It’s the hub of any home, especially during the festive season, says style director Louise Hilsz. Here are some quick ideas on updating your kitchen regardless of the layout.
Image Instagram
Not only is it the busiest room in your home, but it’s also the hardest working. To prepare for the festive season and endless days of entertaining, here are a few simple changes, such as painting the cupboards in a fresh colour or switching out your hanging lights; even revamping your backsplash can create a new look that won’t break the bank. These ideas are designed to spark instant inspiration.
The compact kitchen
Even the smallest of kitchens can have the wow factor. Don’t be boring with white, choose a bold hue. Of course your kitchen needs to be functional, but it also needs to communicate the right style statement. In this kitchen, it's all about a unique patterned backsplash and bold paint shade.
Resene Java paint available from Resene ColorShops. That Seventies Shop Black, white and grey geometric circles tile, $31. Smeg 90cm 5 Burner Dual Fuel Freestanding Oven, $8969, from Kitchen Things. Vista Alegre Atlantis Vendome Whisky Decanter, $365.
Only Good Refresh Natural Hand Wash, 300ml, $6 and $600ml, $9.
Fresh herbs and an invigorating hand wash bring those summery aromas to any kitchen. Only Good is 100 per cent natural on the inside and the outside, cruelty and palm-oil free, so it’s also safe for the boat or bach. This Refresh scent is a blend of mint, sage and zesty lime, and not only the perfect way to refresh your hands while cooling the scent but also leaves a fresh lingering scent. You can even shop a household bundle of hand and body wash below, six products for $49.
The Island kitchen
A colourful kitchen complements a classic marble island bench. By adding bold dashes of wallpaper and paint you can make any space come alive - even if it’s small.
Lukeke Design Deflated Pendant, in the new shade Gold Topaz, $750. Resene Camelot paint available from Resene ColorShops. Resene 200464 Wallcovering Collection available from Resene ColorShops. Elysian Commercial 3-Way Filtered Tap, $670.
Bespoke lighting gives your kitchen an elegant edge. No one is better than glass artist Luke Jacob; of Lukeke Design. You can select your shade and size pendant or lamp light to complement your kitchen design. Check out how the Lukeke Design Deflated Pendant, $750, is handcrafted, ensuring each pendant lamp is unique. There are six new shades for summer, including Gold Topaz pictured above.
The outdoor kitchen
As the heart of any home, it’s no wonder that outdoor kitchens are among the top design trends of 2022. Summer is the ideal time to take your living outside. With a little clever planning, you can create a resilient outdoor kitchen, that is a functional space for hosting friends and family.
Coastal Style Wicker & Aluminum outdoor chair, $1475. Citta Design Stripe dinner napkin, $9. Weave Home Umbra Rug Natural, $999. Denby Nesting Bowl 4 piece, $180.
Editor Trudi Brewer shares her latest renovation project.