And it’s not just about placement or shape. Finishes are often chosen purely for practicality — to complement surrounding textures rather than to stand out. In recent years, most ‘statement’ taps have been oversized goose-neck ‘vege-sprayers’ that dominate the benchtop or in cult finishes such as matte black.

But statement tapware doesn’t have to be over-the-top. Thoughtful placement, considered proportions, and a sculptural yet minimal design can make it a focal point without overwhelming the space.

Here are three ways to make tapware a considered, design-led choice in your next kitchen.

The hidden factor

If you’re lucky enough to have a butler’s pantry, this is where you can get technical with taps. These spaces are often designed for practicality — a place to clean up efficiently and conceal the mess — but that doesn’t mean style needs to be compromised.

Pull-out spray mixers, once bulky and industrial-looking, have become slimmer and more sculptural. Take the Rogerseller Myhill Sink Mixer: its pull-out spray is seamlessly integrated into a sleek silhouette, balancing function with refined design.

Butler’s pantries are also ideal for instant boiling, chilled or sparkling water taps. These can sometimes appear bulky or detract from the main kitchen aesthetic. Selecting a design-conscious option ensures these taps can sit proudly in the space while maintaining harmony with your kitchen’s overall design.

Front and centre

For most Australians, our taps and sinks sit in the main preparation areas — on large island benches, under windows, or at one end of the bench. Yet despite this visibility, many choose basic, timeless styles that almost disappear into the background.

Collections such as the Rogerseller Eccentric Range prove taps don’t have to be boring. Simple, fluid curves and geometric forms can anchor the kitchen’s design, creating a calm, creative focal point. The Eccentric Hob Sink Mixer and Outlet with Pull-Out Spray, for example, features a short, curved outlet and separate mixer, keeping the design compact yet contemporary. It’s functional, everyday-friendly, yet also makes a style statement.

Make a statement

Tapware can set the tone for the rest of the space. In country-style kitchens, a pot-filler tap above a gas hob is both functional and a bold design statement that complement elements like a tiled splashback. Similarly, industrial kitchens, modern Queenslanders, and minimalist Australian homes all benefit when taps are top-of-mind design choices rather than afterthoughts.

Consider a matte black outlet against a neutral stone splashback, or a chrome mixer to offset a white Kit Kat tiled wall. Thoughtful tapware elevates the room, creating a cohesive, considered and visually striking kitchen.

The takeaway? Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries with your tapware. Even the smallest detail can transform a daily task into an experience that feels thoughtful, stylish and design-led.

The post How to make tapware the star of your kitchen appeared first on Homes To Love.

Here, we share how you can lay the groundwork for a space that’s equal parts functional and beautiful.

1. Designing your dream kitchen renovation

First and foremost, the best way to start planning your renovation is to define your goal and assess the foundations of your existing kitchen.

Perhaps in this new kitchen, you’re prioritising more storage, or maybe you’re after a more inviting space that works for both cooking and hosting? Whatever you’re after, be sure to assess what is and isn’t working in your current layout so you can define your goal. 

Visit a Kinsman Kitchens showroom, located inside selected The Good Guys stores, to get a feel for different finishes and chat with experts who can guide you through samples, layouts, and product choices.

Sometimes, it’s the smallest tweaks that can have the biggest impact, while other times, you may simply need a fresh canvas.

2. Set a realistic kitchen renovation budget

Renovating your kitchen can be a big investment, so setting a realistic budget early on is crucial. 

Be sure to factor in costs for materials, appliances, labour, and a little extra just in case you run into something unexpected. 

By doing extensive research, you will be able to get a clear idea of the finishes and brands that are possible within your price range. 

3. Plan a functional kitchen layout

Now for the fun part: planning your dream layout, and functionality is key here. 

Consider how you like to best utilise your space every day, and then go from there. Think about where you will prepare meals, cook, and store everyday necessities, as having clear zones for these will make all the difference. 

This step is where you can engage handy online tools such as the Kinsman AI Kitchen Planner to visualise your future kitchen. It works by using advanced artificial intelligence to create tailored kitchen designs based on your space and style. 

To start, all you have to do is upload a photo of your existing kitchen, then select your preferred design aesthetic. 

From here, the built-in AI will generate a hyper-realistic 3D render of your future kitchen, giving you the option to explore cabinet options, test layouts, and bring your vision to life before a single tile is laid. 

Try it out for yourself here. 

A renovation doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right prep, smart tools, and a clear plan, you’ll be well on your way to the kitchen of your dreams.

How long does a kitchen renovation take? 

While it will vary from project to project, typically a kitchen renovation will take anywhere between 6 to 12 weeks. This is due to factors such as material sourcing, obtaining any necessary permits, or the availability of your tradespeople. 

What tools help with planning a kitchen remodel?

When it comes to planning your kitchen renovation, it’s important to equip yourself with all the necessary tools for the job. Consider using digital kitchen planning tools such as the Kinsman AI kitchen planner, and book in for a free design appointment today. 

The post How to plan a complete kitchen renovation, from budgets to functionality appeared first on Homes To Love.

What is a butler’s pantry?

A butler’s pantry is a small room used primarily for storage between the kitchen and dining area. Dating back to the 19th century, these spaces were typical of English manors and were designed to keep the staff and food prep conveniently out of sight. Today, the butler’s pantry is viewed as a luxe addition to the modern-day kitchen and a great way to hide clutter, particularly appliances, glassware, and food containers.

Butler’s pantries typically have plenty of storage, sometimes a wine fridge and a sink, unlike sculleries which function more like a secondary kitchen complete with a sink, dishwasher and even an oven.

What should be in a butler’s pantry?

First of all, it’s important to note that there is a difference between a butler’s pantry and simply an oversized pantry. While investigating whether butler’s pantries are actually worth the hype, we spoke to Domain‘s national managing editor Alice Stolz (who you may know from The Block), who explained that in order to be considered a butler’s pantry, the space should “have its own sink, kitchen, fridge, separate bins, and so much storage space you’ll stand there thinking how can I possibly fill this,” she says.

A well-equipped butler’s pantry is designed to enhance functionality and streamline kitchen activities. Therefore, they will typically include storage shelves or cabinets for non-perishable items and serving dishes, providing ample space to keep the main kitchen area organised. A butler’s pantry may also house additional appliances like coffee machines, toasters, and stand mixers.

15 stylish butler’s pantry ideas

Seaside manor style

In this Kate Walker-designed Mornington Peninsula home, English seaside manor-inspired style adds instant charm, as seen in this blue and white butler’s pantry which is enclosed in chic French doors.

Curvaceous corner

Gentle curves undulate throughout Lleyton Hewitt’s Palm Springs-inspired pad. In the kitchen, a curved doorway sections off a neatly organised butler’s pantry. Timber joinery flows throughout the entire space, and an extra hidden sink means messy dishes will always be out of sight.

Modern farmhouse style

Shayanna Blaze’s restoration of a 120-year-old country home features a gorgeous butler’s pantry with a classic farmhouse sink. What makes it special is a secret compartment that lifts out of the benchtop at the press of the button, and is the perfect storage sport for clunky appliances.

Bold blue

Inspired by the classic Canadian lakehouse, this Mornington Peninsula home embraces a rich and comforting colour palette, including in the butler’s pantry where cabinetry painted in Porter’s Paints Squid Ink complements blue stone benchtops and a statement gold sink.

Steve Cordony’s luxe country kitchen

Traditional detailing meets state-of-the-art technology in the newly completed kitchen and butler’s pantry at Rosedale Farm in Orange, NSW, home to design expert and Belle style director-at-large Steve Cordony.

Classic white

In this renovated Federation weatherboard, a white-on-white butler’s pantry keeps things simple yet refined with elegant joinery, a Zellige tiled splashback and marble benchtops.

Rustic copper

Within the aptly named country estate Copperstone, a rustic-meets-luxury butler’s pantry envelopes you in warm copper and timber tones. Open shelves house glassware, jars of pickles and tonal artwork.

Hamptons-inspired kitchen

In the 2021 season of The Block Kirsty and Jesse made the most of hidden spaces with a butler’s pantry continuing directly in line with their Hamptons-style open-plan kitchen. The clever layout keeps the main kitchen compact, while a second sink and bank of appliances allow for hard work to carry on behind the scenes. Skylights let in loads of natural light and Kirsty’s choice of a bold gingham wallpaper makes a sneaky statement.

Cleverly hidden

Custom cabinetry cleverly disguises the butler’s pantry in this renovated California bungalow. Inside, marble benchtops add a touch of luxury, while below and above bench cabinets provide an abundance of storage space.

French chateau

Within this historic chateau in the French countryside, exposed stone walls and original features infuse plenty of charm and character throughout, including in the butler’s pantry where a large French window illuminates shaker-style cabinetry and stone benchtops.

Sliding door

A subtle sliding door hides the butler’s pantry from view when not in use in this modern Hamptons-style home. The weatherboard panelling matches that of the internal wall cladding creating a seamless look.

Chalkboard feature

Tucked behind the kitchen of this timber-clad home on the Bellarine Peninsula is a dark and dramatic butler’s pantry fitted with matte black cabinetry, a green splashback and a green chalkboard feature; the perfect place to scribble your shopping list.

Shaker-style cabinetry

The farmhouse-style kitchen in this Victoria Park guesthouse features a sleek all-white palette with shaker-style cabinet fronts. The marble-look porcelain splashback in the butler’s pantry complements the splashback in the main kitchen.

Colour drenched

Branching off from this refined white kitchen is a colour-drenched butler’s pantry fitted with a dark granite benchtop and floating shelves with contrasting brass shelf brackets.

Wine nook

While technically not a butler’s pantry, we love this incredible wine storage space in this revamped weatherboard cottage. The nook adds additional bench space to be used when entertaining, as well as providing additional storage when needed.

The post 15 butler’s pantry design ideas that are perfect for any home appeared first on Homes To Love.

If you’re looking to level up your refrigerator game, here are the five standout features to help you invest in the best high-end cooler for your household.  

1. Seamless integration  

For those who want their kitchen appliances to blend effortlessly into their home’s aesthetic, Sub-Zero’s Designer Series offers a seamless integration solution. With no visible hinges or grilles, these refrigerators can be custom panelled to match the surrounding cabinetry, making them virtually indistinguishable from the rest of the kitchen. The result? A sleek, cohesive design that doesn’t compromise on performance. 

2. Distinctive design elements 

If a bold, statement-making refrigerator is more your style, the Sub-Zero Classic Series offers an iconic design that stands out. Featuring the signature Sub-Zero grille, sleek stainless-steel finishes, and refined detailing, these models are a testament to both form and function. Built-in options ensure that every kitchen, whether modern or traditional, can benefit from the timeless appeal of Sub-Zero craftsmanship. 

