What else makes a major difference is price. With rumours swirling that coffee might hit $10 a cup, purchasing the right machine could be a game-changer to your bank account, and your caffeine intake. So when we see that retailer Amazon has dropped the price of a premium coffee machine like Breville’s Oracle Jet by $900 for Black Friday, we take note.

Explore our Black Friday 2025 guides below:

• You don’t have to wait till November 28 to save big – these Black Friday sales are already live
• Where to score the best robot vacuum deals this month
• Dyson, Shark, Roborock and more are dropping prices fast on vacuum cleaners
• The best Black Friday appliance sales for 2025

Today’s coffee machines have better functionality and more brewing options than ever and can be surprisingly affordable. After all, this is the era of café-worthy domestic coffee machines.

Reassuringly, there are coffee machines for all tastes, lifestyles, and budgets, from easy-to-use, low-cost pod machines to the full bells-and-whistles automatic espresso experience, plus beautifully stylish built-in options for anyone considering a kitchen renovation.

Best automatic coffee machines in Australia

01

Philips Series 5500 automatic coffee machine

from $1189 at Philips

Best for: large homes and busy families

The Philips Series 5500 is the perfect all-rounder for large family homes or for those who need a quick injection of caffeine at the touch of a button. With 20 coffee recipes, an innovative LatteGo milk system that froths in under 10 seconds, and SilentBrew technology that delivers coffee 40% quieter than earlier models, this machine will be the talk of the town. Don’t be surprised to see your neighbours lining up for a cup – you might even have to start charging!

Key features:

• 20 different beverages to choose from
• SilentBrew technology
• LatteGo milk system that works with milk alternatives
• Intuitive display

Also available at:

• $1399 at Amazon

Shop Now

02

Ninja’s Luxe Café Premier espresso machine

from $799.99 $699.99 at Ninja

Best for: a completely automatic experience

The innovative appliance leader Ninja’s long-awaited debut in automatic coffee machines demystifies coffee, guiding you step by step through the entire brewing process. The auto-grind, auto-dose and adaptive brewing functions mean no brain power is needed before 9am. The hands-free milk frother also takes the guesswork out of your morning brew, giving you a completely automatic, seamless coffee experience. This machine is so handy, even coffee snobs are taking note. Here’s what our team had to say after reviewing the machine themselves:

After a thorough and highly comprehensive test by me and my fellow coffee-obsessed colleagues, we can honestly say it’s worth it if you value convenience and simplicity. However, if you prefer ultimate control, this automatic coffee machine may not be the one for you.

Key features:

• Three-in-one espresso, cold brew and filter coffee machine
• 15+ drink presents
• Hands-free frothing
• Weight-based dosing
• Built-in storage for the tamper, funnel, brew baskets, brush and cleaning disc

Also available at:

• $648 at The Good Guys

Shop Now

03

Breville The Oracle Jet

$3899 at Amazon

Best for: specialty coffee lovers and advanced home baristas

Specialty coffee in the comfort of your own home – what more could you ask for? The newest addition to Breville’s coffee machine lineup is The Oracle Jet. You can select from specialty recipes – including the newly added Cold Brew and Cold Espresso recipes – to ensure your morning brew is perfect every time. Also, if you love your oat lattes or soy cappuccinos, the Auto MilQ offers silky smooth microfoam with settings optimised for not only dairy milk, but also soy, almond, and oat (finally).

This machine is a big investment, so we saved you the risk and tried it out ourselves (and loved it). You can read all of our thoughts in our Oracle Jet review.

Key features:

• Auto MilQ optimised for dairy, soy, almond, and oat milk
• Cold Brew and Cold Espresso recipes
• ThermoJet heating system
• Barista Guidance for a more balanced pour

Also available at:

• $3119.20 at Myer
• $3295 at The Good Guys

Shop Now

04

Magnifica Evo fully automatic coffee machine

$949 at Amazon

Best for: beginners who want effortless, barista-style coffee

For those who want barista-quality coffee without needing to deal with fiddly settings, DeLonghi’s Magnifica Evo fully automatic coffee machine takes care of all the fuss for you. The bulk of the heavy lifting comes from DeLonghi’s 7 one-touch coffee recipes, which means you can have a perfectly tailored brew at the touch of a button. And the best part? The machine has its own automatic milk frother, delivery café-level milk with ease.

Key features:

• LatteCrema technology delivers creamy milk every time
• 7 one-touch coffee recipes, from cappuccino to espresso
• Intuitive touch panel
• Can brew two espressos at once

Also available at:

• $899 at Delonghi

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Best pod coffee machines in Australia

05

Breville The Creatista Pro

$1399 at Amazon

Best for: creative coffee enthusiasts

Breville’s Nespresso Creatista Pro takes capsule coffee to a whole new level, pairing their extensive experience in designing heavy-duty coffee machines with the simplicity of coffee-in-a-pod. Housed in a sleek brushed steel design, the Creatista Pro can pour two cappuccinos in just 65 seconds, and features an easy-to-use touch screen interface to help you take coffee customisation above and beyond.

“This espresso machine makes me feel like a pro! It’s so easy to use and in the 2 years I’ve owned it, I have become more creative with my coffee. It’s easy to clean and looks nice on my counter. I’m saving money every day by not purchasing coffee from a shop,” said one five star review

Key features:

• Dual ThermoJet Heating System to simultaneously extract espresso and automatically texture milk
• Intuitive touch screen operation
• Fully-automatic steam wand

Also available at:

• $1099 at Myer
• $1099 at The Good Guys
• $1499 at Nespresso

Shop Now

06

Vertuo Next with Aeroccino3 milk frother

$389 at Nespresso

Best for: versatile pod coffee with easy milk frothing

Available in a variety of sleek colourways, Nespresso’s VertuoPlus coffee machine is a stylish addition to your kitchen benchtop. With a special design that rotates each coffee capsule up to 7000 times a minute, the VertuoPlus helps you extract the ideal brew from your coffee pods each and every time. Plus, the Aeroccino3 milk frother makes pouring a cappuccino or latte a breeze.

With 2609 five-star reviews on the Nespresso website, customers love this bundle for its “versatile brewing options” and “consistent flavour.” One review added: “Cleaning is straightforward with removable parts and a quick rinse function, making it both convenient and reliable.”

Key features:

• Five adaptable brewing parameters
• Simple 1-button operation, automatic capsule ejection
• Paired with the Aeroccino3 Milk Frother which creates hot or cold milk froth for your milk coffees.

Also available at:

• $389 at Amazon
• $199 at The Good Guys

Shop Now

07

Nespresso Lattissima One capsule coffee machine

$449 at The Good Guys

Best for: latte lovers seeking minimal waste

DeLonghi’s Latissima One Nespresso System is designed to take your capsule coffee further, courtesy of an innovative in-built fresh milk system which is specifically designed to texture and pour milk automatically. The clever system even highlights how much milk you’ll actually need per cup, ensuring there’s minimal waste involved. If you’re a latte or cappuccino fan, the Latissima is a great option to invest in.

Key features:

• 25 second heat-up time
• Compact size fits perfectly on your kitchen benchtop
• Built-in automatic milk frother allows you to create lattes and cappuccinos at the touch of a button

Also available at:

• $519 at Nespresso
• $449 at Amazon
• $519 $403 at Appliances Online

Shop Now

08

Smeg Lavazza A Modo Mio capsule coffee machine in Cream

[am_price default=”$349″ text=”Appliances Online”]

Best for: espresso purists

ICYMI, Smeg does its own version of a capsule machine in partnership with Lavazza in an iconic retro design. Small but mighty, it features straightforward but versatile brewing options, allowing you to create the perfect espresso or lungo cup with the flick of a switch. Also available in White, Black, and Red.

One five-star review on Appliances Online said: “Loving my new Smeg coffee machine! So easy to use, that surprised me! Bit tricky if you want a full cup of coffee though as it is an espresso delivery . You have to press the button numerous times. The taste of lavazza coffee is divine. Get one!”

Key features:

• Hot and cold drink capability
• Over 40 beverage varieties
• Easy to clean

Also available at:

• $349 $209 at David Jones
• $299 at Designer Appliances

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Best manual coffee machines in Australia

09

Breville The Barista Express manual coffee machine

$999 at Amazon

Best for: full control and quality espresso

The best-selling manual machine, as the name suggests, Breville’s Barista Express is designed to deliver café-quality brews in as little as a minute. The integrated conical burr grinder delivers the right amount of freshly ground coffee for every cup, precise temperature control ensures optimal espresso extraction and the steam wand allows you to hand-texture microfoam milk however you like.

“Fantastic espresso machine! The Breville delivers café-quality coffee with ease. It’s user-friendly, heats up quickly, and the built-in grinder is great. Durable, stylish, and worth every cent for coffee lover’s,” said one five-star review on Amazon, where the machine is rated 4.7/5 stars.

Key features:

• Perfect coffee every time with the four keys formula (precision puck, extraction pressure, extraction temperature and microfoam bubbles)
• Auto grind & dose with an integrated conical burr grinder with 16 grind settings
• 54 mm stainless steel portafilter delivers full flavour with dual and single wall filters
• Low pressure pre-infusion followed by 9 bar extraction

Also available at:

• $769 $719 at Breville
• $699 at The Good Guys

SHOP NOW

10

Smeg 50’s Retro Style coffee machine

$699 at Myer

Best for: iconic style

When it comes to making a major style statement in the kitchen, you can’t look any further than Smeg’s iconic retro kitchen appliances. Smeg’s 50s retro-style coffee machine comes in seven different colourways and features a Good Design Award-winning compact design. As a manual espresso machine, the Smeg coffee machine allows you full control over your perfect brew from beginning to end.

“Super easy to set up and use. Feels very solid and well made, and looks gorgeous on my kitchen bench,” said one five-star review on Appliances Online.

Key features:

• Five vibrant diverse colour finishes
• Three-button control
• Compact profile

Also available at:

• $559 at The Good Guys
• $699 $601 at Appliances Online

SHOP NOW

11

DeLonghi LaSpecialista Arte coffee machine

$649 at Amazon

Best for: latte enthusiasts and precise temperature control

Fill your home with the aroma of freshly ground coffee every morning with Delonghi’s best-selling La Specialista Arte manual coffee machine. Featuring an eight-setting conical burr grinder for a single or double espresso, an Active Temperature Control setting that maintains a consistent water temperature during the coffee brewing process, and a MyLatte Art Steam Wand which helps create the silkiest lattes art ever.

With a 4.2/5 star rating on Amazon over 900+ reviews, customers love with machine for its intuitive operation, quality construction, and great tasting coffee. “This is an excellent coffee machine that finally makes thick enough espresso for a home device,” adds one customer.

Key features:

• 8 Grind settings, specifically developed to fit all varieties of coffee beans
• 3 Infusion temperature levels
• MyLatte Art steam wand

Also available at:

• $548 at Delonghi

SHOP NOW

12

Sunbeam Barista Max coffee machine

$481 at Amazon

Best for: entry-level users

The Sunbeam Barista Max Coffee Machine will have you serving up coffee like a pro. With some intelligent features like an integrated “tap & go” one-touch grinder, plus a temp IQ shot control to regulate water and temperature, the perfect brew begins at home.

“Very entry level but great for the price point,” mentions one customer, who rated their experience five stars. “I use it a couple of times a day and have not purchased a take away coffee since,” added another in a review on Amazon.

Key features:

• Integrated tap & go one-touch grinder 
• Temp IQ shot control
• Auto shot volumetric control

Also available at:

• $549 at Woolworths

SHOP NOW

Best built-in coffee machines in Australia

13

Miele VitroLine built-in coffee machine

$6999 $6299.10 at Bing Lee

Best for: luxury kitchens

Miele’s stylish VitroLine Obsidian built-in coffee machine perfectly blends form with function. With a sleek design that is bound to suit any style of kitchen, the VitroLine’s Aromatic SystemFresh feature ensures freshly ground coffee for every cup. 

Key features:

• Full touch DirectSensor controls
• 24+ beverage varieties
• OneTouch for Two
• WiFiConnect

Shop Now

14

Bosch ‘Series 8’ fully automatic built-in coffee machine

$4299 at The Good Guys

Best for: fully automatic convenience

Bosch’s state-of-the-art built-in coffee machine is designed to take your kitchen to the next level in an instant. With a streamlined look, the automatic machine helps you create a truly personalised brew in an instant. Bosch’s OneTouch DoubleCup feature allows you to pour two cups of coffee at a moment’s notice, and the clever sensoFlow system ensures water is heated to optimal temperatures.

Key features:

• Intelligent strength adjustment
• 6.8” colour display with touch and slide functionality
• AutoMilk Clean feature for combined descaling and cleaning program for less effort.
• High-quality grinder made of wear-resistant ceramic

Shop Now

What method makes the best tasting coffee?

The style of coffee machine best suited to you really depends upon your taste in the brew itself. For example, French Press produces a dark, rich cup, whereas pour-over methods (like Aeropress), give a lighter flavour.

Today’s makers have better functionality and more brewing options than ever, so there are coffee machines for all tastes, lifestyles, and budgets. For example, although they used to be looked down upon as inferior, capsule and pod machines have also come a long way, and many can produce a great cup of coffee that requires a fraction of the time and effort. However, for true coffee enthusiasts, manual coffee machines, while the most technical, give you complete control over the flavour, the pour, the taste, to deliver a café-worthy cuppa.

Here’s our guide to the different machines and methods.

Capsule and pod machines

Capsule machines are ideal for everyday coffee drinkers who want their caffeine hit quickly and conveniently. The low price point and user-friendliness of pod machines have helped people migrate from instant coffee to espresso.

“We have seen a rise in capsule coffee machine sales — simply because people were looking to become an at-home barista,” says John Kozsik, National Training Manager (Australia) at Lavazza. “Good quality capsule coffee machines are super convenient, simple to use, and easy to clean — great for someone seeking café-grade coffee from their kitchen!”

There has been concern about the environmental impact of disposable pods, but now there’s a huge variety of biodegradable pods available, along with recycling programs. The best way to recycle your empty pods is through drop-off and post-back collection schemes like those run by Terracycle. Nespresso runs a recycling program allowing you to return your used aluminium capsules to a Nespresso boutique or post your used capsules back to Nespresso using a special Australia Post satchel.

Manual coffee machines

These super functional, high-tech options can look great on the benchtop and deliver a café-worthy cuppa if you know what you’re doing. Manual machines give you complete control over the flavour, the pour, the taste, and so on.

While they might seem trickier to use, getting the technique right usually only takes a few practice sessions. Most retailers of manual machines also offer training to ensure you are comfortable with the equipment before you start.

One thing to consider when you’re buying a manual machine: it may come with or without a steaming function. If you want the option of frothing milk and making your lattes, cappuccinos, or hot chocolates, make sure it’s included.

Automatic coffee machines

The next level up from manual machines, these products usually give you the ability to customise your coffee — from the grind to the final brew. If you have a preferred grind or style, some machines even allow you to set the preferences in such a way that all you have to do is press a button labelled ‘Clare’s coffee’ and your favourite half-strength long black is delivered.

John Kaye, head roaster at Sample Coffee, says the automatic machines are perfect for people who are particular about their coffee, but don’t have the skills or experience to operate a manual machine. “They are great for good — almost barista-quality — coffee, with minimal education required.

“And they’re not expensive, relatively speaking,” John adds. Breville does a very competitive price for the quality of their machinery. “I have one of their grinders at home and I’m pretty satisfied with its useability. Quite often, it’s not just brewing the coffee [that people find tricky]; steaming milk is very much a learned art as well. So if you have a machine that does it automatically, that’s a big bonus.”

Automatic machines are great for the untrained coffee aficionado. You load your beans in, set how fine you want the grind to be, and it will do everything else for you. So, all you have to do is press the grind button, put the beans in, and hit the brew button.

Built-in coffee machines

Many of the larger kitchen appliance companies also make built-in coffee machines, which can help to keep the kitchen free of coffee-related clutter.

Built-in coffee machines can save on bench space and are a popular choice for those who prefer all their appliances to be integrated. Some use beans, some use capsules and some use the Nespresso system, but built-in machines come at a cost and require more maintenance than standard benchtop machines.

Brands such as Miele, Smeg, NEFF, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux, and AEG all offer a built-in option to complement their cooking products. And let’s face it, if you’re going to install a Miele kitchen, why wouldn’t you put in a matching Miele coffee machine?

Many built-in machines, such as the Bosch Series 8 machine can produce two cups simultaneously, which is great for entertaining. At the top end of the market, the Gaggenau machine can save up to eight personalised coffee configurations.

Learn to use your coffee machine

When you purchase your coffee machine, ask about training to help you make the most of it. Some brands also have YouTube videos, which demonstrate all the functions.

Most big department stores have trained baristas you can talk to about coffee and how to find the right machine for you. If you’re in the market for a coffee machine, it’s a good idea to compare the flavour of capsule coffee versus beans, and work out whether you want to personalise your coffee by using a manual machine, or if you like the convenience of an automatic machine or a capsule one.

Sample Coffee’s John Kaye says barista courses can be helpful, too. “Steaming milk and brewing coffee can take a little bit of playing around so guidance is always quite handy. That kind of time investment always pays off.”

FAQs

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The post This premium automatic coffee machine just dropped $900 for Black Friday appeared first on Homes To Love.

Between overstuffed fridges, last-minute guests, and ambitious social calendars, our homes can turn from calm to catastrophe faster than you can say “the turkey’s dry.” But, before you consider skipping your Christmas commitments for good (or a stay in ‘The Holiday‘ cottage, perhaps?), there are plenty of ways to avoid pre-party overwhelm – and it might be easier than you think. According to H&G’s food editor, Amanda Cordony, the key to securing a stress-free Christmas for you and your guests is all about working smarter – never harder.

This summer, Amanda has teamed up with Hisense to share her golden rules for effortless entertaining. The result? A blueprint for holiday hosting minus the mayhem.

How to keep calm and cool this Christmas

1. Let the fridge do the prep work

A calm host is a prepared one – and planning starts with what’s behind the fridge door. “The best celebrations are relaxed, generous and intuitive,” Amanda says. “Hisense’s new PureView Fridge takes that same approach – it works intelligently behind the scenes so you can be present with your guests and live in the moment. It’s like having a sous-chef who anticipates your every move.”

Smart fridges like Hisense’s PureView model make it easy to plan ahead, thanks to features like adjustable shelving and a touchscreen hub that manages your food inventory and even suggests recipes to suit. That sad bag of spinach that always succumbs to back-of-shelf neglect? Consider it a thing of the past with the PureView’s clever alert system for expiring ingredients. Plus, with its antibacterial interior and UV water treatment, you can marinate, chop and slice days in advance, knowing your produce will stay crisp until Christmas lunch.

To lighten the mental load, Amanda recommends allocating dedicated zones in the fridge to keep things under control. “Utilising zones will help you not only create more storage but also find things faster and know what you have and don’t,” she says. Likewise, using good quality, airtight containers to store fresh produce in the fridge and freezer will extend the life of your groceries until the next shopping haul.

H&G Tip

Take inventory a week before guests arrive. Clear out condiments and freezer clutter to make space for entertaining essentials – think platters, drinks and make-ahead desserts.

2. Turn your table into a talking point

There’s something magical about a shared Christmas table – especially if it’s buffet-style. “A generously sized table invites guests to serve themselves and linger longer,” says Amanda. “This turns dining into an experience of shared connection.”

Whether you’re hosting a large group or a party of two, setting the table should involve more than putting down plates and cutlery. It’s about creating an atmosphere, so set the mood with soft ambient lighting, curate your music, and use textiles to create an inviting tablescape that keeps the conversation going.

H&G Tip

Create a flexible centrepiece – like a trough of herbs, a row of pillar candles, or even a bowl of citrus – that can be easily shifted around when dishes are added.

3. Set and don’t forget

With so much to juggle, even seasoned hosts can forget the canapés under the grill or the Champagne in the freezer. Thankfully, the heart of the home is fast becoming the hub of the home, with a range of high-tech devices available to keep you connected and in control.

The PureView’s intuitive display and ConnectLife compatibility lets you manage recipes, set timers, and add to your shopping list – and not a single flour-covered fingerprint in sight.

H&G Tip

Digitise your holiday recipes in advance and share them with family members who want to lend a hand.

4. Simple servings

It should go without saying, but for those of us who could use a gentle reminder: you don’t need an elaborate menu to impress your guests. In fact, Cordony swears by simplicity. “Seasonal ingredients need little more than olive oil or citrus to shine,” she notes.

When it comes to planning a menu think about how much time you will have to prepare and choose dishes that you’re comfortable cooking. By focusing on fresh, in-season produce – and storing it properly – you can spend less time cooking and more time connecting with your guests. After all, if there’s too much to do, you risk passing that frantic energy onto your guests and that’s exactly what you’re trying to avoid.

H&G Tip

Keep a few hero ingredients on hand that elevate any dish – think fresh herbs, flaky sea salt, lemon and good quality condiments.

Keep it cool: smart holiday menus with fridge space in mind

From make-ahead desserts to summer-leaning salads, these effortless recipes from The Cordony Kitchen are made for easy entertaining.

