From flooring and lighting to islands and pantries, these expert tips will ensure your kitchen is ready for its busiest time of year …
According to recent research by The Panelling Centre, nearly half of us spend between four to eight hours in the kitchen preparing Christmas dinner, so it has to be functional. The same study found that a third of people want to prepare the meal alone, meaning it must be equipped for guests to engage in a separate layout, without being isolated. Broken plan kitchens, party islands, split countertops, smart flooring and efficient appliances are all important to focus on when designing a kitchen for hosting. Read on for our recommendations.
BROKEN PLAN
While some people prefer an open plan kitchen, a broken plan kitchen offers some separation to differentiate spaces. A kitchen can be easily divided by a half wall, wooden screen or even a simple countertop. Incorporating varied floor levels requires more planning, but a height difference of one or two steps effectively creates identifiable sections to keep guests at arm’s length, if preferred! www.themodernhouse.com
LAYOUT FIT FOR A HOST
A so-called kitchen triangle features the fridge, sink and oven all within reach, with no obstacles interrupting the flow. While the triangle doesn’t always work for every kitchen layout, it’s best to use the principle as a foundation to create a workable solution. This triangle design has been adapted for a modern kitchen, ideal for hosting. @newcastledesign.ie
FANCY FLOORING
If you opt for timber or hard wood flooring in your kitchen, incorporating a shuffle zone (a tiled area around your sink or oven) is a smart design choice.Make sure to get your timber flooring treated properly as there’s nothing worse than circular dents left from a cocktail party. Check out this expert guide to choosing your kitchen floor.
PANTRY OR KITCHENETTE
Walk-in pantries are the dream for homes with the luxury of having this extra space next to the kitchen, especially for those who like to host. “People are entertaining more in their kitchens, so they are requesting pantries in order to provide extra storage and hide items away from their guests’ view. Installing a false wall with a hidden pantry behind it is an increasingly popular option and a great solution if you don’t have enough space for a separate room off the kitchen,” says Dave Fagan, Director at Kube Interiors. Exactly what we need, especially at Christmas. www.neptune.com
PARTY ISLANDS
A kitchen island and great party go hand-in-hand, whether as a set up station or as the hub where everyone gathers. Of course, size factors into footfall, so a conveniently shaped island (pill shaped is easy to move around) located in the centre of the room and topped with bright marble or quartz to keep the room illuminated, with smart storage and appliances built in, equals the perfect party choice. www.colombe.pl
SPLIT-LEVEL ISLAND
Split-level, two-tier, step-down or a beautiful breakfast bar – whatever way you decide to divide up your island, it will add functionality to your space. The split-level counter is a great option for separating your working and dining areas, both physically and psychologically. It may be one unit, but both surfaces provide different functions. A split-level countertop is especially great for hosts as guests can stay at the top counter, while you prepare at the bottom … perhaps they can even help! www.arenakitchens.com
GLAMOROUS SPLASHBACK
In this Neptune kitchen, the heavily silvered fixed glass splashback has spread out onto the entire wall, creating a monumental masterpiece. The glass adds glamour to the kitchen and creates a bar-like atmosphere in the room – especially when combined with the bar stools and brass accents. The ultimate conversation starter. www.neptune.com
AMBIENT LIGHTING
Layered lighting is key when it comes to hosting. Think tall candles, countertop lamps and under-the-counter or cabinet strips. Emulating restaurants or hotels to create a cosy ambiance is exactly what most homeowners are trying to achieve, according to Interior Designer Sara Cosgrove. www.neptune.com
WINE FRIDGE
With a capacity of just under 200 bottles, this IQ500 wine cooler is a host’s ultimate storage dream. This wine fridge is easily integrated into a modern kitchen cabinet, kitchen island or can be adapted to fit into your Siemens fridge. It has adjustable shelves, a door lock, dim light and the temperature is adjustable so you can keep your wine just the way you like it. www.siemens-home.bsh-group.com
