To understand which kitchen to choose for an apartment or house, you need to analyze in advance the capabilities of the room, decide on functional areas, frequency of use, quantity and dimensions of household appliances, as well as other points that play key roles. Drawing up a plan may be necessary for renovations and housewarmings, expanding the premises or improving the ergonomics of the kitchen.
What to consider when choosing a kitchen
- Need for repairs. It is determined whether replacement of wiring and plumbing communications, installation of windows or doors, and various repairs are needed. Equipment and furniture are selected only after the final finishing of the room.
- Selection of furniture. Furniture should occupy only ¼ of the kitchen. Food storage and preparation areas are thought through, the location of the “triangle” storage-washing-cooking is established
- Communications layout. If the sink or gas stove will be moved, and there are not enough sockets on one wall, all this must be taken into account in advance by preparing a plan.
- Color spectrum. The main and auxiliary palettes are selected depending on the size of the kitchen, its location (south or north side), ceiling height and general atmosphere. Also, the gamma depends on the chosen style. For example, the Provence 3 kitchen will ideally complement the style of the French village.
- Organization. There must be a place to store dishes and kitchen utensils, food and various small items, small household appliances and detergents. The kitchen set is thought out to the smallest detail. Hanging shelves and pencil cases, baskets, rotating stands for spices and sauces, etc. will also help.
- Placement of furniture. The location of the dining table and chairs, equipment, and furniture arrangement options are selected.
Assessing each stage and scheduling it will allow you to calculate the budget in advance and determine approximate deadlines. It is advisable to separately indicate the amount and required materials for each stage.
Expert advice on organizing space
Properly fitting all the necessary equipment into the kitchen, equipping the work surface and arranging the position of all internal parts and elements, regardless of the size of the kitchen space, is a task not only feasible for designers. And in a small kitchen there will be order, and in a large one everything you need will remain at hand. Electrical appliances and free space remain important components. It is organized taking into account safety standards and fundamentals. It is also important to consider that an oven with a hob, a countertop and a hood should remain within walking distance.
Large room
A large kitchen set is determined by the square footage of the room. As a rule, it takes up the lion's share of the entire space - a separate wall for an apron, side niches for stacking and storing dishes, as well as upper and lower shelves.
The height of the headset depends on the ceiling level. Moreover, its width can reach tens of linear meters.
Large sets should be equipped with a wide tabletop , which creates a workspace: on one side it is recommended to install a hob or gas stove, on the other - a sink with a place for drying dishes.
The lower border adapts to drawers for storing large kitchen utensils. These are several floors with different depths and heights. A typical box can take up up to 80 cm of space in depth.
There is also room for frying pans, small pots and bowls. Small equipment can be stored separately - in secret cabinets and drawers built into the side panel of the countertop. The upper central part of the kitchen is difficult to beat with the imagination of the owners - here should be located:
- hood;
- air duct;
- built-in heating system.
Sometimes the height of the ceilings allows you to install double-height cabinets with smooth opening doors. Here we will get convenience and comfort in one solution.
Recommendation! It is advisable to install a dishwasher or washing machine in the lower part of the set. On both sides of the kitchen, place additional full-height cabinets in which you can hide the refrigerator. It is also recommended to install an oven, oven or microwave in them. Separately located machines for dispensing ice will organically fit into the interior.
The advantage of large kitchens is a lot of space for storing dishes and small household appliances. It should be understood that for a large family it is critical to zone the room for complete comfort.
Small square
A small kitchen space is not uncommon for future buyers. Even in the “Khrushchev” buildings, the question was where to put all the equipment, to turn around on 5-6 square meters and manage to prepare a delicious and unusual dinner for the whole family. It seems that there is a stove and a refrigerator, but there is still no inspiration, some kind of human factor that determines the convenience of the kitchen area. In the absence of the possibility of expanding the kitchen, innovative ideas for ergonomic design appeared. They include prefabricated equipment, where:
- The lower drawers are reserved for storing dishes.
- Built-in wardrobes are equipped with shelves for simultaneous storage of utensils and connection of communications.
- The side parts are modeled into a transformer and become dining tables, as well as additional cooking space.
- The top dividers in the drawers become secret places for storing food supplies (salt and seasonings).
- The ornament turns into a convenient place for placing sugar bowls and straws.
Interesting article: How to place furniture in a small kitchen: photos, options for location and arrangement in a small apartment
Unlike large kitchens, in small ones, each linear meter of furniture simultaneously performs two roles - façade and functional. Even compact kitchens have small built-in dishwashers and washing machines.
Therefore, there will be no problems with organizing your workspace. The main thing is to follow safety precautions, arrange all electrical appliances and gas appliances according to operating rules (away from sinks). Such tasks are successfully handled by developers and designers who skillfully find solutions in kitchen layout.