3. Split climate intelligent cooling system 

Keeping food fresher for longer is a top priority, and Sub-Zero’s split climate intelligent cooling system delivers on this promise. By using advanced technology to create dedicated cooling zones, this system maintains optimal humidity and temperature levels, preventing food spoilage and ensuring produce stays crisp. Whether storing leafy greens or delicate dairy, this feature helps preserve freshness for days beyond conventional refrigeration. 

4. ClearSight LED lighting for enhanced visibility 

Illuminating every corner of the refrigerator, Sub-Zero’s ClearSight LED lighting system ensures that no ingredient goes unnoticed. Strategically placed lights brighten storage spaces so you can easily find what you need, reducing food waste and enhancing efficiency. Whether preparing a gourmet meal or grabbing a quick snack, this thoughtful feature makes daily use more convenient. 

5. Stainless accents for a luxurious interior 

The beauty of a Sub-Zero refrigerator extends beyond its exterior. Inside, stainless steel accents add a touch of sophistication, elevating the overall look and feel. These premium finishes not only enhance the appliance’s durability but also contribute to a high-end experience every time the refrigerator is opened. 

Visit a showroom to explore the timeless designs, fresh features and elevated performance of Sub-Zero and Wolf. 

The post 5 features that make these high-end refrigerators the fresh choice appeared first on Homes To Love.

From sleek ovens that make cooking a breeze to fridges that keep your food fresh in style, the right appliances can completely transform your kitchen.

Here are the must-have kitchen appliances that bring affordability, practicality, innovation, and charm to any modern home.

Oven

A Westinghouse oven is a must-have because it truly simplifies cooking while delivering exceptional results.

The option of Dual AirFry technology lets you enjoy crispy, delicious meals with little to no oil—perfect for health-conscious families. Or the bonus of PyroClean means you can wave goodbye to the hassle of scrubbing your oven, as it self-cleans by turning grease into ash.

Its sleek, modern design and thoughtful features make it a perfect fit for any kitchen, combining both style and ease. Whether you’re roasting, baking, or grilling, this oven adapts to all your culinary needs.

Fridge freezers

These stylish fridges bring a modern, sleek design that complements any contemporary space, adding a touch of sophistication to your home without the hefty price tag. They are designed to be energy efficient, helping you save on those monthly bills without sacrificing performance and making them an ideal option for those embracing affordable home renovations.

Its spacious capacity ensures there’s plenty of room for all your groceries, drinks, and leftovers. A French door design, with adjustable door shelves, allows you to open just one side for those quick snack grabs, the FreshSeal Crispers have humidity controls to keep your food fresh the right way. A SpillSafe glass shelf helps with the mess by containing any spillages, so you have less to clean.

Induction cooktop

Whether you’re a budding chef, a family home cook, or someone who prefers a simple yet stylish setup, there’s a cooktop option to fit your space and lifestyle.

For those looking for something truly modern, an induction cooktop is a standout. Not only does it have a sleek, modern look, but it also provides quick, even heat with energy efficiency, making it perfect choice for the eco-conscious and time-conscious home cook.

The Touch Control feature makes adjusting temperatures a breeze, while the Boost function allows you to quickly bring water to a boil or heat up your meals in no time. The easy-to-clean ceramic glass surface adds a touch of elegance and simplifies maintenance, while the child lock ensures safety for the whole family.

Laundry management

A Westinghouse laundry helps make your home more functional and stylish without having to splurge on a major renovation.

For those with a smaller space or a more minimalist aesthetic, the top loader is compact, user-friendly, and ideal for quick washes. If you’re looking for more versatility and a bit more capacity, the front loader models offer a sleek, space-saving option with greater energy efficiency, plus the added benefit of being gentle on fabrics.

Pair your washing machine with a dryer for the ultimate convenience. Its heat pump and vented dryers combine modern technology with space-conscious designs, perfect for smaller homes or apartments. With a Westinghouse laundry setup, you’ll enjoy a more streamlined and modern home that works as hard as you do.

The post 4 must-have kitchen appliances to elevate the heart of your home appeared first on Homes To Love.

Carefully curated using luxury materials such as Signorino stone and Woodcut timber, the interiors of this coastal abode exude a textural interplay of stone and wood that successfully brings the Australian outdoors in.

“When we purchased this property, it was all about the magic of the outdoors. From the birds singing, to the kangaroos strolling on by,” says Bec on her Instagram walkthrough of the home.

A textural tapestry of stone and wood

The kitchen benchtop

This is the textural heart of Bec’s Arthurs Seat home, and it sets the tone for the entire house. The honed brilliance of the Patagonia quartzite benchtop and splashback greets you the moment you enter the kitchen and living area.

“If you have a closer look [at the stone], you can see there’s some gorgeous taupes and greys throughout the quartz. It dictated the artwork, the handles and lots of other design elements,” says Bec.

The Woodcut Smokey Grey floorboards create a seamless flow connecting the kitchen and living areas. It’s a softening and tonal match with the grey hues of the quartz.

The bathroom stone

Achieving that holy duality of function and form, durability and luxury was a high consideration for Bec when designing the family bathroom. Signorino’s Side Stone Cluster Mid porcelain tile provides Judd with that classic ceppo look and a contemporary aesthetic with minimal maintenance needed.

“What I love about this bathroom is all the different textures. From the stone, to the timber, to the v-groove. The colours are really dictated by the tones in the stone,” says Bec.

The burgundy, gold and turquoise veins in the gorgeous stone splashback offer a subtle pop of colour, creating a coastal feel when paired with the panelling.

Outdoor pavers

Bec created the outdoor living zone as a second lounge area for the family. The stone pavers organically connect the indoors to the garden, inviting you into the natural landscape. It’s a celebration of the Aussie bush setting which is what drew Bec to the property to begin with.

The post Stone and wood take centre stage in Bec Judd’s Arthurs Seat renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

Sure, at a surface level most homes will contain the bare-boned basics: a kitchen, bathroom, some bedrooms, and living and/or dining space. From there, it’s important to think about the smaller and bigger variations that you might want for your home. While a big lofty kitchen or bathroom renovation may be the dream, sometimes all it takes is a few clever upgrades. After all, renovating your home is no easy feat, and hopefully, you’ll only have to do it once to get it right.

To help you create the perfect home and really nail your next project, we’ve pulled together 21 of our favourite home renovation and interior design ideas to steal.

Home renovation and interior design ideas to inspire

Up your street appeal with a fresh coat of paint

There’s no denying that an eye-catching exterior will immediately make a major impact on your home, so whether you prefer a dark and moody exterior, or a crisp white home, be sure to give your home’s facade a loving coat of paint to instantly freshen it up.

This original cornershop was given a grand millennial pink makeover, blending on-trend tones and new brass hardware with original window fittings and character features.

Make a bold statement with steel-frame windows and doors

One of the biggest interior design trends recently has been the resurgence in the popularity of steel-framed windows and doors. For those who love a lighter palette, the dark windows and doors can make a dramatic statement as well as a luxurious touch.

In this contemporary home, the steel-framed doors seamlessly blend with vertical timber elements, leading between indoor and outdoor spaces and allowing ample natural light to permeate through this Edwardian-come-contemporary-style house.

Bring some colour into your bathroom

The classic bathroom usually features liberal amounts of white tiles, a splash of marble or timber, and voilà! Make a feature of your bathroom space with the addition of colour, whether that’s through feature tiles, or even through statement tapware or lighting.

In this colourful Bondi Beach apartment, minty penny round tiles are paired with honed Carrara pencil tiles, Carrara floor tiles, and a Bentu ‘Hui’ terrazzo basin from Remodern plus a custom vanity by Greg Natale.

Control the mess with a mud room

Usually located at a side or back entry, mudrooms add a practical punch to the home and can provide an aesthetic and emotional transition into the house itself.

In this French-inspired farmhouse on the NSW South Coast, a chic mudroom pairs plenty of storage space with a sweet pink door and gorgeously tiled floor.

Create an entertainer’s kitchen

Kitchen islands are fantastic places for the whole family to gather while also packing a striking visual punch. The kitchen is well and truly the heart of the home in this contemporary coastal home and we love the generous kitchen island that’s perfect for guests to lounge at while helping the host prepare some aperitifs.

Take a step onto the dark side

There’s something classic about a white-on-white palette in the home, but we’re making the case for taking a step into the dark side. A dark feature wall can act as a dramatic statement while adding depth to any room in the house.

The sun-soaked kitchen and dining space of this modernised Georgian Regency villa features dark cabinetry and internal doors.

Get wild about walk-in showers

One of the biggest bathroom design trends of the past few years, the walk-in shower has become beloved for easy to clean nature and its ability to amplify a sense of spaciousness in a bathroom, no matter the size.

In this Mid-Century eco-friendly home, Madeleine, who designed the home for her retiree parents, opted for frameless glass that leads to a luxurious shower with a built-in shelf, full-height window, and freestanding bathtub.

Create a calm study space

If you have a spare and unused space in your home, consider adding a clever study nook that takes up minimal space.

In this double-height WWII Queenslander what could have been an awkward void of space has been cleverly converted into a bright, breezy study nook that takes advantage of both views and light.

Make a bold first impression with a colourful front door

There’s no greater way to instantly set the mood of your home than upping your home’s kerb appeal. While landscaping and a fresh coat of paint will do the trick, one of the easiest ways to make a bold impact — or if you’re not quite ready to commit to repainting the entire facade — is with a colourful front door.

This weatherboard cottage in Bowral boasts a sophisticated dark exterior where a sunny yellow front door exudes playful charm.

Add a butler’s pantry (if you have the space)

If you have the space for it, a butler’s pantry can make a world of difference in the home, providing the perfect space for tucking away all your cooking and cleaning when the guests come over, while also adding ample storage.

In Neale Whitaker and partner David Novak-Piper’s country home, a fully equipped butler’s pantry is concealed behind a freestanding nib wall that also boasts extra storage and bench space.

Add some character with a sliding barn door

No matter how big the home, all space is at a premium, so its important to use whatever tricks of the trade that you can to help maximise a sense of spaciousness. Barn doors and internal cavity sliding doors are clever solutions for separating zones without taking up too much space.

In this luxurious home in the Mornington Peninsula this striking barn door adds a rustic touch while also easily connecting and delineating clear zones in the house.

Incorporate (or restore) heritage details

As the saying goes, what’s old is truly new again – so if you’re working with an older home you should do your best to maintain its original heritage features. Not only are they a stunning visual feature, but the original skirtings, mouldings, and ceiling roses, add effortless character to your abode.

When interior designer Jillian Dinkel revamped her Federation home, she made sure to highlight all of the original heritage features to great dramatic effect.

