Feature article

What to consider when building your kitchen

The golden rules of kitchen design.

Clare Chapman
Last updated: 31 July 2024 | 5 min read
AI

AI summary

When building or renovating, a functional kitchen adds significant value. A key principle is the 'work triangle', ensuring your sink, fridge, and oven are efficiently spaced.

Choose appliances based on your lifestyle first, then plan cabinetry. Maximize storage with full-depth pull-outs, corner systems, and undermount sinks to save bench space.

Select durable flooring and the best quality benchtop you can afford. Finally, create a layered lighting plan using a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting for optimal functionality and safety.

Creating the most functional layout

The 2023 Kitchen of the Year, Speargrass House Kitchen by Arent&Pyke sits within a refined Queenstown home. As an open plan it communicates perfectly with its surrounding zones and creates a family hub that is personable and grounded.

Everything and the kitchen sink

This kitchen, in Wings Over Water House in Queenstown by Kamermans Architects, is defined by a dark and moody material palette within a highly sculptural home. Image: David Straight

More than surface deep

Shed some light on the scene

Author

Clare Chapman Clare Chapman
Editor in Chief, HOME