Square type
Don't despair if the kitchen turns out to be small. The designers have provided some tricks and subtleties in this regard. Ideal styles for saving extra space would be High-Tech, Modern or even Japanese. Square small kitchens are an ultra-thin approach with increased comfort. Furniture can be arranged in an “L” pattern. The set should be compact , placed along two adjacent walls and flattened in depth. You can place the corner sink in such a way as to save space on the other side, and in this case the “dead” area of the corner will not just be empty.
Advice! For medium and large square-shaped kitchens, the furniture is arranged “along a line”, but it is important to choose a material such as wood or modern plastic so that the room does not resemble a pantry. The location opposite the door is also appropriate if the kitchen forms the letter “P”. As a rule, there is a work area on one side of the door and a dining area on the other. In both cases, the kitchen takes up more space, so it is recommended to think through the arrangement in advance so as not to block the window opening. Otherwise, you can fill the space by the window with an additional table or work surface by placing a sink or small household appliances there.
Rectangular shape
A rectangular room is always associated with an oblong design, narrow and dark. To visually correct the situation, many designers recommend installing a kitchen facade in the form of a corner addition. That is, most of the work surface and furniture will be on the long side of the wall, the rest - on the adjacent side. If it is adjacent to the door, the corner is rounded and combined with shelves, giving them functionality. Rectangular kitchens are usually not small; often their space reaches 10 square meters or more.
Clue! You can even use an island in the room, which will be attached to the opposite wall - little-used equipment, a bread bin, or something else will be located there. The main surface will contain tools important for every day.
Bay window
Not everyone can boast of a studio-type apartment. It has a living room or dining room combined with a kitchen. But in kitchens with a bay window they arrange the space very advantageously. A bay window is a facade projection on a building that is designed by the developer. Such layouts are often found in new buildings, where many rooms have more than just right angles.
The space itself is difficult to arrange, since the furniture will fit easier where the angle is even, without moving the walls. In the kitchen, this arrangement is played up by placing a dining area in the form of a table, or the main working area of the kitchen. The most difficult stage in this case is considered to be the wiring of communications, since sometimes the pipes exit only on the inside of the wall, and not on the one that protrudes onto the street.
Advice! In order for the furniture to fit beautifully into a certain interior, to be worked out according to the technique and design, it is necessary to take into account the estimate and style. Even a wooden façade can be elite or simple, but of high quality in both cases. It is also important to respect the budget, which can greatly affect the ergonomics and design of the room.
Kitchen design
Linear
The kitchen set is located in one row. It is used for small rooms, as well as for separating the cooking area from the dining area. The sink is usually located in the center, the refrigerator and stove are on the sides. A good example is Nick’s (Blanca) kitchen.
Parallel
The furniture is arranged in two rows. Used if the kitchen area is through. The stove and sink are placed on one side, the refrigerator on the other. It features an abundance of working surfaces.
Corner
All elements are arranged in the shape of the letter L. Well suited for small square rooms. If the room is spacious, the distance between work areas will be inconvenient and large. Therefore, the sink and stove are placed as close to each other as possible.
U-position
The furniture is placed along three walls. An ideal option for arranging a work triangle, since the cooking area is separated from the dining or relaxation area. Suitable for studio kitchens with an open design. The distance between the sides should be from 1.2 to 2.8 m.
Kitchen with peninsula
It will be a solution if you need an additional work surface for processing food or cooking, or organizing storage space. The ledge connects the kitchen to the dining room and is used for breakfast or serving dishes.
Ostrovnaya
Has an additional element located in the center. Applicable only for large rooms. The traditional size of the island is 1.2 * 1.2 m. A sink, hob, dishwasher are placed on it, and space is provided for storing kitchen utensils and other small items.
Selection of materials
A wide selection of kitchen furniture is presented in various materials for the base, facades and countertops. Each of them has certain properties and qualities, price and appearance.
The frames of the cabinets are made of plywood or chipboard; fiberboard is used for the back wall. The laminated material is dense, high quality, the edges are securely closed. The more expensive the set, the more durable and resistant to moisture and external factors the material will be.
Facade materials
Array
Natural, environmentally friendly solid wood has an attractive appearance and is considered the best option for decorating a set. The better the raw material is processed, the longer it will last. The types of wood used are oak, beech and ash. Coniferous wood is too soft and may leave dents and scratches.
The application of enamel or matte varnish is mandatory, as this will protect against moisture. Any damage can be restored, but special care products are used.
laminated chipboard
Affordable but short-lived material. The average service life is 5 years, then replacement will be required. The surface can imitate wood and other materials. Kitchens are offered to order or in the form of kit modules, for example, like the Premier Sofia Oliva 116 kitchen. Chipboard is easily scratched and is resistant to steam and moisture.