Design a walk-in wardrobe you want to wake up to

If you have the space for it there is nothing more luxurious than a dedicated walk-in wardrobe that’s perfect for keeping your clothes and shoe collection in check. For an extra glamourous touch make sure you add ample open storage so you can see your wares with a quick glance.

The walk-in wardrobe of this Victorian home was carefully planned with custom cabinetry and plush carpet underfoot. Set back from the windows, it allows natural light to flood the space, while keeping the detritus of life behind elegant closed doors.

Rinse off with an outdoor shower

Almost an essential part of any coastal abode, the outdoor shower is the perfect addition to any beachside home – especially if the residents are avid beach-goers. They’re also great for water-loving pets!

In this resort-style new build in the Blue Mountains this outdoor shower is perfect for rinsing off after a dip in the backyard swimming pool, with the surrounding plants and striking brick wall tree providing privacy from neighbours.

Optimise your space with open-plan living

Open-plan living has essentially become a standard design in most Australian homes, with many of us loving the easy transition between zones and ability to have the whole family together in one room. But, open-plan living can sometimes have its pitfalls. Work closely with your architect and interior designer to figure out the best layout that will work for you.

In this amazing concrete holiday home on the Noosa River, a pool forms the centrepiece of the property’s design, where indoor/outdoor living zones meet. Vines cascade from every concrete surface, embracing the connection between spaces.

Don’t be afraid to bring back the banquette seat

When it comes to creating ample seating in your dining room space, you can’t go wrong with an in-built banquette seat. Not only do they look fantastic, but they’re also a great low-maintenance option in the home and can be upholstered however you like.

In this Art Deco-style home the rich emerald green leather upholstery of the banquette seat adds a luxurious contrast to the rattan dining chairs and crisp white walls.

Create a reading nook you want to relax in

There’s nothing better than curling up with a book and soaking up the sun, and a clever window nook is the ideal location for this. Window seats take up minimal space in the home while also providing an additional spot to lounge in – make sure you ask your builder about integrating drawers into the base of your seat as well for some bonus storage space.

The window seat in this light and airy home, designed by Three Birds Renovations, a curved, corrugated bench seat is tucked directly in front of two generous windows, ensuring the area receives maximum natural light throughout the day.

Design a laundry you’ll fall in love with

It’s one of the hardest working spaces in the house but can often be considered an afterthought when it comes to the renovation design process. Creating a designated and functional laundry space with ample storage will make a major difference when it comes to keeping your home neat and tidy.In this Scandi-style family home, the laundry room features ample cupboards for storage as well as a chic brass hanging rail.

Encourage indoor-outdoor living with a servery window

There’s nothing Australians love more than making the most of indoor-outdoor living, so why not add a servery window to your kitchen? Perfect in both big spaces and small, a servery window will easily keep the whole family together.

This Queensland pool house has been transformed into a cosy holiday home, and despite its compact size, the servery window has become the perfect place to gather.

Let there be light with a skylight

Natural light is one of the greatest assets a home can have, but it can be extremely challenging to add once a home has been built. During your renovation process consider adding in some well-placed skylights – they’ll instantly brighten up even the darkest spaces.

This renovated heritage home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches was built with care to respect the home’s roots, where some parts were added new and others restored. Here, a row of incredible skylights looks up into a hallway above.

Design the kitchen of your dreams

Okay, okay, not the most innovative renovation idea for sure, but hear us out. Creating the perfect modern kitchen that combines form with function is harder than it looks. To start with, you’ll want to nail your kitchen layout, so consider what elements of functionality work best for you and your family.

The kitchen in this luxurious coastal apartment was oriented to make the most of its stunning seascape views, and we love everything about it. Opting for a galley-style kitchen layout, the kitchen includes ample storage as well as easy-to-access appliances.

The post 21 of the best home renovation ideas to steal for yourself appeared first on Homes To Love.

While it’s possible to create an attractive kitchen design with gleaming finishes and top-line appliances, what truly makes a kitchen great is a point of difference.

We have pulled together some of the best kitchens from the Australian House & Garden archives, each with an element of wow factor that sets it apart. Flick through the gallery for ideas and expert kitchen design tips to inspire your own unique space.

Kitchen interior design ideas

Rustic luxury meets sweeping hinterland views

An expansive property with hinterland and coastal views provides endless opportunities for a couple to enjoy the best of entertaining, wellness and nature at home. “The interiors were to reflect their travels, incorporate existing pieces that were important to them,” says Interior designer Louise Walsh, “as well as manipulate the architectural design [of the farmhouse] to incorporate some new wish-list items.” The large kitchen enjoys Gervasoni pendant lights from Anibou overhead and a zellige tile splashback.

A Mornington Peninsula lake house

Taking style cues from the classic Canadian lakehouse, the elegant yet robust interiors of this Mornington Peninsula lake house strike a harmonious balance. “We had a bit of fun with the finishes.” owner Adam recalls. “The triple-A location warranted luxury.”

A bushland home

Celebrating the stunning coastal and native bush setting it is located in, this bushland home in Victoria epitomises casual luxury. “I asked for a place that would wrap its arms around us,” says the owner. “The blue-green hues within the palette are a natural extension of the coastal bush setting,” says interior designer Geraldine Maher, speaking about the island benchtop in solid recycled spotted gum timber and the ‘Inax Yohen Border’ wall tiles from Artedomus.

An Industrial style kitchen

This generous kitchen in the Northern Beaches pulls off a modern masculine look effortlessly. Two full-sized wine fridges, a tucked-away butler’s pantry with double ovens, and owner Linzi’s favourite inclusion – an expansive island bench – are all included. “I love to entertain, and this (island) is very important for gathering with
family and friends.” Four hidden separate bins meet all her recycling needs. A durable graphite black Dekton surface visually streamlines the back worktop as it continues up the pantry wall. Exposed brick and slim windows offering garden glimpses add the warmth needed to temper the dark Alaskan Black Ultramatt joinery. “We love this kitchen – it’s so sleek and shies aways from the typical coastal/Hamptons look you would expect from a Northern Beaches home,” says Linzi.

A renovated California bungalow

A grand 5.5 metre ceiling with timber mouldings adds light, volume and character to this ‘Cali Cool’, open plan kitchen. The stone benchtops and splashback in Diana Royal from Signorino layer in texture and muted earthy hues in the kitchen with both joinery and walls painted in Dulux Scallywag Half.

A modern entertainer

Clever design breathes calm and coherence into this beachside entertainer in Sydney. The shared central living zone and kitchen with a double-height void above, “mimics the shape of the island and is very intentionally dramatic,” says interior designer Sara Horvath. “It was previously dead space and now feels open and natural, like you can touch the sky.”

Modern farmhouse meets multi-generational family living

The two living spaces respond to the multi-generational needs of the family living in this modern farmhouse on tree-lined acreage in the NSW Central West. One living area sits between the kitchen and an alfresco space, intended for everyday use. The second, positioned in the centre of the home between the living-kitchen and bedroom wings, was planned as a space for the resident teenagers to relax with friends.

A heritage home in inner Brisbane

Over the past 25 years, this family forever home has grown and matured alongside its occupants. “As clichéd as it may sound, the kitchen truly is the heart of the home, both aesthetically and practically, because the family are keen cooks,” says interior designer Claire Stevens. “Walnut joinery, driven by Terri’s desire for a dark, moody and intimate space, is offset by warm white walls to tone in with the travertine.” 

An eclectic family home

Kip&Co co-founder Hayley Pannekoecke’s home channels Scandinavian and European influences, and is bursting with eclectic styling and whimsical wares. The kitchen, somewhat unsurprisingly, is the heart of the home. “I just love to cook and my husband loves to cook too,” says Hayley. Featuring a galley layout, the kitchen is split across the back wall and an immense Arabescato Gold marble kitchen island. This showstopping stone is also echoed across the splashback for an impactful look, and punctuated by an arch window overlooking the garden.

A grand Georgian Sydney home

The owners of this five-bedroom home in Sydney’s north, don’t need to travel to London or Paris, or indeed their native Dublin, to savour the trappings of a five-star European holiday. The owner’s favourite space? “The kitchen” says owner Adele. “It’s where we cook and dine, but we can also relax as a family in the informal lounge beside it. Bifolds running the length of the kitchen lead out to the garden and pool area, and in summer this room really comes to life.”

A stately Federation home

The grand 120-year-old Federation home in Sydney’s Northern Suburbs was complemented by a new indiscernible extension. “I wanted a timeless kitchen where people would walk in and not know if they were in a new area or an original part of the house,” says Kelly Pearce, the owner and designer.  “In summer, I love pushing those sliding doors back in the kitchen and looking out at the water.”

An inner-city terrace

Heritage details are celebrated as this inner-city terrace is ushered into a sparkling new era. The enlarged kitchen is designed in a galley layout, with the dining zone opposite occupying what was once an unused internal courtyard. Feature joinery in Ashgrove veneer pops against the island facing, benchtops and splashback in Grigio San Marco marble.

A 1920s bungalow

Period features were restored in this 1920s bungalow and the dated extension was given a contemporary refresh with a sparkling white kitchen and custom joinery.

A classic shaker-style kitchen

The brief from the owners of this gracious Federation-era Sydney home was clear: create a light, luxe new kitchen in which timeless form truly meets function. Interior architect Jade Bury, director of Harper Lane Design, relished the task.

A vivacious Bondi home

Clean lines and beautiful natural stone combine to create a deliciously light-filled and luxe kitchen conceived by Lara Ette Design. The cabinetry adds texture while the clean-lined benchtops ensure the room feels contemporary and fresh. Touches of brass create the effect of subtle jewellery in the room.

A harbourside Sydney home

With white, marble and timber accents, the kitchen in this harbourside house brings heart to the home. A butler’s pantry is concealed behind an arched VJ-panel doorway and lined with Moroccan wall tiles in Snow from Surface Gallery.

A farmhouse renovation

A ‘European farmhouse aesthetic’ was what Lucy and Steve Cahill had in mind for their whole-home renovation on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. And their new kitchen – the centrepiece of the revamped home – encapsulates their vision, brought into being by interior designer Kate Walker, principal of KWD.

A light and breezy kitchen

A combination of white and soft grey imbues this Sydney kitchen with a sense of calm, which is also derived from having an abundance of storage. “Everything has a place,” says interior designer Annie Bowen.

A bondi home

A luxurious ‘plinth’ of marble is the centrepiece of this timeless, simple and sophisticated kitchen. The owners “wanted a modern, fresh, inviting and timeless design,” says Chris Ruffe, director of Bondi Kitchens who revamped the space in collaboration with The Interior Collective.

