The perfect time to make your space come alive again …

This time of year, our kitchens need some much-needed TLC after a busy few months. Georgina McKenzie, Head of Store Design at Neptune Home, shares her tips for dressing your kitchen to make it the heart of the home.
REFLECT YOUR STYLE
Georgina says it’s important for your kitchen to reflect your lifestyle. “Adding things that don’t traditionally belong in kitchens such as bookshelves, rugs and indoor wall gardens encourage us to treat this as not just a functional space, but one designed for relaxation and enjoyment.”
COLOUR
A new coat of paint can completely revamp a room, or incorporating a splash of colour with small additions. “Styling is an opportunity to add something unexpected to your palette, be it the colour of cookery book spines, coloured linen or simply the vibrancy of a bowl of lemons and limes.”
HOMEY VIBE
Open-shelving and glass cabinetry creates an inviting look to display your wares. “Visible crockery, especially a teapot and glass storage jars filled with treats, create a homey atmosphere where guests can help themselves, then put their feet up,” says Georgina.
RUSTIC LOOK
“If you want a country look and feel, think about using rustic tableware and textured table linens,” says Georgina. Texture can be added in all its forms. “The texture of rattan baskets is inviting and their uses infinite (think bread basket, a place to store wooden rolling pins and spoons, a vegetable panier or a place to stash overflowing herbs).”
CLUSTER OVER CLUTTER
“In terms of adding final flourishes to the space, think cluster rather than clutter,” says Georgina. Carefully consider pieces to avoid running the risk of a messy looking kitchen. “Add texture where you can by layering chairs and benches with sheepskins, cushions and throws.”
ELEVATED ELEGANCE
Tall features like long-stem flower displays or candelabras create an elegant aesthetic. “For more elegant townhouse kitchens, like our Henley kitchen, I would suggest displaying a contemporary vase styled with stems that are more structural and crystal glassware on open shelves for a little sparkle.”
CONTEMPORARY
In smaller spaces, focus on bright, light features or a mirror to make the kitchen look and feel bigger, while also reflecting your design choices. Add an antique mirror or scalloped one like this to inject personality into a modern kitchen.

FREE-STANDING PIECES
Free-standing furniture is ideal as it can be tried and tested in different parts of the room. Neptune’s new range launches soon, set to bring flexibility to any contemporary kitchen. www.neptune.com

ACCESSORISE
New appliances make your kitchen feel brand new and dressed to impress. Wine coolers are growing in popularity, especially the Siemens IQ700 with a capacity of 58 bottles, glass doors and adjustable temperature. Check out the cooling drawers too or make an appointment for a consultation at the BSH Home of Innovation to see what appliances best suit your needs.