MDF
Combines quality, affordable price and practicality. It is easy to process, so kitchens are decorated with decorative carvings and bent elements. In terms of properties, MDF is close to solid wood, but is cheaper. The fabric is well compressed, which ensures resistance to moisture. An excellent solution is the Premiere Sofia 6 kitchen.
Finish options
- Veneer. It is a slice of wood 3 mm thick, which is glued to the facade. Covered with matte or glossy varnish. It is very similar to solid wood, durable, can be restored, but is sensitive to temperatures and ultraviolet radiation.
- PVC. Facades are covered with film under a vacuum press to ensure a tight fit. Good quality PVC will not fade or bubble. This type is used for the production of the ZOV Optima Techno P kitchen. They can peel off under high temperatures and become deformed under the influence of strong detergents.
- Plastic. Glossy, dense material that is much stronger than film. Can imitate various materials and cannot be deformed. Requires special care.
- Acrylic. It is applied in the same way as plastic, but has increased strength. The surface is glossy, smooth. Withstands external factors, but is picky in care.
Enamel is one of the most beautiful, but most demanding coatings. Any impact may result in chips and scratches. A huge palette allows you to choose the perfect color scheme. Easy to clean, but you need to buy special care products.
Countertop materials
Quartz
Durable material consisting of an agglomerated composite, resins and pigment. The composite consists of fine quartz chips. Quartz looks expensive, is durable and scratch-resistant, and can withstand stains due to its non-porous structure. Installation requires a strong frame. Cannot be repaired.
Acrylic
It contains crushed natural stone with acrylic resins and pigment. The surface of the product is well polished, and the plasticity of the material allows the production of radius elements and bends. Imitates the surface of stone, is hygienic and environmentally friendly. Due to the absence of pores, bacteria and fungi do not develop, and dirt does not accumulate. Grinding is used to eliminate defects.
It is less durable than quartz, as its surface can be scratched and chipped. May be deformed under the influence of hot kitchen utensils, food acids, and aggressive detergents. Pigmentation may change due to colored drinks.
Plastic
It consists of chipboard 2.6-3.8 cm thick, covered with plastic on top. This laminated option is ideal value for money, but only if a dense, high-quality base made by professionals is used. The ends are closed with an edge, the coating is easy to maintain. Does not tolerate direct moisture on the inside, exposure to steam, or knives.
What should you pay attention to first?
Style
How to choose the right one and where to start? Somehow, historically, such sets of furniture are mainly divided into “classical” and “modern”. By “classical” we mean framed facades and facades finished with veneer or solid wood. Various decorative elements are also used: cornices, plinths, pilasters and locks. Everything else is safely considered “modern”: panel (smooth) facades made of chipboard, MDF in PVC film, MDF in high-gloss film or enamel, facades made of aluminum profiles with various inserts. Choosing the style of future furniture is already half the battle!
It will be much easier for you to choose the appearance of your future furniture if you decide on a style at an early stage. The kitchen is a separate room, and at the same time a component of the stylistic ensemble in which your apartment or country house is designed. Everything should be combined and echo each other, complement and emphasize. And the furnishings of the room, which is sometimes called the “heart of the house,” should rightfully play a major role here.
Materials and facades. What material and what kind of façade should I choose?
A kitchen set is cabinet furniture, which is assembled from standard and parametric modules. There are quite a lot of them, so you can always choose the one you need. If any difficulties arise, our designers will prepare a project taking into account your wishes! It will be one of a kind, unlike any other. And it will undoubtedly become the “highlight” of the interior.
The module body material is made of high-quality laminated chipboard with a thickness of 16 mm. The ends of the plates are covered with PVC film. This is a heat- and moisture-resistant material that guarantees long daily service. But choosing a façade in this case is quite difficult and it’s worth dwelling on each of them in detail:
Chipboard - chipboard, is gaining more and more popularity. Even as facades, this material has proven itself very well - for a long time it will delight you with its quality and aesthetic appearance. It is impossible not to note that it is also quite budget-friendly. And with a large assortment of colors and decors, you can definitely choose your own façade finishing option that suits you perfectly.
MDF in PVC film is the most environmentally friendly and safest material for human health that is offered for use. This option will be more expensive than chipboard. At the same time, it is durable and much more adaptable to high humidity and temperature changes than all other materials used here as facades. And a huge number of decorative films will allow even the most demanding buyer to choose what they need. And in this case, it doesn’t matter at all what style you chose for the new furniture - classic or modern:
MDF in high-gloss film is a material for those who decide to create an interior in the “modern” style. A large palette of shades will awaken your imagination and set the right mood for the entire room as a whole. Glossy film is a seamless, practical and very beautiful coating. The film is applied to the facade and all edges, as if enveloping it. The absence of seams is a guarantee that the facade will serve you faithfully for a long time. And it will look as if you ordered the furniture just yesterday.