A green kitchen

Tying this kitchen’s scheme together is the Shaker-style joinery, painted jungle green. “We explored various tones of green before settling on this one, Dulux Amazon Depths, which works beautifully with the timber benchtops,” says designer Lydia Maskiel.

A kitchen with heart and soul

This beautiful kitchen was a finalist in 2022 at the Australian House & Garden Top 50 Rooms. “The concrete island transitions into an American oak timber extension, for a subtle separation between the zones,” says Susanna Bilardo of Adelaide interior design firm Enoki.

A revamped modernist home

The kitchen within this revamped Modernist home retains a retro flavour with American walnut joinery and a vintage George Nelson Butterfly clock. Photograph: Maree Homer

A bold warehouse conversion

An island bench in a beautiful Bengal Black honed granite is at the centre of this bold kitchen in a warehouse conversion in Brisbane.

A coastal holiday home

The white kitchen within this Mornington Peninsula getaway could be very dull indeed, but the diverse materials – subways tiles, tongue-and-groove doors – pique visual interest.

A custom modern kitchen

The highlight of this delightfully modern kitchen conceived by architect Adam Brewer and Braeside Joinery is the sinuous island bench that features custom-routed cladding.

A Federation home

It was a two-year wait to have to have this kitchen installed in a Federation terrace. It was designed in the classic ‘Plain English’ style Andrea favoured from the owner’s time living in London.

A heritage home renovation

Brass casts a warm glow over the rear cabinetry in the kitchen of this renovated heritage cottage.

The Hamptons-inspired

Lining boards on the walls in this kitchen add to the Hamptons vibe, while the sliding-door pantry offers discreet functionality.

An eco-friendly home

In creating this eco-friendly kitchen, Druce Davey of Greener opted for a combination of FSC-certified birch plywood, stainless steel, concrete and glass. “We used natural materials and finishes throughout, selecting robust and readily renovatable surfaces that would work well for the family over a really long time,” he says.

An idyllic family home

The kitchen is very much the heart of this home; to give it some gravitas, designer Morgan Ferry specified a muted blue-green for the joinery and Versilia marble for the benchtops and splashbacks. A butler’s pantry and laundry are cleverly concealed behind a pivot door.

A stable-inspired interior

This pared-back kitchen features a concealed pantry and study nook which are both illuminated by a skylight.

A postwar worker’s cottage transformed

Cat Cruger, the owner of this postwar worker’s cottage, says “most of the love went into the kitchen”, which divides the dining and living areas. Spanning three metres, there was no issue with storage – it was more about the footprint. “I wanted it to be in the heart of the room and have an island to define the spaces, so I can interact with whoever is on either side,” she says.

A 1930s weatherboard home

A symphony of textures plays the lead role in this glorious white-on-white kitchen.

A blue country-style kitchen

A deep tonal blue and a mix of natural, durable materials were the key ingredients in this country-style kitchen conceived by interior designer Georgie Shepherd.

A contemporary-classic family home

A row of skylights flood Darren Palmer‘s classic white kitchen with natural light.

A rambling Federation semi

There is a lot to love about this kitchen which opens out to a private courtyard in this Federation semi.

A classic Shaker-style kitchen

Respect for tradition and a love of blue prove to be magic ingredients in this classic shaker-style kitchen. “The clients adore navy and white, so it was only natural that this would be the palette we worked with,” says interior designer Kate Walker

A laid-back family home

In this modern kitchen, shields and bowls the owners bought in Africa are earthy elements in the restrained palette.

A blissfully beachy family abode

Owners Crystal and Oliver picked up the renovation reins, calling on interior architect Sally Rhys-Jones to really make the house a fabulous family home. The original kitchen was rather awkward to use; reorganising the layout has vastly improved its convenience.

A modern country home

“This is such a warm and welcoming room,” says designer Adelaide Bragg. “With checked curtains, natural linens, hanging baskets and a dresser filled with china and trinkets, it epitomises a country kitchen.”

An Edwardian restoration

A black and white palette creates a fresh yet elegant feel in the kitchen of this renovated Edwardian home.

A modern beach house 

The owners of this beachside townhouse in Newcastle called local interior designer Stewart Horton to help them redesign their dated kitchen to create an open plan entertaining zone.

A classic Queenslander

The impeccable finishes are what really make the kitchen in this classic Queenslander shine.

The post 43 cutting-edge kitchen designs to inspire your next renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

Dear Clare,

Yours is certainly a conundrum, but I don’t think it’s a terrible one — it involves a surplus of wine, after all. As a light-hued wine drinker myself (but certainly no aficionado), I would love to one day install a wine fridge in my home, and thankfully I don’t think I would have to do any heavy campaigning to get my husband over the line. So, allow me to do it on your behalf.

Although the ultimate dream for true connoisseurs would be a wine cellar, a wine fridge — or wine cabinet, as they are often called — is a much more affordable, convenient, and easily installed alternative, and works just as well if the end goal is the perfect, temperature-controlled glass. You’re also considering it at an opportune moment, well done you! It’s far easier to configure a wine fridge, be it a full-sized, integrated model or smaller, under-the-bench variety, at the design stage (although it can still be retrofitted if it’s too late, but let’s not tell your partner that).

And now, onto the science.

Did you know that how wine is stored can either positively or negatively affect its taste? Investing in a wine fridge is about investing in proper storage, says fourth-generation winemaker for Brown Brothers, Katherine Brown. “Once you open a bottle, it is probably going to last maybe two to three days without it,” she explains. “If your temperature fluctuates quite a lot, if you’re keeping a box of wine under your bed, for example, it is not going to age well,” she explains.

“A well-designed wine cabinet preserves the wine’s intended flavor by maintaining consistent temperature, humidity, and UV protection. This helps avoid conditions that could degrade the wine’s taste,” adds Robin Werth, Head of Marketing at Liebherr.

Robin and Katherine agree that white wine should be stored at around 7-15°C. That’s several degrees above the average fridge temperature of 4°C, formulated to keep your groceries at their freshest and safest. “You don’t really want your white wine at the same temperature as your milk,” says Katherine. And before your partner jumps in, ask him if he knows that many varieties of red wine should actually be stored in a wine fridge, too, where they can be kept at a stable 12-20°C to prevent spoilage or rapid aging. But don’t worry, you can share (though you may not like to), as many wine fridges, including Liebherr’s wine cabinets, come with dual or multiple stable temperature zones.

Although the proper storage a wine fridge can provide will make a big difference, Katherine also recommends Coravin for true enthusiasts, a system that uses a specially formulated gas to preserve the wine and prevent any damaging oxygen from making its way into the open bottle for up to years at a time. Who knew that was a thing?

You haven’t shared any sketch-ups of your kitchen layout, but I can almost guarantee that space won’t be an issue. Many brands, including Liebherr, offer a huge range of sizes, from the compact versions you may spot in laundries or outdoor kitchens to large, multi-zone units for those who frequent cellar doors.

Now, I’ve saved the best argument for last here, and it may surprise you: cost. With features like precise temperature control, UV-resistant glass doors, and vibration-free shelving, quality wine cabinet brands like Leibherr indeed come with a price tag to match. But what if I told you this is a spend-money-to-make-money scenario? Think about the cash you’re willing to drop on a bottle, surely it’s worth protecting it properly? And let’s not forget; luxury inclusions maketh a luxury home, and a shiny wine fridge will add value and appeal if you were ever to sell your property.

So, have I convinced him? I’ll consider this my good deed for the day done.

Cheers!
Lucy, Digital Editor and subscriber of rosé Fridays

Help Me Homes To Love is our answer to an agony aunt for all things interiors, decorating and gardening. If you’ve had a design or lifestyle dilemma you’ve been dwelling on, we want to help. Using our extensive experience and network of experts, we’re here to offer our advice on the hard hitting questions when it comes to our homes.

Got a dillema for us? Send us an email at homestolovesocial@aremedia.com.au or drop us a direct message on Instagram with all the details.

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The post Help Me Homes To Love: should I sacrifice space in my kitchen for a wine fridge? appeared first on Homes To Love.

Offering an opportunity to make a bold statement or add more subtle texture or colour, the splashback is often one of the final pieces in the kitchen design puzzle. And while the same material used across your benchtops can also be used as your splashback, there’s plenty of fun to be had in choosing a punchy finish or colour that contrasts with other elements in the space.

To help inspire your very own renovation, here are 18 of the best kitchen splashback ideas to steal for yourself.

18 kitchen splashback ideas to inspire

A hint of gold

Matte gold kit-kat tiles provide a touch of subtle glamour in the kitchen of this renovated brick bungalow with Japanese-inspired interiors. The chic bronze splashback tile appears gold or deep olive depending on the lighting.

Colour-drenched

Decked out in Dulux Dollar, the colour-drenched kitchen of this creatively reimagined weatherboard cottage makes an earthy statement. Tying in with the benchtops, the splashback is finished in a small green square tile which adds to the visual impact of the space.

Mediterranean muse

In TV chef Silvia Colloca’s Northern Beaches home, a Mediterranean colour palette instantly uplifts, as seen in the heart of the home: the kitchen. Finished with Zellige tiles in Blue Moon, the splashback perfectly complements the timber, marble and bright yellow Smeg oven.

Buttery beige

Subtle and buttery, the tiles in the kitchen of this modern country home in Merricks North, Victoria, proved the perfect pick. While a concrete benchtop adds contrast, timber tones bring the warmth right back.

Pretty porcelain

The Maculato porcelain tiles from Surface Gallery lining this blue-hued kitchen’s splashback venture away from hard lines and into a more organic, soft aesthetic. In contrast, hardy and structural Super White Dolomite from Marable lines the benchtops.

All white

Light, bright and all-white, the kitchen of this renovated California bungalow in Sydney embraces a neutral palette to create a sense of airiness. In the kitchen, textural white square tiles from Phillip’s Tile Company complement the Lord White marble and brass fittings.

Peachy keen

This fun pink kitchen within a renovated Queenslander in New Farm features small, peachy square tiles, which are beautifully lit from the side thanks to a glass pane that overlooks a verdant tropical-style garden.

Blue hues

Instead of going linear, the designers of this WWII Queenslander home have created a sense of movement by misaligning baby-blue square tiles for a brickwork-like effect. The pastel hue also adds a touch of colour to the otherwise neutral-toned space.

Sleek steel

Complementing a warm and textural palette of sandstone, timber and quartzite in the kitchen of this Federation-era Rose Park home is a subtle steel splashback. The same sleek stainless steel splashback can also be found in the adjoining butler’s pantry.

Mirror, mirror, on the wall

Mirrors can make a surprisingly excellent kitchen splashback mostly due to the fact that they help enhance your home’s natural light and provide the visual effect of elongating the space like in this monochrome Northern Beaches home.