The final checklist

A week before Christmas

• Deep clean the fridge and pantry
• Stock up on long-life entertaining staples like crackers and condiments
• Plan tableware and serving pieces: polish cutlery and check glassware

The day before

• Prepare grazing boards and store covered in the fridge
• Chill wine and water overnight
• Style the table so you’re not scrambling the next day

The day of

• Prep a hosting zone near the kitchen – think extra napkins, trays, cutlery and glassware
• Delegate, delegate, delegate! Assign one person to drinks and another to the canapes
• Light candles, queue the playlist and enjoy the day

The post How to host Christmas like a pro (and actually enjoy it) appeared first on Homes To Love.

What’s so special about the Ninja Luxe Café?

The innovative appliance leader’s long-awaited debut in automatic coffee machines demystifies coffee, guiding you step by step through the entire brewing process.

• Barista Assist Technology that recommends real-time adjustments for the perfect brew.
• The Automatic Dual Froth System offers four types of frothiness and suits both dairy and plant-based milk
• A generous 2-year warranty for any mishaps that may happen along the way

What the Ninja Luxe Café comes with

• Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso Machine
• Portafilter
• Milk jug with integrated whisk
• Single shot espresso basket
• Double shot espresso basket
• Luxe espresso basket
• Assisted tamper
• Funnel
• Cleaning brush with steam wand cleaning tool
• Cleaning disc
• Cleaning tablets
• Descaling powder
• Hard water testing kit
• Water filter insert
• Water filter housing

How to use Ninja Luxe Café

Step 1: Insert the portafilter with espresso basket into the grinder. The machine will make a grind size recommendation that has been calibrated to your specific beans. Hit grind and, once complete, remove the portafilter and manually tamp the beans with the assisted tamper.

Step 2: Move the portafilter to the group head (where the espresso is brewed) and place a coffee cup underneath. Select the coffee you would like to brew (espresso, quad, long black, or cold press; single, double or luxe shot; and the concentration of coffee) using the dials and buttons. Hit start brew.

Step 3: Meanwhile, pour milk into your jug up to the relevant fill line and place it under the steam wand. Use the dials to select the amount of froth you would like, from a little froth, to normal froth, extra froth or cold foam, and whether it’s dairy or plant-based milk. Hit start froth and the machine will steam the milk once the coffee has completed brewing.

Step 4: Pour your frothed milk into your coffee shot and – if you’re fancy – pour it with a little wiggle for presentation.

Results from our test

The product is sleek, stylish, and comes in four shades: stainless steel, gunmetal, midnight black, and cyberspace. It stands proud on your counter top, and is certainly well-priced compared to other coffee machines on the market. It is also a similar size to other machines, at 32cm x 37 x 34cm. So for us, it all came down to the quality and taste of the coffee itself.

Easy brewing, customisable grind settings, automatic milk frothing and an auto purge – what’s not to love? We can appreciate that an automatic steamer that makes perfectly silky frothed milk is a rarity, so if you’re someone who cares about that, you would likely prefer a manual machine. But the convenience of grind size recommendations and automatic weight-based adaptive brewing is something we just can’t look past.

It’s a very solid machine that you’re unlikely to regret purchasing, but take it from us (and our disrupted sleep schedules), you don’t need to test every setting in one day…

Overall, is the Ninja Luxe Café worth it?

After a thorough and highly comprehensive test by me and my fellow coffee-obsessed colleagues, we can honestly say it’s worth it if you value convenience and simplicity. However, if you prefer ultimate control, this automatic coffee machine may not be the one for you.

What is the difference between Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier and Pro?

There are a few key differences between the Luxe and the Pro. The Pro offers a built-in tamper rather than tamping it by hand, nine additional espresso presets including lungo and ristretto, an extra-large jug for making more coffees at once, and a slightly higher price point. There’s no word on whether the Pro will be launching in Australia, but we’re pretty happy with the Luxe Cafe Premier.

Where to buy the Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier

The Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier retails for $999.99, but you can find it slightly discounted with these retailers:

• Ninja, $799.99
• The Good Guys, $799

The post Ninja’s new espresso machine might just convince this coffee novice to go pro appeared first on Homes To Love.

Kitchen savings with Fisher & Paykel

Heritage brand Fisher & Paykel, which always delivers on both form and function, continues to be a top choice for renovators. Brand highlights include seamless integrated offerings, high resolution digital interfaces, and its ultra slim external water dispensers. The best part? Consumers can expect savings of up to $1,000 off cooking appliances, up to $500 off refrigeration, up to $300 off dishwashers — or better still, up to 15 per cent off kitchen packages.

Editor’s Pick:

Fisher & Paykel 60cm Series 7 Pyrolytic Built in Oven, was $3399, now $2999

The pyrolytic self-cleaning function heats the oven to high temperatures, reducing food residue to a fine ash that can be wiped away — ideal for anyone who loathes an oven clean.

AEG’s intelligent design

AEG consistently delivers sleek lines, intelligent design and durability built to last. The sophisticated look in the AEG 9000 Series SteamPro Built-In Combi-Steam Oven with SousVideis ideal for a kitchen design that is minimal yet highly functional for the passionate home cook. Selected kitchen packages come with savings of up to 20 per cent and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty — the perfect time to invest in appliances made to perform.

Editor’s Pick:

AEG 80cm 6000 Series SaphirMatt Induction Cooktop with DoubleBridge, was $3,999 now $3,599

The luxurious matte-black SaphirMatt surface, resists scratches, smudges and the realities of daily life, keeping the centrepiece of the kitchen pristine and polished.

Zip HydroTap: convenience on tap

There’s never been a better time to embrace modern convenience.  ZIP Water’s Black Friday offer includes a cashback option of $500 on selected Zip HydroTap purchases made between 1 November and 1 December 2025, along with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty. The luxury fixture adds instant sophistication to any benchtop with its minimalist profile providing chilled, sparkling or boiling water options at the touch of a button – no kettle required.

Editor’s Pick:

Zip HydroTap G5 Celsius Plus All-In-One Pull-Out Tap – Boiling Chilled and Sparkling Filtered Water with Hot and Ambient, $10,395

This all-in-one model combines the best of HydroTap functionality with an additional pull-out feature that keeps sightlines clear when bench space is at a premium.

With thoughtful planning and the right timing, your dream kitchen is within reach. Explore the Winnings’ Black Friday event online or visit your nearest showroom to discover the latest innovations in person.

The post Planning your 2026 renovation? Start smart with Black Friday savings on premium appliances appeared first on Homes To Love.

With unmatched precision and chef-level performance, Wolf’s M Series ovens are the latest in advanced dual convection technology. Not all ovens are reliable when it comes to consistent, even heat. If you’ve ever had to rotate trays mid-cook or needed to be mindful of particular ‘hot spots’ in your oven, you understand the frustration it brings. To combat this issue, the M Series have created its Dual VertiFlow convection technology. This innovative system transfers heat efficiently for faster preheats, shorter cook times, even browning, and superior flavour development.

Whether you’re baking a delectably sweet treat or roasting multiple dishes at once, these ovens are able to deliver professional-grade precision thanks to the revolutionary airflow design.  

Redefining gastronomic possibilities   

Gourmet mode  

Think of gourmet mode as ‘autopilot’ for your oven. With more than 50 chef-tested presets, the M Series oven range takes the guesswork out of cooking while delivering remarkable results. From cooking a roast dinner to accomplishing the perfect rise on your latest sourdough masterpiece, the oven automatically adjusts for you. The M Series regulates the temperature throughout the cook time, automatically adjusting to the ideal temperature and altering the cooking mode as needed. It will even calculate the time required to provide you with the perfect meal (alerting you with a timer when your meal is ready).  

Technology at a touch   

The M Series range offers complete control at your fingertips with its advanced technology and sophisticated full-colour touchscreen. The ergonomic and intuitive design makes the screen easy to navigate, allowing you to effortlessly switch between settings, cooking modes and temperatures all with a simple press on the screen. The sleek LCD screen complements a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic.   

Design flexibility  

With its sleek and chic design, the Wolf M series adapts to any luxury interior vision. With three distinctive design styles and details, the ranges are able to suit any kitchen aesthetic. All models are crafted for seamless built-in installation, effortlessly coordinating with other Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances. The Wolf M range is where cutting-edge technology meets immaculate integration.  

Professional   

The Professional models are bold and iconic, giving your kitchen a strong, chef-inspired look. Choose from five iconic colours to customise your control knobs.   

Transitional   

With its refined and versatile aesthetic, the Transitional range is perfect for both classic and modern spaces.  

Contemporary  

If your design identity is sleek and minimalistic, then the hands-free modern appeal of the Contemporary range is for you.   

The combination of these three aspects is where you will find the intersection of exceptional performance and impeccable design. Wolf M appliances are redefining the possibilities in luxury home cooking. 

The post Meet the pinnacle of culinary perfection   appeared first on Homes To Love.

Get inspired by these 29 country kitchens

The cottage-style kitchen

Looking as if it’s always been there, this kitchen is actually a modern extension of an 1870s cottage in Tasmania’s Huon Valley. Owner Lindy Rahn has successfully re-created an authentic look and feel with her choice of materials, furnishings and fixtures. “This is my autumnal kitchen set-up with oranges, toffee and golds as the vibe,” says Lindy. A gingham tea towel from Mama and Tochter and a cake stand from Minimax rest on the island – a table base with a French cheeseboard top made by Lindy’s husband Gavin.

The reimagined treasure

Once a post office, this storied home in Tasmania features many original features, including an original cedar bench in the kitchen. “You can see ruts in the countertop from customers passing coins across the desk over the years,” says homeowner Madeleine. In this kitchen, an historic feeling is amplified with reinstated elements such as architraves and four-panelled doors. An eclectic mix of collectables, kitchen utensils and retro appliances complete the look.

The traditional farmhouse

Haymes Paint in shades of Bush Eucalypt and Remote Green create a serene feeling in this kitchen at historic Banongill Station in Skipton, Victoria. “The first thing we did was the kitchen, and that was during lockdown so it was a two-year process,” says Jill. “We wanted a kitchen that looked like it had been here forever. It’s the hub of the home where people congregate.” The kitchen, scullery and former nursery make up the oldest part of the home, which was built in 1853.

The light-filled country charmer

Beguiling its owners from the moment they laid eyes on it, this historic home in the Adelaide Hills hasn’t changed significantly since it was built.  “Apart from removing half a wall in the kitchen, we haven’t changed the footprint at all,” explains homeowner Heidi. “The original floor plan is absolutely as it would have been well over 100 years ago.” In the kitchen, modern conveniences, such as twin sinks, complement traditional features including shaker cabinetry in an off white hue and warm-toned hardwood flooring.

The exposed brick wonder

In this creatively styled cottage in Willunga, SA, powder blue and yellow accents adorn the gorgeous family-friendly kitchen. “We love open shelving as it’s more room to display treasures,” says homeowner Emma, who has acquired an impressive collection of antiques and vintage wares and arranged them throughout the home.

The textural masterpiece

In true country style, the kitchen of The Storekeeper’s Inn in Goulburn Valley is a feast of textures. A combination of exposed brick, a traditional cabinetry profile, simple square tile splashback and a collection of antiques meet a dramatic black timber panelled wall; there’s no lack of character here.

The contemporary farmhouse

In the large, light and bright kitchen of boutique accommodation Sinclairs of Berry, a stove nook houses a country cook’s dream, including a pot rack and recessed shelves for oils and seasonings. The gorgeous stone island bench, where guests gather for wine or coffee, features hand-cut detailing and a timber base.

The black and white beauty

A pressed metal splashback, herringbone-style tiled floor, farmhouse sink and vintage chandelier give the kitchen at the gorgeous Bundara Farm in Berry a distinctly country feel. However, designed to house up to 30 people, the space is also appropriately decked out with sleek benchtops, hardwearing appliances and plenty of bench space for a more luxurious contemporary touch.

The slick country kitchen

The most beautiful meeting of contemporary and country can be found in new build The Highlands Black Barn in NSW’s picturesque Southern Highlands. The island and main benchtops are custom-made steel slabs, which makes a perfect pairing with the chic dark grey cabinets and raw brass tapware. Taking pride of place in the kitchen is the La Marzocco coffee machine, an addition by original owner Hayley. “I prefer my own coffee,” she says.

The farm-style family haven

This kitchen, belonging to a family farmhouse in the Macedon Ranges, was actually designed around the antique wooden beam, which displays a collection of bread boards. The dining table was gifted to the family from a friend, and links the kitchen to an open-plan living area.

The elegant country gem

A love for entertaining guided the design of this modern farmhouse kitchen at a newly built home in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges. The soaring ceilings in the open kitchen and living area are supported by heavy trusses – “that was one of our musts, we wanted a really open, high roof,” says owner Clare. The kitchen features woven bar stools and a Carrara marble splashback.

The historic hearth

This 50-year-old AGA oven inspired the renovation of photographer Marnie Hawson’s charming cottage in Central Victoria. “It has taken us a long time to find a white natural-gas AGA, but one popped up on Gumtree. We just thought, since we have been here so long, that we should put it in. And that gave us a good reason to renovate,” says Marnie.

The beautiful budget barn

When it came to building their dream holiday home in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, interior designer Rachel Luchetti and her builder husband Gerard Cook needed to be savvy with their budget. For the kitchen, the pair opted for economical yet hard-wearing IKEA cabinets. As for the concrete benchtop, however, Gerard fashioned that himself.

The interior designer’s upcycled kitchen

Interior designer Julie Johnson was charged with the restoration of her brick homestead in Murchison, VIC and it was in the kitchen that the home’s rich history was captured. Timber from the shed, which bears the names and dates of the shearers who worked there, was used to make the kitchen’s island bench.

The fern-filled rustic retreat

The rustic kitchen in this modern barn style home was built from salvaged oregon and the concrete benchtops were poured on site. The lights are old factory lights and the wall-hung sink is a repurposed water fountain.

The comfy family haven

A love of gardening led Chat Thai’s Palisa Anderson to found a 46-hectare organic farm in the Byron Bay hinterland. Her two other loves – upcycling furniture and cooking – are on show in her deeply-hued kitchen. The teak slabs that form her tabletop, for example, were purchased at auction. Parts of the kitchen are also clad in recycled timber fence posts. “We wanted a home that was comfortable, that had places for people to sprawl and communal spaces where we could gather,” says Palisa.

The pared-back pick

Renovating a farmhouse kitchen can often be a grand affair, but at her home in central Victoria, One Fat Emu founder Kate Brew took a more pared back approach. An old workbench was repurposed as a kitchen island while ordinary garden taps overhang the kitchen sink. A wreath made from rusty farm wire is the focal point above the concrete benchtop.

The displayed wares

David Gleeson and Leah Atkins built their serene family home from the ground up at Mollymook Beach – David does the building while Leah works on the design and finishes. Nowhere is their teamwork more evident than in the kitchen, which features cabinets and shelving (custom made by David) painted in Dulux Domino. The dark hue creates the ultimate backdrop for Leah’s collection of “bits and bobs,” many of which were purchased in Berry, NSW or in garage sales.

The Danish delight

After moving into a home she’d admired since childhood, Louise Andreasen set to work updating the property’s ‘strange’ and tired interior. “We’ve worked hard to bring it back to the old style,” she says. This involved a total revamp of the kitchen, which was gutted and replaced entirely. The end result is a timeless white kitchen complete with oak benchtops.

The light, bright family farmhouse

At Nether Hill Farm, the kids often gather in the farmhouse-style kitchen to bake biscuits and sweet treats. An old workbench sitting in the shed was repurposed as the kitchen island, while the formed concrete benchtop was poured in situ on a freezing cold night.

The shaker-style kitchen

Since its renovation, this spacious, light-filled kitchen is now the focal point of this relaxed family farmhouse; the place everyone gathers at the end of the day. “Kitchens are an investment and I’m really glad that we spent the money and made it the workable space it is,” says homeowner Sally.

The heart of the home

In this kitchen of a sustainable timber home overlooking South Gippsland hills, the wood stove provides heating to the whole home. “It’s a big black shinny monster called Esse, which has a wetback to provide hot water and floor heating in winter,” says homeowner Jackie.

The wooden wonderland

The kitchen at Ewing Farm used to be a walk-up dairy but today, it is clad in fine timber and connected to a kitchen garden which homeowners Natalie and Nils lovingly tend to. “We feel like it’s not really our house because it’s so original — we’re just looking after it,” Natalie says.

The renovated classic

The kitchen in this renovated French Provincial farmhouse features a copper range hood salvaged from a warehouse demolition. Exposed beams and concrete pendants add to the industrial aesthetic while the shaker style cabinetry and farmhouse style sink keep it classic.

The sophisticated schoolmaster’s house

Timeless and sophisticated, this monochrome kitchen ties in with the rest of this renovated schoolmaster’s house in Milton, NSW. An antique timber dining table adds character and warmth, while modern pendants and black accents keep things contemporary.

The evolving kitchen

In this jewellery maker’s eclectic Tasmanian cottage, the timber kitchen was made from recycled Tasmanian oak cupboards found at second-hand shops. “I collected all the wood,” says owner Carmen, who enlisted a boat-builder friend to help with the renovation. “It’s so much cheaper than installing a new kitchen. I had an idea of what I wanted which, like everything I do, evolved.”

The treasure trove

Interior designer Anna Spiro’s colourful home, complete with open shelving in the kitchen, is used to display woven baskets, apothecary jars, artwork, platters and jugs. The designer’s passion for vibrant colour and mix-and-match collections makes for a unique take on a country-style kitchen.

The effortless country getaway

In this open-plan studio, the kitchen has been designed to connect seamlessly with the rest of the space. The key to creating a cohesive look within an open-plan space is a considered colour scheme and here, a simple palette of white, concrete and timber gives the barn-style home an industrial feel.

The (almost) all-white affair

This old Queenslander in Bundaberg was transformed into a sunny home with the help of family, hard work and lots of white paint. Upcycled furniture and vintage finds make the kitchen feel lived-in and loved; adding personality and charm.

The post 29 warm and cosy country kitchens to add to your moodboard appeared first on Homes To Love.

However, if you’re looking for function, safety, efficiency or style, an induction cooktop offers precise temperature control and are a sleek and energy-efficient alternative to conventional cooking methods.

So, if you’re ready to make the switch to an induction, we’ve got your back. Keep reading for our ultimate shopping guide for the best induction cooktops to shop right now.

You might also like The best cookware sets to buy in Australia

The best induction cooktops to buy in Australia in 2025

01

AEG 80cm SaphirMatt 5 Zone induction cooktop

$3599 (usually $3999), Winning Appliances

Best for: design and scratch resistance

Winner of two 2024 Red Dot Awards, Product Design and Best of the Best, this cooktop’s innovative matte black scratch-resistant glass seamlessly combines elegance with innovation. For the home cook who’s serious about their food, it’s designed with flexibility and function in mind, with features including combined cooking zones and heat memory technology all packed into one sleek design.

Size: 80 x 52 cm

Colour: Matte black

Cooking zones: 5

Key features:

• Scratch-resistant SaphirMatt ceramic glass
• Combine cooking areas to create DoubleBridge cooking zones
• Hob2Hood rangehood technology
• Intuitive heat memory technology to remember your heat settings
• Anti-fingerprint matte finish
• Five-year warranty

SHOP NOW

02

Bosch Series 6 Accentline 60cm Flex induction cooktop

$2037 (usually $2749), Appliances Online

Best for: flexible cooking zones

The cooking surface offers four cooking zones with 17 power levels for precise heating, plus FlexInduction that allows you to combine two cooking zones into one. There’s also a PowerBoost function which gives you rapid boiling or heating, and a PerfectFry sensor.

PerfectFry, according to Jones, “continuously monitors the pan’s temperature to prevent scorching heat. It allows you to choose from four predefined temperature levels, for perfect results every time.”

Size: 60.6 x 52.7 cm

Colour: Glass black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• Increase or decrease the power level with straightforward touch controls
• Power Boost function provides 25 per cent faster heating
• A timer that automatically switches off your cooktop after a period of time
• Child lock
• Easy to clean, ceramic surface
• Two-year warranty

SHOP NOW

03

Westinghouse 60cm 4 burner zone induction cooktop

$1207 (usually $1299), Appliances Online

Best for: safety and convenience

This cooking surface offers four induction cooking zones, seamless touch controls and handy features, like PowerBoost that rapidly boils a pot of water or heats up a pan, so you can spend less time in the kitchen cooking and more time enjoying your meal. It has child lock capability and a handy BoilProtect function that detects rising bubbles and autmoatically reduces to a low simmer.

Size: 59 x 52 cm

Colour: Glass black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• BoilProtect detects rising bubbles and automatically reduces to a low simmer
• Compatible rangehoods work seamlessly to automatically turn on and intuitively adjust the fan speed and airflow to match your cooking.
• Pause mode to drop all zones to Keep Warm mode
• PowerBoost speedings up heating time
• Easy touch slider to control temperature
• Child lock
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $999 at Bing Lee
• $1099 at The Good Guys
• $1088 (usually $1299) at Winnings

shop now

04

DeLonghi 60cm 4 Zone black glass induction cooktop

$1136 (usually $1299), Appliances Online

Best for: safety and convenience

The Delonghi 4 Zone offers four large cooking zones, each with nine power levels and a booster function for rapid heat that can combine into larger zones for bigger pans. You’ll love the automatic easy start that detects the pan when it’s placed on the cooktop and powers on the front touch controls ready for use. Additionally, the Chef Cook function automatically adjusts temperatures when the pot is moved.