MDF in high-gloss or matte enamel is a slightly more expensive material than the previous one. At the same time, the range of colors and their shades is much wider here - there is plenty to choose from! The panel is covered with the paint of your chosen article in special boxes manually on all sides! The future façade goes through several stages of primer and varnish treatment. As a result, you get a seamless and fantastically beautiful coating of the shade you need.
MDF in veneer - stunningly beautiful facades. Solid and impeccably high-quality material for those who want to show off their furniture. Both those who want to choose a set in a classic style and lovers of modernism will find suitable models for themselves. Of course, this is an expensive material, which, however, does not require special care. Veneer is thin sheets of wood. They are applied to a frame made of MDF. Therefore, as a result, you get not only beautiful facades that will always look expensive, but also a product that will not require extra costs from you during operation.
Solid wood facades - such furniture will be the “calling card” of the owner. Nobility, sophistication and style will reign in your home and in your kitchen. Of course, this is an expensive option. And, like any expensive furniture, it requires special care and maintenance of the required temperature and humidity conditions in the room. However, if you choose solid wood facades and follow all the rules, then you will leave this furniture as an inheritance to your grandchildren - fortunately, such things never go out of fashion and even age beautifully.
Facades with decorative glass inserts are, as a rule, designed to make the kitchen visually “lighter”. And they cope with their function, as they say, “with a bang!” Transparent glass will look great on the headset body, illuminated from the inside; frosted glass or decorative plastic will slightly “retouch” what is hidden behind the sash. And decorative glass with a pattern can even set a special tone for the room.
Also pay attention to such a detail as opening the facades. They are divided into: hinged, retractable (drawers are hidden behind them), folding down, folding up (solid or folding), sliding facades (similar to sliding doors). High-quality mechanisms and time-tested fittings will ensure you comfortable use of each module individually and the entire structure as a whole. We guarantee that you will place your dishes on convenient shelves with trepidation and joyful excitement.
Ergonomics
In this aspect, when choosing furniture, it is better to act by following the advice of professionals - people who have extensive experience in designing it. Then the process of purchasing a suitable headset will not take you much time. You just need to prepare measurements of the walls along which the furniture will be located - with the location of the ventilation hole, plumbing pipes and electrical outlets - and also collect the wishes of everyone who will work here. By “wishes” we mean a list of household appliances you need and a set of necessary modules. If your renovation is just beginning, then you can choose the following option: contact our specialists with a request to make a communication plan for your future kitchen - and then, rest assured, everything will be thought out to the smallest detail!
Choosing a kitchen unit and its contents
Only a well-thought-out storage system will ensure complete order, as in the Cube 02 kitchen. If the cabinets are initially filled incorrectly, then problems will constantly arise with the arrangement of kitchen utensils, food, dishes, household items, etc. Therefore, it is important to think through options for filling the headset in advance.
Cabinets
- Hanging structure. Cabinets are located directly above the work area. They are intended for dishes, dry foods, spices. The higher the shelves are, the less often items on them should be used.
- Drying for dishes. It is located directly above the sink, “hiding” behind the front doors for aesthetics. The presence of a tray is not necessary; sometimes the compartment has no bottom and the water flows directly into the sink.
- Cabinet above the hood. In demand in small kitchens where every space has value. The pipe is hidden behind the facade, the shelf itself is suitable for small items.
- Boxes. Usually located in lower cabinets. Designed for kitchen utensils, cereals, small household appliances. Drawers allow you to conveniently organize all your essentials. You can store cleaning supplies under the sink.
- Cutlery tray. Consists of separate compartments for knives, forks and spoons. Can also act as a dryer. Made from plastic, wood, MDF.
- Cabinet under the sink. Equipped with shelves for storing sponges, household chemicals, buckets, containers. Suitable for placing a pull-out trash container.
- Carousel. Can be located in both lower and upper cabinets to organize corner space. The swivel design is easy to use, saves space and simplifies access to sauces, spices, utensils, etc. Instead of carousels, you can use retractable corner systems.
Depending on needs, other functional units can be used. For example, a narrow pull-out section on wheels can be used for vinegar and other small bottles, and a special cabinet can be purchased in order to properly store alcoholic drinks.
Tabletop
The tabletop can have baskets and stands that can easily accommodate small items. Most often, if there is still space left in addition to the work area, small household appliances and a stand for cutting boards are placed on it. Tabletop models of dish dryers are very rarely used if there is no space in the cabinets for this purpose.
Kitchen apron
In addition to its design and protective role, an apron can be used to store things. You can hang a set of small kitchen utensils or knives on it, or place a shelf with spices. Metal objects are fixed using a powerful magnetic tape. No other load should be placed on the apron.
