1. DOWNLIGHTS

Sleek and subtle, downlights provide functionality and a seamless aesthetic. Downlights go about their business of lighting a room with no fancy baubles. The ideal solution for spaces with low ceilings, particularly over a kitchen island, recessed downlights also won’t collect grease — perfect for cooking.

2. PENDANT LIGHTS

These are the tiaras of the lighting world. Offering not just functionality, they can make a statement, whether they’re bold in gold or have a striking shape. Versatility is part of the allure of the pendant light, with options to subtly blend in with a light wood finish or add an industrial accent in matt black. The drawback of pendant lights is that although they’re great for singular task lighting and gently illuminating a room, their typically small bulbs mean you may need extra lighting to fully brighten a space.

3. UNDER-CABINET LIGHTS

Used to provide task lighting to a work bench, under-cabinet lights create a more intense illumination so you can easily prepare the salad or find the right spoon. LED striplighting is a good option for this type of illumination, with long-lasting and even light dispersion. Whether your vision isn’t as good as it used to be or you’re after easier access, under-cabinet lighting can be helpful in your kitchen.

4. INSIDE-CABINET LIGHTS

Leave no space unlit with inside-cabinet lighting that reaches even the darkest corners. Particularly useful for deep shelving or pantries, this type of lighting can add value to a kitchen and is available in a range of battery options, such as automatic turn-on or dimmer switches for optimum efficiency. Full-space illumination reduces the risk of nasties lurking behind containers and allows you to make the most of a storage area.

5. ADJUSTABLE LIGHTS

Mix up the lighting in your space with bulbs that change colour or intensity. Set the mood for a romantic evening with dim lighting, or ramp it up with techno colours for a party — the possibilities are endless! Many colour- or intensity-changing lights can be controlled through an app or smart systems like Google Home.

Featured image: DelightFULL

Image 2: Smith & Smith Kitchens

Originally in Kitchens & Bathrooms Quarterly Vol. 25 No. 4

The post Five wonderful ways to light up your kitchen appeared first on Completehome.

“The homeowners requested a Hamptons-style kitchen which would have the added benefit of being exceptionally functional. The end result is an on-trend kitchen featuring the best of classic design with the benefits of new technology. The new, contemporary kitchen is refined and elegant. The kitchen’s galley style offers a neat work triangle and the most efficient storage possibilities. The island bench was straightened during the renovation to open up the corner which housed the old pantry, thereby increasing the kitchen’s spaciousness. Belling appliances were chosen for their functional nature. They are modern in appearance, giving the kitchen a transitional feel. The homeowners loved the idea of a black freestanding cooker and canopy, so the kitchen was designed around these appliances. The microwave has been hidden in the appliance cabinet behind the bi-fold doors to encourage a neat, seamless aesthetic. The kitchen’s black and white colour scheme lends the space presence and personality, while creating a light, fresh feel. The existing timber floors were stained a darker shade, in line with the Hamptons-style aesthetic. The modern conveniences of the open-plan area and island bench mean this kitchen works well as the centre of attention for stylish entertaining while remaining subtle and understated in nature.”

Designer Catherine Sedgewick for Smith & Smith Cabinet Makers

EXPERT TIP: Fixing the placement of an awkwardly sited kitchen island during a renovation can do wonders for the flow of the room.

We love the kitchen’s Hamptons-style aesthetic.

For more information

Smith & Smith Kitchens

Originally in Kitchens & Bathrooms Quarterly, Volume 25 Issue 4

The post Classic design meets contemporary kitchen appeared first on Completehome.

First, the kitchen had to function beautifully and look great, whether for cooking or entertaining. The colour scheme had to be contemporary, clean and crisp, exuding a wow factor. The client’s brief for a discreet kitchen workbench when not in use was fulfilled by the massive pivot pocket sliding doors which hide the cooktop, rangehood and main sink. The island’s sink was moulded from the same white material as the bench and the tap is also white. Even the dishwasher is amalgamated by a Corian panel into the side waterfall of the island — a masterpiece of disguise! To achieve a consistent and minimalist look, finger-pull handles were used sparingly across the kitchen. The fridges are integrated into the cabinetry, the black heart veneer encompassing the back wall with warm natural shades and a large sweeping pattern. The two-pack satin cabinetry finish is extended by the Corian Glacier White benches and waterfall ends, allowing the striking back wall to wow. The layers of functionality and refined aesthetic interwoven into this kitchen are a perfect example of creative collaboration between the client and the design/manufacturing team, where the client is actively involved in the design process and the cabinet maker brings extensive experience into the mix for an outstanding result.”
Designer: Valentin Tinc for Smith & Smith Kitchens

For more information

Smith & Smith Kitchens

Originally in Kitchens & Bathrooms Quarterly, Issue 25 Volume 2

The post Discreet kitchen design by Smith & Smith Kitchens appeared first on Completehome.