Size: 60 x 52 cm

Colour: Glass black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• Pause mode where the cooktop will recall the settings used previously if you need to step away
• The thermic shock resistant ceramic glass means the surrounding surface will stay room temp while cooking
• Child lock setting
• Nine power levels
• Residual heat indicators
• Booster and double booster
• Melting function
• Two-year warranty

SHOP NOW

05

Smeg 70cm induction cooktop

$1899, Bing Lee

Best for: safety and convenience

Navigate through the nine power levels from the touch screen, plus the boost function that provides an extra surge of heat to rapidly boil. Safety is a priority, with the timer function that allows you to set a switch-off timer for all zones and a residual heat indicator that shows when the zones are still hot.

Size: 70 x 51 cm

Colour: Glass black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• Winner of Smeg Canstar Blue, 2023 Most Satisfied Customers Award – Cooktops
• Residual heat indicator
• Timer function
• Child lock
• Overheat safety indicator
• Residual heat indicator

Also available at:

• $1925 (usually $2350) at Appliances Online

shop now

06

Miele four zone induction cooktop

$3999, The Good Guys

Best for: smart integration

The Miele Four Zone Induction Cooktop offers the best of intuitive cooking, with automatic communication between the range hood and cooktop, integration with Smartline elements and quick selection temperature controls.

Size: 62 x 51 cm

Colour: Glass Black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• Four cooking zones including four high-power PowerFlex cooking areas
• Intuitive quick selection via number sequences with Smart Select
• Automatic communication with compatible rangehoods through Con@ctivity
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $3999 at Winnings
• $3999 at Bing Lee

SHOP NOW

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07

NEFF 60cm induction cooktop with TwistPad control

$3199, Winning Appliances

Best for: innovative control design

The 60cm Induction Cooktop from NEFF features a FlexInduction feature which allows you to merge cooking zones to create a larger cooking area. Each cooking zone is powered by 17 power levels, controllable via the TwistPad® Fire — a removable, magnetic, illuminated control knob. It also features an automatic safety switch-off, residual heat indicators and a child safety lock for extra levels of safety.

Size: 49 x 56 cm

Colour: Deep black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• Black ceramic glass surface is stylish and easy to clean
• TwistPad® Fire is a convenient removable and magnetic control knob giving you precise control over all cooking zones
• FlexInduction lets you place your pots and pans anywhere you want
• 17 power levels and 11 predefined temperatures
• Four-year manufacturer warranty

SHOP NOW

08

ASKO 64cm induction cooktop

$1899, The Good Guys

Best for: flexible cooking zones

This sleek and stylish cooktop features four cooking zones that adjust across 12 heat settings with the easy-to-use dial. It offers features like the Asko hood integration via Asko Hob2Hood technology, and the auto pot detection, which recognises your cookware and automatically adjusts when moved.

Size: 64 x 52 cm

Colour: Glass black

Cooking zones: 4

Key features:

• Boost function provides an extra burst of heat for faster cooking
• Incredibly durable ceramic glass surface
• Three Celsius cooking programs
• Advanced temperature control from 40 to 230 degrees Celsius
• Two Auto Bridge zones for large pots and pans
• Lengthy five-year warranty

Also available at:

• $2879 (usually $3199) at Betta
• $2879 (usually $3199) at Appliances Online
• $2879 (usually $3199) at Designer Appliances

shop now

09

Fisher & Paykel 92cm Series 11 induction cooktop

$8999 (usually $9999), Bing Lee

If you require a larger-sized cooktop, look no further than this Fisher & Paykel Series 11 model — a large, seamless cooking surface that allows you to arrange up to six pots or pans of any size and shape, anywhere within the cooking zone. Power can be individually adjusted using intuitive touchscreen controls, and if a pot is moved, the display automatically updates.

Size: 92 x 53 cm

Colour: Glass black

Cooking zones: 1 (the entire surface)

Key features:

• PowerBoost and gentle heat functions
• Independent zone timers
• Large, high-resolution touchscreen offering an intuitive overview of cookware position, timers and heat settings
• Only starts heating your pot or pan once you’ve placed it on the surface
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $8999 at Winnings
• $9999 from The Good Guys

Shop now

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The post The best induction cooktops in Australia for effortless everyday cooking 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.

Does cast-iron cookware really last a lifetime?

A quality cast-iron pan can be passed down several generations if it’s looked after well. They’re durable and will even get better with age. Cast-iron cookware has been around for thousands of years, with a particularly long history in Asia. It was developed long before stoves became commonplace, and much cookware made from cast iron is still designed to withstand the heat of an open fire.

Cast-iron cookware is formed from molten steel and iron, resulting in one solid piece of cookware that is extremely durable. There’s no exterior layer that can come off over time – as is the case with Teflon and other non-stick materials – and cast iron will not warp over intense heat. This makes it great for cooking in the oven, over a campfire, on the stovetop, or whatever the next generation is into. And yes, cast iron can be used on an induction cooktop.

Is cast iron safe to use and non-toxic?

Non-stick cookware was the best new thing when it landed in our kitchens years ago, and we’ve seen many new fads come and go over the years. But rumours (and a whole lot of proof) of increased toxicity in some makes have made many of us much more wary about the brands we buy, and what our pans are made of. If heated to high temperatures over time – for example, via cooking – the uppermost layer of non-stick pans can release toxic fumes, which can permeate the food we eat.

Many cookware companies are guilty of greenwashing, and the likes of Thermolon (which is patented), Teflon, and materials such as silane, tetraethoxysilane, methyltrimethoxysilane, potassium titanate and aluminium oxide can cause health problems such as skin, eye and mucous irritation and lung damage. Many brands mislead customers by claiming their pans do not omit a certain toxin – claims of “PFOA-free” are commonplace – which implies other toxins are also not present. But this is usually not the case, as revealed in countless articles, including a recent feature in The Guardian.

When it’s not coated with any other material, cast iron is completely natural and free of toxins. Be careful with brands that coat the cast iron – as the likes of Le Creuset and Crumble do with enamel, safely – and check what material is being used in each case.

How to season a cast-iron pan

Once you’ve seasoned cast iron properly, it will be your BFF in the kitchen for years to come. It’s a bit of hard work upfront, but that’s a small price to pay for a reliable piece of cookware.

Cast iron seasoning is the process that occurs when multiple layers of oil bake into the pan, creating a strong and nonstick surface. Many new pans come with a factory seasoning on them, but if you’ve been handed down an heirloom or picked your pan up from a market or second-hand online, a new season will not do the pan any harm and will only enhance its usefulness.

There’s a lot of folklore around the ‘proper’ way to care for cast iron but the process is actually straightforward. And the best bit? You don’t need to do it very often – maybe every year or two, and less with time. You can re-season it if you spot a build-up of black residue on the pan, or if your steak is sticking to it again.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to seasoning a cast-iron pan:

• Place a tray or foil on the bottom rack of your oven to catch any oil drips.
• Heat the oven to 180-200 degrees Celsius.
• Rub the pan lightly with a neutral edible oil.
• Place the pan inside the oven and allow it to bake for at least one hour. Then, turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool in oven.
• Once cool, the pan can be safely stored away.
• You can repeat this process again to reach the desired level of seasoning.

How to wash a cast-iron pan

Those who are used to immaculate cookware without a blemish – think new teflon-coated pans, for example – might have a hard time getting their heads around this one. Cast iron doesn’t have to look perfect. It’s supposed to have a patina, a deep-coloured, almost textured appearance. A little oily residue is not a bad thing. You don’t want it to be so oily that it smokes when you heat it up, though. Hot water, a brush, and a little paper towel will get you to exactly the right point.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash a cast-iron pan:

• Wash the pan with very hot water and a stiff brush. You can add a little gentle soap, if you prefer, but hot water should get all the gnarly bits off.
• Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly.
• It is also important to dry the pan thoroughly after use. Pop it on the stovetop on a low heat after washing and drying, just to make sure it’s completely dry.
• Once the pan is cool enough to touch, apply a very thin, even coating of shortening or cooking oil (vegetable oil is best) to the inside and outside of the pan. Be careful not to apply too much oil, as this will result in a sticky finish. Give the pan a light rub down (on all sides) with paper towel to remove excess oil or balm.

Although enamelled cast iron is dishwasher safe, Kelvin Chan, the co-founder at Crumble, says hand washing with warm soapy water and a soft nylon scrub is recommended to preserve the cookware’s original appearance.

Citrus juices and citrus-based cleaners (including some dishwasher detergents) should not be used, as they can dull the exterior gloss on enamel-coated cast iron. And harsh detergents like this will eliminate all the hard work you’ve done seasoning the pan, so try to keep it away.

Bicarbonate soda is one well-known hack for getting rid of tough stains; simply sprinkle some onto your pots and pans and scrub gently with a nylon scrub, rinse thoroughly and voila, it’s ready for the next culinary masterpiece.

What makes a good cast-iron pan?

You know you’re onto a good thing with your cast iron cookware when it’s non-stick, when it’s not so heavy that you can lift it without a forklift – say by using one hand – and when you can pour from it easily using a handy spout that many have now.

Here’s what we look for in a cast-iron pan:

• No-mess pouring: When present, the pour spouts on our top picks allowed us to channel hot oil out of the skillets with little to no spillage. Not all pans have pour spouts, but we want them to pour well when they’re there.
• Our picks have handles that stay firmly in our grip, even when we use a kitchen towel for insulation.
• One of the best things about cast-iron pans is that they’re not horribly expensive, and the high price does not guarantee high performance.
• Solid seasoning. You can pick up an unseasoned pan and do it yourself, but there are now great pre-seasoned pans available as well.

The best cast-iron pans to shop in Australia

01

Lodge cast iron frypan 26cm

$129.95, David Jones

There’s a reason someone mentions Lodge every time the topic of cast iron comes up (which is often, right?). Lodge is a family-owned and run operation located in the hills of Tennessee that continues to produce a wide range of cast-iron cookware favoured by chefs everywhere. It’s not as heavy as some other brands, a bonus for wrists everywhere. It’s a perfect pan for cooking, and it looks great.

Shop Now

02

Ironclad The Lil’ Legacy (20cm)

$198.95, Ironclad Co

Made using recycled iron, this Australian-made pan from Ironclad Co is guaranteed to last three generations. Ironclad Co’s Legacy pan is a slightly larger version of this one, and its uses are more versatile for a family. But we love this little version for being a little lighter in the hand, and for being amazing at turning around breakfast, a steak or two, or dinner for one or two without a fuss (and with very little washing up). This cast-iron brand is one of the best on our list, and we vouch for it seasoning well over time, and being easy to clean and look after. Plus it comes with a little seasoning balm that is chemical-free. When you order online, choose whether you want your pan seasoned or whether you want to do that yourself.

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03

Le Creuset Signature Shallow Casserole (30cm) in Blue

$710, Myer

Le Creuset is one of the leaders in the cast iron market, and making heirloom pieces to be passed from generation to generation is their game. If they didn’t keep releasing all the gorgeous new enamel colours each year, there would be no reason to keep collecting them. This shallow casserole pan is one of the most versatile cast-iron pans you can have in a kitchen. It gets an even heat on induction, gas or in the oven, and is great for a couple of steaks or a stew. Grill your vegetables on it and then make a braised flat chicken, cooked in a little white wine, garlic and extra virgin olive oil, olives and cherry tomatoes. This is a brilliant all-rounder.

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04

Classic Round Skillet 26cm

$150 (usually $299), Crumble

We are crushing on the entire Crumble range – especially the Dutch ovens – but it’s hard to go past this cherry red pan. The cast-iron pan is coated on the back with three coats of premium non-toxic enamel. It’s classic, beautiful and functional. The enamel makes the pan easier to clean, and the cherry red colour is worth showing off in your kitchen.

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05

Le Creuset Signature 20cm skillet in Azure Blue

$280, Kitchen Warehouse

Le Creuset took the cast-iron pan and wrapped it in bright enamel on one side and black enamel on the other. This means their cast-iron pans do not season in the same way a pure cast-iron pan will, but nor will it generally stick when the seasoning is accidentally scrubbed off or – shock – put in the dishwasher. Read: These pans are very forgiving, for now. They won’t last quite as long as a true cast-iron pan, but that’s fine if you don’t need to buy your own heirloom to hand down. This lovely little 20cm pan is great for omelettes, or say a steak for one. And it comes in a range of colours, but we love the bright azure blue or cherry-red cerise.

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06

Victoria seasoned cast iron skillet 30cm

$89.95 (usually $139.95), Kitchen Warehouse

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider picking up this seasoned cast-iron skillet from Colombian cookware brand Victoria. As well as being pre-seasoned with organic flaxseed oil, this solid all-rounder features convenient dual curved spouts for easy, drip-free pouring as well as an elongated handle for comfortable use.

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07

Staub round grill pan 26cm in Cherry Red

$199.98 (usually $399.95), Myer

Staub is another reliable brand doing enamel-coated cast-iron pans in a vast array of colours. And yes, there’s cherry red. This grill pan is ideal for searing something on the stovetop and creating authentic grill marks. These lines on our food are a bit of gimmick – after all, more searing equals more flavour, and this actually reduces the searing – but it sure looks impressive.

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08

Lodge cast iron square grill pan 27cm

$144.95, David Jones

It comes in square! Shape doesn’t matter, but it sure does go some way to adding something new to your kitchen routine. This pre-seasoned pan is another great all-rounder to take camping or try out on the outdoor barbecue if you’re nervous about putting something more expensive literally into the fire. This pan is s great first entry into the cast-iron world. It distributes heat beautifully and gets results.

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Is a cast-iron skillet the same as a cast-iron pan?

Most of the time, yes. ‘Cast-iron skillet’ is used interchangeably with ‘cast-iron pan’; however, we tend towards the latter in Australia, with the former being more widely used in America. Feature-wise, both sport flared sides, flat bottoms, shallow depths, and no lids.

The post Ready to go non-toxic? Here are the best cast-iron pans to invest in appeared first on Homes To Love.

While white kitchens are certainly a safe and timeless option, injecting colour into your design helps to give a space character and can anchor a space, particularly in an open-plan layout.

From an emerald backsplash to olive cabinetry and even green-coloured marble bench tops, these envy-inducing kitchens employ shades of green to stunning effect.

22 gorgeous green kitchen designs

Green Explosion granite

When it came to renovating this townhouse in Sydney’s east, the owner – a well-travelled, retired lawyer – was inspired by vegetables. Aubergines and olives to be exact. “We often joked about it because I would present her with colours and she would say ‘no, that’s purple’ or ‘no, that’s green’. We went through many iterations of the colour palette,” says Shona McElroy, principal of Smac Studio.

Olive green cabinetry with green marble benchtop

“I knew I wanted a beautiful green kitchen,” says Bonnie (from homewares brand, Bonnie and Neil) of her recent home renovation. “I find green such a relaxing colour to live with. When you are surrounded by a lot of pattern and colour, you also need a relaxing space.”

Shaker-style olive green cabinets

While certainly on the smaller side, interior designer Marco Meneguzzi’s green kitchen shows that you needn’t shy from colour even in more compact spaces.

Kitchen joinery painted in Porter’s Paints ‘Timberline’

Following a renovation featuring his signature flair, designer David Flack recently sold his characterful worker’s cottage in Richmond, Melbourne. Paired with a statement veined Calacatta Viola marble, the green kitchen joinery acts as a calming and neutral base without being boring.

Dry Sage Matt cabinets from Freedom Kitchens

Dylan and Jenny’s kitchen from The Block 2022 featured a modern country design and a soft colour palette of sage green, white and brass accents. “We chose this cabinetry because the Dry Sage colour connects to the beautiful landscape outside,” says Jenny.

Eucalypt green cabinetry

At Neale Whitaker’s glamorous country guesthouse, shades of green – eucalypt in the kitchen and a rich forest green in the bedroom and bathroom – draw the landscape inside, while punches of matt black in the hardware, lighting and ceiling fans speak to the home’s facade.

Esmeralda quartzite kitchen island

Centrestage in the kitchen of this stylish semi in Dover Heights is a cantilevered Esmeralda quartzite kitchen island, which carries the same tones as the powder room downstairs. “It’s got depth and character, but it’s also quite airy. Kind of ethereal,” says interior architect and Smac Studio principal Shona McElroy of the jewel-like stone that took months to source.

Joinery in Dulux Currency Creek

Embracing of soft greens, tans and warm greys, the materials palette of this modern farmhouse was driven by the colours and textures of the area. “It was great to see that [the owners] were keen to explore natural materials, in colours of the landscape and with nothing engineered,” says Russell Casper of Casper Architecture & Design (CAD).

Green cabinetry with stainless steel benchtop

The owner of one of Sydney’s oldest homes, which is only accessible by water, chose the eucalyptus tone in the kitchen to evoke the feeling of being under the forest canopy.

Shiplap cabinetry in Dulux Tarzan Green

This serene designer beach house takes colour cues from its bush surroundings. The old cupboards were replaced with shiplap cabinetry in Dulux Tarzan Green for a fresh look.

Green handmade Moroccan tile splashback

“Balance was the keyword,” says interior designer Selena Mohr from Your Beautiful Home. “Amanda’s love of white was pushed an extra step to include handmade Moroccan zellige tiles in green.” The splashback in this 1950s beach house is from Tiles by Kate.

Cabinetry painted in Dulux ‘Dinosaur’

“My favourite room is the kitchen,” says Dani Dean of her newly renovated family home. “From day dot we knew it was going to be green, I wasn’t going to budge on that. But we had to try a lot of greens to find the right one. I really love this colour.” She chose Dulux ‘Dinosaur’ in a matte finish for all the cabinetry.

Green VJ Groove cabinetry with leather pulls

Perched on a sloping block in Victoria’s Sandy Point, this cosy holiday house embraces its natural surrounds with an organic material and colour palette. The internal weatherboard cladding was given a coat of green paint with the vertical grooves creating a dynamic contrast to the timber batten ceiling.

Fenix laminate cabinetry in Verde Comodoro

The kitchen of this Bondi apartment features soothing neutrals and generous swathes of leafy greens. The original pitch was for blood red, “but we knew that the strength of the green with the lightness of the rattan was right for Beverley, our client,” says designer Brooke Aitken, who opted for Fenix laminate in Verde Comodoro instead.

Emerald green handmade tile splashback

“I’ve known [interior designer] Angela Antelme for more than 20 years and always admired her style,” says the owner of this classic Queenslander home. Together, the friends devised a whole-house scheme based on their shared favourite colour, emerald green.

Deep green cabinetry in Resene ‘Celtic’.

Echoing the greens of the exterior landscape, the kitchen in this contemporary and urban home glows in a rich, dark combination of Corsi & Nicolai Verde Rameggiato marble on the island bench and glossy joinery finished in Resene ‘Celtic’.

Matt green cabinetry in Deep Bottlebrush by Dulux

The interior palette and material selection in the kitchen of this contemporary holiday hideaway at Byron Bay’s Wategos Beach was based on the bushland surrounding the property.

Forest green cabinetry

The striking forest green kitchen in this penthouse apartment is slotted into the south-facing corner, while a cut-out diagonally opposite brings light and garden views inside. A green palette was used to link it with the outdoors.

Dark green subway tile splashback

Deep green splashback subway tiles create visual interest in this weatherboard home’s country kitchen in the Mornington Peninsula.

Sage green cabinets painted in Dulux ‘Spiralina’

Sage green cabinets painted in Dulux ‘Spiralina’ and white-painted brick walls create a fresh yet welcoming feel in this family home’s kitchen.

Eucalyptus grey cabintery

Inside this historic California bungalow with a contemporary flair, the owner’s green thumb is evident with thriving plants really bringing the house to life, while the colour palette of eucalyptus greys and greens references nature.

Dark green cabinetry with aged brass handles

This pint-sized kitchen in a home in Melbourne’s Fitzroy proves that even the smallest of spaces can have the biggest impact.

The post 22 green kitchens that are guaranteed to induce envy appeared first on Homes To Love.

21 colourful kitchen designs to inspire

Retro appeal

A rich colour palette features throughout this architecturally designed Sydney home, including in the kitchen where cabinets painted in Murobond Tanguy imbue the space with retro appeal.

Gelato colours

Following a joyful renovation, this Victorian semi in Sydney is now splashed with sweet gelato-like shades, including Dulux Fennelly on the kitchen cupboards and Porter’s Paints’ Jardan Peach Light on the walls. A selection of colourful pottery displayed on floating shelves ties the space together.

Baby blue

Designed by Jase Sullivan Design, this playful pale blue kitchen artfully balances elegance with whimsy in the form of sculptural bar stools, handcrafted tiles and sleek stone benchtops.

Butter yellow

Colour and pattern are stylishly celebrated in the eclectic English country-style home of iconic designer Anna Spiro. In the kitchen, cabinets are painted in Dulux ‘Old Yella’ which complements a statement island bench in Dulux ‘Jewel’.

Icing pink

In the colourful Sydney home of artist Carla Ruffino and her family, a bold pink kitchen painted in Dulux Light Lily brings plenty of fun. On the topic of colour confidence, Carla says: “Start looking for colours you might find around your house already – artwork, clothes, bedding – things you are drawn to and respond to naturally.”

Emerald green

Elegant emerald marble, dark green cabinetry and a mirrored splashback adorns the luxurious kitchen in the inspirational design studio of Sarah Davison in Potts Point.

Vivacious and vibrant

The fun Florida home of designer Jonathan Adler doesn’t shy away from colour or quirky styling. Bold blue packs a punch in the kitchen, while striking, colourful pendant lights tie in with the candy-coloured decor and art featured throughout.