Cutting table
When choosing a table for cutting, you need to take into account its height, since they work at such a table while standing. You need to carefully approach the material from which the countertop will be made, because the cutting table is subject to increased load in the form of hot dishes, cuts from knives, and food stains. The tabletop must be strong, moisture-resistant and easy to clean. Separately, it is necessary to pay attention to the width of the tabletop, since housewives often store sets of knives, cutting boards, sets of spices and other things on the desktop.
What else you need to pay attention to when choosing kitchen furniture:
- all pull-out elements and fittings must be strong and of high quality, since humidity and temperature are often high in the kitchen - this means that, in addition to mechanical influences, all these elements will also be affected by the environment;
- you need to be careful with the color of kitchen furniture - white, for example, is beautiful and expands the space, but it will be difficult to maintain true whiteness in the kitchen;
- furniture of unusual shapes and colors can get boring quite quickly - a person spends a lot of time in the kitchen and can simply get tired of unusualness and non-standardity in large doses, and no one wants to change kitchen furniture every year;
- if the furniture is chosen at random and does not combine with each other, then this can even become the “highlight” of the room - you need to emphasize and bring together pieces of furniture using additional means, for example, curtains, dishes, wall coverings and household appliances.
The size of the kitchen space and the compatibility of all interior items and decor are not as important as the ease of use and comfort that arises during work and relaxation in the kitchen. Therefore, you should not be afraid to choose each piece of furniture for the kitchen, but, on the contrary, you should make every effort to ensure that all family members feel cozy and comfortable in the kitchen.
Appliances
The range of household appliances for the kitchen is huge, but not all of them are used every day or even find their application. There is a list of basic equipment:
- Fridge. You can't get by in any kitchen, as this is where food is stored. It can be single- or double-chamber, with built-in freezing or simply with a cooling chamber. Smart models purify water, make it cold, make a shopping list, etc.
- Kitchen stove. This category also includes a hob with an oven. Basic cooking equipment. Can be built into a headset or placed separately.
- Food processor. Combines a blender, mixer, juicer, electric meat grinder and other small household appliances. Easy to use, consists of separate modules and attachments.
- Microwave. Modern models allow you not only to heat food, but also to use it for cooking. They do not take up much space, can be equipped with a grill, a defrosting function, two tiers, etc.
- Dishwasher. Significantly simplifies the process of washing dishes and kitchen utensils, unloads the sink, and copes with large volumes.
Other appliances, including a bread machine, egg boiler, fondue maker, toaster, electric kettle, etc. purchased as needed.
Kinds
Kitchen furniture is selected in accordance with the zones allocated in this room. Some designs are intended for storing food or utensils, others for direct food preparation, and others for sitting and relaxing. Each group of furniture has its own parameters, so their purchase must be justified and competent.
For storage
Initially, you should decide how the entire space will be divided into separate zones. The kitchen must have an area designed for storing dishes, small utensils and food. This includes the following elements:
- The refrigerator is the main household appliance that provides optimal storage conditions for various quickly perishable products. Due to this, their service life increases. The refrigerator is equipped with different compartments, so you can always comfortably place any food in it. It is installed at an optimal distance from the sink so that water does not fall on it, as well as from the stove so that it is not exposed to high temperatures;
- kitchen cabinets and drawers. They are used for storing various utensils and products. They are spacious, so behind the facades all the items used in the kitchen during cooking and eating are effectively hidden;
- drawers, also part of the set, are usually used to store cutlery or other small items;
- plastic drawers - they can be installed separately or directly in the headset cabinets. Such pieces of furniture can be used to store various products, such as potatoes and carrots. Metal, plastic or wooden furniture can be purchased;
- bookcases - they are usually equipped with spacious and comfortable baskets made of plastic or metal, which have special slots for ventilation of all items contained in them. The choice for such a product falls when there is not enough space in the set itself for the optimal arrangement of various vegetables. However, such products do not always fit into the style of the kitchen, so they are often installed on a loggia or balcony;
- kitchen corners with spacious storage drawers. In the kitchen, special corners are often chosen for comfortable sitting. They are equipped inside with comfortable and quite spacious compartments designed to store any items. It is always dry and dark here, so you can place various medicines or wine and vodka products. Often bags, newspapers or other things that clutter up the space in the kitchen are stored here;
- built-in drawers - when choosing furniture in the kitchen, the choice often falls on these products. They are usually made when creating a custom headset. Designs that roll out of the box are considered the most optimal, as they are convenient to use;
- shelves - if the compartments and cabinets that are in the set are not enough to store various items, dishes and products, then they can be placed on separate shelves. They are made from different materials, have different shapes and sizes, so for any area in the kitchen you can choose the best option for storing any items.
Thus, before choosing furniture for the kitchen, you should decide how the entire space will be divided into separate zones, as well as what items will be used to store dishes and other elements in the room.
