My top kitchen tips - part 1

The kitchen is arguably the most important room in the house. It’s the often the central hub of the home and is a place we spend a lot of time. Taking some time to think about what you need will pay dividends for years to come.

There are a few key kitchen elements I’m often asked about, so am sharing my top tips to help you get the perfect outcome.

Tip 1 – Splashback

Do you want your tiled splashback to make a statement or to blend in? For example, some people like an all-white kitchen and selecting white splashback tiles with white grout will achieve that seamless white palette. It’s a timeless look and works well with everything.

For those who find too much white a bit harsh on the eyes, adding a pop of colour with a splashback tile is a lovely alterative. A mint green or dusty pink subway tile in a herringbone pattern makes a statement that draws the eye as soon as you walk into the kitchen and adds a little touch of luxury.

Or, you may consider a window for you splashback - either a fixed pane or an opening/sliding window. This lets more light into the kitchen and is great when cooking to let out those odours. Keep in mind though, that the window splashback will require very regular cleaning to keep on top of those oil and fat spills.

Tip 2 – Appliances

Should I opt for a 600mm or 900mm cooktop and oven? Do I want a gas or electric cooktop? Is a slide out rangehood or a canopy rangehood better? These are some of the questions you should consider and there are pros and cons for each option.

If you are a budding chef, have a large family or like to entertain, a 600mm oven and cooktop is not going to be big enough to juggle multiple dishes. In that case, consider a 900mm gas cooktop which also gives you the option of a wok burner - perfect for those stir-frys!

I personally love the instant heat of a gas cooktop - I am not a cook by any means, but I love how water boils really quickly with a gas cooktop, whereas with electric it can take a while for the heat to get through. They’re also handy when there is a power failure – you can still make dinner….by candelight! The downside to a gas cooktop is the amount of cleaning required - oil seems to spill everywhere and after every mealtime you find yourself cleaning! Aaargh!

A slide-out rangehood sits flush with the overhead cupboards and gives a streamlined look, but a canopy rangehood adds a feature to your kitchen and looks amazing, whilst performing well. Just be careful of the grime that can build up on the top section of the canopy.

Tip 3 – Taps

Who doesn’t love a good vegie spray! Gooseneck taps with a pull-down vegie spray are becoming very popular and are available in a variety of colours.

This is one item I would definitely splash out on as we all tend to use our kitchen taps multiple times a day. Pay a little bit extra for a sturdy gooseneck tap - it will look wonderful as a feature in your kitchen and is super practical when washing those plates or awkward items like frypans.

Stay tuned for part 2 of my top kitchen tips where I’ll cover sinks, benchtops cabinetry and pantries. If you have any questions about inclusions or optional upgrades, contact me here.