Checkerboard

Located within an Art Deco building, this renovated South Yarra apartment embraces its original charm, including its wonderful checkerboard tiles and glass brick windows. Cabinetry painted in Dulux Know How adds some warmth into the space.

Harbourside hues

The rich blue kitchen cabinetry by Nadin West Joinery reaches up to the ceiling and was finished in Porter’s Paints ‘Mariner’ with brass hardware from Mother of Pearl & Sons in this elegant harbourside apartment with Mediterranean-inspired interiors.

Country chic

Steeped in history, this 18th-century estate on the French-Swiss border embraces a bright palette and chic country styling. In the kitchen, green cabinetry, colourful bistro-style chairs and bold botanical prints make the space feel both elegant and cosy.

Bold red bar stools

Marble doesn’t have to be white. This sophisticated, black kitchen with dark marble and red stools for a pop of unexpected colour perfectly suits this modern lake house on the Mornington Peninsula.

Pale pink and deep blue

A carefully chosen colour palette of pale pink, orange and deep blue are splashed throughout this charming kitchen in an eclectic apartment in Frederiksberg, Denmark. The kitchen offers a wealth of colour, with black cabinetry and a low-hanging lamp to create contrast.

Mediterranean style

The kitchen is undoubtedly the most important room in TV chef Silvia Colloca’s Northern Beaches home. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean, the space features stunning blue Jules Gele tiles from Di Lorenzo, stone benchtops and a standout yellow Portofino oven by Smeg, which is one of Silvia’s favourite parts of the kitchen.

Sage green

Sage green cabinetry painted in Dulux ‘Spiralina’ and grey marble complement each other perfectly in this light-filled 1970s family home that opens out to an outdoor entertaining area.

Sky blue

If you don’t want a white kitchen but lean towards minimal styling, consider a soft blue palette, like the timeless blue kitchen in this refreshed Edwardian house.

’60s coastal style

Within a colour-washed 1960s beach shack, a charming timber servery frames the renovated blue kitchen which is fitted with marine-ply cabinetry, blue finger tiles and vintage crockery.

Colourful farmhouse

Illuminated by a skylight, this bright kitchen within a ’50s farmhouse has been colourfully renovated with Porter’s Paints Jodhpur Blue. Colourful crockery and a bright still life inject even more colour into the space.

Rustic palette

A small, sustainable home in Perth creates a sunny atmosphere with pops of yellow and green in their casual kitchen, pared back with reclaimed bricks painted white and rustic wooden joinery.

Blushing

A vibrant renovation has boldly modernised this 1920s Queenslander in Brisbane, injecting colour and curves in all the right places. Taubmans’ pretty pink Golden Hour features in the kitchen.

Nautical navy

Inspired by Canadian lakehouses, this charming Mornington Peninsula home embraces a bold and comforting palette of navy, timber and gold. In the butler’s pantry, the cabinetry has been splashed with Porter’s Paints Squid Ink and topped with stunning Mystic Blue stone.

Colour-drenched sage

Colour-drenching has been used to maximum effect in the kitchen of this renovated Victorian workers’ cottage. Painted in Dulux Dollar, the space is a sleek sage dream.

The post 21 colourful kitchens that’ll have you reaching for a paint brush appeared first on Homes To Love.

Quick and easy ways to embrace trending kitchen designs

So how is it possible to embrace a trend judiciously? “Evaluating how easily a trend can be adapted in the future will ensure your home remains a reflection of your evolving tastes.

“Assess whether a trend genuinely resonates with your personal style, consider its potential longevity and whether it adds value to your space,” advises Giorgia. “By carefully integrating trends into an otherwise timeless design, you can create a kitchen that feels both current and enduring.”

Embrace bold colours and textures

Whether you use colour liberally or prefer to add just a splash, the beauty of this trend is that it can be applied to your personal taste.

Choose a colour or material that complements the design of your home and the atmosphere you want to create. And for added longevity, if you opt for brightly coloured joinery, select a neutral splashback or white walls to balance the design.

We love the use of colour in this Byron Bay villa, which pays homage to nature with gorgeous greens and natural timber accents.

Inject warmth with timber accents

Mid-toned walnut and timber accents, commonly seen in mid-century and retro-style homes, are perennially popular. While light Scandinavian oak had its moment a few years ago, mid-toned wood (like walnut) has proven to be enduring.

Whether you prefer minimal timber accents or fully integrated cabinetry, like in this 1870s era heirloom terrace, wooden joinery is trend we guarantee you’ll love now, and for years to come.

Integrate ambient lighting for added cosiness

Kitchen designs need not be sterile and flat; you can add dimension to the darkest of kitchens with the right ambient lighting. From statement pendant lights to under-cabinet strip lighting; dark corners can be brightened and once-dark kitchens can be transformed into warm and welcoming destinations.

This modernist duplex embodies this trend, with feature lighting to make each zone stand out.

Don’t forget your soft furnishings

The plushness of soft furnishings adds warmth without even the suggestion of a renovation. Whether you prefer to add personality through colour or texture, swapping out your cushion covers or adding a rug will completely transform any space.

Easy kitchen updates

• If you’re happy with the layout of your kitchen, consider refreshing the space with an interesting splashback or joinery in a modern colour.

• Take time to consider your future needs to ensure your kitchen design is practical, then the design details can easily be updated as trends change.

• Align your materials and appliances wish list with your budget, usage requirements and personal style for a harmonious outcome that will last.

The post How to embrace the latest kitchen design trends without a full renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

Lucky for you (and us), having sparkling water readily available – sans the painful grocery trip – is actually quite easy to achieve.

Enter: a sparkling water maker.

Bringing that restaurant vibe to your own home and providing unlimited, effervescent sparkling water whenever you want it, these sparkling water makers available in Australia will revolutionise your at-home hydration. We’re not exaggerating when we say this might be the best kitchen purchase you’ll make this year…

To help you choose the best product for you, we’ve pulled together the best sparkling water makers available in Australia — so you can stay bubbly all day long.

The best sparkling water makers to shop in Australia

01

Soda maker

$199, The Good Guys

Smeg is a brand that’s known for their sleek designs, and their gorgeous new soda maker is no exception. Available in Black and White colourways, this product has a unique, twist-front knob to inject the CO₂, which allows you to customise your drink to your preferred frizz.

Key features:

• Made with 50% recycled content
• 800ml capacity
• Dishwasher safe bottle

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02

Aarke carbonator 3

$299, Hardtofind

If you’re an enjoyer of the finer things in life, this carbonator by Aarke will be right up your alley. With a slightly higher price tag than its competitors, the Aarke soda water maker is incredibly sleek and is made for serious sparkling water drinkers. Working as good as it looks, this compact unit will make making your favourite beverages a dream.

Key features:

• Seamless stainless-steel enclosure
• Stainless steel CNC-machined precision nozzle for a smooth and controlled spray beam
• Carbonates up to 60L of water per cylinder

Shop now

03

SodaStream Duo sparkling water machine

$269.95, Amazon

The SodaStream Duo sparkling water machine comes equipped with a dishwasher-safe glass carafe and a plastic bottle – so you can have sparkling water on the go or enjoy it in the comfort of your own home.

Key features:

• 1x glass carafe and 1x plastic bottle included
• Crafted from stainless steel and high quality materials
• Quick connect CO2 cylinder for fast ‘one-click’ insertion
• Makes up to 60L of sparkling water

Also available at:

• $244.99 (usually $299), MyHouse

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04

Breville Infizz fusion in stainless steel

$249, Bing Lee

The InFizz Fusion marks Breville’s first-ever step into the world of sparkling beverages, and they’ve done it incredibly well. The FusionCap pressure control system allows you to carbonate flavoured beverages without the risk of overflow or having to add sparkling water to existing mixes, meaning you can add sparkle to everything from juice to sangria.

Key features:

• The FusionCap gives you control over the release of CO2
• Easy twist and lock system with ergonomic ring pull feature
• Stainless steel body

Also available at:

• $279 from The Good Guys
• $289 from Appliances Online
• $279 from Betta Home Living

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05

Mysoda Woody sparkling water maker machine

$79.99 (usually $99.95), Amazon

Add a pop of colour to your kitchen benchtop with this mint green sparkling water maker by MYSODA. Including a one-litre reusable bottle, a quick-lock bottle mechanism, and silent carbonation, this soda water maker will help you make your favourite recipes with ease.

Key features:

• Quick lock bottle mechanism
• Reusable 1L or 0.5L bottle included

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06

DrinkMate sparkling water and soda maker

$139.99, Amazon

Simple and easy to use, the DrinkMate sparkling water maker is highly rated amongst sparkling water enthusiasts – scoring an average of 4.5 stars out of 2000 reviews on Amazon. Available in blue, red and white colourways too to suit your kitchen design and aesthetic.

Key features:

• 1L BPA-free carbonating Quick Connect bottle
• Simple push button to operate

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07

Phillips GoZero soda maker in mint green

$139, Appliances Online

Upgrade your beverage game with the Philips GoZero soda maker. With just three simple steps – fill, twist and press – you’ll have your favourite bubbly beverages in seconds. Plus, as this unit doesn’t need a power supply to operate, you can place it anywhere in your kitchen without a fuss.

Key features:

• Built-in safety relief valve
• Dishwasher-safe carbonating bottle
• Stainless steel carbonating bottle

Also available at:

• $156.26, Amazon
• $89 (usually $109), Myer

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08

SodaStream Terra sparkling water maker machine

$118.95 , Amazon

Designed for the modern kitchen, the SodaStream Terra sparkling water maker features the brand’s Quick Connect technology that allows for fast and easy CO2 cylinder insertion. Its compact and sleek design allows it to fit seamlessly into your existing kitchen design.

Key features:

• Quick connect technology for easy use
• Compact and sleek design
• 1L reusable BPA-Free water bottle

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What does a sparkling water maker do?

A sparkling water maker, also known as a soda maker or carbonation machine, is a kitchen appliance that is used to carbonate water, turning it into sparkling or fizzy water. The process involves adding carbon dioxide (CO2) gas to water under pressure, which dissolves into the water and creates the characteristic bubbles or effervescence that you find in carbonated beverages like soda or sparkling water.

Most sparkling water or soda water makers allow you to control the level of carbonation in your water. So, if you prefer a lightly sparkling beverage, you can carbonate it for a shorter amount of time to achieve this. Further, some models also allow you to add flavouring or fruit extracts so you can make your own customised recipe, with ease.

Is making sparkling water cheaper than buying it?

Depending how often you drink sparkling water, making it can be much cheaper than buying it. If you drink a litre of sparkling water daily, you’d recoup the cost of an average sparkling water maker in around six months, making it an extremely cost effective option for regular soda water drinkers. There is an ongoing cost to purchase the re-fill cannisters for your sparkling water maker, but these last a long time and work out cheaper than buying sparkling water.

If you only drink sparkling water on rare occasions, however, you probably won’t save money an at-home sparkling water maker.

The post Stay bubbly with the best sparkling water makers on the market appeared first on Homes To Love.

What are the pros and cons of freestanding ovens?

Unlike built-in wall ovens which stay fixed in one spot, a freestanding oven offers flexibility — you can place it anywhere in your kitchen. It’s also more affordable and easier to install since it doesn’t require custom cabinetry. Plus, if you move, you can take it with you, saving money in the long run.

Freestanding ovens also have some drawbacks. They may not blend seamlessly with cabinetry and can leave gaps that trap crumbs and spills. They can also limit kitchen layout flexibility, especially if you go with a model that includes an integrated cooktop.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a flexible and cost-effective oven that is able to move with you, a freestanding oven is the way to go.

The best freestanding ovens 2024

01

Smeg 90cm Victoria 6 Burner Dual Fuel Cooker in cream

$8990, Smeg

Best for: Country and farmhouse-style kitchens

Smeg offers a wide range of freestanding cookers, with the Victoria collection standing out for its blend of classic style and modern technology.
Available in various sizes and fuel options, including gas, electric, and dual fuel, the Victoria range combines versatility, high performance, and elegant design for every kitchen

Colours: Panna, Black

Key features:

• Induction cooktop for fast, precise temperature control
• High energy efficiency
• True-convection cooking

Also available at:

• Appliances Online

Shop Now

02

Westinghouse 90cm Dual Fuel freestanding cooker

$2799, The Good Guys

Best for: Foodie families

This freestanding dual-fuel oven by Westinghouse is perfect for big families. With a generous five-burner gas cooktop and a large 125L capacity oven that also includes an air frying option, making your favourite recipes for mid-week dinners and extravagent Sunday lunches is easier than ever.

Colour: Stainless steel

Key features:

• 125L capacity
• Flame failure safety device
• Twin fan system
• Airfrying functionality
• Electric oven
• Gas cooktop

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03

Fisher & Paykel 90cm freestanding dual fuel cooker

$4999, Appliances Online

Best for: Hard-core home cooks

In a sleek black finish, this Fisher & Paykel freestanding cooker boasts a large 121-litre capacity oven with six different shelf positions for an array of different recipes. The oven also has nine different functions including classic bake, pastry bake, roast and fan forced. Plus, with its AeroTech technology that circulates throughout the oven evenly, every tray will come out looking perfect, every single time.

Colour: Black

Key features:

• Gas cooktop
• Convection oven
• 140L total capacity
• Non-tip full extension oven shelves for ease of use
• AeroTech for multi-shelf cooking

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04

Smeg 60cm Freestanding Cooker Stainless Steel

$2081, The Good Guys

Best for: Maximum safety

If added safety features are high on your list of non-negotiables when it comes to purchasing your next freestanding oven, you’ll be pleased to know that this freestanding cooker from Smeg features a door oven cooling system that keeps hot air inside while the surface remains cool to the touch. At 60cm wide, this compact oven is also great for small kitchens, helping you save precious inches of bench space.

Colour: Stainless Steel

Key features:

• Cast-iron trivets for even heat distribution
• Cool-touch oven door
• Removable internal glass
• Steam-assisted cleaning

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How long do freestanding ovens last?

If you purchase a good quality freestanding oven, you can expect it to last for between 10 and 15 years with regular cleaning and maintenance.

The post Consider these versatile freestanding ovens for your next kitchen renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

Your tablescape concept with the linen napkins and striking centrepiece is coming along nicely. You’ve already picked out wines that’ll complement the dishes you’ll make. Everything is going according to plan.

Only, upon pulling out your pots and pans while starting the prep for your set menu, you realise your cookware is looking a bit worse for wear and your skillet is missing (you could’ve sworn you lent it to the next-door neighbour but they maintain they gave it back last month…).

Nonetheless, you decide it’s time for a cookware upgrade – as every home chef needs a reliable arsenal of pots and pans.

Luckily, the PayPal Click Frenzy sale is serving up serious savings, including cookware sets from Baccarat at House. Running from the evening of March 4 to March 10, now is the time to invest in a new (and indisputably improved) cookware set for your home.

To help you out, we’ve researched and have rounded up some of the best cookware sets currently available, with design and functionality in mind, that’ll help you level up your dinner party game.

The best cookware sets to buy in Australia 2025

01

Baccarat Rock non-stick cookware set (4-piece)

$179.99 (usually $699.99), House

This cookware set from Baccarat features a reinforced three-layer, non-stick surface for superior durability and great food release – scrapping the need to use additional oils or fats. It’s also dishwasher and oven-safe, this set is as practical as it is sleek.

Materials: Aluminium and stainless steel.

Key features:

• Multi-layer surface is toughened and reinforced with a 3-layer nonstick coating
• Fully bonded induction plate for quick and even heat distribution
• High walls
• Riveted cast stainless steel handles stay cool
• Tempered glass lids
• Dishwasher safe

SHOP NOW

02

GreenPan Chathan cookware set (10-piece)

$370.97, Amazon

If you’re looking for an everyday, go-to collection, this GreenPan set is for you. With a healthy ceramic nonstick coating reinforced with diamonds, you can simmer, braise, sear, and fry with ease. Plus, it’s also oven and broiler safe and dishwasher safe so cleaning up and maintenance is a non-issue.

Sizes: Available in various set combinations.

Materials: Thermolon healthy ceramic non-stick coating, diamond-reinforced coating, hard-anodised bodies, stainless steel handles.

Key features:

• Cookware set includes 1qt and 2qt saucepans with lids, 5qt casserole with lid, 8″ and 9″ frypans, and a 3qt skillet with lid
• Features GreenPan’s Thermolon healthy ceramic non-stick coating that is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
• Metal utensil safe
• Coating is reinforced with diamond
• Oven, broiler, and dishwasher safe
• Stainless steel handles

Also available at:

sHOP NOW

03

Meyer Bauhaus cooking set (6-piece)

$139.95, (usually $499.95), Cookware Brands

Good-quality cookware can make all the difference when it comes to refining your technique and creating delicious food at home. This non-stick induction set includes two saucepans, one stockpot, a frypan, a casserole pot and a stir-fry pan, so you can cook any dish you please with ease. Additionally, the non-toxic, PFOA-free, nonstick coating makes clean-up a breeze.

Materials: Coated aluminium.

Key features:

• Set includes 1x 16cm covered saucepan, 1x 18cm covered saucepan, 1x 20cm covered saucepot, 1x 24cm covered dutch oven, 1x 24cm open skillet, and 1x 30cm open stirfry
• Dishwasher and oven-safe
• Compatible with all cooktops, including induction
• Nonstick rivets and rims

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04

Joseph Joseph Space non-stick cookware set in blue (7-piece)

$649.95 (usually $1299.95), David Jones

Joseph Joseph is known for creating innovative, space-saving storage solutions for the home. The brand’s latest addition is the Space cookware range, which features a unique SwingLock handle that can fold in to save up to 50 per cent more space than standard pans.

Sizes: Available in various set combinations.

Materials: Aluminium bodies, stainless steel handles, non-toxic and non-stick ceramic coating, tempered glass lids.

Key features:

• SwingLock stainless steel handles
• Professional quality heavy gauge aluminium bodies
• Oven safe
• Non-toxic and non-stick ceramic coating
• Suitable for all hobs (including induction)
• Set includes: 1x 15cm saucepan with lid, 1x 9cm saucepan with lid, 1x 20cm frying pan, 1x 24cm frying pan, 1x 28cm saute pan with lid, 1x 28cm shallow casserole with lid, 3x felt pan protectors

shop now

05

Our Place cookware set in Lavender (4-piece)

$650 (usually $945), Our Place

Featuring full and mini-size ceramic pans and non-stick pots, this lovely cookware set from Our Place is the perfect way to add some whimsy to your every day cooking. Available in five additional colours, these pans feature a toxin-free, nonstick ceramic coating that is free from PFAS (including PTFEs and PFOAs), lead and cadmium. Plus, these pans come with a unique beechwood spoon that is designed to nest in two different ways along the handle for a seamless experience.

Sizes: Available in various set combinations.

Colours: Available also in Spice, Blue Salt, Steam, Sage, and Char.

Materials: Aluminium body, nonstick and non-toxic ceramic coating.

Key features:

• Set includes 1x Always Pan 2.0, 1x Mini Always Pan 2.0, 1x Perfect Pot, and 1x Mini Perfect Pot 2.0
• Each pan comes with a beechwood spoon or spatula
• Compatible with all cooktops, including induction

shop now

06

Calphalon Select space-saving non-stick cookware set (9-piece)

$647.31, Amazon

If you lack storage, this nine-piece nonstick cookware set is stackable and space-saving. Made with hard anodised aluminium, it is durable and gas, electric, glass-top, and oven-safe. It also features a dual-layer nonstick interior for easy cooking.

Materials: Hard-anodised aluminium exterior, silicone grip handles.

Key features:

• Dishwasher safe
• Silicone grip handles
• Oven safe
• Space-saving design

shop now

07

Stanley Rogers French oven frill duo in Onyx

$188.50, Big W

This French oven grill duo by Stanley Rogers has received a prestigious Good Design Award accolade in recognition of its outstanding design and innovation. The French oven grill duo integrates a grill pan, roaster and bread cloche all into one – designed for cooks who want to achieve multiple cooking techniques without cluttering storage space. Available also in Midnight Blue and Bordeaux colourways, you’ll find a duo that will look right at home in your kitchen.

Colours: Available also in Midnight Blue and Bordeaux

Materials: Cast iron

Key features:

• Dual-purpose grill pan lid
• Crafted from cast iron
• Compatible with all cooktops including induction
• Oven safe

shop now

08

Le Creuset stainless steel cookware set (3-piece)

$820, David Jones

A classic choice of cookware, Le Creuset’s three-ply stainless steel saucepans take the mess out of serving up a cleverly constructed meal. Featuring an all-around pouring rim that allows you to pour from any angle without drip, capacity markings etched into the pans’ walls, and concave bases for peak performances on induction cooktops, entertaining is no mean feat.

Materials: Stainless steel.

Key features:

• Capacity markings on inside wall of pan
• Special concave base for best induction cooktop performance
• Suitable for all cooktops and ovens
• Dishwasher safe
• ‘Stay Cool’ hollow cast stainless steel handle

SHOP NOW

09

Smith & Nobel Luminous copper base stainless steel cookware set (5-piece)

$139.99 (usually $349.99), Harris Scarfe

Add a hint of rustic charm to your stovetop with this copper-based stainless steel set from Smith & Nobel. Combining the durability of stainless steel with the even heat distribution and conductivity of copper, this set of three saucepans, a casserole pot and a steamer will make dinnertime something to look forward to. Note: not suitable for induction stovetops.

Materials: Stainless steel.

