So, how do you decide which stone looks best in your kitchen? We asked the experts for their advice on the current trends and explored the positives of choosing stone in your kitchen.

1. Matching stone splashback

Stone has long been used for benchtops and is beginning to creep up the walls in a bold new trend. For a show-stopping display of the details inherent to stone, this easy-care finish is now taking the spotlight and doing double duty on matching splashbacks in modern kitchen design. Subtle colour variations, prominent veining and bespoke design morphs stone and marble seamlessly into cabinetry. How much does a stone splashback cost? Like the pricing of stone benchtops, the cost of a stone splashback varies with your choice of stone, its thickness and the size of the slab needed to fit your application.

2. Waterfall finish

Whether a by-product of the banning of engineered stone in July 2024, or the fact the properties of natural stone stands it apart from other surfaces, it has been a go-to surface for benchtops in Australian homes for decades. Continuing a stone benchtop down the sides to create a waterfall kitchen island is a design feature that is still very much on trend, particularly in high-end and contemporary kitchen design, though it’s important to soften the look with other design elements, as seen in the striking kitchen design created by interior designer Swee Lim, below. “Offset the solidity of stone by pairing it with cabinetry in bold tones, set atop timber flooring to create warmth in contemporary design,” suggests Swee, who used Neolith stone to frame the kitchen island. “The waterfall benchtop creates a sleek, minimalist, and sophisticated aesthetic, enhancing the space with its elegant and modern appeal,” Swee explains.

3. Solid stone kitchen island

Known for its luxurious aesthetic, marble can elevate any look in an instant. Drama and luxury can be achieved with a solid stone kitchen island, as seen in the kitchen, below, where interior designer and The Block judge Darren Palmer has used CDK Stone’s Monreale marble to stunning, statement-making effect. “It’s very, very beautiful,” says Darren, who revolved the colour palette around the naturally-occuring pinkish-beige tones. “Look for a material that has a balanced distribution of movement across the slab,” advises CDK Stone director Tony Victor.

“Nothing says luxury like a marble kitchen island,” says Costa Voulgarakis, sales manager at Euro Marble. “It’s an ideal feature for the heart of the home, providing both functionality and opulence. And, while the mere addition of marble benchtops is enough to uplift the aesthetics of your kitchen, pairing it with a matching marble splashback rounds off the design.” Marble is a classic stone that suits any kitchen, be it country, contemporary, Hamptons or otherwise, but it does require extra care. “Due to its porous nature, it is susceptible to scratching, marks and chipping,” explains Costa. “But marble definitely isn’t difficult to maintain at all.” And Costa argues the extra work is worth it. “Marble always has a variety of striations and veining that are unique to each slab – and that’s the beauty of the material,” he says.

Marble is actually a ‘green’ choice to make. “Marble and natural stone require no chemical processing, which means there are no toxic waste products associated with the construction of a new kitchen, or any emission of harmful gasses,” explains Costa Voulgarakis, sales manager at Euro Marble.

TIP:

While marble is easy to care for, be sure to factor in extra costing above installation for finishing to preserve the surface. “I always recommend marble be sealed properly upon installation by the stone contractor,” says Costa. “This will prevent liquids and other accidental spills from soaking in and being absorbed, causing stains.”

The post 3 kitchen stone trends we’ll see in 2025 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

20 kitchens with timber flooring to inspire your renovation

A Hamptons style kitchen with engineered timber floors

This Hamptons style kitchen is elevated by its engineered timber floors in colour 28 from French Oak Floors. The darker timber brings warmth into the all-white space without sacrificing the light and airy feel of the room.

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Herringbone timber floors add elegance to a modern coastal retreat

This modern coastal home replaced its dated grey tiles with herringbone timber flooring. The maison engineered timber in Paramount Oak from George Fethers & Co brings a sense of elegance to the coastal-inspired space.

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Dark oak flooring brings balance to a Hamptons kitchen in Melbourne

Taking inspiration from Hamptons interiors, this kitchen’s Dark ‘Saddle’ French oak flooring from Made By Storey brings balance to the lighter white and grey shades.

