(Remo Alabaster with split level peninsular & material mix worktops)

In terms of function, it’s important that any kitchen diner has plenty of storage and sufficient food preparation areas. Smart storage makes great use of space with clever solutions such as pull-out shelves, larder units and magic corners. These all maximise space but are neatly hidden behind the kitchen furniture so don’t interrupt the aesthetics. Worktops need to be practical but again without compromising on good looks, so one option is to mix materials. Material mix is a key trend that creates specific zones for different activities in the kitchen, such as cool granite for food preparation and solid timber for the dining area.

(Langham Painted with dining table, lots of dedicated hidden storage)

This stunning real kitchen by Milligan & Jessop is so beautifully designed and styled that it is perfectly pretty in pink! The attention to detail is evident in all areas of this kitchen living space from the accessorisation to the meticulously fitted furniture. The look is sophisticated and feminine yet inviting with a sense of fun. We love it! It therefore comes as no surprise that this design as been awarded the real kitchen of the month.

http://www.sncollection.co.uk/real-kitchens/real-kitchen-projects/broadoak-painted-milligan-and-jessop.html

If it’s an openplan space then tie the scheme together with a feature décor-wall. A William Morris inspired print will create a vintage style and the colours in the pattern can be linked through to the painted cabinetry for a co-ordinated look. Add warmth with oak flooring and worktops and the look is almost complete………just a feature pendant lamp or chandelier for the all-important finishing touch.

This real kitchen by Kitchen Kraft of Northwich gives a nostalgic nod to the past yet is an easy-to-live with design that is not only sympathetic to the original architecture of the property but will look beautiful for years to come.  For further details of this project visit http://www.sncollection.co.uk/real-kitchens/real-kitchen-projects/broadoak-ivory-and-damson-kitchen-kraft.html

U-shape layouts work particularly well in a small space, they are ergonomic and allow for plenty of hidden storage and potentially a seating area too.  Consider a split-level surface to accommodate a dedicated dining space.  Storage space can be maximised with tall wall units to accentuate height. Lack of worktop space is often a problem in a small kitchen, but keeping them clutter-free and only placing essential and regularly used items on the surface will maximise the working area.  Consider including an inset birch end grain timber worksurface to assist food preparation, this will also avoid having chopping boards scattered across the worksurface.  Also look at using flush sinks and hobs to add space and visually make the room look bigger.

Good storage is the key to making the most of a small kitchen.  There are some ingenious systems that will utilise really challenging spaces, keeping everything organised and easy to get at. Magic corners, pull-out larders and carousels will all make the kitchen work so much more efficiently. There are even 150mm narrow pull-outs to fill the smallest of spaces and these have handy towel rails and racks for bottles and jars.   Drawer packs can help segregate storage and come straight out to you.

150mm pull-out

Material mix is at home in both classic and contemporary design. Wood tends to work well with almost any other material in the kitchen so if you are a lover of nature then in a contemporary scheme you can use accents of stainless steel or high gloss to create a striking contrast and an industrial-inspired look. Alternatively oak, with its distinctive graining can be a feature, for example to frame the cabinets or as end panels or worksurfaces. A mix and match look is truly at home in traditional design so blending of different materials, colours and finishes will create the authentic feel.  Mix timber with one-off painted pieces and natural worksurfaces and you’ll have the recipe to create a beautiful, individual kitchen with lasting appeal.

Second Nature’s Milton Oak, Charcoal and Alabaster painted cabinetry are mixed with oak and granite worksurfaces, a great example of material mix.

Listeners are encouraged to buy an additional present and take it to one of the station’s drop off points. Just before Christmas Eve, in association with Social Services and local charities the presents will be distributed.  To find out more about this wonderful appeal visit www.thisisstar.co.ukcommunity/toyappeal.php  or  www.sncollection.co.uk for further information about Second Nature kitchens.

Firstly, an island creates a social centre in your kitchen.  It lets you prepare food without constantly having to turn your back on guests or family.  If you use your island as an informal dining place, it’s an area where friends can sit and chat as you prepare drinks or dinner.  This creates a nice, relaxed environment to linger around.

A second advantage of an island is, of course, that it becomes an attractive focal point for your kitchen.  A colourful island in a contrasting finish to your cabinets can really brighten up your room and make it just that little bit different.  If your hob is situated on your island, then you can create even more of an attention-grabber by adding an interesting extractor.  Whether you choose an extractor that suspends from your ceiling or rises from your island, it will be sure to spark interest.

You can always add interesting detail to your island by featuring different levels and materials or a lower level surface for your kids to bake or eat at.  Another idea, if you have the space, is to create an unusually shaped island to cater for your needs and add character to your kitchen.  See our Remo Alabaster range for some ideas of mixing and matching materials and levels on your island.