For sitting
Most often, the kitchen is used not only as a place where food preparation takes place, but also replaces a full-fledged dining room. Therefore, it is necessary to select the optimal seating furniture for it.
For the kitchen, you can choose both upholstered furniture and standard chairs, but many people prefer kitchen corners that not only have high capacity and comfort, but also have special compartments for storing various items.
Soft interior items are considered in demand. They are highly comfortable due to the fact that they are equipped with a special soft element in the seating area. We present such kitchen furniture that can be placed in the kitchen and fit into the interior, with different sofas, armchairs, benches, banquettes or ottomans.
How to choose kitchen furniture in this case? Structures must meet certain requirements in order for them to last a long time:
- high moisture resistance, since it is in this room that the humidity regularly increases due to the cooking process;
- strength under high loads, and this parameter is applicable to any furniture;
- resistance to absorption of various oils or other substances;
- no accumulation of unpleasant foreign odors;
- ease of cleaning, and it is important that you can use any cleaning products to facilitate this process;
- small size is an important parameter, since even if there is a 10-meter kitchen in the apartment, many different items are still installed in it, so the seating area should not be too large.
Upholstered furniture for the kitchen for seating is available in numerous types, so it can be equipped with different armrests, backrests, ottomans and other additional elements that significantly increase the comfort of using the kitchen as a dining area.
For meals
The interior design of the kitchen must certainly include different furniture intended for the dining area. It is used for direct eating. The most important elements for this are:
- dining table - you can place it next to the wall, in the corner and even in the center of the room. The choice of its location depends on the layout of the room and its size. It can be angular, round, oval or rectangular. Often it acts as an element of a full-fledged kitchen corner set. For its production, different materials are used, and it can be a metal kitchen furniture design that also has a place in the kitchen;
- chairs for the dining area - they can be standard, designed for any catering, or can be equipped with a soft seat. The last option is considered the most optimal, since using them for sitting is comfortable and pleasant. The Internet contains many photographs of a variety of chairs, differing in size, color, appearance and other parameters, and most of them can be bought at a decent price. Wooden products are considered the most in demand;
- sofas - they can be corner, straight or presented in the form of a small bench. As a rule, they are equipped with a soft seat. If any design idea is being implemented in a room, then it is desirable that even the sofa matches the chosen style.
Thus, having figured out how to choose the right furniture for the kitchen, you will get an attractive and reliable environment in any room. Here every person will feel comfortable and good, so they will enjoy spending time with friends or family. To form the finished finish, various cornices or other additional decorative elements are used.
Manufacturer's choice
Oddly enough, when choosing a manufacturer, most are guided by the price, and not just the appearance from the photo in the catalog. Typically, the quality of the materials used directly depends on the final cost. The following segments are distinguished:
- Budget. A classic example is IKEA. The assortment is represented by a certain size range; budget solutions include chipboard with laminated film. The color palette is limited, the set of accessories is standard. The number of modules is also small, even if made to order. Average service life is 5-7 years.
- Average. Manufacturers in this segment offer sets depending on the characteristics of the room. The internal filling is represented by a wide selection. The materials offered are MDF and several finishing options. Kitchen planning is rational, but there may be moments that are not fully thought out. The kitchen will last 7-12 years.
- Elite. In this segment, high service from the manufacturer is above all else. An expert will select the ideal solution for a specific space, visually show the finished option, and help you make a choice. The materials are high-quality, you can choose solid wood, countertops made of natural stone. Such a kitchen will serve for decades without any problems.
Before choosing a kitchen, you need to familiarize yourself with the range and reviews of manufacturers in a particular segment and choose the ideal price-quality ratio.
Manufacturing materials
Kitchen furniture can be made from various materials. The basic rule that is taken into account when choosing these structures is that they must be resistant to high humidity. This is due to the fact that in the kitchen water constantly gets onto different surfaces of interior items. Also, the structures should be easy to maintain.
The main materials used to create kitchen furniture are:
- Chipboard - the choice of products made from this material is carried out quite often. This is due to their low cost. They come in numerous shades and are easy to care for. The disadvantages of chipboard structures include low moisture resistance and instability to high temperatures. Even cornices made from this material are often chosen;
- MDF - different types of furniture made from this material are available in numerous shades, and can also imitate various expensive materials. Their cost is considered acceptable, and they are also resistant to moisture. Photos of furniture for any kitchen made from MDF are presented below. The disadvantages include low resistance to high temperatures;
- frame facades - if you choose this option, you will be surprised at its attractiveness, moisture resistance and wear resistance. The structures can withstand any temperature and are characterized by good strength. However, it is not possible to make a curved facade from the material. Caring for textured surfaces becomes significantly more difficult;
- plastic - this material produces cornices and facades that have an attractive appearance, high quality, resistance to wear and increased moisture resistance. They are quite easy to care for and also produce curved and exquisite designs. The disadvantages include the high cost and the need for periodic processing of the ends of the furniture;
- natural wood - if we choose such designs, then we should prepare for the need to spend a significant amount of money. However, they are beautiful and durable.