Key features:

• Set includes 1x 14cm saucepan with lid, 1x 26cm saucepan with lid, 1x 18cm saucepan with life, 1x 18cm steamer insert, 1x 24cm casserole with lid
• Copper base for even heat distribution
• Crafted from high-quality stainless steel
• Glass lids
• Not suitable for induction stovetops

SHOP NOW

What type of cookware is best for everyday use?

If you’re looking for a cookware set that will be used frequently, stainless steel is generally known as the best cookware for everyday use. This is because stainless steel does not react with acidic or alkaline foods. Plus, it is also scratch and dent-resistant, so you can deep clean your pans without a worry (and use metal utensils – if that is your preference). Aluminium is also a popular material for cookware because of its lightweight nature. So, if you’re buying larger pots and pans – like a rondeau pot – opting for a nonstick-coated aluminium option is a great choice, too.

The post Score a Baccarat cookware set for 74% off and more in the PayPal Click Frenzy sale appeared first on Homes To Love.

Designed by interior designer Adele Bates as an experiential and interactive space, the showroom is zoned into two distinct spaces. Visitors are welcomed into the open-plan display area, where the extensive range of Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances can be viewed in all their glory.

Timber-veneer joinery, stone benchtops and sleek light fixtures reflect the brand’s core values of precision, innovation and exceptional design, while the exposed ceilings and brick walls speak to its heritage.

Walls of sleek integrated fridges and benchtops of glossy cooktops allow customers an easy side-by-side comparison of various models and features. Elsewhere, bold kitchen installations show the design possibilities, a touchable example of how the appliances might look and feel at home.

“The layout encourages visitors to explore and engage with the product at their own pace with a sense of ease,” says Andrew.

At the rear, a set of fluted glass doors open to the demonstration kitchen and dining space, where cooking classes and events take place. Brushed brass, dark timber and mirrored surfaces mark a distinctive shift from the bright showroom, lending a sophisticated edge to the area.

Together, the two spaces provide an ideal place for “education, experimentation and in-depth consultation”, says Andrew, “so homeowners and architecture and design professionals can walk away with a complete understanding of the unique design possibilities of Sub-Zero and Wolf, and how the range can complement and indeed enhance their kitchens, homes and lifestyles.”

Sub-Zero & Wolf: au.subzero-wolf.com

The Showroom

The post The Surry Hills showroom showcasing a new era of kitchen appliances appeared first on Homes To Love.

But it also has to look decent, as it is the home’s beating heart. The kitchen benchtop is one of your home’s hardest-working elements, and greasy hands and red-wine stains (speaking from experience) will put the hardiest benchtop through its paces. With such an overwhelming selection, it can be hard to make a choice that suits your individual needs.

From budget constraints to visual impact, there’s a whole lot of different elements to consider when choosing the right kitchen benchtop for the heart of your home, especially if you’re undertaking a substantial kitchen renovation.

Need some help figuring out what’s what? Read on for the ultimate kitchen benchtop guide.

The best kitchen benchtop materials

While its easy to be swept up in the romance of choosing the most expensive slab in the shop, its important to know about the latest developments on the market – some of the newer kids on the block can even outshine the classics.

From tried and true to new and innovative, here are the pros and cons of the most popular kitchen benchtop materials

Natural stone

Nothing beats real stone for looks – its natural undulations in tone and texture and the way a monolithic slab can command a space and own a zone.

Granite has an elegant look and features most often at the highest end of the kitchen budget spectrum. Granite is as tough as nails and comes in more traditional tones It’s extremely durable and will be a outlive the rest of the family. It also comes in beautiful colours. However, granite comes in slabs so it’s important to know that you’ll have joins in your bench. It is also porous so it will need to be sealed for effective stain resistance which will have to be repeated every so often.

Other natural stone options include limestone, which is a softer stone and full of colour, texture and tone, giving it a modern, sleek look, and marble (a hardened form of limestone) that owns the luxe end of town and is always sought after.

However, marble lacks the durability of granite and has a tendency to stain, chip, crack and scratch. It is sensitive to acidic foods and spills need to be wiped up quickly, so it’s great for people who love cleaning (although it’s not keen on some cleaners).

“There is a perceived value of using a natural stone. No two slabs are alike so every piece is unique and aesthetically pleasing. It can transform your design project into a work of art.” says Alice Kol from Artedomus.

There is an absolute mountain of different stones, and the best bet is to get to leading suppliers, such as Artedomus, CDK Stone and Skheme, and have a look for yourself.

• Stone is porous and all natural stone will need a sealer and some regular upkeep. Acidic foods and stains can damage stone, so I recommend sealing your benchtops at least once a year.

• Stay away from softer stones (soapstone and limestone) if you’re a serious contender for MasterChef and use your kitchen a lot.

• Treated well, a natural stone benchtop can last for decades. Get set to pay the big bucks for high-end marble and specialised quartz, but a simple granite can cost as little as $700 per square metre.

Things to keep in mind

Concrete

Custom concrete adorns our Pinterest feeds and magazine pages. In everything from soft pastel to vibrant terrazzo, a concrete benchtop is no longer a dark grey monolith poured by sweaty men in hi-vis and gumboots (apologies to all concreters). It is now a delicate art form, balancing the raw with the refined.

Concrete is commonly poured onsite with aggregates and oxides (stones and colours) of your choice, but more commonly, boutique artisans are creating customised pieces off-site. Covet and Skheme offer beautiful terrazzo, whereas Concreate and 2 Barrows are top places to start for on-site concrete pours.

• As with all porous stone, concrete will need sealing every year or so, as well as regular upkeep. It’s perfectly suited to life outside, as long as it’s washed every now and then.

• Concrete (especially reinforced concrete) is heavy, and additional structural works may need to be considered.

• Like any custom build, a concrete benchtop is best tackled by the professionals and can cost upwards of $1000 per square metre.

Things to keep in mind

Timber

Timber benchtops have been enjoying a resurgence, especially with the popularity of mid-century modern design. However, short of creating a kitchen with postwar butcher-esque vibes, timber can be a fickle beast to tame. It scratches, stains and is easily damaged – but it also builds a patina over time that is hard to replicate, so don’t be precious about a timber benchtop. The beauty of timber can improve with life and age.

“Timber is often an environmentally friendly material to work with”, says Graeme Metcalf from Dan Kitchens Australia. “It’s unique in appearance and looks good in both modern and traditional kitchens.”

Timber is prone to scratches and scorch marks but the good news is you can repair any damage by sanding back the surface and refinishing with oil or polyurethane. It will need some regular maintenance to preserve appearance.

Slow-growth hardwoods are the best to use as they are dense and don’t have open pores to absorb moisture. And always ensure the timber is FSC certified and from a sustainable source.

In terms of price, pre-made bench tops are at the cheaper end, while those that are custom made from exotic or rare timbers will climb towards the upper end.

• Use a natural matte oil for sealing, instead of a thick polyurethane. Osmo makes the best sealers, which are designed to enhance the characteristics of the timber and protect your investment.

• If damaged, timber benchtops can be re-sanded to a new finish.

• Timber varies in price and its short supply now means prices are up. Be prepared to pay $1000-plus per square metre for a finished job.

Things to keep in mind

Stainless steel

This has long been the mainstay of busy commercial kitchens the world over, but with clever design and an injection of softness and warmth, a stainless-steel kitchen can feel right at home in any residential setting.

Tough and very hygienic, steel can be moulded into sinks and returns, eliminating small gaps where bacteria normally thrive. Although boasting a very industrial aesthetic, steel can be paired with softer and more subtle surfaces to achieve a resolved effect. Avoid using stainless as a splashback as scratches are harder to hide.

• Stainless steel looks especially great in a 10mm solid-steel format.

• When you want a ‘new’ look, stainless steel is easily repolished.

• It is pricey, costing from about $1000 per square metre.

Things to keep in mind

Laminate

If you’re on the lighter side of the budget spectrum, a laminate benchtop can be ideal for achieving the look and feel of a more expensive option. Laminate is made from layers of paper over chipboard, ply or MDF, coated in a clear layer of melamine. It comes in just about any style you could think of, from natural stone looks to Scandi and industrial.

Laminates have historically been seen as a cheaper alternative to timber and stone, but the advances in this field ensure they rival pricier finishes in look, feel and functionality.

“Laminates have come a long way in the past few years and provide a good, affordable solution,” says Jono Fleming, interior stylist. “They come in a huge range of colours and styles, and provide an effective, long lasting and durable bench top.”

It is stain resistant and almost anything can be cleaned off of it. However, it will chip if you drop something on it and once the melamine layer is broken, water can seep in underneath causing swelling.

Laminate is the most budget friendly of the lot. Laminex and Formica are the leading brands.

As a great Australian success story, Laminex offers literally hundreds and hundreds of options that can satisfy every style and aesthetic. One of them, Figured Limestone, is a designer’s dream as it sits perfectly with any timber tone and creates a sense of serenity in whichever environment it is placed.

• Laminate is resistant to staining.

• It’s not ideal with heat or scratches.

• Prices start from as little as $150 per square metre.

Things to keep in mind

Porcelain

With its (almost) indestructible nature and wide variety of finishes, porcelain is quickly becoming the bee’s knees of benchtops. It is a super-versatile product because it’s lightweight, heat-resistant, easily cleaned and suited for exterior use.

Porcelain can withstand huge heat variation, so it’s also great for use around cooktops and open flames – but as it comes in thinner profiles than engineered or natural stone, it can be harder and thus more expensive to install. Smartstone and Dekton have you fairly well covered in terms of range.

• Porcelain is one of the toughest materials on the market.

• It’s wonderfully impervious to heat.

• As it is a premium product, it attracts a premium price, starting at $500 per square metre for supply alone.

Things to keep in mind

Solid surface

A solid-surface benchtop is a formed acrylic resin material made from resins and minerals with a filler of alumina. It looks seamless and clean. It’s also translucent, so you can backlight it for an extra special effect. Being man-made, it can be used in an endless list of applications, though kitchen benchtops are the most common.

“Solid surface has seamless design capabilities,” says Simona Castagna from Minosa Design. “You can achieve large runs of bench top with the appearance of no joins and sinks can be seamlessly integrated with the avoidance of grime limes. Personally, I think it feels good. It’s not hard to the touch – it’s silky.”

Solid surfaces are easy to clean, hygienic, non-porous and, in some instances, renewable. The benchtops can be repaired by a professional if you manage to scratch or dint it. They’re also UV resistant so work well for outdoor kitchens.

The biggest drawcards are the lack of joins or mitres with multiple pieces, and that the solid surface can be thermoformed to create any shape, which means any size of benchtop can be made from one continuous piece of material. Sinks are easily moulded and integrated into the benchtop and minor scratches can be effortlessly buffed out.

Drawbacks are the somewhat limited range, the softness of the benchtop, and its sensitivity to heat.

Corian and Laminex have the best products in Australia right now. It can be pricey, especially if you’re after a colour that’s not run of the mill.

• A solid-surface benchtop is not great for hot pots and pans, but it’s fairly easy to repair any scratches and is extremely hygienic.

• Mid-range pricing starts at approximately $500 per square metre.

Things to keep in mind

The post How to choose the right benchtop for your kitchen appeared first on Homes To Love.

Mixers vs traditional taps

“Three-piece tap sets with cross handles are often installed in heritage homes to keep the nostalgic feel of traditional tapware,” says Josh Mammoliti, managing director of kitchen and bathroom suppliers The Blue Space. “However, mixer taps are an ergonomic choice for kitchens of all styles. When you multitask in a busy kitchen, it’s easy to set to your desired temperature and operate with one hand. Plus, children and people with limited mobility find them effortless to use.”

Mixers are also less difficult to install than three-piece tap sets. “This makes them more economical,” says Cameron Kenny, managing director of architectural hardware company Barben Industries.

The installation for a mixer tap and a three-piece tap set is different, which means that if you live in an older home and the plumbing can’t be changed, you may need to stick to a three-piece design.

“Always check with your licensed plumber before deciding to change the plumbing configurations,” says Josh. “If you’re replacing a tap, it will be more cost-effective to opt for a similar design and avoid additional costs to move pipework.”

Remember to choose a sink that works with your tapware. “If you’re mounting tapware on your sink, you need a sink with one or three tap holes,” says Josh. “You can choose a sink without tapholes when mounting taps on your bench or wall.”

Tap tip

The best kitchen tap features to look for

“Pull-out spouts are brilliant,” says Cameron, “and they’re convenient for rinsing and reaching the corners of the sink.” Always buy a quality pull-out hose and, Josh adds, “Check the warranty before you buy. There’s nothing worse than a pull-out that stays out!”

Swivel mixer taps are also good. “Choose a tap with a 360-degree swivel, which allows an easy two-sink application,” says Cameron.

• Always purchase kitchen taps from a reputable Australian supplier, to ensure they’re certified for Australian standards. Also, make sure they have a warranty of 10 or 15 years.
• Taps must be watermarked and WELS-rated (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards scheme) for a plumber to legally install them. If they aren’t, they won’t be covered by insurance in the event of damage being caused by the tap.
• Worried about a tap’s lead content? Watermarked tapware from quality brands is certified to ensure it’s safe for use in homes.

Kitchen tap finishes and trends

Chrome-plated tapware is a good option, for good reason. “It’s durable and timeless,” says Cameron. Brushed metal tapware such as nickel, bronze, and gold is also one of the biggest tapware trends. “These give a kitchen a high-quality finish,” says Josh. “Remember that brass taps patina over time and change colour.”

Coloured tapware is usually either electroplated or PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition), which works by a vacuum system embedding metal with a certain finish. “Both of these are durable and long-lasting finishes that won’t discolour or scratch easily,” says Cameron. “Be wary of cheap coloured finishes, though.”

“If you’re in a coastal area or putting tapware outdoors, steer clear of colours or chrome,” says Josh. “Instead, opt for 316-grade stainless steel, which won’t rust in salty air.”

Tap tip

Water filtration systems

If you want boiling, chilled, sparkling, and filtered water, choose a water filtration system. There are two tap options – a mixer tap with a separate lever for the filtered water, or a standalone tap.

“Most systems have an under-bench unit, which is connected to a dispenser above the bench,” says Natalie Whelan, brand coordinator at tapware and water filtration specialists Billi. “This means you need a decent cupboard space near the dispenser. You’ll also need to make sure you can install the dispenser in your benchtop. Stone benchtops require a stonemason to cut holes, which usually falls outside standard installation costs.”

“You should change the filters every six to 12 months, as this will ensure the quality of your water is maintained and the flow rate isn’t affected,” says Natalie.

10 of the best, most stylish kitchen taps to shop

01

Elysian commercial pull-out kitchen mixer in Brushed Gunmetal

$549.90, ABI Interiors

A best-seller, ABI Interiors’ Elysian kitchen mixer tap gets an upgrade with pull-out functionality. Made with ABI’s HeatShield PVD Electro Colouring System, the Brushed Gunmetal finish is reliably corrosion-resistant, but also environmentally friendly.

Size: 180cm Reach x 38.8cm H

Colours: Brushed Gunmetal, Aurum, Brushed Brass, Brushed Copper, Matte Black, Stainless Steel, White

Materials: 304 stainless steel, (PVD) Brushed Gunmetal

Key features:

• Commercial-grade finish
• Swivels
• Precise pressure and temperature control

Shop Now

02

Constance brass kitchen mixer in Chrome

$419.99 (usually $449.99), Temple & Webster

Boasting a traditional silhouette but with a mixer function, the Mona kitchen mixer is the perfect meeting of old and new. Keep it classic in chrome or contemporise it with a matte black finish.

Size: 29cm H x 7cm W x 25.3cm D

Colours: Chrome, Brushed Bronze, Matte Black, Brushed Nickel

Material: Brass

Key features:

• 5 Star WELS Rating
• Single mixer
• 15 year warranty

Shop Now

03

Zip HydroTap G5 Classic plus boiling, chilled, and sparkling filtered tap in Brushed Nickel

$5430 (usually $7495), Appliances Online

Ultra luxurious and tech-forward, the Zip Hydrotap G5 offers kitchen versatility. Whip up sparkling water at the touch of a button, or instantly enjoy your tea or coffee with the boil function. Plus, the filtration technology ensures you’re not consuming any potentially harmful contaminants.

Size: 33.3cm H x 33.9cm W x 46cm D

Colours: Brushed Nickel, Matte Black, Brushed Chrome, Chrome

Key features:

• MicroPurity filtration delivers pure-tasting water
• Operates off a customisable ‘command centre’
• Available in four finishes

Shop Now

04

Kingsley kitchen mixer in Brushed Brass

$324.90, ABI Interiors

Sleek design meets elegant details in ABI Interiors’ Kingsley kitchen mixer. Ideal for modern country homes but suitable just about anywhere, this timeless and durable pick features a swivel function and easy mixer pull.

Size: 37cm H x 2.4cm Dia x 18.8cm Reach

Colours: Brushed Brass, Brushed Nickel, Chrome, Matte Black

Material: Solid brass

Key features:

• Available in four colours
• Coated with durable PVD
• Comes as part of a range that includes cabinetry pulls, shower heads, bathroom tapware, and other accessories

Shop Now

05

Meir round kitchen sink mixer in Champagne

$439 (usually $549), The Blue Space

Sitting somewhere between gold and rose, Meir’s champagne tone combines style and sophistication – the best statement maker. Install so the mixer handle is front-facing or on the side, whichever suits your kitchen design best.

Colours: Champagne, Lustre Bronze, Brushed Nickel, Chrome, Black, Shadow

Material: Solid brass

Key features:

• 4 star WELS rating
• 360-degree swivel
• Fits sinks and benchtops less than 23mm thick

Also available at:

• $439.99 (usually $549), Temple & Webster

Shop Now

06

Tiago Tapware 3 piece Aries spout and kitchen mixer set

$299.99, Temple & Webster

Featuring two cross-style handle taps, the Flair set requires triple-hole mounting. Also available in matte black, brushed bronze and brushed nickel, this is a classic that won’t age.

Size: 29.3cm H x 35.3cm W x 25cm D

Colours: Chrome, Gunmetal

Material: Brass

Key features:

• Cross handle design
• 15-year warranty
• Swivel spout

Shop Now

07

Phoenix Nostalgia exposed sink set in Brushed Nickel

$1173 (usually $1380.50), The Blue Space

If neither mixers nor contemporary style appeals to you, the Nostalgia exposed sink set is your match. With glamour and old-world charm to boot, this kitchen tap would look perfect in any traditional style interior.

Colours: Brushed Nickel, Antique Black, Chrome

Material: Brass

Key features:

• ‘Old world’ design
• WELS 4-star rated
• Available in three finishes

Also available at:

• $1249 (usually $1380.50), Temple & Webster

Shop Now

08

Caroma Urbane II sink mixer in Brushed Brass

$348 (usually $523), The Blue Space

Available in five finishes and with two handle styles, you can customise your kitchen with Caroma’s Urbane II sink mixer. With its curved edges, the Urbane II lends a contemporary aesthetic wherever it sits.

Colours: Brushed Brass, Brushed Nickel, Chrome, Matte Black, Gunmetal

Key features:

• WELS 5 star rated
• Available in five colours
• Optional second handle to switch up design

Shop Now

09

Elysian kitchen mixer in Dusk

$209.90 (usually $349.90), ABI Interiors

If bucking traditions is right up your alley, move away from metallics and instead opt for a colourful kitchen mixer. ABI Interiors’ Elysian mixer in Dusk is discontinued, so this could be your last chance to ensure your kitchen truly stands out from the rest.

Size: 37.2cm H x 18.8cm Reach

Colours: Dusk

Material: Solid brass

Key features:

• PSLT (PrimeShield Lacquer Technology)
• Limited edition design
• Swivel function

Shop Now

10

Billi boiling, chilled, and sparkling filtered water with XL levered dispenser in Chrome

$4330 (usually $6199), Appliances Online

Offering boiled, chilled, and sparkling water plus the simplicity of minimal design, the Billi dispenser is an indulgence you should definitely take when designing your kitchen. The advanced filtration system means you can rest assured that your water will be free from sediment and chemicals.

Colours: Chrome, Brushed Metal, Matte Black, Urban Brass, Gun Metal Gray, Platinum

Key features:

• Adjustable chilled water temperature
• Adjustable fizz
• Advanced filtration system

Also available at:

• $4609.45, Kogan

Shop Now

Do you need a plumber to fit a new tap?

Replacing a kitchen tap may seem like a simple job, but regulations surrounding the process point to the need for a plumber. According to The Plumbing Code of Australia, any work that involves plumbing or drainage requires a licensed plumber.

The post 10 of the best kitchen taps and how to choose the right one appeared first on Homes To Love.

An ideal piece to make a style statement, invite conversation, and service the daily breakfast onslaught, many homeowners have been stumped by the quest for the perfect bar stool. Whether you intend to make them a feature, or to have them discreetly fit in, here are our top bar stool picks for the home – plus our top tips for selecting the perfect stool.

The best bar stools to shop in 2024

01

Edith cane bar stool in White Wash

$718, Castlery

Best for: coastal homes

Coastal cool perfection. Combining comfort and style, this bar stool adds a touch of contemporary to your living space. With the rattan woven backrest combined with the black leg rests, this bar stool from Castlery will look right at home in any coastal-leaning designed home.

“I bought these barstools for my kitchen. First off, I want to say these are so well built, and you can tell when you put them together. The cushion is beautiful and cleans easily (we have a toddler). I love these bar stools and get asked all the time where I got them…” commented a five-star reviewer.