“It has raw knots and detail, giving it a warmth that plays against the lovely soft grey,” says interior designer Aimee Tarulli. “It brings the Hamptons feel to life and gives the cosiness we want.”

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Wide timber floorboards add character to a new build

New builds don’t have to be cold and souless. Clever design choices, like this American-inspired kitchen’s wide timber floorboards, can add character and warmth to newer homes.

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Bec Judd’s chevron timber floors make a style statement

Bec Judd’s home is just as stylish as you might imagine—and the kitchen is no different. Finished in Haymes Paint Judd Soft Grey, the kitchen’s chevron timber floors in Nordic Blonde from Kustom Timber make a dramatic style statement.

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Engineered timber flooring is right at home in this Parisian inspired apartment

With its elegant finish, this Oak ‘White Sands’ engineered flooring from Preference Floors is the perfect choice for this Parisian inspired apartment in Sydney.

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Timber floorboards give this heritage home a modern update

Contemporary timber floorboards in the kitchen of this Melbourne heritage property set the modern extension apart from the older part of the home.

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Pale oak parquetry flooring gives this home a quiet luxury edge

With its pale oak parquetry flooring, solid Carrara marble kitchen, dramatic steel-framed windows and French doors, this Melbourne kitchen exudes quiet luxury.

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Dark timber flooring creates contrast in this ultra modern kitchen

Dark timber flooring, from Kustom Timber, laid in a chevron pattern acts as a forgiving base to the show-stopping half-moon island in Buddy and Jacinta Franklin’s modern kitchen.

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Blackbutt floorboards elevate the Shaker-style kitchen in this weatherboard cottage

In this Shaker-style kitchen, Blackbutt floorboards have been given a custom stain to achieve the dark finish the home owner wanted, forming a base for the welcoming space.

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Oak floors warm up the light interiors of this new build

Aiming for a classic look with a casual elegance, this home’s oak floors warm up its light interiors and bring a country spirit to the space.

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Chocolate brown stained cypress pine floors brighten this country home

Just as three oversized skylights draw natural light into this country cottage kitchen, the rich chocolate brown stained cypress pine floors also bring a brightness into the space.

“I love the colour – it just really pops against the white,” says the home owner.

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Dark timber floors add a country charm into this modern farmhouse style kitchen

Dark timber floors bring a warmth and country charm into this modern farmhouse style kitchen, contrasting beautifully with the white kitchen cabinets and marble benchtops.

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A beach house kitchen is grounded by solid blackbutt flooring

Acting as an idyllic hideaway for several generations of the one family, this beach house kitchen is the hub of the home. With the beachy white cabinetry, solid blackbutt flooring is a grounding choice.

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French oak engineered parquetry flooring is the perfect base for this holiday-inspired retreat on the Gold Coast

This family of six pooled their wish list to create their ultimate, holiday-inspired retreat on Queensland’s Gold Coast. The French Oak engineered parquetry flooring acts as the perfect base for the natural furnishings and resort-style interiors.

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A coastal cottage opts for light and bright herringbone timber flooring

Evoking the easy breeziness of a coastal cottage, the kitchen is a delightful combination of white and timber. Oak benchtops, Modanest stools and luxe herringbone flooring by Royal Oak Floors bring warmth to the shaker-style cabinetry in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, white Smeg oven and pre-painted pressed tin tiles sourced online.

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Warm timber flooring completes this Hamptons-inspired kitchen on Sydney’s northern beaches

‘Newport Rustic’ flooring from Havwoods provides the right warming timber tones for this Hamptons-inspired kitchen on Sydney’s northern beaches.

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Engineered oak timber floors are a natural continuation of this home’s organic feel

Big River Group engineered oak timber floors in Desert bring warmth and texture to the serene kitchen within the organic style home of Simone Mathews.

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Oak floorboards set the tone for this functional kitchen

A 19th-Century home on Sydney’s Lower North Shore delivers lashings of elegance and functionality for a family of five. Oak veneer was chosen for the island base to match the elegant oak floorboards from Woodos seen throughout the kitchen and the ground floor.