Marble marvel

Is there any finish as timeless and elegant as marble? In the contemporary kitchen of this renovated California bungalow, Calacatta Cervaiole is tastefully used across the splashback and benchtops, allowing the space’s unexpected red accents to really pop.

Keep it clear

In this bright and airy renovated cottage in Brisbane, the neutral-toned kitchen enjoys double the natural light as well as some leafy garden views, thanks to a clear glass splashback.

Shades of blue

In this colourful 1960s beach shack in Emu Bay, a dark timber servery window frames a blue kitchen that features a gorgeous kit-kat-style tile splashback.

Mini mosaics

Renovated by Brave New Eco, this 1930s apartment in South Yarra leans into its Art Deco roots with its chequerboard tiled floors, bold cabinets and stunning speckled white mosaic tiled splashback from Nagoya Mosaic-Tile Co.

Earthy tones

Situated in Northcote, this sustainably designed family home enjoys an earthy, grounded palette, as seen in the kitchen where a green kit-kat tiled splashback complements timber cabinetry, marble benchtops, concrete floors and brass fittings.

Subtle subway

This soft take on a classic subway splashback adds gentle texture to this laid-back Byron Bay villa. A single full-length timber shelf ties in with the timber cladding around the island bench and cabinetry fittings.

Punchy pink

The colourful home of Kip&Co co-founder Alex McCabe features a vibrant kitchen where all its elements come together to pack a punch. Crocodile bamboo quartzite makes the splashback, with the pink tones complementing the pink concrete island bench.

All about amber

An eco-friendly Melbourne bungalow focused on using recycled materials where possible, so the kitchen island and rangehood are clad in recycled messmate timber battens. Complementing the natural timber tones of the home are glossy amber subway tiles.

The post 18 kitchen splashback ideas to revamp the heart of your home appeared first on Homes To Love.

If you’re considering a kitchen update or building a new home, you might have heard about the advantages of induction cooktops. Induction technology has been embraced by professional chefs for decades because of the precise temperature control and responsiveness it provides and has rapidly become the cooktop of choice for busy modern households.

Known for their speed, reliability and cost-efficiency to run compared to other modes, induction cooktops are more than just a trend—they’re grounded in solid technology. Understanding how they work can help you decide if induction is the right choice for your kitchen.

How induction cooktops work

Unlike conventional gas or electric cooktops that transfer heat to your pots and pans through heating elements, induction cooktops use an electromagnetic field to heat the cookware directly.

The cooktop itself remains cool to the touch because the heat is generated directly within the pot or pan. This method eliminates energy loss, making induction cooktops more efficient than traditional models that rely on indirect heat transfer. As a result, they offer faster cooking times and greater energy savings, making them a smart choice for modern kitchens (and household budgets).

Here’s four ways changing to an induction cooktop can make life easier in the kitchen.

1. Induction cooktops save time

Faster cooking time means greater energy efficiency, but induction saves power in more ways than one. Direct heat means no waiting around. Unlike traditional electric heating elements that need to warm up, induction cooktops convey electro-magnetic energy to your pots and pans with almost immediate heat.

They also allow for fast and accurate temperature control, from high intensity wok cooking through to extremely low and gentle temperatures that can gently warm the most delicate ingredients without the need to double boil.

2. Induction can save power and money on your energy bill

Another appealing feature of induction cooking is its energy efficiency. The cooktop only works when it’s switched on and the pot or pan connects, so there’s no waiting around. When you remove the pan from the element it will switch off automatically, too.

Miele induction cooktops offer automatic pan recognition which evenly heats the surface area of your pot or pan once it has been positioned on the cooktop, making them a highly efficient choice for home cooks. As an additional option, some models have a Full Surface option where you can select PowerFlex zones to give you the freedom of placing your cookware anywhere on the cooktop when you have multiple pots and pans on the go.

3. Induction cooktops save elbow grease

Induction cooktops look sleek, and their clean, minimal styling blends seamlessly into stone, stainless steel or composite countertops. But they’re more than just easy on the eye. They’re also a breeze to clean, because the surface is flat and they don’t get hot, so spills don’t get ‘baked on’ to the cooktop. Miele’s ultra-sleek toughened ceramic surface with Miele Diamond Finish coating is robust and scratch-resistant, so a quick wipe is all it needs. No grates, hobs or knobs to scrub.

4. Induction uses no-touch heat for enhanced safety in the kitchen

If you have little ones around with little hands that love exploring in the kitchen, you need eyes everywhere. Induction cooking functions on no-touch heat that only heats the base of the pan, not the cooktop surface itself.

With no open flame, induction dramatically reduces the risk of fire, and it doesn’t hold high residual heat after use like an electrical element does. Induction systems simply switch off when the pan is removed, and if you accidentally turn it on, it won’t get hot without a pot on it, so you can breathe easy.

The post 4 ways an induction cooktop can make your life easier appeared first on Homes To Love.

Fast forward to today, and the steam oven has been reinvented. Crafted for culinary enthusiasts and design aficionados alike, the Wolf Convection Steam Oven has answered the call for a professional quality, user friendly multitasking oven that seamlessly integrates into any kitchen style. Whether you’re aiming for precise control of heat, steam, or airflow, this oven delivers spectacular cooking results with every use.

A chef would know. We asked Jodie Madsen, a classically trained chef, for her take on the Wolf Convection Steam Oven after putting it through its paces. Madsen started her career in Adelaide and has worked at restaurants in both London and Australia. More recently, she has managed The Essential Ingredient Cooking School and is now a freelance food industry consultant and Sub-Zero Wolf’s in-house chef.

Multifunctional cooking redefined

Harnessing the power of steam, convection, or a combination of both, the Wolf Convection Steam Oven redefines what’s possible in your kitchen. It’s a genuine multitasker that delivers everything from perfectly browned meats in Convection Mode, delicate seafood and vibrant vegetables in Steam Mode, and beautifully moist creations with the perfect, crisp crust in Convection Steam Mode.

Chef’s take: “There’s so much you can do in a convection steam oven that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to do,” says Madsen. “The Convection/Steam setting is a healthy way to get delicious crispy food, without drying it out like an air fryer would and without having to fry in oil.”

Convection steam oven technology

Equipped with dual sensors for humidity and temperature, cutting-edge software and a dynamically controlled vent, the Wolf Oven maintains an ideal cooking environment for every dish. A rear convection fan ensures even heat distribution, enhancing your culinary creations effortlessly.

Chef’s take: “The Wolf Convection Steam Oven is very easy to navigate,” Madsen notes. “Other ovens talk about steam percentages, and I find that very confusing…even for a chef!

“There are so many great features that would ordinarily take hours and hours to master. The Sous Vide setting makes a show stopping rib eye steak that melts like butter. The controlled use of temperature in this setting is so accurate.

“Another example of this is the gentle temperature settings that are available when steaming, which is handy. I like to gently steam a crème brulee at 95 degrees.”

Versatile cooking options for every creation

Featuring 13 specialised cooking modes including Steam, Convection Steam, Convection, Sous Vide, and more, this oven caters to every culinary need (and level of skill) with ease.

Chef’s take: Madsen told Belle the Gourmet mode is a game changer for any cook. “Chef-tested preset cooking programs take the guesswork out of cooking. They’re great if you’re not sure which is the best mode to use when cooking certain foods,” she says.

Precise temperature control at your fingertips

A sleek full-colour touchscreen interface offers intuitive navigation through cooking modes and settings, while customisable options ensure a tailored cooking experience.

Chef’s take: “I love the accuracy of the temperature settings. I can place a bowl of chocolate in the oven on Convection setting at 45 degrees and have absolute trust that the temperature is accurate enough for me to use – it works every time.”

Oven designs to suit every aesthetic

Available in three distinctive designs, the Wolf Convection Steam Oven complements any kitchen aesthetic. Whether you prefer the clean lines of Contemporary, the bold styling of Professional, or the timeless appeal of Transitional, there’s a design to suit your taste and space.

Choose from three distinctive styles to suit your home’s aesthetic. Pictured here, the Wolf Convection Steam Oven in Contemporary.

Chef’s take: “I love the large capacity of this oven”, says Marsden. “It makes cooking for a crowd an absolute dream.  And the fact that I can add my own favourite settings is a big plus for me.

My creativity in cooking has increased tremendously by using Wolf ovens as there is so much scope to what you can do, and there’s a mode to suit any type of dish.”

The post The steam oven has been reinvented. Here’s what you need to know appeared first on Homes To Love.

Hot off the block

While this lesser-known stone might not be on your radar, we’re willing to bet you’re about to be seeing it everywhere – and for good reason. Expressive and colourful, Quartzite is becoming popular among homeowners and renovators for its undeniable durability, multifaceted finish and myriad colour options.

For those seeking the drama of marble with additional levels of performance and lower maintenance, Quartzite is the ultimate design multitasker. Scoring higher on the Mohs scale of hardness than Granite, Quartzite is one of the most robust natural stones on the market, making it well-equipped to handle the demands of daily use across a range of applications.

Its low porosity (meaning its less likely to absorb liquids and oils), and resilience to acid etching, which can be caused by everyday kitchen staples like citrus and vinegar, make it a great option for kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, providing a heat resistant and life-proof solution without impacting aesthetic ambitions.  

TIP: Some Quartzites are porous, and while they don’t acid etch, they will absorb liquid. CDK recommend all Quartzites are sealed using a premium grade penetrating sealant, which resolves the issue.

Natural beauty

A metamorphic rock formed from sandstone; Quartzite is characterised by its glass-like appearance and dramatic veining akin to premium Marble.

Its unparalleled texture and range of colours and patterns span the tonal spectrum from soft creams with subtle ripples of caramel, and soft blue-greys, ocean-like greens, all the way through to burnt umbers, purples and pinks. Beyond its functional attributes, the patterns contribute to an appealing aesthetic, adding both sophistication and timelessness to any interior design.

Whether honed, polished, or leather-finished to give a matt appearance, the statement surface goes beyond the chromatic code to create a sense of proportion and architectural impact. But where it aesthetically excels, is in its range of near-pearlescent varieties that offer dazzling beauty and outstanding detail, without the need for unnecessary gloss and embellishment.   

Whatever statement colour or subdued hue you’re searching for to complete the heart of your home, chances are there’s a Quartzite surface that will tick all the boxes.

Sanctuary style

While Quartzite might be making inroads in kitchen designs across the country, its practical performance also makes it a standout choice for bathing spaces, alfresco applications and high-traffic areas. Don’t be afraid to take natural stone in new directions, using harmonious tones that arouse emotion and create a sculptural statement, such as the blush-toned bathroom (pictured above), where floor-to-ceiling Rosa Calmante Quartzite from CDK Stone was used to create a sensorial showstopper.