Colours: White Wash, Black

Materials: Frame – solid rubber wood and metal, back – cane, seat – foam and fabric

Key features:

• Upholstered seating
• Open-weave backrest
• Spill-resistant boucle seats

Shop Now

02

Hoxton Room 70cm Davion faux leather bar stools (set of 2)

$249, Temple & Webster

Best for: mid-century modern-styled homes

With a raised backrest for extra support and made with faux leather so that it’s easy to wipe clean, this bar stool is perfect for those who entertain or host frequently.

“Love these chairs! Super easy to put together, neat finishings and very comfortable,” commented a five-star reviewer.

Materials: Solid wood, faux leather

Key features:

• Classic walnut finish
• Sturdy construction
• Supportive mig-height backrest

Shop Now

03

White Zurich modern bar stools (set of 2)

$409, Temple & Webster

Best for: the contemporary home

All comfort and cool, this bar stool features a clever cut out in the back rest which makes for a lighter profile than other upholstered stools with backs. Endlessly versatile and timeless, this bar stool design will link with your living, dining and kitchen aesthetics, seamlessly.

“I have two of these stools at my bay window and they are my favourite place to sit in the house. They are the perfect height, sturdy and comfortable for relaxing on a summer evening,” said a five-star reviewer.

Materials: Timber, metal, faux leather

Key features:

• Comes in a set of 2
• Smooth swivel mechanism
• Chrome metal footrest

Shop Now

04

Asmara bar stool

$248 (usually $299), Freedom

Best for: modern-coastal homes

This minimal bar stool from Freedom is available in a natural or a matte black finish to suit your preference and taste, it’s the perfect addition to a contemporary or coastal kitchen.

“These stools are quite wide, which is great as they create a super comfortable place to sit for long periods of time. Not only are they comfortable, but they also look amazing. Love them,” commented a five-star reviewer.

Materials: Solid American ashwood oak frame, paper cord seat

Key features:

• Sturdy tapered legs
• Wide seat design
• Intricate handwoven paper cord seat

Shop Now

05

Abel leather counter stool in Caramel (set of 2)

$538, Castlery

Best for: small spaces

Sleek, minimal and timeless, the Abel leather counter stool is a must-have for all frequent entertainers. With soft curves and rounded legs, this bar stool will integrate into any design style with ease.

“Got my Abel leather stools in taupe and love the easy designer style they add to my kitchen bench. They have a lovely balance about them are well made and easy to put together. Not just stylish but extremely comfy and retail at a great price. And best of all they’re a perfect fit for under the island bench,” commented a five-star reviewer.

Colours: Caramel, Taupe

Materials: Frame – solid rubber wood with metal foot tube, seat – top grain leather

Key features:

• Top grain leather seat
• Set of 2
• Walnut stain

Shop Now

06

Piper velvet gold legs bar stool (set of 2)

$419 (usually $629), Luxo Living

Best for: those looking for gold accents

For a touch of glamour, you can’t go past these black and gold velvet bar stools. Whether you have a classic elegant interior or something more contemporary, they’d suit a range of styles and make a truly sophisticated statement. Plus, they’re finished with anti-slip foot pads, a comfortable cushion, and luxurious velvet upholstery.

Materials: Velvet fabric upholstery, gold chrome coated metal legs, foam padding, engineered wood frame

Key features:

• Velvet fabric upholster
• Set of 2
• High back support and footrest

Shop Now

07

Replica Hans Wegner wishbone stool in natural

$230 (usually $279), Matt Blatt

Best for: coastal or Hamptons-styled homes

Beautifully made to pay homage to the classic wishbone design by Hans Wegner, this bar stool will instantly add an air of sophistication and style to any lounge or dining area.

Materials: Paper cord seat, beech wood frame

Key features:

• Hans Wegner inspired design
• Paper cord seat
• Wishbone back design

Shop Now

08

Aster round bar stool in Oak

$163.59 (usually $269), Kogan

Best for: seaside abodes

With neutral tones and organic textures, this bar stool will suit any setting, from coastal or Hamptons to contemporary or modern. Place them up next to your kitchen counter and enjoy casual dining and entertaining.

Materials: Birch timber, rattan seat pad

Key features:

• Rattan seat pad
• Made with sustainably harvested timber

Shop Now

What should I look for in a bar stool?

Getting the size of your bar stool correct is crucial when you’re shopping around.

If you are building a kitchen from scratch, start by considering how many stools are ideal for your family and ensure your island bench provides enough room to accommodate them. Ideally allow 50-75cm for each bar stool, plus another 12-15cm per stool for arm room and access. Bar stools with backs tend to take up more room than those without.

If you’ve inherited an island bench and are buying bar stools to go under it, work backwards from the existing bench width and find stools that fit with the additional 12-15cm of space per stool.

Make sure you also measure the width at the base of your bar stools if the feet are wider than the seat, which is often the case. The seats may have room underneath the bench but if the legs and feet are getting tangled, it’s not a comfortable fit.

What is the best material for bar stools?

The sky is the limit – or perhaps your budget is. This is one case where you definitely get what you pay for. The build quality of a bar stool is reflected in its price and your investment will be rewarded with a long and sturdy life when you spend more.

If opting for upholstered bar stools, consider removable bar stool covers which will give you more flexibility when choosing fabric. You might like to get more than one set to rotate for cleaning and options to switch out for a more seasonal look.

What is the best height for counter height bar stools?

The correct height for your stools will depend on the height of your island bench. Before you shop, measure from the floor to the underside of your island bench and take this measurement with you as you shop. Ideally, allow approximately 25cm between your seat and the top of your table – but ensure plenty of clearance for your legs if you have a thick benchtop.

As a rule of thumb, given that the standard height for a benchtop in Australia is approximately 91cm, the perfect stool height is between 61 and 66cm. If your counter height is more typical of a bar than a kitchen bench (between 102 to 107cm), you’ll want to aim a bit higher with your stools, choosing those with a seat height of between 71 and 76cm.

Is it healthy to sit on a bar stool?

The ergonomics of bar stool-sitting rely upon the design of the stool itself, and how it relates to factors such as the benchtop height. If you expect you will spend long periods of time sitting on your bar stool, look for one with lumbar support, which will protect your lower back. You may be surprised to learn that bar stools can actually aid good posture; the raised seat causes a more open hip angle, reducing slouching and leading to what backcentre.com.au refers to as ‘active sitting’.

The post Take a seat on one of these stylish bar stools designed for your kitchen island 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.

When it comes to the heart of the home, creating a highly functional kitchen space is paramount. After ensuring you’ve nailed your kitchen layout, material palette and just how large you want your kitchen island to be, the next area to look at is choosing your appliances. So, why not add a pop of vibrant personality with a colourful kitchen appliance?

All-white kitchens and kitchens that play with dark and moodier palettes are classic looks for a reason — they’re incredibly versatile and easy to adapt to the rise of new kitchen trends. Kitchen appliances, both big and small, are much more flexible and are the perfect way to inject a splash of playful colour into your home.

Choosing colourful big appliances

Small colourful appliances

The best colourful kitchen appliances

01

Slow cooker in Blue Haze

$255.20 (usually $319), GreenPan

Best for: flavourful dishes

Family meals call for comforting, flavourful dishes. This slow cooker from GreenPan features a diamond-infused ceramic nonstick coating and easy presets to ensure cooking your family favourites is easier than ever. Available in an array of colours, but our pick is this muted light blue hue.

Size: 6L

Colours: Blue Haze, Cloud Cream, Black, Stainless Steel

Materials: Diamond infused ceramic nonstick coating, tempered glass lid

Key features:

• Thermolon Volt – diamond-infused ceramic nonstick coating
• One step browning
• Easy presets
• Removable 5.7L pot
• Tempered glass lid
• Dishwasher safe pot

Shop Now

02

Smeg FAB 5 50s style retro cooler in Pink

$1431 (usually $1590), Bing Lee

This petite pink bar fridge is perfect for apartments, offices, or entertaining spaces, allowing you to have cool drinks and snacks on-hand and adding a pop of colour to the room while you’re at it.

Colours: Pink, Black, Silver, Pastel Green, Cream, Pastel Blue, White, Red

Key features:

• Ideal size for wine and beverages
• Quiet operation
• Nostalgic design

Also available at:

• $1791, Appliances Online

Shop Now

03

Delonghi Icona Capitals four slice toaster in New York Yellow

$151.20 (usually $189), Appliances Online

Brighten up breakfast time with this sunny yellow toaster inspired by the iconic yellow taxis of New York city. It even features a special setting for toasting bagels on one side only!

Colours: New York Yellow, Sydney White, Tokyo Red, Lisbon Azure

Key features:

• 2 crumb trays
• Bagel setting
• Easily reheat or defrost

Also available at:

• $139, Amazon
• $139, The Good Guys

Shop Now

04

Falcon 110cm classic deluxe freestanding dual fuel oven/stove

$14598, Appliances Online

A Falcon oven is guaranteed to become the heart and focal point of any kitchen. With several colours available and a choice of brass or chrome fittings, there is a Classic Deluxe to suit any kitchen.

Colours: Royal Blue, Mineral Green, Cranberry, Cream, Black, Slate, White

Key features:

• Generous oven volume of 79L on each side
• Multi-zone griddle
• Deluxe glide-out grill

Shop Now

05

Smeg 50s style kettle in Pastel Green

$168 (usually $229), The Good Guys

If bright colours aren’t your thing, pastels still pack a punch without being too overbearing. This minty green kettle will elevate your kitchen benchtop and your morning cuppa, especially when paired with a matching toaster.

Colours: Pastel Green, Black, Pastel Blue, White, Red, Cream, Pink, Emerald Green, Slate Grey, Gold, Rose Gold, Matte Champagne

Key features:

• Cute retro design
• Integrated cord storage
• 1.7 litre capacity

Also available at:

• $267 (usually $299), Appliances Online
• $167, Bing Lee

Shop Now

06

KitchenAid KSM195 4.8L Artisan stand mixer in Pistachio

$649 (usually $799), Bing Lee

Every keen cook or baker needs a KitchenAid mixer in their lives. They are handy, versatile, and durable and look amazing too! Available in a multitude of on-trend colours, you’ll find it hard to choose a favourite.

Colours: Pistachio, Milkshake, Blue Velvet, Contour Silver, Dried Rose, Empire Red, Almond Cream, Feathered Pink, Pebbled Palm, Matte Black, Candy Apple Red, Onyx Black, White, Majestic Yellow, Juniper, Porcelain

Key features:

• Powerful 300-watt motor
• Comes with a variety of attachments
• 10 speed settings

Also available at:

• $899, The Good Guys
• $1049, Myer

Shop Now

07

Comfee countertop microwave oven in Green

$159.95 (usually $257.99), Oz Sale

This retro-inspired microwave is much more fun than your typical white, black, or stainless steel styles. With a wealth of features including five power levels and eight cooking presets, this convenient cooker is both stylish and functional.

Colours: Green, Red, Cream

Key features:

• 24-hour timer
• 8 preset menus
• 20L capacity

Also available at:

• $123.14, Kogan
• $126.95, Brosa

Shop Now

08

K400 variable speed blender in Beetroot

$350 (usually $549), Kitchen Warehouse

Blenders don’t get much more beautiful than this eye-catching design in Beetroot. This “energizing and uplifting hue” is designed to inspire you to make every day more vibrant, so why not start with a nourishing berry smoothie?

Colours: Beetroot, Hibiscus, Blue Velvet, Dried Rose, Almond Cream, Empire Red, Matte Black, Contour Silver, Onyx Black, Pistachio

Key features:

• Makes whole foods smooth in 20 seconds
• 5 speeds and 3 presets
• 5-year warranty

Shop Now

09

Sunbeam chic breakfast collection pack in Blue

$107, Appliances Online

Restyle your kitchen and add a pop of colour with this chic teal kettle and toaster set with chrome and black accents. The kettle has 1.7L worth of capacity, and the toaster boasts 7 browning settings, a defrost, and a reheat function – you’ll be the King/Queen of breakfast.

Colours: Blue, Yellow, Black

Key features:

• Toaster has 7 settings
• Kettle features button for easy filling
• Chic design

Shop Now

10

Smeg 50’s style manual coffee machine in Pastel Blue

$559 (usually $649), Appliances Online

A design statement in its own right, this pretty powder blue espresso machine is easy to use and clean and even allows you to choose between ground coffee or pods.

Colours: Pastel Blue, Black, Cream, Pastel Green, White, Red

Key features:

• 1 and 2 cup buttons
• Paper pods filter
• Retro design
• 15 bar professional pressure

Also available at:

• $549, Bing Lee

Shop Now

The post Colourful kitchen appliances to brighten any space appeared first on Homes To Love.

How to choose a kitchen sink

There’s plenty to consider when choosing a kitchen sink, but have you considered there is a way to find your perfect size sink?. Award-winning kitchen designer Gavin Hepper of Concepts by Gavin Hepper starts with practicality when he specifies the sinks in his designs. “It’s about identifying what is fit for purpose,” Gavin tells Homes To Love. “If you’re doing a new kitchen, there’s an expectation that kitchen will be there in 30 years’ time.

“A perfect start is looking at your oven trays and making sure an oven tray will fit inside a sink flat on the bottom of the sink, so people can soak and wash them up properly. Then break down your habits of using your sink. Do you need two bowls? Or one larger bowl to fit your oven trays and a second smaller sink?”

Gavin explains that many people go for a double sink out of habit so, when he starts designing, he likes to drill down on exactly how a client cooks and cleans, to make sure that what he specifies meets their needs. He says that one larger sink works for most people.

“There’s not a normal solution because every client is different,” he points out. “But on most projects, we’re looking at just one larger bowl.”

With the accessories available for quality sinks, one bowl can adapt to most situations. “If my client has babies, for example, and they wanted to soak some bottles or do different things, they can use a separate device as an accessory to put in a larger sink,” says Gavin.

“I see a lot of power in relying on accessories, especially if you’re in an apartment or you’re starved for bench space. I suggest putting in one sink that serves all those purposes, with the appropriate accessories that are purchased with that sink. They’ll give you all those other functions when you need them.”

Colin Jones, category expert at Appliances Online, tells Homes To Love that families should look for a sink that is low on maintenance and large enough for your biggest pot or pan, as this will help make any cleaning up much easier.

“If you hand-wash all of your pots and pans, you may want to consider one large single-bowl sink as it will make washing these much easier,” says Colin. “If you simply rinse off your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher and you have the space, I suggest a double or 1¾-sink configuration, as you have the option to separate your clean and dirty dishes.”

Different types of kitchen sinks

There are so many type of kitchen sinks available, but the three main styles we see in Australian kitchens are top-mount, under-mount and flush-mount. Top-mounted sinks are the traditional choice, but more homeowners are opting for under-mounted sinks because they create a more streamlined appearance.

Sometimes called inset sinks, top-mounted sinks are inserted into the bench from above, with the ‘lip’ of the sink resting on the bench.

A flush-mount sink is a sink installed with the lip of the sink flush-mounted into the benchtop. This achieves a seamless flow between the benchtop and sink, with no break or bumps in the design.

Under-mounted sinks are installed underneath the kitchen benchtop, leaving the surface undisturbed. They are often paired with stone benchtops.

Another increasingly popular option is to integrate the sink as part of your benchtop. This is a popular choice for stone, a solid surface (such as Corian) or stainless steel, as these materials can be moulded into the shape of your choice. If you have a classical style of kitchen, you could select a ceramic butler sink. Also known as fireclay sinks or farmhouse sinks, butler sinks work well with a traditional aesthetic and are often used in butler’s pantries and laundries as well.

Best kitchen sink materials

The material you choose for your kitchen sink can have a significant impact on your budget, the maintenance required, and durability. The most common material chosen for kitchen sinks is stainless steel, because it is so hard-wearing and affordable.

“If you are looking for a sink that will last a long time but is still also within your budget, I would suggest a stainless steel sink,” says Colin Jones, “as this material is durable and able to withstand heavy pots and pans and also resist scratches from kitchen knives.”

“Alternatively, granite sinks are great as they are heat-resistant, do not scratch and come in a variety of colours, configurations and installation options. They require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for a sink you want to last.”

Jimmy Tang, the owner of Buildmat, reveals that they only manufacture stainless steel sinks. “We like stainless steel because we’re able to manufacture different sinks quite easily in terms of production time,” Jimmy tells Homes To Love. “Granite sinks, for example, can crack whereas a stainless steel sink can’t crack. They are so resilient.”

Buildmat offers stainless steel in three finishes – classic stainless steel, a gunmetal grey matt finish and brass. The gunmetal finish in particular has grown in popularity, partly because tapware now also includes brass and grey options and many homeowners want to match their sink to their taps.

Alexandra Devine of Reece explains that while stainless steel is still the most common material, several other choices are now available. “We’re really seeing a lot more variation in sinks, which is fantastic for the kitchen,” she says. Granite sinks, which are made of a mix of quartz stone and resin, are very popular.

“It creates a really hard surface that’s non-porous, and you can get it in a range of colours including matt black and matt white,” Alexandra says. “They’re scratch-resistant, dent-free and don’t stain, so it’s a really durable, beautiful material. A black sink looks stunning in kitchens. It’s a real statement piece.”

Fine fireclay sinks are also popular, she adds, mentioning that Reece has recently introduced a farmhouse style of sink available in a matt black as part of their Memo Harper range. “It’s such a statement and a really bold move, but it’s really an interesting way to bring your kitchen to life, and we’re seeing that one being widely accepted,” says Alexandra.

“The third new material we’re seeing is PVD sinks. PVD stands for physical vapour deposition – a plating technique and a colouring method. It creates a really hardened finish, so it’s scratch- and impact-resistant – all of the good things that you need in a kitchen sink to make sure it’s got longevity. You can also create really beautiful colours such as bright gold, bronze and gunmetal, to bring some colour into the kitchen and match with your kitchen sink mixers as well.”

Cooking zones are also starting to be influenced by bathroom trends. “What we’re finding is that people have been adventurous in the bathroom and they want to bring it into the kitchen,” says Jimmy. “We’re finding that more and more people are trying to match the whole theme in the wet areas. So the kitchen, laundry and bathroom have got to be matching.”

How to clean and maintain your kitchen sink

The life of your sink can be extended with the right care and maintenance. We recommend being realistic with your expectations about maintaining your sink: sinks work hard and most will scratch over time, so developing a patina is normal – and part of their charm.

“Stainless steel is bound to scratch,” says Jimmy Tang of Buildmat. “We say, ‘Use your sink, don’t try to change your habits just because you don’t want the sink to scratch.’ We have this very nice, brushed-finish sink, but that brush finish doesn’t last forever.”

For cleaning sinks, he recommends a product called Magic Stainless Steel Cleaner & Protector (you can find it at Woolworths supermarkets), which is made of chemicals that won’t rust stainless steel. Jimmy warns against using steel wool, which removes the top hardened layer of stainless steel and exposes fresh stainless steel, leaving it vulnerable to rust.

Colin Jones from Appliances Online recommends using a bowl protector to protect your stainless steel sink, as these will help protect the sink from damage if you drop something heavy. “Roller mats are also a great way to protect your sink,” adds Colin. “Stainless steel will start to lose its shine over time, so buying suitable cleaners and polishers will help to enrich the sink and remove any tough stains to bring your sink back to life.”

As for granite sinks, they’re basically maintenance-free and a popular choice with customers. “Simply give them a wipe-down after use,” says Colin.

10 of the best kitchen sink brands in Australia

01

Zalo double kitchen sink brushed copper

$949.90, ABI Interiors

Best for: stylish kitchens

The brushed copper Zalo double sink is a stylish way to bring a pop of colour into your kitchen. With a 10mm radius and folded drainage points to limit build-up and ensure ease of cleaning, plus technology that dampens the sound of water when in use, this is the sink you need for your kitchen reno.

Size: 85.5cm W x 45cm D x 20cm H.

Colours: Brushed Brass, Brushed Copper, Brushed Gunmetal, Stainless Steel.

Material: 304 Stainless Steel.

Key features:

• WaterSense Cushion System to dampen the sound of water 
• Installation either above or below bench
• ABI’s Heat Shield – Industrial grade PVD electro colouring system for enhanced durability

Shop Now

02

Schots Farmhouse fluted double kitchen sink

$987.05 (was $1,039.00), Temple & Webster

Best for: a double-basin family

Complete your dream farmhouse-style kitchen with this double basin fireclay sink from Schots. The fluted design adds vintage charm, and the durable fireclay craftsmanship ensures it will be a long-lasting addition to your home.

Size: 84cm W x 46cm D x 26cm H.

Colour: White.

Materials: Fireclay.

Key features:

• 10 year warranty
• Adds traditional charm with the versatile design
• Reversible between fluted ribbed apron & panel apron

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03

Oliveri Spectra 1 and 1/2 bowl sink

$1212 (was $1595), Appliances Online

Best for: an all-rounder

A great all-rounder, this versatile, square-edged stainless steel sink can be installed top-mount, flush or under-mount, and boasts a soundproof finish to avoid being a nuisance to the household.

Size: 79cm W x 44cm D x 21cm H.

Colours: Stainless Steel, Gun Metal, Copper, Black.

Material: 304 grade, 18/10 brushed stainless steel.

Key features:

• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
• Rear waste outlets to maximise under sink storage space.
• Universal installation

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04

Jai Single Kitchen Sink

$799.99, ABI Interiors

Best for: single sink configurations

The Jai single sink from offers the same style, durability and colour range as the double sink, but is perfect for those with a little less room under the sink.

