovate to introduce a feel of luxury but also make it an open space which could double as an entertaining space. We opened up the space for them and also extended the kitchen counter towards the lounge to act like a bar. The black and white see more

 

Kitchen, Lounge and Dining room renovation in Massey

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Cottage Style Kitchen in Mangere Bridge – Peninsula Kitchen

This was a special kitchen as it was about incorporating natural elements into the kitchen to reflect our client’s country surroundings. The kitchen was dated and was transformed into a chic country style kitchen complete with treated real wood as bench-tops, butler’s sink, floating shelves and cabinets that were wrapped in Dezignatek Thermoform with a ‘Ronda’ pattern to give them cabinets a vintage look see more

Full kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Aucklandd

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Open Plan Galley Kitchen in Epsom

We renovated this historic bungalow in Epsom to make it more functional for a young family. The materials used were durable and easy to clean. This open style galley kitchen allows our clients the freedom to spend quality time within one space. See full details for this project here

 

Further Resources for your house interior design

1. Ideas for Bathroom renovations in our bathroom renovation gallery of bathrooms we have renovated in Auckland
2. Ideas for Kitchen renovations in our kitchen renovation gallery for kitchens we have renovated in Auckland
3. Featured projects and Client stories to see specifications on some of the projects.
4. Real client stories from Auckland.

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Do you have a In-house Kitchen designer?

Yes, we do have an In-house Kitchen designer who will help you create a Kitchen design for your kitchen renovation. We provide all our clients with 3D drawings when we create a proposal for you.

What kind of Kitchen layout is best for me?

This will depend on various factors. Read our article on Planning your layout for a functional and practical kitchen design here to understand more about the layout that is right for you : https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/kitchen-layout-planning-guide-to-achieving-a-good-kitchen-design

Do I have to get my own plumbers and electricians?

We provide a full renovation service for any given area. This means that our service will include design, demolition, sourcing of all renovation materials from local supplier showrooms, custom built cabinetry, installation of all cabinets, flooring, fixtures, project management and all trades like electricians, plumbers, grouters, builders, tilers, and any other trades.

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Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations

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WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation 

Or call us on   0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

 

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Have you been putting off getting renovations done?

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Learn More about Interest-Free Payment Options*

*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

 

 

Kitchens today have a multi faceted role in our lives and are not merely a place where the cooking is done. As we evolve more towards an open style living, our kitchens have become a focal point of how families interact on an everyday basis. It is a place where everyone gets together to cook, it is also a place where family and friends come over and hang around on bar stools while others cook.

This open style living has made it even more important for our kitchens to be functional, have a good kitchen layout and be aesthetically attractive. Having an open plan kitchen means that the aesthetics of the rest of your home is often extended to the kitchen in order to have some continuity.

Key Elements to design:

• Classic Kitchens ↓

• Traditional Kitchens ↓

• Contemporary Vs Modern Kitchens ↓

• Cottage Style Kitchens ↓

• Industrial Kitchens ↓

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Key Elements of Classic Kitchen Designs  ↑

Classic kitchens are supposed to reflect a timeless kitchen design that does not go out of style. They should not however be confused for traditional kitchen designs. Classic kitchens have a neutral palette that gives it a fresh new feel.

As classic kitchens mostly have a neutral palette, they might not be for everyone. They might feel too bland for people who love colours and perhaps too ornate for people who like sleek modern lines for their interiors.

Due to their neutral palette they will easily complement the rest of your home’s interior. If the rest of your home is modern, then a few small changes in your classic kitchen can modernise it.

Colour Schemes in  Classic Kitchen Designs

As mentioned above, classic kitchens are meant to have a simple and light design with minor ornate detailing. They are not too dark, traditional, or complicated in their kitchen design. Classic Kitchen designs have a neutral overall colour palette for their walls and cabinets. This however does not have to mean that they need to look bland.

A great way to add some interest and colour is to add a dark countertop/benchtop. Create contrast by adding dark light fixtures, benchtops, flooring, or minor detailing to the neutral colour scheme.