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Timber tones extend beyond the floor in this Northern Rivers home

Timber tones extend beyond the floor in this Northern Rivers home, with the island shelving, stools and cabintry all boasting the natural material and bringing a relaxed energy to the space.

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The post 20 kitchens that prove timber floorboards are the right choice appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Working with interior designer Erica Georgis, the returning expats’ brief called for an indoor-outdoor connection that embraced the harbour city’s year-round sun and mild climate.

Before construction began, the weatherboard home possessed a dated and segregated floor plan. “It was quite poky, and the kitchen was tucked away in the corner,” recalls Erica of the whole-home renovation. “The dark rooms didn’t do the home justice and were quite separate from the garden.”

Now, steel-framed doors and aluminium-framed windows offer lush vistas and sunshine illuminates brass accents in the kitchen with Lo & Co handles and a Zip Water ‘Celsius’ Hydro Tap.

The ‘Crown Plana Linea’ chandelier by Nemo serves as a luxe diadem atop the show-stopping room.

“The kitchen is definitely the heart of the home for this family,” says Erica. “Entertaining was a key factor. They wanted to feel part of the space while hosting guests and in everyday life, too.”

Marble features

“We created a sense of nature by using earthy colours,” says interior designer Erica Georgis.

Taj Mahal quartzite from WK Stone enlivens the splashback, benchtops and waterfall edge of the island. The natural veining plays into other textures, like the Polytec ‘Woodmatt’ cabinetry in Casentino Beech.

A modern butler’s pantry

The butler’s pantry is tucked behind French doors that seamlessly blend with the Polytec kitchen joinery.

Zellige-look porcelain tiles from Lulo Tile brighten the splashback, alongside cabinetry finished in Dulux White on White and Laminex kickboards in Brushed Titanium.

Interior design: Studio Belle, studiobelle.com.au

Builder: Dion Group Projects, diongroupprojects.com.au.

Architect: Jessica Matson Architecture, jessicamatsonarchitecture.com.

Source Book

Shop the look

01

Athena ripple vase

$79, Marmoset Found

Best for: flowers, countertop styling

With its textured rippled edge, this hand cast ceramic vase is a stylish addition to any countertop.

Sizes: 13cm x 13cm x 17cm

Colours: White

Materials: Ceramic

Key features:

• Hand cast
• Ceramic
• Rippled edge

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02

Ruffle round platter dish

$162.50, Marmoset Found

Best for: serving-ware, countertop styling

With its irregular shape, this unique platter dish wont just impress your dinner party guests but hold its own as a statement décor piece in your kitchen.

Sizes: 32cm x 32cm x 6cm

Colours: Chalk white

Materials: Hand cast ceramic

Key features:

• Ceramic
• Hand cast
• Irregular shape

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04

Taft Wall Light

$390, The Montauk Lighting Co

Best for: lighting

Featuring an aged brass base and an opal matte white glass shade, this sleek wall light gives a contemporary upgrade to classic lighting.

Sizes: 12cm x 12cm x 12cm

Colours: Brass, white

Materials: Brass, glass

Key features:

• Glass white shade
• Aged brass base
• 0.5kg

Shop Now

05

Classic Weave Bar Stool Dark

$620 , Highgate House

Best for: bar stool seating

With a solid wood frame, these woven rattan bar stools are perfect for adding a touch of warmth to a modern space.

Sizes: 52.5 x 54 x 91cm H

Colours: Brown, natural linen

Materials:  Natural woven rattan

Key features:

• Indoor use
• Handwoven rattan in an eyelet weave
• Comfortable back and footrest

Shop Now

The post Turning a poky kitchen into a sleek modern oasis appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Butler’s pantries can be used to store appliances, prepare food and stow away mess mid-party. Learn how to design the perfect butler’s pantry by following our tips to create this hardworking space to suit your needs, where practicality reigns over luxury finishes.