Size: 88cm W x 45cm D x 20cm H.

Colours: Brushed Brass, Brushed Copper, Brushed Gunmetal, Stainless Steel.

Material: 304 Stainless Steel.

Key features:

• Made from the most durable finish available on the market
• Suitable for both undermount and top-mount installation
• WaterSense acoustic cushions

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05

Oliveri Professional Series double bowl sink

$1278 (was $1845), Appliances Online

Best for: an all-rounder

This sophisticated angular design is made to impress with the look and feel of a professional restaurant kitchen, plus the two extra-wide large bowls provide plenty of capacity for washing dishes.

Size: 83.5cm W x 50.5cm D x 22.5cm H.

Colour: Stainless Steel.

Material: 304 grade, 18/10 brushed stainless steel.

Key features:

• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
• Soundproofed to reduce the noise level of a running tap
• Inspired by professional kitchens

Shop Now

06

Hartley small single kitchen sink

$399.90, ABI Interiors

Best for: smaller kitchen spaces

The Hartley small single kitchen sink is the perfect option for a smaller capacity kitchen that still wants to enjoy the durability of fireclay.

Size: 45.5cm W x 60cm D x 25.2cm H.

Colour: Gloss White.

Material: Fireclay.

Key features:

• Constructed from natural materials with an organic edge
• Scratch resistant gloss white finish adds subtle elegance to any space.
• Can be top-mounted or under-mounted

Shop Now

07

Turner Hastings Chester double flat front fine fireclay butler sink

$1232 (was $1782), The Blue Space

Best for: Hamptons kitchens

Adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen, the glazing is fused to the fine fireclay at a higher temperature, which makes it more durable, as well as being highly stain, scratch and chemical resistant.

Size: 80cm W x 50cm D.

Colour: White.

Material: Double glazed fine fireclay.

Key features:

• Easier to clean than stainless steel
• Higher hot and cold temperature tolerance than standard ceramic
• 30L bowl capacity:

Shop Now

08

Seima Icaria kitchen sink white

$739 (was $869), The Blue Space

Best for: a round basin

The round design of this Arqstone natural stone basin makes for easy clean up and is the perfect fit in most small kitchens.

Size: 51cm W x 17cm D.

Colour: White.

Material: Arqstone natural quartz.

Key features:

• Backed by a 15 year warranty
• Can be installed as an above-mount or under-mount
• Smooth finish

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09

Granite quartz stone single kitchen sink bowl

$279.99 (was $329.99), Temple & Webster

Best for: both indoor and outdoor kitchens

The contemporary black design of this deep square basin is the perfect accompaniment to black kitchens.

Size: 60cm W x 45cm D x 20cm H.

Colours: White, Black.

Material: 80% granite quartz stone & 20% acrylic resin.

Key features:

• Granite stone surface resists stains and scratches
• Suitable for both undermount and top-mount installation
• Offers remarkable durability for long-lasting use

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10

Alma Avisa large single bowl sink

$599, BuildMat

Best for: large households

The large commercial-size single bowl of the Alma sink makes washing up as simple as can be.

Size: 65cm W x 40cm D x 25cm H.

Colours: Brushed Brass Gold, Stainless Steel, Gunmetal.

Material: 304 grade Stainless Steel.

Key features:

• Large 65L capacity, commercial-sized single bowl
• Matte/satin with hairline/brushed finish to disguise scratching.
• Bent, welded, grinded, polished and packed by hand.

Shop Now

The post 10 of the best kitchen sinks for contemporary homes appeared first on Homes To Love.

How to organise your pantry step-by-step

1. Take everything out

Sometimes things need to get worse before they can get better, and that is often the case with big clean-outs. The first step to an organised pantry is to take everything out. Yeah, you read that right.

You’ll want to make sure your countertop, kitchen bench or dining table is empty so you can see it all clearly and sort as you go. Once your pantry is emptied, give your shelves a good clean and ensure your drawers are rid of pesky pantry moths and mould.

2. Sort into categories

Now that you can see everything, group what you have into categories. Put together your baking goods, cereals, and cans and jars, as well as spices and so forth. This enables you to see what you have, and makes the decluttering and organising process much quicker. It is also a good way to catch potential double-ups (hands up who else has multiple bottles of soy sauce in their drawers?) or what things you might be running low on.

3. Dispose of out-of-date items

Next, it’s time to Marie Kondo your stock. Move through what you have and throw out anything that has passed its used-by date. Make sure to add these items to your shopping list as you cull, so you don’t find yourself caught out later without the pantry essentials.

Once your pantry is neat and organised, you’ll actually waste less food because you’ll be able to see what you have in your cupboards, with nothing lost or hidden at the back. If you come across long-life items you know you’ll never use, set them aside to donate to a food bank. There are usually pick-up points at your local supermarket.

4. Use clear modular containers

To make the most of pantry space and to keep food fresh for longer, we like to decant things into clear containers, labelled with what’s inside. (This can also be applied to the laundry with cleaning products and powders.)

Pick containers that stack well and are large enough so you don’t end up with half bags of food that won’t fit, as this somewhat defeats the purpose of the exercise! A good small-pantry organisation trick: while round containers look nice, square or straight-edge containers stack better and make the best use of your space.

5. Use additional storage

For items that don’t need sealable containers, use baskets, tubs or stands to maximise space and visibility in your pantry. Cans are great on tiered shelving, meal packets are easy to grab when kept in a basket, and having your grocery bags in a bag holder keeps the floor of your pantry clear.

6. Set up for everyday use

When deciding where to put everything away, keep items you use regularly at eye level and items you use less often higher up.

Consider using open tubs for snack items and storing them below eye level so you can empty packets into the tub and the whole family can see what’s available. Your organised pantry will inspire you to cook and eat healthy, and writing your shopping list will be easy because you can quickly and easily see what is running low.

Pantry organising ideas and tricks

• Place opened packets in secure containers to keep pests such as pantry moths away.
• For deep shelves where food tends to get lost or forgotten about, add a shallow second shelf against the back wall to make them more visible.
• Add labels to your shelves so that everyone in your household knows what belongs where and can help keep the pantry tidy.
• Organise sections into baskets so they are easy to pull out of the pantry and rummage through.
• If you have a small pantry and are struggling for space, stick to buying only what you need, or find another cupboard in your house to store things such as cans, backup items and extras like paper plates and napkins.
• A lazy Susan is a great way to store condiments or sauces that you need to access regularly.
• Make a meal plan for the coming weeks to help you use up any close-to-expiring products or anything you have over-bought.

The best pantry organisers to shop in Australia for 2025

01

Ecology 8-piece pantry square glass canister set

$74.99 (usually $99.95), Temple & Webster

One sure-fire way of creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing pantry is by placing all your dry goods in simple glass storage containers. Topped with bamboo lids, these square canisters from Ecology not only look good, but will keep your food fresh thanks to their airtight rubber seals. The set includes eight containers of varying sizes.

Key features:

• 8-piece set
• Borosilicate glass
• Bamboo lid with seal

Shop now

02

Anko Wire & Wood undershelf basket

$8.50, Target

Make your existing shelving work smarter with clever accessories such as this wire-and-wood undershelf basket from Target. Simply slide onto your existing shelves and store all those extra bits and pieces beneath to keep things neat and tidy.

Key features:

• Powder-coated iron
• Rubberwood handle
• 16 x 32 25.5cm

Shop now

03

Maxwell & Williams 16-piece Evergreen Bamboo spice jar and rack set

$79.95, Temple & Webster

There are few things as visually satisfying as a complete spice rack. This handy 16-piece set comes with 15 glass jars and a simple bamboo rack that features three open shelves for easy access and a clean classic look.

Key features:

• Made from bamboo
• 15 glass spice jars
• Simple, practical design

Shop Now

04

Maxwell & Williams Evergreen 40cm bamboo lazy Susan

$29.95, Temple & Webster

When it comes to practicality and convenience, there are few kitchen items as handy as the classic lazy Susan. But what was once a core feature of family dining tables has since been branded ‘kitschy’ in recent years, meaning the humble serving tray was relegated to the back of cupboards everywhere. Well, we say it’s time to dust off the lazy Susan, and if it doesn’t deserve a place at the table, it certainly deserves a place in the pantry, giving easy access to staple kitchen items such as paper towel and olive oil.

Key features:

• Sustainable bamboo wood
• Smooth swivel base
• Lightweight and durable

Shop Now

05

3-in1 foil and cling wrap organiser

$59.99, Amazon

House your foil, cling wrap and baking paper in one handy storage solution with this 3-in-1 organiser from Amazon. Available in three styles, including this sleek and simple bamboo iteration, the 3-in-1 organiser and dispenser will tackle that classic bottom drawer clutter we all face and allow for easy access thanks to its vertically stacked design and cutter slides. You can even hang it on the wall!

Key features:

• 3-in-1 design
• Bamboo construction
• Cutter slides

Shop Now

The post How to organise your pantry like a professional appeared first on Homes To Love.

The Block’s best kitchens of all time

Kyle and Leslie

The Block 2023

Boasting delicious curves and bucketloads of texture, Kyle and Leslie’s functional kitchen and laundry received high praise from the judges. “It’s the house of curves,” said Shaynna. “There’s a lovely retro vibe going on,” added Neale, who thinks their overall aesthetic references a lot of the 60s, “but in a good way.” Their only gripe was with the pair’s butler’s pantry, which they felt was too small and, therefore, unnecessary.

take a tour

Dylan and Jenny

The Block 2022

Although they didn’t take the crown on kitchen week, Dylan and Jenny’s sage green-toned kitchen received a lot of love from judges and viewers alike. Shaynna noted the combination of “beautiful textures,” while Neale felt it really “tugged at the heartstrings. “It’s just got that little layer of personality and character and spirit and soul… I could go on,” he said.

Take a tour

Kirsty and Jesse

The Block 2021

Kirsty and Jesse’s Hamptons-style kitchen was the favourite in 2021, awarded an almost perfect score of 29½. The judges struggled to find any faults with the space and loved how it tied in so beautifully with the rest of Kirsty and Jesse’s heartfelt home. “It’s a little bit country, it’s a little bit Hamptons, it’s a little bit contemporary but it has come together in this room so perfectly and so beautifully,” said Darren.

The deep navy cupboards, ceramic farmhouse sink, and gingham feature wallpaper in the butler’s pantry set this kitchen apart. “This is exactly the right kitchen for this house,” the judges agreed.

take a tour

Daniel and Jade

The Block 2020

WA Couple Daniel and Jade completely re-designed their kitchen at the last minute – a decision that paid off when they ended up winning kitchen week in 2020.

The hero feature of the room was undoubtedly the curved Christian Cole island bench. The judges called the piece a work of art in its own right, and noted that the bench’s fluted timber detail and curves were a nice nod to the 1930s.

take a tour

Kylie and Brad

The Block 2024

Kylie and Brad didn’t always hit the mark with their divisive black-on-black colour scheme, but when it came to kitchen week the couple from Cairns nailed it. The scale, the high-end finishes and the clever FurnSpin cabinets all wowed the judges, earning the team their first win of the season.

“Is this Tom Ford enough for you?” Darren asked upon entering the space. It certainly is for us!

Take a tour

Andy and Deb

The Block 2019

Realising that the original floorplan would result in minimal natural light permeating through to the first floor, Andy and Deb strategically moved their void to maximise the natural light in the kitchen, living and dining area. The decision proved to be a total game-changer, flooding the kitchen with light and making it feel much more spacious than the other kitchens on The Block 2019.

“We all talk about the kitchen being the heart of the home and this feels like it,” said Neale, who also confessed it was one of the best kitchens delivered on The Block.

take a tour

Norm and Jess

The Block 2018

Jess and Norm’s breathtaking kitchen from The Block 2018 was one for the ages. The judges were enamoured by the thick marble benchtop and the shaker-style cabinetry finished in a beautifully soft, stone grey. Adding a double entry to the butler’s pantry created a wonderful sense of space and flow, as did the soaring ceilings and soft, sheer curtains.

take a tour

Josh and Elyse

The Block 2017

Josh and Elyse took a huge risk by changing the orientation of their kitchen island. Luckily, it paid off, with the judges all agreeing it created a better connection with their living and dining zones.

After placing equal first with underdogs Jason and Sarah, the couple came under fire when it was discovered that their gas stove didn’t meet code. The stove was fixed, and the stunning kitchen retained what judge Neale Whitaker labelled an undeniable sense of “hygge” thanks to a medley of textured finishes.

take a tour

Karlie and Will

The Block 2016

Karlie and Will were right on the money with their dark and moody kitchen, with judge Neale Whitaker declaring that black is the new white for kitchens (he wasn’t wrong there). This sleek and timeless design wowed the judges so much so that Karlie and Will were given a perfect score and later went on to win The Block 2016, taking home a profit of $815,000. See, we told you, kitchens really do sell homes.

Alisa and Lysandra

The Block 2014

Alisa & Lysandra made a name for themselves with this modern yet timeless design in 2014. The ‘Kitchen Queens’ were right on trend with this sophisticated design, scoring top marks for their bold black cabinetry, breathtaking ceiling void and luxurious stone finishes.

Josh and Jenna

The Block 2013

Who could forget that floor-to-ceiling indoor green wall? Not to mention the never-ending marble island bench and romantic sheer window coverings. This class-act kitchen resulted in a well-deserved win for Josh and Jenna and really set the bar high for future contestants.

• The Block 2017 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2018 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2019 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2020 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2021 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2022 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2023 kitchen reveals
• The Block 2024 kitchen reveals

Revisit The Block kitchen reveals

The post A look back at The Block’s best-ever kitchens appeared first on Homes To Love.

The big chill

Liebherr’s BioFresh drawers, set at 0°C, keep seafood, meat, dairy and fruit and vegetables fresher for longer. A new feature, HydroBreeze, gently bathes your fresh produce in a fine cooling mist every 90 minutes for four seconds and for eight seconds whenever you open the fridge door.

This cold mist combines with the low temperature of 0°c to keep produce fresh, crisp and ever-so-tasty for longer. You’ll feel every bit the professional, thanks to the WOW-factor this feature brings, and because the quality of your produce remains as premium as the moment it was picked.

A Deli in your Kitchen

Liebherr’s OpenStage shelving takes inspiration from the elegant display cases of fine delicatessens, allowing you to showcase your food in a way that it adds style to your kitchen while still being easy to reach.

Adjustable shelving cleverly accommodates various sizes and shapes, while the practical dividers in lower drawers mean you can say goodbye to wobbling bottles and cans. There are even transparent glass drawers so you can see all of your items at a glance.

Your kitchen’s new favourite feature

The user experience of these integrated refrigerators is second to none, and you’ll relish the attention to detail. The innovative LightTower ensures optimal illumination while Liebherr’s ambient lighting enhances the deli-vibe. And with the intuitive Touch & Swipe display, controlling your fridge becomes a joy. Plus, its SuperSilent operation feature means all you’ll hear will be compliments from your guests.

Design meets function

Liebherr’s integrated fridges lend themselves to any kitchen aesthetic, from the very modern, to classic and even country core. Not sure which to choose? You can opt for your own customisable panels, so your fridge seamlessly accentuates your style aesthetic.

German engineering excellence

With more than 60 years engineering expertise, German-company Liebherr attests to quality and reliability. In fact, every detail of your new fridge, from the materials used to the precision engineering, will serve you for many years to come — which is why each model comes with a five-year warranty.

Designed for daily life

Looks aside, these fridges are all about practicality. More-than-ample storage space, precise temperature control with HydroBreeze, and user-friendly interfaces mean your food storage, kitchen organisation, and meal planning and preparation just became effortless. Whether you’re planning weekly meals or you simply prefer a well-organised and efficient kitchen, Liebherr has your back.

Eco-friendly and efficient

Liebherr’s industry-leading commitment to energy efficiency, as seen with the 6-star energy rating on the Liebherr IRBh 5170, helps to reduce your environmental footprint and leads to long-term savings on your energy bill. This commitment begins at the design stage, where it focuses on high-quality components to ensure all appliances run efficiently and reliably over time. With a production site that meets the international ISO 14001 standard for environmental management and a resource-smart manufacturing process, Liebherr is committed to continually improve its environmental performance.

The finer details

Liebbher offers two standout models that bring style and efficiency to your kitchen: the fully integrated IRBPh 5170 and the IRBh 5170.

The IRBPh 5170 has a 5-star energy rating for optimal performance white keeping energy consumption low. With a sleek, seamless design, it features BioFresh drawers to maintain freshness of your foods, a LightTower to showcase your produce beautifully and ambient lighting to bring an element of sophistication. Think: efficiency, style and a 5-year warranty to boot. 

The IRBh 5170 takes things further, with its 6-star energy rating and BioFreshPlus technology, which allows you to adjust temperature settings to different foods. Its OpenStage shelving system brings high-functionality to luxury, while the five-year warranty brings you peace of mind.

The post This luxe refrigerator will change how you organise your food  appeared first on Homes To Love.

When heating up water for white, green or oolong teas, ensuring your water is at 80°C (not boiling) will draw the best flavour out of the tea leaves. Further, you should steep green tea for one to two minutes, and white tea and oolong tea for two to three minutes.

So, if you want to make the perfect cup of tea (who doesn’t?), opting for a temperature control kettle is a great idea. Below, we’ve found the best ones on the market that are worth considering.

The best temperature control kettles 2024

01

Breville The Smart kettle

$199, The Good Guys

This 1.7-litre kettle from Breville is designed with tea-lovers in mind. With a range of smart settings that take the guesswork out of heating water, you can select the ideal temperature depending on what type of tea you’re brewing. Plus, it also has a Keep Warm function that holds the water at your desired temperature for up to 30 minutes. Say goodbye to reboiling water over and over again.

Key features:

• 1.7-litre capacity
• Drip-free pouring spout
• Keep Warm function
• Variable temperatures
• 360-degree rotational base

Also available at:

• $199, Bing Lee

Shop Now

02

KitchenAid kettle in Almond Cream

$191.20 (usually $239), Myer

In a gorgeous Almond Cream hue, KitchenAid has done it again with this 1.7-litre temperature control kettle. Choose the desired temperature you need for your tea, coffee, and more with its easy-to-use temperature slider. Plus, with its removable limescale filter, you’ll have the highest quality of water for your favourite brews at all times.

Key features:

• 1.7-litre capacity
• Brushed stainless steel interior
• Slow release water
• Removable limescale filter

Also available at:

• $219, The Good Guys
• $219, Bing Lee
• $189.99 (usually $239), MyHouse

Shop Now

03

Hazel Quinn gooseneck electric kettle

$109.99, Amazon

This gooseneck kettle is perfect for pour-over and tea enthusiasts. With precision temperature control thanks to its unique rotating knob that offers one-degree adjustments, you’ll be able to master the perfect brew every morning.

Key features:

• Rapid 1200W heating
• One-degree precision temperature control knob
• 304 stainless steel interior
• 2-hour thermal insulation

Also available at:

• $199.99, MyDeal

Shop Now

04

Russell Hobbs Addison digital kettle

$89, The Good Guys

This variable temperature control kettle allows you to heat water up to the perfect temperature while its Keep Warm function allows it to maintain its temperature for up to 30 minutes. The water level indicator is also illuminated with a blue light to make it easy to fill your kettle to just the right amount you need for your morning coffee or tea.

Key features:

• 1.7-litre capacity
• Stainless steel construction
• Keep Warm function
• Illuminated water level indicator
• Push-button lid

Also available at:

• $71.96, Amazon
• $71.96 (usually $89.95), Myer
• $89.94, Officeworks
• $90.20 (usually $94.95), MyDeal

Shop Now

05

Breville The Temp Set kettle in Pale Dusky Blue

$149, The Good Guys

In a fun pale blue hue, the Breville Temp Set kettle will fit seamlessly into any modern or contemporary kitchen. With a large 1.7-litre capacity and five temperature presets, you can optimise water temperature for an array of teas and coffees to enjoy. Plus, with an easy-view water window and auto-shutoff, you have complete control with every boil.

Key features:

• 1.7-litre capacity
• 5 temperature presets
• Water view window
• Auto shut-off

Shop Now

06

Fellow Stagg EKG electric kettle

$296.30, Kogan

With its precision gooseneck spout, precise temperature control, and matte finish, this temperature control kettle is highly rated among coffee enthusiasts for a reason. Combining style with functionality, the Stagg EKG is a must-have if you’re serious about perfecting the humble cuppa.

Key features:

• Gooseneck spout design
• Advanced temperature control
• LCD display
• Built-in stopwatch
• Keeps water temperature for up to an hour

Shop Now

Are temperature control kettles worth it?

If you like to brew tea often, then a temperature control kettle is definitely worth it. Being able to choose the exact temperature in which your water heats up to will ensure you can create the perfect cup of tea at all times. Further, as you can change the temperature of the water, temperature control kettles can also work the exact same way as a standard kettle, and can heat up your water to boiling point, too. However, if you’re not a tea drinker and do not need water to reach specific temperatures often, then a standard kettle (with only one temperature setting) will cost less and may be more suited for your needs.

Nonetheless, if you have the budget for it, a temperature control kettle is still an overall great investment as they are a highly functional and versatile appliance for any kitchen.