The post The rise of Quartzite kitchens appeared first on Homes To Love.

With these highly visible open spaces, the kitchen is now expected to not only function well but also blend seamlessly with the home’s aesthetic. But where do you begin (and draw the line) when it comes to giving your kitchen a makeover?

Designed for the way you live today

If you’re thinking about upgrading your appliances, you can find yourself on a slippery slope into a full-blown renovation when you consider the aesthetics of matching your cabinetry with your appliances, tapware, and handles. How else can you achieve a seamless look?

The latest collection from German brand NEFF answers this challenge to perfection with its Flex Design range, allowing for both creativity and practicality when it comes to kitchen design.

Have your kitchen your way

The NEFF Flex Design range allows you to choose the colour of the sidebars and handles on your appliances. From your stovetop to the oven and range hood, now you can call the shots as to how your appliances fit into your décor, instead of the other way around. 

In four distinctive colours, you can choose from Brushed Bronze, Deep Black, Metallic silver and Anthracite Grey. Flex Design is available for the wider NEFF range of built-in ovens and steam ovens, induction hobs and coffee machines.

Both the side trims and handles are easily changeable so down the track, if you decide to change up your kitchen cabinetry, tapware or handles, you can easily change your colours again, without having to replace the entire appliance. It truly gives you the freedom to change up your kitchen whenever inspiration strikes.

Seamless customisation to fit your space

Here’s how it works: When you choose your appliances from the NEFF Flex Design range at Winnings, they will order your oven with a handle and side trims in your choice of colour. The side trims will already be ordered in the correct length for your desired inbuilt situation to ensure you have a seamless combination for your kitchen.

Watch how easy it is to change up the Flex Design elements in this video.

You can see some of the combinations that are possible and the trim lengths available on the NEFF product information website.

Where form meets function

The sleek NEFF product range includes ovens (including models with the award-winning Slide & Hide® ergonomic oven door that does exactly that – slides away to give full access to the oven without having to lean over the door), cooktops, rangehoods, dishwashers and more.

NEFF’s user-friendly tech makes using the range a seamless experience. The unique Twist Pad Flex® is a smart piece of tech that’s compatible with all NEFF appliances featuring Flex Control. The Twist Pad Flex® is a transferrable control knob that can be used to operate your oven, cooktop and coffee machine.

Simply place the magnetic dial in place and twist to select your settings. The interactive display lights up, offering instant assistance for easy use, whether you’re making a coffee or cooking a roast. And guess what: you can colour match its trim to your other appliances. 

NEFF brings over 100 years of manufacturing experience and innovation together with a thoroughly modern understanding of the kitchen’s role at the heart of the home – and their outstanding range of appliances is designed to make life in that domain a pleasure. Discover the NEFF range at Winnings.

The post Meet the kitchen appliance chameleons that adapt to fit your colour scheme appeared first on Homes To Love.

When renovating a kitchen, the pressure is on to get the big decisions right. One of the biggest decisions any budding cook or entertainer will make? Deciding whether to invest in a gas or induction cooktop.

For a quality solution that will serve you now and for years to come, Wolf has Dual Fuel and Induction Ranges for budding renovators to choose from. Prized for their craftsmanship, innovation and design, Wolf appliances offer professional-grade kitchen solutions at home. The brand’s products are designed to last for 20 years (or more) so you know that a Wolf cooktop is a sound investment. 

Ready to find the perfect cooktop for your home? Here, we chart the differences and benefits of both the Dual Fuel and Induction Ranges by Wolf.

Dual Fuel Range

Key benefits: 

• Responsive cooktop allows for swift temperature control.
• Available in 76, 91, 122, and 152 cm widths.
• Choose from gas burner, infrared teppanyaki, and infrared chargrill cooktop configurations. 

Put simply, gas cooktops use gas burners to create an open flame and create heat to cook on. This type of cooktop is responsive and allows the user to quickly adjust the heat up or down.

The Wolf Dual Fuel Range has recently been redesigned while retaining the brand’s signature professional heritage. The brand uses patented dual-stacked, sealed gas burners that provide the user with temperature control that swiftly switches from a boil to a simmer or melt. For safety, the knobs are illuminated when the burners are active.

This Wolf cooktop is paired Dual VertiFlow convection electric oven below. This oven is tried-and-tested and provides reliable cooking and baking. Utilise the 10 chef-approved modes, including gourmet mode, which automatically controls the cooking process for up to 50 preset items. 

Induction Range

Key benefits:

• Sleek ceramic glass design.
• Precise heating and instant temperature adjustment. 
• Available in 76 and 91cm widths.

This style of cooktop works by using electricity to heat conductors under a ceramic glass surface. At a glance, an induction cooktop will look like a flat glass surface in your kitchen. 

For those who prefer this style of cooktop, the Wolf Induction Range is a stylish-yet-functional option. The efficient ceramic glass surface provides equal and precise heating, along with nearly instant temperature adjustment that is in line with the brand’s Dual Fuel Range. Use this cooktop to boil water, simmer a curry or melt chocolate with ease. 

Similar to the Wolf Dual Fuel Range, this Induction Range is supported by a Dual VertiFlow convection electric oven that evenly distributes air for consistent cooking. Whether you are roasting a chicken for lunch or preparing creme brulee for dessert, rest assured, it will come out perfectly every time. 

The question is: which style of cooktop will you choose? 

The post How to choose a cooktop that will serve you for years to come appeared first on Homes To Love.

Together they created a hard-working heart of the home that meets the busy lifestyle of a family of four while also celebrating striking design. “Our brief was to have lots of storage and practicality”, says Allison.

Here, Allison reveals her favourite features in her bold and beautiful kitchen.

1. Striking colour palette

Your cabinetry colours, benchtop material and hardware finishes all influence the mood and atmosphere of your kitchen. Allison opted for a relaxed palette using crisp white cabinetry, dramatic grey surfaces and warm brass pull handles.

“We wanted to create an earthy, beachy vibe because we live in a coastal suburb. The beachy colour palette ensures the space is light and bright, with clean, white lines,” she shares.

2. Stylish preparation space

A custom island bench steals the show in this light-filled kitchen, as the luxe limestone surface features dramatic grey veining and a unique curved silhouette.

“We love cooking and entertaining and eat at the kitchen bench with the kids every night, so we wanted the kitchen design to reflect this,” says Allison, explaining that the extended bench allows ample room for seating and extra preparation space.

3. Spacious cooking area

Allison’s cooking area is a mix of function and flair. A matching back bench and splashback create a glamorous look, while the black ovens contrast against the crisp Montauk Classic White cabinetry. “The back run of cabinetry spans more than 6.4 metres and creates an ideal cooking zone thanks to the induction cooktop, ovens, and extra bench space for food prep,” she says.

As for functionality, the simple layout creates convenience with ingredients and cookware stored within easy reach of the cooking zone. “Soft-close deep drawers house bulky pots and pans, while utensil drawers and a spice drawer further enhance the cooking experience,” Allison says.

4. Practical cleaning zone

A well-considered cleaning zone is the epitome of practicality, as it impacts how you use your kitchen daily. Take inspiration from Allison’s kitchen layout to make the cleaning process more efficient, by positioning your bin, sink and dishwasher in close proximity with each other.

“The island bench not only provides an excellent surface for dining and food preparation, but it also features a bin, a sink and dishwasher drawers concealed behind joinery, meaning that cleaning up is a breeze,” she says.

5. Tip-top storage solutions

To maximise storage, incorporate cupboards up to the ceiling to store unused items and enhance the feeling of height and space while you’re at it. For storage beneath your benches, opt for deep drawers that are easily accessible, such as the spacious Shaker-style drawers in Allison’s kitchen.

As for your produce, Allison’s kitchen design keeps the refrigerator and pantry within close reach of the island bench for ease. “The back countertop includes a refrigerator and a pantry, meaning that your perishables and dry goods are taken care of,” she explains.

Brought to you by Kinsman Kitchens. Download a copy of the magazine-style catalogue for more inspiration, or book a Kinsman design appointment here.

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Once thought to be a dated trend we all ditched ages ago along with ‘industrial chic’, stainless steel and other chrome finishes are starting to have their moment. Again. In tapware, it’s more affordable than aged brass and more classic than black, and on our benches, it doesn’t get much more durable. Have you ever seen a commercial kitchen or restaurant without stainless steel?

“There’s a lot of chrome appearing in materiality in a unique and warm way,” said interior architect Cassandra Walker when we asked her to predict what trends would take over in 2024. And it seems she was bang on there.

How much does a stainless steel bench cost?

HiPages recommends that in 2024 you should expect to pay around $950 per square metre for stainless steel benches.

In comparison, they say that a laminate benchtop will set you back between $120-$350 per square metre depending on the quality, a natural marble will cost between $800 and $2,200 per square metre, and granite between $650 to $2000.

For timber benchtops, it depends on the type of wood. Something cheaper like bamboo will cost you around $350 per square metre, and hardwood like Jarrah or Ironbark will be between $600 to $1200.

Plus, with the recent ban on engineered stone hitting Australian renovators late last year, our renewed appetite for stainless steel benches couldn’t have come at a better time. For those looking for an affordable alternative without sacrificing style, stainless steel benches are hard-wearing, hygienic and can make quite the statement when done right.

Still don’t believe us? Let these stunning kitchens show you why stainless steel is stealing the spotlight this year.

9 stainless steel kitchen designs to inspire

The metal of the stainless steel splashback juxtaposed against the warm, classic timber and marble creates an aesthetic that’s both future-focused and nostalgic in this mid-century-inspired home.

In this historic country renovation, which involved the joining of three cottages built between the mid-1800s and early 1900s, a stainless steel kitchen splashback brings a sense of modernity into the heart of the home.

In this former-cornershop-turned-apartment in Sydney’s Surry Hills, a stainless steel kitchen acts as the perfect, minimalist complement to a pared-back palette and abundance of light.

Subtly tucked away amid the light-filled kitchen of this charming heritage home, a stainless steel splashback sparkles in the foreground to provide a more visually interesting alternative to a neutral splashback.

In this old stonemason’s cottage in Sydney’s Paddington, a contemporary revamp meant that the kitchen had to balance a mix of old and new materials, leading to the inclusion of stainless steel cabinetry.

Stainless steel, while often industrial in nature, can still complement a soft and charming interior, just as it does in this art-filled terrace in Newcastle in NSW. The juxtaposition of materials gives the space a sense of wonder, practicality and respite.

In this glamorous Victorian home renovation, a once-tired kitchen is transformed into a light-filled, modern space thanks to the reflective qualities of its stainless steel rear bench and cabinetry.

Alexandra Ponting, the interior designer behind this freestanding art deco home in Sydney says, “I’ve always wanted to do a stainless steel kitchen. They’re sleek and practical, especially when paired with microcement and Tadelakt.”