With the right furniture, you can create a unique and beautiful room.
Choosing a style for the kitchen
When choosing a style for the kitchen, it is important to decide in advance on some parameters that may affect the final decision:
- Lighting. If natural light is not enough, it is important to choose soft but light styles, such as Provence, romanticism, eco. An example is the Nastya 05 kitchen. High-tech and minimalism are also suitable, as they free the room from unnecessary details. Classic, shabby chic, modern are permissible only in well-lit rooms, so that the details do not seem grotesque.
- Home interior style. If all the rooms in the apartment are made in a modern style, retro or classic may look out of place. And vice versa - the combination of Mediterranean and loft will look strange and even uncomfortable.
- Kitchen dimensions. Styles filled with a large number of decorative items are not suitable for small spaces. But for spacious kitchens, an abundance of decorations and details comes in handy.
Recently, American and Scandinavian styles, as well as eco, shabby chic, and English style have become fashionable. Comfort, coziness and cleanliness come first, which will have a positive impact on the overall atmosphere. It’s worth choosing a kitchen depending on personal preferences.
No. 3. Deciding on a style
Choosing the right color is only the first step; then you need to decide on the style of the kitchen, which will determine the style of the furniture. There can be a lot of options: as many as there are currently interior styles. The choice should be based on your own tastes, as well as some features of the premises.
The classic style will certainly not go out of fashion, at least in the next few decades, so such a kitchen will always be relevant. True, such a solution will not be very cheap for the owner, since the style involves the use of natural wood or materials that are as close as possible to it in properties and appearance. Such kitchens are usually massive, so they are suitable for larger rooms with high ceilings and large windows.
Modern is an excellent option that will fit into any kitchen of any size. The main thing here is simplicity and functionality, and every detail is thought out, only the necessary furniture is present, which amazes with the laconicism of its forms. In addition, kitchens in the Art Nouveau style are most often executed in light colors, and there is no place for dark, contrasting and flashy colors.
A country style kitchen is comfort, beauty and functionality. The so-called rustic style is very well suited for arranging kitchens, however, this will require a sufficient amount of space. Everything natural is held in high esteem: wooden or wicker furniture, clay pots, linen textiles.
High-tech is one of the most modern interior styles. With it, the kitchen looks as if it is from the future, and all thanks to the presence of the most modern appliances and furniture with clear outlines, made of metal, glass or plastic. Such kitchens captivate with their simplicity, bordering on maximum convenience.
Close to high-tech and modern, minimalism , in which only the most necessary pieces of furniture are present, but at the same time they can be made from almost any material. The main thing in style is simplicity, the presence of free space and a single color scheme.
In addition, there are a lot of other styles that are also used in the kitchen, but less often: Japanese with its simplicity and compactness, Scandinavian with a predominance of light shades, Provence with an abundance of floral prints.
Kitchen to order
An individual kitchen design allows you to realize all your ideas and make the most efficient use of every centimeter of space. The width and height of each element, the shape and size of the handles, and the location of the corners will be taken into account. If you need a set with a non-standard design, then you can’t do without a custom-made kitchen. For example, the Premier Sofia 2.1 Oliva kitchen was created specifically for small spaces.
If you turn to professionals, the finished project will become an object of pride for the owners. All aspects, including content, color, modules, etc., are discussed in advance with the owners. Manufacturing a kitchen can take from 3 to 8 weeks, the timing depends on the complexity of the project, the queue at the manufacturer and other factors.
Options for finishing the facades of sets
Many nuances relate to the process when you need to choose the facade material for the kitchen - the face of the set. Which one to take for making a project, in what color, style, with what operational and technical characteristics.
When designing, a number of key factors must be taken into account:
- Room parameters. Will greatly affect the size of the headset.
- The amount available to the customer. Accordingly, a project of a specific price category is determined.
- Choosing a style that is compatible with the interior design. Here, not only the cladding and colors are important, but also the shapes, lines, volume or plane in perception.
- The method of processing the material to be used. For example, the end part will be covered with PVC or paper film.
- Properties - types of materials from which it is preferable to make modules.
- Manufacturer of components - frame base, fittings, decorative parts.
Facades must be as strong as possible so that the canopies (hinge fastenings) do not crumble the material over time. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer, and not just to the color, design and surface texture. As an example, let’s look at the most popular types of façade finishing for kitchen furniture.
Solid wood
The following types of materials are used in this category:
- array;
- veneer.