1. Know when to save and splurge

Keep costs down by opting for inexpensive materials, as this area won’t be on display. Laminate or engineered stone benchtops are a fraction of the cost of other finishes and can be closely colour-matched to your main bench, ensuring continuity of style, however, beware of the incoming ban on the use of engineered stone.

2. Consider how much space you have

Think about the footprint you can allocate to a butler’s pantry and how it will be utilised. As a general guide, the width of the walkway should be at least 1000mm, then add another 600mm for benchtops. 

Consider L-shaped cabinetry to make the best use of space and for a modest pantry; allow a minimum area of 1.6m x 2.2m. For a pantry with a double sink, dishwasher, microwave, fridge and bench space, allow upwards of 2.4m x 2.8m.

3. Opt for open shelving over cupboards

Open shelving will help to stretch your budget further. If you prefer cupboards, try melamine door fronts, which are cheaper than laminate, polyurethane or timber veneer fronts.

4. Get organised to maximise space

Pack in the storage by taking shelving to the ceiling and organising the contents by frequency of use. Glass jars or stackable square containers with locking lids are ideal for organising pantry staples such as cereals and pasta and are available from major retailers such as Kmart.

Wire baskets are good for under-bench storage to make the most of your butler’s pantry and tricky corners can be utilised with pull-out cupboard systems such as Blum’s Space Corner.

5. Map out your storage needs

To prevent losing items at the back of the pantry, opt for a U-shaped design with shallow shelves. For smaller items such as herbs and sauces, aim for a shelf width of 200mm. Open shelving is a great option for condiments, salt and pepper, which can be seen at a glance for easy access.

6. Section your butler’s pantry off

Keeping your pantry off-limits is as simple as installing a door. A great space-saving option is a cavity sliding door or a bifold.

7. Find the right sink

Factors such as cupboard placement and pot size will help you determine the most suitable butler’s pantry sink for your space. If budget allows, consider a fireclay sink for the ultimate butler’s pantry statement.

8. Ensure your pantry is well-lit

Good task lighting is a must in a butler’s pantry. Consider using a ‘micro switch’, where a trip catch attached to the door frame turns the light on when the door is open.

9. Create a list of must-haves

Allocate a spot for regularly used appliances within the pantry and calculate your space requirements. Remember to install extra power points to use appliances in place and maximise efficiency.

10. Little extras make all the difference

Install hooks and rails to hang tea towels, utensils and reusable shopping bags and utilise wall space. Use slide-out drawers for storage is budget allows, or retro-fit wire baskets or modular shelving to suit your needs.

Try these butler’s pantry essentials:

01

The Cooks Collective 18-piece airtight food canister in White

$89.98, Myer

Best for: Banishing pantry moths

Say goodbye to weevils and pantry moths and hello to sleek, silicone-sealed and organised pantry shelves. This starter kit is really all you need to get things organised and ordered onto shelves in your butler’s pantry and keep them that way! Extra units are available to buy separately or in sets of two once you establish your favourite sizes.

Key features:

• Includes: 6 x 500ml canisters, 4 x 800ml canisters, 4 x 1.2lt canisters, 4 x 1.9lt canisters
• Dishwasher safe
• Silicone seals also suitable for fridge
• Leak proof lids

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02

Kilner round clip top 1-litre jar

$17.95, Biome

Best for: Gorgeous-looking shelves on display

Who doesn’t love a traditional clip-top jar? A row of vessels filled with whole foods makes a satisfying display – particularly when your butler’s pantry is visible from the main kitchen. Designed for preserving and endless reuse, these jars punch above their weight to keep dry foods fresh long term and their dashing good looks don’t hurt.

Key features:

• Kilner jars come in all shapes and sizes to suit all your pantry needs
• Dishwasher safe (remove rubber seal and handwash)
• Glass with metal latch
• Old-school design

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03

Cut out storage tub

$3, Target

Best for: Grouping dry food and snacks

These little tubs are a wonder in the pantry (or anywhere in the house!) offering streamlined storage for any number of items. Gather snacks, legumes, nuts and herb packets in groups for easy access and simple sorting. At just $3 each, measure up and employ an army of these little do-gooders to sort your foodstuffs, stat!

