Essential Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Magazine May 2016 Vorige editie

Some of my favourite homes are those that merge contemporary ideas and personality with age-old, timeless character – and both of these aesthetics are achieved perfectly in the kitchen of Malcolm and Fi Menzies (see Clean & Graphic, page 28). A bright and sunny space that is neat and organised, yet equally cosy and lived-in, there are so many clever and individual design ideas at play here, yet at no point does it feel contrived or overly styled. In fact, as we sit and chat, snapping as we go and with life unfolding in front of me as it sometimes it does on photoshoots, I can see how this couple have achieved the perfect balance between looks and practicality. There are a few things that I’m noting down for when it comes to my own family kitchen renovation, and which you might find useful too: 1. Try putting your central kitchen island on wheels if you can. This means you have a modular piece of furniture that can be moved out of the way to make more space for the kids to play, or if you want to turn your space into an area for parties. 2. If you have high ceilings and want extra kitchen cupboard space, try fitting cupboards all the way to the ceiling and using a sliding ladder to make even the highest cupboards accessible. It looks good and is an eminently practical way of using all available space. 3. Don’t be afraid of mixing materials and interior styles. Sometimes things that you can’t imagine working, just do. I love in this kitchen how designer Jamie Blake has used marble with metro tiles and raw wood against freshly painted cabinetry and a classic white AGA. What keeps the look unified is the palette of neutrals and whites used on floors, walls and ceilings - a lovely sense of calm is achieved throughout. Feeling inspired to get creative with your blank space? We’ve covered ways with white kitchens in Pure & Simple on page 82, so get planning!