5 modern kitchen upgrades

Revamping the busiest room in the house to suit the way you cook, dine and entertain doesn’t have to involve a complete overhaul. Avoid the cost and disruption of a full renovation by modernising a single aspect or add a few conspicuous accessories to keep the kitchen funky but functional.

 

The biggest trend on the Handyman radar is that more blokes are cooking and the popularity of TV food shows and young, high-profile chefs is coaxing them into the kitchen.

 

Celebrity UK chef Jamie Oliver started it with his rockstar hair and pub-style approach to food. MasterChef winner Adam Liaw, agrees.

 

‘I think it’s a result of cooking at home being considered creative and fun,rather than being housework. These days more guys are happy to get into the kitchen to cook. Although I don’t think the number of guys happy to do the dishes has changed much.’

The increased interest in cooking is inspiring owners to upsize when choosing new appliances.

 

A target for expansion is the oven, with larger or double units to cope with the demands of serious entertaining.

 

Fridges are also getting bigger with smart design, flexible interiors and better energy efficiency.

 

Side-by-side fridge and freezer models are popular, as are base-mount freezers. For the ultimate in modern form and hidden function Electrolux has a built-in fridge that fits behind and attaches to kitchen cabinetry.

 

Natural palettes always dominate in the kitchen because pale shades help lighten and brighten work areas, but designers and renovators are using feature colours to energise spaces.

 

A quirky splashback, feature wall, statement appliance or bright cupboard doors add character to a kitchen and can be replaced or

revamped later if tastes change. 

 

Laminex has released a range of new shades in solid finishes that add vibrancy to an otherwise neutral kitchen, offering a seamless gloss finish for an ultra-modern look.

 

Brightly coloured taps and door handles create a contrast to dark and light surfaces.