Related content:

Previous

8 electric kettles that will look schmick on your kitchen benchtop

The best glass kettles for making the perfect cup of tea

The best kettle and toaster sets for a cohesive kitchen

7 whistling stovetop kettles for nostalgic and slow mornings

The best gooseneck kettles to pour your perfect brew

Next

The post Is a temperature control kettle the secret to the perfect cup of tea? appeared first on Homes To Love.

However, choosing the right dishwasher (that also doesn’t break the bank) for your household is incredibly important. And, if you’re like us, and you’ve had our fair share of experiences with dishwashers that give an underwhelming clean (read: awkward food scraps still on the side of bowls), finding a model that actually leaves your dishes sparkling clean is a must.

So, with that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best dishwashers available on the market now that are under $1000, below.

The best dishwashers under $1000

01

Hisense 60cm freestanding dishwasher

The Good Guys

Equipped with a flexible bottom basket for bulky dishes and an array of washing programs, the Hisense 60cm freestanding dishwasher eliminates the headache of dirty dishes, immediately. And, for only $699, this is one of the most affordable yet durable models on the market right now.

It has a 3.5-star energy rating and a 4.5 star water rating, with the option of an Eco program for efficient washing. It also has an average rating 3.8 stars on The Good Guys website, with around 70% recommending it.

As one customer summed it up: “Good price, easy self install (I’m not handy at all but installed it very easily). Excellent cleaning. Lots of cleaning options/ settings to customise wash cycle. Recommended.”

Key features:

• 14 place settings
• 8 wash programs
• Flexible bottom basket to load bulkier dishes
• Dry+ function for excellent drying results
• Collapsible cutlery tray
• AutoWash for an optimised clean

Also available at:

• Betta

Shop Now

02

Westinghouse freestanding dishwasher

Appliances Online

Reliable and elegantly designed, the Westinghouse freestanding dishwasher is a great choice for any household. It has a 13-place setting capacity that’s great for families, as well as a height-adjustable upper basket, foldable cup shelves and modular cutlery basket to make loading and unloading it easy.

It has a 3-star energy rating and 4.5 star water efficiency rating, as well as a solid average review rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars through Bazaarvoice Authentic Reviews.

“I was looking for a dishwasher that was energy efficient, had a short cycle, easy to use and quiet. This dishwasher ticks all the boxes. It’s especially useful to have a 30 minute cycle when I just need a quick wash for dishes. I’ve recommended this dishwasher to others and we’re very happy with our purchase,” one reviewer wrote.

Key features:

• 13 place settings
• FlexZone for half-loads
• Height-adjustable upper basket
• 6 wash programs

Also available at:

• Betta

Shop Now

03

Haier freestanding dishwasher in black

The Good Guys

If the appliances in your kitchen are all black, then you’ll want a dishwasher in the same hue to match. This freestanding dishwasher from Haier not only looks right at home in any modern kitchen but it is also jam-packed with features that’ll make you fall in love with washing dishes (well, loading up the dishwasher).

It has a decent energy rating of 4 stars and a water rating of 5 stars, as well as an average rating of 4.2 stars from customer reviews on The Good Guys.

Key features:

• Adjustable upper basket to cater to bulky items
• 6 wash programs, including Steam and Hygiene to kill 99.99% of bacteria
• Dishwasher door automatically opens at end of a cycle for effective drying
• AutoWash sensing
• Wifi compatibility with SmartHQ app

Also available at:

• Appliances Online
• Bing Lee

Shop Now

04

Beko freestanding dishwasher

Appliances Online

Perfect for busy households, this freestanding dishwasher has a sliding cutlery compartment to help you fit in bigger items, as well as three height adjustments for the upper rack. It also includes an Intensive70 wash for when you need a tougher clean.

While it only has a 3-star energy rating and 3.5 star water rating, customers love it, with an average 4.7 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews through Bazaarvoice Authentic Reviews. One recent reviewer wrote: “Easy to negotiate the programs. Seems to work well, good with variety of glassware. Quiet.”

Key features:

• 5 washing programs
• Intensive70 wash setting for heavily soiled dishes
• Sliding cutlery compartment
• Wifi compatibility with HomeWhiz app to remotely control your cycle

Also available at:

• Bing Lee

Shop Now

05

Samsung 60cm stainless steel freestanding dishwasher

The Good Guys

With the Samsung dishwasher’s 14-place setting capacity, washing up after mealtime is a breeze. Plus, with its easy-to-access baskets, racks, and cutlery tray, you’ll never find a dirty spoon after a wash ever again.

It has a 3.5 star energy rating and 4.5 star water rating, with Eco included as one of its 7 wash programs. Customers have given it an average of 4.3 stars out of 5 on The Good Guys, with one review from early 2024 stating: “It is a great dishwasher all-round. Great value and does an excellent job. We had a Samsung before and this new one is just fantastic. Cleans all dishes, pots etc really well and we love the cutlery tray but most of all we just love how quiet it is. Well done to the manufacturer.”

Key features:

• Flexible interior space with third rack
• Half Load setting to fill and clean items in the bottom zone only
• 60 mins Express Wash option
• Wide LED display

Shop Now

Tips to find the best dishwasher under $1000 for your household

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to dishwasher features and prices. But if you’re on a budget, these 4 tips can help you find the best dishwasher under $1000.

1. Consider the size, based on dimensions and place setting capacities so you can choose one that fits your kitchen and needs.
2. Check the energy and water efficiency ratings – the closer they are to 6 stars, the more potential there is for you to save on these household bills.
3. Find out about the warranty options available.
4. Remember to factor in the potential cost of delivery and installation.
5. If there are particular features you want, such as adjustable racks, make sure the model you look at has them.

Which brand of dishwasher is most reliable?

There are an array of different brands when it comes to buying a new dishwasher, finding one that is reputable and high-quality comes with a bit of research. Choosing a brand that is known to make high-quality appliances is a great place to start, then filtering it down to specific models that may work better to suit your personal preference will ensure you’re buying a dishwasher for life. Some household appliance brands that are worth considering are Samsung, LG, ILVE, NEFF, Electrolux, Asko, Smeg, Fisher & Paykel, BOSCH, Miele, Beko, Haier, Westinghouse, Hisense, and more.

The post The best dishwashers under $1000 to help you save time and money on chores appeared first on Homes To Love.

Why is it called shaker style?

Wondering why it is called a shaker kitchen? The name comes from a specific sect of Quakers founded in the 18th century — the Shaking Quakers — who rejected flashy interiors, favouring humility instead.

What is a shaker kitchen style?

Chances are, you’ve probably seen a shaker-style kitchen before without even realising it. But if you need a quick refresher, here’s what you need to know. The beauty of a shaker-style kitchen lies in its simple and clean-cut design. Think recessed panels, crisp lines, and well-proportioned frames. But as they say, the devil is in the details (or lack thereof). There are no intricate carvings that will overstay their welcome here – just an elegant kitchen design guaranteed to stand the test of time.

Are shaker kitchens still fashionable?

Stunning in its simplicity, a shaker kitchen is your best bet if you’re after something as elegant and chic as it is practical. In contemporary kitchens, shaker-style cabinets are one of the most popular choices thanks to their versatile and timeless appeal. In traditional homes, shaker-style cabinets are usually painted in crisp whites and pale greys, with the shaker detail adding depth to the otherwise flat colours. More modern takes have seen shaker-style cabinets painted in bolder hues, from deep blues to rich greens.

21 stunning examples of shaker-style kitchens

Dark shaker cabinets in a country kitchen

The shaker kitchen cabinets in this storybook-like cottage in Lyonville, Victoria, are painted in Haymes Paint Comfort 6. The joinery was installed by the homeowner and a friend. “There’s not a straight line in the place, which made it interesting!” he says, laughing.

Light grey shaker-style cabinets

The owner of this elegant townhouse loves to cook, so getting the kitchen just right was crucial. Interior designer Marylou Sobel converted the existing second living room into a spacious entertainer’s kitchen with shaker-style joinery and an expansive island at its heart. A butler’s pantry now stands in place of the original galley kitchen.

Open-plan country-style kitchen

For the kitchen, the homeowner devised a scheme of mixed materials to work harmoniously with the stone wall, which she treated as the hero of the space. “My aim was to create a modern palette with a play on the traditional farmhouse theme,” says Georgie. “Solid timber benchtops teamed with a refined grey wash and hand-cut tiles all play to the idea of rustic yet contemporary.”

Bright and open country-style kitchen

Opting for a crisp white palette in his country home, interiors expert Neale Whitaker added dark grey shaker-style kitchen cabinets to the kitchen to help ground the modern country look.

Creatively styled and colourful kitchen

“We love open shelving as it’s more room to display treasures,” says homeowner Emma, of her eclectic shaker-style country kitchen. “For me, a kitchen has to have art, lamps and flowers. Everything I touch has to be really nice, whether it’s old wooden spoons or mismatched crockery,” she adds.

Sage green shaker kitchen

A soft colour palette of sage green and white features in this spacious kitchen by Dylan and Jenny from The Block 2022. “We chose this cabinetry because the Dry Sage colour connects to the beautiful landscape outside,” says Jenny. “The shaker profile also evokes the country aesthetic we wanted to achieve.”

In Bec and George Dourous’s family home rich eucalyptus green shaker-style cabinets add a vibrant contrast to the white subway tile splashback and blonde timber flooring that runs throughout the space.

Powder blue beachy shaker kitchen

Kim, the homeowner, kept the 15-year-old cabinets in the kitchen of her beautiful beach house in Blairgowrie, Victoria but replaced the cupboard doors with new ones in Dulux Pre School. Painting the ceiling Dulux Guild Grey has made the space feel more intimate.

French farmhouse-style kitchen

Inspired by French Provincial style, this Victorian farmhouse features weathered timber flooring throughout. In the kitchen, white panelled shaker style kitchen cabinetry adds a bright contrast, as does the copper rangehood.

Elegant navy blue shaker-style kitchen

This traditional Edwardian semi was given a revamp which extended to its open-plan kitchen living and dining space. In the kitchen, shaker-style cabinetry in a bold blue was chosen to be the central feature, with sculptural gold pendant lights and tapware adding a glamorous contrast.

All-white farmhouse kitchen

The generous kitchen of this family farmhouse in NSW features a mix of glass-fronted cabinet doors and shaker-style cabinetry to create a dynamic look in the all-white space.

Rustic farmhouse kitchen

Embracing a rustic country aesthetic, this farmhouse in the Macedon Ranges features a rich mix of timber tones with a soaring cathedral ceiling taking pride of place. In the kitchen, dark grey shaker-style cabinetry adds a dramatic contrast to the timber kitchen island.

Modern black shaker-style kitchen

The kitchen in this interior designer’s renovated white weatherboard home had its storage radically enhanced with the addition of a butler’s pantry. Striking joinery in Dulux Black is counterbalanced by a white-tiled splashback and cover for the rangehood.

Scandi-style shaker kitchen

Soft grey shaker-style kitchen cabinetry makes a charming statement in this Scandi-style family home. White kitchen appliances and brass tapware add a contemporary touch.

Opting for a regal and luxurious look in his country home, interior stylist Steve Cordony chose the classic shaker style look for his kitchen cabinetry, painted in Black Cockatoo from Porter’s Paints. The brass door pulls up the sophisticated glamour.

Light grey Federation-style home

The kitchen of this Federation home in Sydney features a playful patterned tiled floor paired with light grey shaker-style kitchen cabinetry. A generous farmhouse-style sink adds a rustic touch to the space.

Minimalist shaker-style kitchen

Drawing inspiration from the classic Hamptons style look in the kitchen, this all-white Sydney home features stark white shaker-style kitchen cabinets paired with gold cabinet pulls and handles for an added touch of luxury.

Chyka Keebaugh’s Hamptons-meets-Provincial kitchen

In Chyka Keebaugh’s Mornington Peninsula weekender, inspiration from both Hamptons style and French Provincial design come together in this relaxed kitchen space where shaker-style cabinets surround a statement kitchen island.

Traditional white shaker-style kitchen

This historic Sydney home was lovingly restored, from the soaring exposed ceiling beams to the floorboards. In the kitchen, crisp white shaker-style cabinetry adds to the sense of grandeur.

The post 21 reasons you should consider a shaker-style kitchen appeared first on Homes To Love.

The answer lies in its unique design. The long, curved spout, which gives the kettle its distinctive “gooseneck” name, offers an unparalleled level of control over the flow of water. This precision pouring is key to ensuring the perfect extraction of flavours from coffee grounds or tea leaves, making the gooseneck kettle a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their brewing technique.

From adjustable temperatures to stylish designs, gooseneck kettles come in a variety of forms, each catering to different needs and tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or just someone who enjoys a well-brewed cup, understanding the benefits of a gooseneck kettle can enhance your daily brewing experience.

The best gooseneck tea kettles 2024

01

Easyworkz Gage Pour Over Kettle

$29.99, Amazon

This gooseneck kettle features a precision spout, allowing easy control over water flow, perfect for brewing coffee or tea. Its smooth, uninterrupted pour ensures even beginners can achieve a professional-level brew. Designed with an ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip, it prevents burns when handling boiling water. The lid has a hole for thermometer insertion, and its compact size makes cleaning simple and efficient.

Key features:

• Precision pouring
• Ergonomic handle
• High quality
• Inspected in-house
• Compact

Also available at:

• $39.95, ebay.com.au

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02

Hazel Quinn gooseneck electric kettle

$109.99, Amazon

This gooseneck kettle features precision temperature control with a rotating knob that allows for accurate ±1° adjustments. This lets you explore unique tea and coffee flavours within a range of 37-100°C, you can also easily switch between °F and °C to accommodate global preferences. Its 304 stainless steel interior ensures healthier hydration by avoiding any contact with plastic, prioritising both durability and purity for a safer drinking experience.

For added safety, the kettle is equipped with a STRIX thermostat that provides automatic shut-off for dry boiling and overheating. It turns off instantly when lifted from the base, ensuring a secure and convenient user experience.

Key features:

• Precision temperature control
• Healthier hydration with stainless steel
• Rapid 1200 W heating
• 2-hour thermal insulation
• STRIX thermostat for safety

Also available at:

• $199.99, MyDeal
• $57.99, ebay.com.au

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03

Elite Gourmet digital kettle

$85.67, Amazon

This Elite Gourmet 1-litre gooseneck digital kettle combines a stylish black matte finish with copper accents, adding sophistication to any kitchen. It features 13 pre-programmed temperatures and three custom settings (90°C for Oolong tea, 93°C for coffee, and 96°C for black tea), with an LED digital readout and audible indicator for precise temperature control. The 360° swivel base allows easy access without tipping, while the cordless design enables convenient pouring and serving. With 1200 watts of power, it heats one litre of water in under six minutes. Additional features include a 90° gooseneck spout, stainless steel interior, and a cool-touch handle.

Key features:

• 90° gooseneck spout
• 360° swivel base and cordless serving
• Pre-programmed temperatures
• Fast, convenient and easy
• Classic design

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04

Electric gooseneck kettle

$159.88, Amazon

Featuring precise temperature control ranging from 40°C to 100°C and holds up to 600ml. This gooseneck kettle includes real-time temperature display and variable presets to prevent burning your coffee or tea leaves. The Keep Warm function maintains the water temperature for 60 minutes.

Made from food-grade stainless steel, the kettle ensures a pure taste for your beverages. With 1000 watts of power, it boils a full kettle in just three to five minutes, with a one-hour keep warm function for convenience.

The kettle employs British STRIX thermostat technology for automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection, and its gooseneck spout provides precise pour control with a leak-proof design.

Key features:

• Keep warm function
• Quick heating
• Food-grade stainless steel
• Safe and leak-proof
• Precise temperature control

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05

Stainless steel gooseneck kettle  

$77.63, Amazon

The 600ml Gooseneck Kettle is perfect for individuals or small households, ideal for brewing 1-3 cups of coffee. Its long pouring spout provides precise control over water flow, ensuring even saturation of coffee grounds for optimal flavour and aroma. The handle, crafted from high-quality wood, offers a comfortable grip and adds a touch of elegance. With its gooseneck spout, pouring is effortless and convenient. Made from durable 304 stainless steel, the kettle is resistant to corrosion and maintains the pure taste of your coffee. This combination of functionality and style makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Key features:

• 600ml capacity
• Long pouring spout
• Wooden handle
• Easy pouring
• Stainless steel material

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06

Harriet gooseneck kettle

$109.99, Amazon

The Gooseneck Kettle features a unique three-layer base design that ensures uniform heat distribution and rapid boiling while preventing leaks and rust. The built-in thermometer allows precise temperature control, enhancing the flavour and aroma of your coffee and tea. Its 90° spout design facilitates smooth water flow for accurate pouring. The kettle boasts a heat-resistant, ergonomic resin handle with an additional heat insulation mat, ensuring safe and comfortable use. Crafted from premium 304 stainless steel, it is rust-free and easy to clean. Compatible with gas, electric, induction, halogen, and radiant stoves, this kettle is versatile and practical.

Key features:

• Suitable for use on gas, electric, induction
• Unique 3-layer base
• Built-in thermometer
• Ergonomic heat-resistant handle
• 304 stainless steel

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What is a gooseneck kettle?

A gooseneck kettle is a specialised type of kettle featuring a long, narrow spout with a distinct curved shape, resembling a goose’s neck. Unlike traditional kettles, the gooseneck design offers precise control over the water flow, making it ideal for pour-over coffee and tea brewing. This control allows users to pour water slowly and accurately, ensuring an even extraction of flavours. Baristas and tea enthusiasts often prefer gooseneck kettles for their ability to enhance the brewing process.

Why do you need a gooseneck kettle for pour-over coffee?

With a traditional kettle, it’s difficult to manage the speed and direction of the pour, which can lead to over-extraction or under-extraction in some areas of the coffee bed. A gooseneck kettle, however, provides greater accuracy, enabling you to pour in controlled, circular motions. This level of control is particularly important when using manual brewing methods like pour-over, where timing and technique play a vital role. In short, a gooseneck kettle helps you achieve a more balanced and flavourful cup of coffee, making it a must for pour-over enthusiasts.

Related content:

• 7 whistling stovetop kettles for nostalgic and slow mornings
• The best glass kettles for making the perfect cup of tea
• 8 electric kettles that will look schmick on your kitchen benchtop

The post The best gooseneck kettles to pour your perfect brew appeared first on Homes To Love.

1. Pay attention to the mood of the room

A well-curated atmosphere — adjusted with lighting, color schemes, decor, and even music — can make any celebratory occasion feel more inviting and vibrant. And a lively, well-considered ambiance can encourage conversation, relaxation, and a sense of togetherness, transforming an ordinary dining experience into something special.

Here are some simple ways to enhance mood in an instant: 

• Lighting cues: Forget the ‘big light’ and rely on several sources of soft, diffused ambient lighting to create a warm atmosphere. Use task lighting in the kitchen and table lamps and candles in the dining area. Mood lighting at its finest!  

• Layers of rugs: Decorating with multiple rugs can add visual warmth while anchoring the kitchen-dining area. Rugs can also improve acoustics by absorbing sound, creating a more relaxed vibe.  

• Fresh flowers: Place fresh flowers, herbs, or plants around the kitchen and dining space. Consider seasonal arrangements to keep the space lively and fragrant. 

• Aromatherapy: Use subtle, high-quality diffusers or scented candles to create a welcoming aroma that complements the occasion. 

Top tip: Integrate a high-quality sound system for background music (or invest in a portable speaker). Choose a playlist that suits the occasion, from soft jazz for a dinner party to upbeat tunes for a festive gathering.

2.  Add a touch of luxury

Just like a statement piece can instantly elevate an outfit, a touch of luxury is one of the most impactful ways to liven up a kitchen. Whether it’s a statement cast iron pot, coffee machine or a big-ticket appliance, a premium product can make entertaining at home more efficient and enjoyable. 

If you’re going to invest in a new appliance, make it your refrigerator set up. From refrigerators to freezers and wine cellars, the Monolith range by Liebherr is designed to make dinner party prep easier, allowing you to serve restaurant quality meals paired with matching wines at home.  

The fridges feature plenty of space to store degustation courses, while the BioFresh-Plus technology allows fresh ingredients — from a crisp salad to seafood — to last longer and retain nutrients and freshness.  And the freezers’ precise controls mean even delicate ingredients like herbs can be frozen without loss of quality. A touch of luxury goes a long way.

3. Ensure the space is sparkly clean 

A tidy home shows guests you’ve taken the time to prepare for their visit, encouraging them to relax in sparkly clean comfort. This means clearing clutter from kitchen counters and wiping down the dining table before you set it. If you’re short on time, high-tech cordless vacuums are a game changer for dinner party prep as they’re lightweight and easy to manoeuvre.  

Top tip: Invest in a premium stick vacuum like the Flexi Lite wet and dry vacuum which can clean rooms from edge-to-edge. With flat reach capabilities, it can clean under furniture as low as 15 centimetres so you can vacuum beneath the dining table and in tricky kitchen crevices. When hosting a dinner party, keep it nearby to quickly clean up any wet and dry messes throughout the evening. 

Luxury buys to liven up your kitchen  

Liebherr Integrated Refrigerator With Peak BioFresh

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Miss Amara ‘Venus’ Ivory Abstract Rug

$249

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Coco Republic Aleka Table Lamp

$795

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Liebherr Refrigerator With Peak BioFresh

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Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Stainless Steel

$999

shop now

Roborock Flexi Lite Wet And Dry Floor Vacuum

$499

shop now

The post How to liven up your kitchen-dining space for special occasions   appeared first on Homes To Love.