If the kitchen is designed in a classic, Italian, chalet, eco or country style, it is better to make the kitchen out of wood. This material is not only durable, but also looks organically in the listed interior directions. A clearly visible texture, shades, toning and a pleasant-to-touch surface make using the headset pleasant and comfortable. These are the main advantages of both solid wood and veneer.
The facade is made in different ways:
- Solid, deaf.
- Paneled, milled.
- Through with insert stelae, stained glass, mosaics, lattice of wooden crossbars, carved artistic panels, etc.
- Concave (convex) or radius.
The disadvantages of wooden cabinet doors lie mainly in the characteristics of the specific wood. For example, alder is not afraid of moisture, but pine must be constantly wiped dry, despite the fact that the surface will be covered with varnish or another protective layer. Dirt eats into any wood if the surface of its finish is peeling.
Advice! Wash and scrub any wooden facades with mild detergents. It is strictly forbidden to rub with cleaning products with an abrasive texture. The same applies to hard sponges - they cannot be used. Instead, it is enough to use soft foam rubber.
MDF
The most modern materials for cladding kitchen units are MDF. The abbreviation is not deciphered because it comes from the English term “Medium Density Fiberboard”. Translated as – “Medium density wood fiber board”. It is profitable to make a kitchen from such materials when you do not want to use too cheap slabs, but there is no money for expensive wooden facades.
MDF sheet coverings:
- enamel;
- film;
- plastic;
- veneered veneer.
Execution options:
- matte or glossy;
- with mother-of-pearl coating (satin);
- metallic, embossed steel (imitation);
- bright juicy monochromatic;
- pastel colors, monochrome;
- with photo printing;
- treated with patina (false antique wear).
MDF is not only more practical and durable, but it comes in a fairly wide range of different colors, styles and designs. The most expensive facing material in this category is the one covered with enamel. But it is solid and will last for decades. Glass can also be inserted here if the façade is through. There are options for additional processing with photo printing, or simply with a beautiful wood texture.
Plastic
When the choice of material for the face of the kitchen falls on plastic, the customer only benefits from this. Such options are always affordable; they have a wide range of colors for items in the catalog. Therefore, these materials produce the cheapest kitchens. In addition, the surfaces are completely unscratched by abrasive and other aggressive cleaning agents. They are not afraid of water. Therefore, there are a lot of advantages that allow you not to worry at all about the integrity of the facade during maintenance and use.
A design flaw is that the back of the door is always white. This is due to the fact that different basic components are used to make plastic facades. This feature makes the product not perceived as integral, and therefore can somewhat introduce dissonance into the overall harmony of the interior design. But it only occurs when the doors are opened, when the white side is visible. If you take a kitchen with plastic facades, and take into account the white color, then it can be blended in organically. For example, in case the same shade is present in the overall ensemble.
The end cladding is made in the following ways:
- at both sides;
- on four sides (façade perimeter);
- aluminum profile.
There is one slight inconvenience in care - very often you have to wipe the surface because fingerprints and other stains are clearly visible on it.
Advice! Fingerprints can be easily removed from glossy surfaces with ordinary glass and mirror cleaner. Matte - with laundry soap. The facades are washed with dishwashing detergent. Do not use soda, sand, or other scratching substances.
Tips and tricks for choosing kitchens
Expert advice will help you take into account all the points and not forget anything. Typically, recommendations concern not only design, but also the choice of equipment, furniture, materials, their combination and functionality, and other categories. Below are some tips:
- It is worth ordering from local manufacturers, which significantly saves money on delivery. In addition, you can approach them at any time and directly discuss all issues.
- Ideal price-quality ratio: facades made of MDF, internal parts made of chipboard, countertops made of artificial stone.
- Don't skimp on backsplash tiles. You will need no more than 2 square meters of material, but the appearance of the entire kitchen and the ease of caring for the apron depend on its quality.
- The white gloss does not show dirt, so this is an ideal option for families with small children or pets.
- The drawers are necessarily equipped with closers for maximum comfort.
- Often the main problem becomes the refrigeration door, or more precisely, the way it opens. Therefore, you need to think in advance so that it does not hit either the wall or the countertop.
The final choice of kitchen should be made only after monitoring and clarification of details from at least three manufacturers. This is the only way to get an overall picture and settle on the most acceptable option. It’s worth knowing in advance what the kitchen will look like. Ready-made photographs selected for specific premises will help with this.
Chairs
You can choose chairs in the form of sets or choose completely different ones, but stylistically overlapping. They can be the same color, but different shapes, or they can be the same in shape, but different shades. Most often, sets of identical chairs are purchased that match the appearance of the table.
The shape of the chairs can be any: upholstered formal chairs, stools, leather armchairs, etc. The choice is huge and will help make the look of the kitchen deeper and more unusual. You can also purchase a set consisting of a dining table and several chairs or a kitchen corner. No less popular due to its convenience and compactness.