Key features:

• Fit sideways with cutout or lengthways with handle opening for easy access
• Dishwasher safe
• Dimensions: H10.3 x W24 x D17cm

Shop Now

05

2-drawer wire shelf unit in White

$15.00, Target

Best for: Making the most of your space

You will literally elevate your pantry storage with a few of these simple wire drawer units. Double your storage capacity on shelving and in cupboards while keeping everything visible and within easy reach. Super affordable, measure up and buy as many as you need to solve storage issues anywhere in the home.

Key features:

• Drawers pull out on narrow edge for maximum depth capacity
• Powder-coated iron with MDF top
• Dimensions: H39 x W24.5 x D51.5cm

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06

Turner Hastings ribbed fireclay butler sink

$1007 (usually $1320), The Blue Space

Best for: Quintessential butler’s pantry style

It all starts with the sink in your butler’s pantry and a ceramic fireclay sink is the OG in how to get the look.

Key features:

• European-made, scratch and chemical resistant
• Optional protective sink grid or silicone mat
• Choose from 6 finishes of basket waste to match your tapware
• Dimensions: H254 x W600 x D450mm. Bowl capacity 51 litres, drain outlet D90mm
• Choose from gloss white or matte finish
• Top mount, semi-recessed or under counter

Shop Now

The post 10 ways to design the perfect butler’s pantry appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Better again, come holiday gatherings and family get-togethers, storing your favourite salads, desserts and beverages in one climate-controlled compartment means that you can keep the decks clear from Eskies and ice-buckets.

With French door refrigerators becoming a common kitchen appliance, the variety of models available to shop is aplenty. All varying in utility and technology capabilities, finding the right option for you can become an arduous task. So, we have rounded up the best French door fridges to shop in Australia, each ranging in price and available features.

The best French door fridges in 2024

01

530L slim French door fridge in black

$1999, LG

Awarded Choice’s best fridge brand in 2023, the LG Inverter Linear Compressor is committed to quality air and temperature control. Fitted with an array of cooling and air movement systems that invite equal air circulation across varied compartments, food connoisseurs will no longer stress about their favourite ingredients or dishes going bad in the fridge ever again.

Key features:

• Dimensions: 835mm x 1787mm
• Multi Air Flow – ventilation systems directing cold air into the fridge cavity to maintain fresh food
• LINEAR Cooling – the LG linear compressor maintains temperature consistency
• Moist Balance Crisper – lattice-patterned box cover promotes equal moisture levels to promote crisp fruits and vegetables
• Smart Diagnosis – technology-assisted communications providing usage tips and relevant information

Also available at:

• $1999 from Bing Lee
• $2099 from The Good Guys

Shop now

02

Samsung 637L Family hub smart refrigerator

$4399, The Good Guys

Effortlessly integrating smart technology with state-of-the-art appliance conveniences, the Family Hub Smart Fridge has been faultlessly designed for the modern family. Leveraging traditional refrigerator commitments, Samsung engages wi-fi-enabled video cameras alongside Flex Zone and Flex Crisper services to monitor and control the condition of stored food.

Key features:

• Dimensions: 912mm x 1825mm
• 20 years digital inverter compressor warranty
• Free delivery
• Family Hub – digital service extending access to smartphone features, entertainment, recipe services and more
• Food AI – view the contents of the fridge via your smartphone or Quick View service
• Beverage Centre – autofill infuser water jug located inside the fridge door
• Flex Zone & Flex Crisper – store food at optimal conditions with five pre-set modes

Also available at:

• $4233 from Appliances Online
• $4999 from Designer Appliances

Shop now

03

Kogan 464L French door fridge with water dispenser

$949, Kogan

With a generous capacity, this French door fridge from Kogan is equipped with an easy-access water dispenser, intuitive electronic temperature controls, and an inverter fan for a more efficient operation. Ideal for keeping your groceries fresh, this French door fridge also offers adjustable shelving to customise to your specific storage needs.

