CHAPTER 3: KITCHEN

No matter your kitchen size, one of these layouts will be the perfect one for you.

STEP 1:

CHOOSE YOUR LAYOUT

No matter your kitchen size, one of these layouts will be the perfect one for you.

Wet and dry

This creative kitchen layout separates the dry and wet areas, making the most of the available space on both sides. It’s a particularly good solution for large families that need a lot of appliances, as it doesn’t sacrifice any countertop space. Just keep in mind that your dirty dishes will be in full view, so clear them away before guests come!

Semi-open

Semi-open kitchen designs offer the best of both worlds, keeping the kitchen bright and visually expansive while containing cooking fumes. Just open up the kitchen when you need some fresh air and a sense of spaciousness, then slide the doors closed when it’s time to make dinner.

L-shaped

If you’re going for an open-concept kitchen, we recommend choosing an L-shaped layout with a peninsula, as it naturally separates the kitchen from the dining area without the need to add any room dividers. Plus, the peninsula can double up as a handy bar counter if you furnish it with a few stools.

Galley

If you’ve got a narrow kitchen on your hands and don’t fancy hacking the walls, the galley layout is a straightforward option that makes the most of the limited square footage, incorporating appliances and cabinets along both walls and culminating in a service yard at the rear end. The only downside of this kitchen design is that it can feel a little cramped.

Island

If you have the space in your home for a large kitchen, opt for a roomy wrap-around layout with an island at the centre. It accommodates some extra storage space and plenty of dinner guests, making it ideal for entertaining.

STEP 2:

PICK A COUNTERTOP

The best countertop materials for a long-lasting kitchen.

Engineered quartz

Engineered quartz surfaces are extremely durable, meaning that they can withstand sustained wear-and-tear, impact, humidity and high heat, all of which are bound to happen in a high-traffic kitchen. Not only that, but maintenance is a breeze too—engineered quartz surfaces do not need any sealing, treating or polishing.

KompacPlus

This popular countertop material is made of paper and resin panels, treated under high heat and pressure to fuse each layer into one solid piece. The panels are durable and resistant to heat, scratches and pressure. Beyond the functionality, KompacPlus is also the top choice for homeowners who want a unique kitchen look, as the panels can be shaped and carved into all sorts of designs. We particularly love the KompacPlay sink cover, which has carefully carved openings, allowing water to run through even when closed.

Wood

Besides their inherent beauty, a big reason we love wooden countertops is that they are very hygienic and naturally dry up bacteria. On the flipside, wood scratches and stains easily and thus requires careful handling. Always keep the surface dry and wipe off spills before the wood has time to absorb the liquid. You will also need to reseal your wooden countertop twice or three times a year, which can be done in a few minutes with some food-safe mineral oil.

Stainless steel

There’s a good reason why commercial kitchens opt for stainless steel—it’s heat-resistant and non-porous, which makes it impermeable and extremely hygienic. It does, however, come with a few downsides, namely that it scratches easily and sometimes releases a metallic smell. While the classic stainless steel look can be somewhat cold and industrial, it also comes in other colour options for a more inviting look.

STEP 3:

CHOOSE YOUR CABINETS

Trendy cabinet styles for a kitchen you’ll love.

Modern panels