Drawing inspiration from moody, New York-style apartments – influenced by the owner’s own time spent in the Big Apple – this 1920s Manly home employs a stainless steel benchtop and sink to give the space a strong sense of minimal practicality.

The post Stainless steel is stealing the spotlight in the kitchen this year appeared first on Homes To Love.

But changing up your kitchen can be expensive. If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen but questioning the cost of a renovation, don’t fret.

A drastic kitchen makeover is still totally achievable within a limited budget, you just have to get a bit creative.

A KITCHEN MAKEOVER DOESN’T ALWAYS NEED A KITCHEN REMODEL

If the existing structure of your kitchen is solid, don’t unncessarily sacrifice it to a renovation – especially since during a renovation or remodel, gutting your kitchen is often the most expensive part.

Trust us, focusing on the more superficial elements can go a lot further than you think.

HOW TO MAKEOVER YOUR KITCHEN ON A BUDGET

1. REPURPOSE OR MAKEOVER YOUR KITCHEN CABINET

Replacing the doors and drawers of your cabinet can makeover your kitchen, at much lesser of a cost than a renovation or complete remodel. Go for a bold colour to make a statement, or simply replace the hardware for a small but noticeable refresh.

At times, cupboards can feel like a necessary evil. Often large and taking up space in the kitchen, they’re still one of the crucial elements of the room. One aspect you might consider changing, is the doors. Rather, removing them completely. Consider an open shelf solution.

2. A LICK OF PAINT GOES A LONG WAY IN A MAKEOVER

Give dated walls a new look with a fresh coast of paint. If you’re a minimalist, go for a neutral shade that adds some warmth to your room, or alternatively, if you’re looking for a spot of colour, try a toasty, sand-orange for a Mediterranean-inspired feel.

3. MAKEOVER YOUR KITCHEN WITH LIGHTING

Lighting can make the biggest difference in your home. Ditch the sterile, cool “big” light, and invest in some stylish lamps, track lighting or hanging pendants to create a welcoming and refreshing ambience.

4. REFRESH YOUR KITCHEN BENCHTOP, SPLASHBACK OR ISLAND

Sometimes your entire kitchen doesn’t need a makeover. Maybe it’s about giving your kitchen benchtop or island a bit of love and a new outfit. Marble is a timeless and hardy investment that can be custom made to suit any aesthetic.

As for the splashback, while it’s one of the smallest areas in the kitchen (generally), adding some personality to it can make a significant difference on the feel of your space. Go for a mirrored look to make your kitchen feel bigger, or a dive into the wonderful world of tiles to find your perfect fit.

The post How to completely transform your kitchen without a renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

One of the most visible, yet least considered aspects of kitchen remodel is often the choice of kitchen cabinet door.

Cabinet doors – or cupboard door profiles – come in a variety of designs, textures and materials. From shaker style to glass cabinet doors, it’s best to let the interior style of your home and kitchen – whether is it minimalist, country or contemporary – guide your choice of cabinets.

Plus, if you’re designing outdoor kitchen cabinets, there are a whole new range of considerations, including durability and exposure to the elements.

Read on to discover more about some of the most popular kitchen cabinet door styles, and which one is right for you and your kitchen layout.

1. Flat kitchen cabinets

Flat kitchen cabinets are best suited to contemporary, or modern style homes. Easy to clean and usually the most affordable style, flat cabinet styles can also be produced with or without handles.

Go without handles for a cleaner, minimalist look or take kitchen hardware as an opportunity to show off your individual style. For a more vibrant look, consider choosing a bold kitchen cabinet colour for the heart of your home. Or do it later down the track by painting your kitchen cabinets.

2. Shaker style kitchen cabinets

Renowned for their simplicity and elegance, shaker style cabinets are named after a religious sect known as the Shakers who, during the 1800s, became known for their well-made, simple and functional furniture. When it comes to cabinetry, shaker cabinets can be identified by their five piece design: a single piece of timber as a backing, with four smaller slats forming a border around the outer edge.

The principle behind Shaker furniture design later went on to inspire generations of Scandinavian furniture designers, bringing us both the Scandinavian and mid-century modern design movements.

This means that shaker style cabinets work as well in a Scandi style home as they do in a sleek modern home or even a country style kitchen. Opt for this style of cabinetry if you’re looking to add subtle detail to your kitchen. This is a classic style that will never date.

3. Beadboard country style kitchen cabinets

Beadboard cabinets with a bordered edge are best suited to country style homes and kitchens. Their likeness to wall panelling also makes them look right at home in modern Hamptons or Queenslander-style homes too.

If you have a heritage home with stained-glass windows or have views of farmland from your kitchen window, these cabinets will also look right at home in your place. Keep in mind though, that this style of cabinetry – while undeniably charming – can require a little more dusting than other options.

4. Tongue and groove kitchen cabinets

Related to beadboard cabinets, but differentiated here by their lack of outlining border, tongue-and-groove – or v-groove cabinets – are currently having their moment in the spotlight. It’s amazing how quickly the country style cabinet can go from cottagecore to something that suits more industrial kitchens, and even coastal homes – simply by removing the border from the design.

Kitchen remodels aimed at creating a minimalist aesthetic will find exactly what they’re looking for with tongue-and-groove cabinets. That’s because this design adds texture and interest to a space without looking cluttered. This type of cabinet lends itself well to bold colour choices, but is also very stylish in neutral shades as part of a coastal-style kitchen.

5. Sliding kitchen cabinet doors

If you have a compact kitchen, consider whether sliding cabinet doors will work as part of your kitchen’s design. Depending on the materials and colour chosen, this style would work beautifully in a Scandi style home, or even as a throwback to retro kitchen design.

If you dream of someday renovating a vintage caravan then keep this cabinet style in mind to save a little head room in the kitchen.

6. Heritage style kitchen cabinets

Heritage cabinets can be thought of as the more ornate cousin of Shaker cabinet fronts. Characterised by a raised central panel with more intricately detailed woodwork, this traditional style of cabinet door is most often seen in Hamptons style homes.

This style works best in large kitchens, because the extra and more ornate detailing can quickly look cluttered in a small space.

7. Glass door kitchen cabinets

Why keep your good China, ceramics and crystal glassware hidden away when you can put it proudly on display in a glass-fronted cabinet? Glass cabinets are a great way to add interest to your kitchen. Suited especially to Hamptons homes and country kitchens, glass cabinets will require a little bit of styling effort to begin with (to ensure the contents of the cupboards are nicely arranged) but will never fail to wow your dinner guests.

These cabinets also have the added benefit of allowing you to find which items you need without having to search through multiple cupboards. If you’re worried about the look becoming cluttered, consider opting for frosted glass, or even coloured glass.

8. Inset kitchen cabinet doors

Inset cabinets may look just like other regular cabinets, but on closer inspection you will notice that they feature exposed hinges and doors that sit inside the cabinet frame.

As inset cabinets fronts require bespoke fitting and custom joinery, they can be a costly option when it comes to kitchen design. With so many affordable fully overlay cabinets available, you’ll rarely see inset kitchen cabinets unless you’re in a luxury home or grand estate.

Inset cabinets are generally selected for their overall smoother appearance, but with the door sitting within the frame, can reduce the amount of available cupboard space.

Inset vs overlay cabinets

Inset

• Sit flush inside the cabinet, creating a seamless look.

• One of the more expensive kitchen door options because it requires custom cabinetry.
• Tend to have less storage space, so keep that in mind if you intend to store bulky or large items away.
• Require more hardware as the doors cannot be opened without pulling on a handle, and this style often features visible hinges.

Overlay

• The most common type of kitchen cupboard door for modern kitchens, with plenty of affordable and sleek varieties available.
• Fully overlay cabinets.
• Are easy to install yourself and can be ordered in.

The post 8 of the most popular kitchen cabinet door style ideas to try appeared first on Homes To Love.

What is a wall oven?

Also known as built-in ovens, a wall oven is separate from your kitchen cooktop and, as the name suggests, is found installed in the wall of your kitchen for a seamless look.

What are the benefits of a wall oven?

Unlike freestanding ovens that often come with an oven compartment and a cooktop in one, a wall oven is generally installed at eye level, meaning there’s no crouching down to take out your Sunday roast. A wall oven is an ergonomic pick for those who use ovens frequently.

The best wall ovens in Australia

So, if you’re choosing to upgrade your current oven or you’re renovating your kitchen, below, we’ve curated our top picks of the best wall ovens that will make cooking your favourite recipes a breeze.

westinghouse-oven

Westinghouse 60cm electric oven in stainless steel, $899, The Good Guys

Choose from five rack levels and eight cooking functions to create the perfect dishes, every time. Plus, with its large viewing window, you’ll be able to monitor your food as it cooks easily to ensure it never overcooks.

Key features:

72-litre capacity

8 cooking functions

3-button touch control

Dedicated Airfry function

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NEFF-built-in-oven

NEFF 60cm pyrolytic Slide&Hide electric built-in oven, $2499, Appliances Online

Available in graphite or stainless steel to suit your kitchen aesthetic, the NEFF pyrolytic Slide&Hide oven is elegant, intuitive and a must-have for busy kitchens. Featuring the brand’s iconic Slide&Hide oven door that neatly tucks away beneath the oven cavity, it means you can access your dishes easier with no obstruction.

Key features:

Patented Slide&Hide door

CircoTherm technology allows you to bake and roast at the same time

12 heating functions

Special pizza and dough-proving settings

EasyClean hydrolytic functionality for softening grease

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Electrolux-oven

Electrolux 60cm pyrolytic oven in dark stainless steel, $2079, The Good Guys

Jam-packed with a variety of cooking functions, from air frying to baking with steam, slow cooking, grilling, and more, this wall oven from Electrolux is perfect for budding home cooks. Plus, it comes with a smart food probe with a sensor that monitors the temperature of roasts effortlessly.

Key features:

17 oven functions

3 pyrolytic functions

Smart food probe

Air fry tray

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bosch-serie-8-black-oven

Bosch 60cm built-in oven Series 8 in black, $1599, The Good Guys

With a large 71-litre capacity, the Series 8 wall oven from Bosch is made for those who love to host and entertain at home. If you hate cleaning your oven (who doesn’t), you’ll be pleased to know that this model has an EcoClean Direct feature where the rear wall of the oven has a special coating that absorbs grime. Less time cleaning your oven, more time enjoying your favourite recipes? Count us in. Plus, its black glass front is an elegant touch to any kitchen.

