Little & large
If you yearn for a functional or fashion-forward design, make your vision a reality regardless of the dimensions of your kitchen/dining zone.
Whether it’s a love of cooking or a desire to entertain at home, our demand for a practical yet luxurious space has rapidly increased. Doubling up everything from appliances to wet zones – and even the kitchens themselves – has gained in desirability recently. But, that’s not to say that the more bijou schemes are losing out. On the contrary, with innovative storage, we can all own a stunning work station!
Two’s company
Perhaps it’s the rise of cookery programmes that has seen us rush to the showrooms quicker than you can say “Jamie Oliver”. Large rooms able to accommodate a pair of budding chefs are now proving very popular. Says Alex Ross-Skinner, Design Director at Smallbone of Devizes. “Having a generous prep zone is of immense importance.
If there’s space, go for a big island with capacious storage and an extensive work zone for two. Plus, a main area with an additional dining spot can be helpful.” As staying in is fast becoming the new going out, there’s now much more emphasis on flexibility in looks and functionality. Choosing a bespoke design service means you can even find a scheme that suits your lifestyle, whether hosting dinner parties or experimenting with new recipes. 
Seeing double
Explains Simon Bray, MD at Simon Bray, “When planning a duo décor, keep in mind how you will be using it.” Make creating meals less of a chore and more of a pleasure by positioning two ovens side-by-side, or line up appliances in a bank on one wall. That way, you can have a dedicated task arena which is a modern design feature too.
Compact creations
If you’re not blessed with a super-sized space, there are clever tricks – visually, at least – that can increase room proportions. High gloss cabinetry will reflect light in a small zone to give the illusion of extra inches. Meanwhile, cooler tones for walls and flooring, coupled with good lighting – natural and artificial – will help to exude a spacious feel. The latest styles designed with tight locations in mind include all-in-one work stations as well as cube-like single units that can be configured to the requirements of every client. And, if you’re the proud owner of a seaside hideaway, you can now go bespoke in your beach hut with a tailor-made and practical spot for making snacks and lunches. 
Stylish solutions
Whether small or large, be inspired to divide the kitchen into two distinct areas. Form a cooking and prep zone along one side with a dining table opposite, so you can allow two people to rustle up a feast in harmony – even in a less generously sized room! With more of us opting for open-plan layouts these days, make sure you enjoy a visit to London’s Wigmore Street to see the latest trends. From ‘hidden’ kitchens that are shut behind sleek cabinetry to magnificent industrial-style benches, there’s bound to be a look you’ll fall in love with.
Thanks to good design and forward-thinking functionality, every homeowner can now have the scheme of their dreams, whether their property is on a grand scale – or not. And with such a superb atmosphere at home, why would you eat out?