 

The above kitchen was renovated in a Historic home in Epsom. The previous kitchen was in a traditional style but the new owners wanted a more timeless look for their kitchen. We demolished the previous fixtures and custom built the kitchen in a classic style.  See full project specifications: Classic Kitchen renovation in Epsom

 

 

Cabinets in Classic Kitchen Designs

Always remember your design brief when choosing fixtures and materials for your classic kitchen design. A classic kitchen needs to be timeless which means that the cabinetry should be chosen keeping simplicity in mind. Too many ornate features on the cabinets will make the kitchen design look too traditional. Instead, opt for shaker style cabinet doors which feature clean lines with a recessed centre in the middle. If you do want to add more details on the cabinets then you can add some bead moulding on the edges.

When renovating classic kitchens, we use Dezignatek Thermoform that is wrapped around the cabinets with minor detailing. Thermoformed doors are of a high quality and are highly durable which makes them a great choice for cabinets in a classic kitchen.

 

Handles and Doorknobs

A no-handle set up which is often featured in modern kitchens, does not work well for classic kitchens. This style is too modern for a timeless look which means that you should opt for cabinet door handles in your classic kitchen design.

 

 

You can also create contrast to an otherwise neutral kitchen with door handles. Try using matte black door handles to add elegance and interest in your classic kitchen design. Shiny handles can make your kitchen look more contemporary.

Benchtops

Although it is quite high-maintenance, marble is one of the essential elements in a traditional kitchen. Granite or Caesar stones can work too, as long as you opt for a monochrome color scheme.

A black marble bench top would provide a great contrast to an overpowering all-white kitchen.

Marble countertops are an essential for classic kitchens. However marble is very hard to maintain and can prove to be very expensive. Alternatives to marble can be stone engineered countertops that can be given a marble or granite look. Stone engineered countertops can be made to look like marble with a design on them and can be made in any colour.

If you want some contrast in your kitchen then you can opt for darker shades for your countertop.

Fixtures and Hardware

A great thing about classic kitchens is that they can be transformed into any other style by mixing elements of different styles within the design.

Sinks and Faucets

Sinks in classic kitchens are usually not chrome or stainless steel. A white butler’s sink works great for classic kitchen designs. If you do not want to butler’s sink, then opt for a Silgranit sink which comes in various colours and textures. More of our clients are going with classic Silgranit sinks as they are more durable and can make your kitchen look more contemporary.

Black Silgranit sink used in a Kitchen renovation in Rosedale, Albany

Textured double grey Silgranit Sink used in a Kitchen renovation in Papatoetoe

 

Antique looking taps with a high spout works in matte brass colours can be within a classic kitchen design to add something of the past and present. If you are not fond of brass looking taps then you can also opt for taps in chrome or other colours as long as they do not look too sleek or ornate.

Astra Walker range from Kitchen Hub has several designs in their classic and contemporary range to choose from for any type of classic kitchen design.

 

Kitchen Hub’s classic kitchen tapware

Long sprouted curved tap in a kitchen renovation in Epsom

 

If you are looking for a purely classic theme, then you can use the Astra Walker classic range to add some history and drama to the design.  Use matte black fixtures to create contrast or you can use shinier chrome for a more neutral design.

Cooking Range and Splashback

A cooking standalone cooking range which slides in between your cabinets makes for a great focal point in a classic kitchen. A dark grey rangehood with iron grates and upward knobs should be used instead of induction cooktops as they look too modern for a classic kitchen.

 

The size of your tiles is not important when choosing a splashback for your kitchen design. As mentioned above, it is more the colour palette that is important in a classic kitchens. You can add textured tiles or even marble in neutral colours as your splashback. If you want to add some interest then you can use dark grey grouting between tiles.

 

Light fixtures

A great way of introducing focal points and interest in your classic kitchen design can be through pendant lighting. A long antique looking pendant lightings which hangs above your island can really lift your kitchen design. Their height can be adjusted to suit the length that you prefer.

This long multi-bulb pendant light was installed above the dining table

Two separate long pendant lights installed above the breakfast Island

 

We do however suggest only getting a couple of pendant lights for your kitchen as too many of them can give your kitchen a cluttered feel. If you have a large kitchen then you can install wall mounted lighting which do not look to sleek.

Back to the top

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Modern Kitchen Renovation in Hillsborough

This kitchen was renovated in a modern style for a family whose kitchen had started leaking. They needed a complete renovation as the old kitchen had become very shabby.
See full project specifications + Before and After pictures

 

 

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