Key features:

10 heating functions

EcoClean Direct for easy maintenance

4D Hot Air function for even heat distribution

Sleek glass exterior

Easy-to-use touch symbols and control rong

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beko-built-in-oven

Beko 81L + 41L multifunction built-in double oven, $1279, Bing Lee

Ideal for large families, this multi-functional double oven will be your saving grace come dinner time. And, if cleaning your oven after every meal is a task you conveniently procrastinate over, then this oven is for you. With its CleanZone grease-resistant glass, it means the oven doors resist dirt and grease build-up, so you can wipe it down easily without scrubbing or any harsh chemicals.

Key features:

CleanZone grease-resistant glass

Catalytic walls absorb grease to reduce food odours

Soft close doors

Telescopic shelves

Double oven capacity

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The post The 5 best wall ovens that will blend seamlessly into your kitchen appeared first on Homes To Love.

Offering strength, durability, affordability and sustainability as major selling points, these high-tech engineered kitchen benchtop surfaces also boast hygienic, water-repelling, heat- and stain-resistant qualities that have been carefully tailored to meet our everyday kitchen demands.

In busy households, where cleaning and protecting marble benchtops is just one chore too many, homeowners are seeking affordable, durable and practical alternatives.

With the flexibility with finishes, thicknesses and slab, it’s no wonder that engineered stone is fast becoming the material of choice in modern kitchens, guaranteeing virtually seamless applications and minimal waste.

And with the latest advances in texture and patina, these materials can deliver character like never before.

TOP 5 ENGINEERED STONE SURFACES

1. DEKTON

Dekton is a high-tech solution for those whose hearts are set on the look and feel of stone, without the bulk, weight or upkeep.

Dekton benches are lightweight and available in slabs as thin as 8mm, all while being heat resistant, scratch resistant, UV resistant and non-porous. It also comes in a range of colours and finishes. Unlike quartz benches, the controlled manufacturing process means your Dekton bench will not change colour over time.

2. SILESTONE

If you love the appearance of natural stone but are looking for the durability of an engineered benchtop, Silestone may be the perfect choice for you. Made predominantly from natural quartz, it is a non-porous work surface resistant to stains, scratches and even the growth of bacteria.

On the other hand, Silestone is not heat resistant, so keep that in mind if you’re an avid home cook who would like to put a pan on the kitchen island from time to time.

3. LAMINEX

Laminex benchtops are a great option for either a quick kitchen revamp or a budget friendly overhaul. With a range of finishes that replicate the look of natural stone along with the option of creating a seamless benchtop, you really can’t go wrong with this choice.

4. PAPEROCK

Constructed from paper and resin, Paperock is a durable surface that can resist temperatures up to 180 degrees Celsius. With the added benefit of being more affordable than natural stone, concrete or stainless steel, Paperock is also incredibly strong, resistant to water, and designed to last.

Choose between either Paperock Solid, made from renewably sourced paper, or Paperock Ply, their newest product that incorporates high quality exterior grade Birch plywood, which makes it both lighter and more affordable.

5. CAESARSTONE

Like other quartz composite benches, Caesarstone is made up of 90 percent natural stone particles. This makes it a more durable option to natural stone, requiring little to no maintenance.

While Caesarstone is heat resistant, it may change colour over time from sudden changes in temperature – so avoid placing hot pots and pans on its surface.

EXPERT TIPS FOR CHOOSING ENGINEERED STONE

• Consider overlaying a tired benchtop with a slimline quartz composite such as Silestone, available in cladding thicknesses of 12mm, 20mm and 30mm.

• Many composite materials can be used in both vertical and horizontal applications, including splashbacks, joinery, furniture and flooring, which presents fresh design possibilities for kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.

• The water-resistant qualities of composites make them ideal outdoor material for seamless alfresco entertaining.

The post The most durable engineered stone kitchen benchtops appeared first on Homes To Love.

Every kitchen space is unique but there are some standard configurations and common constraints that come into play in a kitchen renovation.

To help inspire your dream kitchen design, we’ve compiled some pros, cons and design tips for the six most popular kitchen layouts and floorplans.

1. Island kitchen layout

The island kitchen layout is ideal for people who want their kitchen to be a social hub. It enables the cook to entertain while they’re preparing food.

A good kitchen island configuration requires plenty of room. “We recommend a minimum of 16m for a successful island kitchen,” says Sydney architect Kathy Roberts from design firm Hassell. “A long island bench is preferable and allows ample space for food preparation, socialising and a washing-up area.”

Islands can be designed with built-in sinks and hotplates, but operate best as a hub when free of cooking or sink facilities.

PROS

Island kitchens provide the ultimate connection between your kitchen and open-plan living spaces.

CONS

There’s nowhere to hide. Your kitchen is on display and the pressure to keep it clean is greater. The open connection between kitchen and living area means there is little separation when it comes to noise and activity.

DESIGN TIP

Make your island a major feature by shaping it into a unique form or using dramatic materials such as timber or marble. Also rectangular island benches should be at least 2.4m long to provide harmonious proportions.

2. U-shaped kitchen layout

U-shaped kitchens are great for large families or where multiple cooks will be working simultaneously in the space. This layout is also flexible. It can work in both long, narrow galley-style spaces, as well as large square spaces with a central island workstation.

Where space permits, a central dining table set within the U provides a casual dining or workspace.

PROS

U-shaped kitchens can be placed adjacent to the living area, fostering a connection but allowing a degree of privacy from the open-plan living/dining area.

CONS

A U-shaped kitchen’s large mass of cabinets can feel bulky if the detailing isn’t closely considered. This kitchen layout is also better suited to a period rather than modern home.

DESIGN TIP

Watch the gap! The area within the U can be any size, but if too wide it becomes inconvenient putting too much distance between work zones.

3. L-shaped kitchens

An L-shaped kitchen lends itself to a medium to large area and is ideal if you want to incorporate a dining table into the scheme.

Position tall units (pantry, fridge, wall oven) along one arm of the L, and the main bench (with cooktop and sinks) on the other. This will provide maximum bench and storage space, and plenty of circulation room for at least two people to work within the kitchen area.

PROS

Adaptable, functional, stylish and social. This is a very popular kitchen layout for houses.

CONS

Sometimes this configuration is all about fitting everything in and the flow when cooking may not be ideal.

DESIGN TIP

In an L-shaped kitchen, finish taller cabinets in a similar colour or material to the walls so they visually blend with the rest of the room.

4. Straight-line kitchens

This layout is best suited to compact spaces such as small, open-plan apartments.

A larger-scale straight-line kitchen is also an option for families who like to dine in the kitchen. This layout works well when the dining table is directly adjacent to the kitchen. The table can double as an additional prep area.

For a balanced look, position the fridge at one end of the long bench, with the oven, microwave and pantry tower at the other. The cooktop, sinks and benches should occupy the area in between.

PROS

This layout is ideal for square-shaped combined dining/kitchen spaces where constraints such as corridors, doors or windows may limit the amount of wall space for cabinetry.

CONS

Unless appliances like dishwashers and fridges are fully integrated, this kitchen design can be visually cluttered. An induction cooktop will also help streamline this kitchen layout.

DESIGN TIP

For a clean look, keep the floor finish consistent between the kitchen and dining/living areas. A tiled or timber floor will work best.

5. Galley kitchens

Galley kitchens are common in older and period apartments and narrow terrace houses with a small/medium-size separate kitchen.

They are a good way to utilise corridors; by incorporating all essential elements on each side of the narrow area, they make good use of all available space.

While more about function than socialising or eating in, the design is one of the most efficient layouts for compact homes in terms of design, functionality and meal production.

PROS

This kitchen design has the potential to utilise and transform a passageway into a highly functional space.

CONS

Galley kitchens can be dark and feel claustrophobic if there is no natural light or tall cabinets are overdone.

DESIGN TIP

Combine full-height cupboards and plenty of bench space with windows or skylights to open up the space, brighten it and add glimpses of sky.

6. Peninsula kitchen

A peninsula layout is a practical solution for smaller kitchens that need additional workspace, storage or seating. The short return provides the benefits of an island bench but occupies less floor area.

PROS

It opens up the kitchen to the adjacent area, allowing for better circulation.

CONS

This layout creates a kitchen with unusable open space.

DESIGN TIP

A galley or straight-line kitchen might be a better option. Those are the kitchen layouts preferred by most designers.

Tips for kitchen layout design success

• Consider how the kitchen connects to the rest of the house.

• Keep the wet areas away from the cooking areas and allow prep bench space around both.

• Choose your appliances and know their dimensions early on.

• Restrict the selection of materials. Three is enough: benchtop, cabinetry and splashback.

• Keep your microwave (and other appliances) off the benchtop.

The post 6 popular kitchen layouts you’ll love appeared first on Homes To Love.

The transformed cooking and dining zone features elements that both surprise and delight. In choosing a colour for the bespoke panelled cabinetry, Jade toyed with sage greens, navy blues and sandy neutrals before settling on moody French Slate by Porter’s Paints.

“It felt approachable while maintaining the depth we wanted to achieve,” says Jade. “Combined with brass touches and chocolate oak floors, it’s rich without being overwhelming, softened by the crisp white walls. We favoured natural finishes that would patina organically over time.”

Finding space in the relatively narrow structure for a large island and plenty of storage was a hurdle. “In the end, we managed to find a shape that allowed ample space for preparation and pantry storage,” says Jade of a kitchen that is “loved and utilised” by its delighted owners every day.

Love the look of this kitchen and want to see it up close and in personal? Well, this beautiful Federation home is available to book on Airbnb, so you can book a stay and experience it all first-hand. Sleeping up to eight guests, the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home enjoys direct access to the famed Bondi-Coogee coastal walk, and is a stone’s throw from popular local restaurants and cafes.

Find out more, here.

Book a stay

Kitchen Design Notes

Joinery: Panelled cabinetry with custom moulding, two-pack polyurethane finish in Porter’s Paints French Slate.

Cabinet Hardware: Ascot brass knobs, $19 each, and Aver brass pulls, $39-$49 each, both Lo & Co.

Splashback & Benchtops: Alpine Quartzite, CDK Stone.

Tapware: Icon sink mixer with pull-out spray in Urban Brass, $1297, Astra Walker.

Sink: Novi fine fireclay double-bowl butler sink, $1924, Turner Hastings.

Appliances: Oven, cooktop and rangehood, all Smeg.

Fridge and dishwasher: Miele.

Lighting: Precision pendant light in Antique-Burnished Brass with white glass, $2409, The Montauk Lighting Company.

Furniture: Odette barstools, $520 each, Odette dining chairs in Navy Blue, $450 each, and Benjamin Ripple oval dining table in Matt Black, $4610, all Globe West.

Walls: Dulux Lexicon Quarter.

Artwork: Framed prints from Designer Boys Art.

Flooring: Newport Herringbone engineered-oak floorboards, Havwoods International.

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