Key features:

• Multi-temperature zones
• Frost-free fridge and freezer
• Inverter fan for quieter and more efficient operation

Shop Now

04

478L Fisher & Paykel French door refrigerator

$2199, The Good Guys

With premium handle convenience and stainless steel finishings, Fisher & Paykel refrigerators are designed to complement the cabinetry and match the rest of the brand’s sleek appliance range. With ActiveSmart Foodcare being a total game-changer in the kitchen space, you can monitor the temperature, humidity and airflow of your fridge as you like. The built-in AI technology focuses on learning the patterns of your refrigerator, and adjusting the airflow as suited to your daily activity. So, if you want to take the guesswork out of cooking, then consider your next refrigerator found.

Key features:

• Dimensions: 790mm x 1715mm
• ActiveSmart Foodcare – learns patterns of refrigerator use and adjusts temperature, air flow and humidity accordingly
• EZKleen – anti-fingerprint coating and spill-safe secure glass shelves capture drips and leaks
• Slimline water dispenser positioned on the exterior of fridge door

Also available at:

• $2188 (usually $2299) from Appliances Online

Shop Now

05

Westinghouse 565L French door refrigerator

$1898, The Good Guys

The perfect food storage solution for the entire family, this Westinghouse French door fridge is designed to account for little messes and sticky fingers. With flexible storage compartments and Spill Safe glass shelving, this fridge adjusts to your ever-changing needs all the while managing the mess. Plus, with FamilySafe technology, locking up lucrative delights and medicines has never been so easy.

Key features:

• Dimensions: 912mm x 1825mm
• 20 years digital inverter compressor warranty
• Free delivery
• Family Hub – digital service extending access to smartphone features, entertainment, recipe services and more
• Food AI – view the contents of the fridge via your smartphone or Quick View service
• Beverage Centre – autofill infuser water jug located inside the fridge door
• Flex Zone & Flex Crisper – store food at optimal conditions with five pre-set modes

Also available at:

• $1954 (usually $2499) from Appliances Online
• $1999 from Bing Lee

Shop Now

06

609L Electrolux French door refrigerator

$3299, The Good Guys

Awarded the Good Design Award for domestic appliances, this customisable unit from Electrolux is suited to every lifestyle. With customisable temperature settings varying across the refrigerated zones, you can keep meats and wines at their optimal temperatures while all in the same space. Fitted with adjustable drawers and shelves, customising the fridge to your ever-changing weekly shop is made possible – perfect for the holidays or hosting family events. Not to mention, with smart technology services available, you can monitor the temperature from any room of the house, or even from a different continent.

Key features:

• Dimensions: 913mm x 1782mm
• Two year warranty
• FlexFresh fully convertible entertainer’s drawer
• Mark resistant stainless steel
• TasteLock crisper – automatically controls humidity levels to keep fruit and vegetable fresh for longer
• Electrolux Life App – temperature control via smart technology services
• Snackzone – designed for ultimate convenience

Also available at:

• $2599 from Bing Lee
• $3232 (usually $4399) from Appliances Online

Shop now

07

605L Bosch series 6 French door refrigerator

$2999, Bing Lee

The classic refrigerator for day-in-day-out living, the Bosch refrigerator offers quality cooling features, evenly distributing airflow across the vicinity of the unit and maintaining temperature consistency. Also, with climate-controlled extra-extra-large compartments for food preservation, you can store larger goods however you please. Additionally, Bosch has integrated smartphone connectivity, sending temperature control check-ins to your device.

Key features:

• Dimensions: 905mm x 1830mm
• Two year warranty
• 4.5 star energy rating
• VitaFresh XXL – Climate-controlled compartments to preserve food for longer
• NoFrost technology
• MultiAirflow – evenly distributes cool air to maintain fridge temperature
• Smartphone connectivity – control and monitor your fridge with smartphone convenience

Available at:

• $3299 from Appliances Online

Shop now

08

609L Hisense French door refrigerator

$1696, The Good Guys

Designed to meet the needs of even the most demanding users, the Hisense refrigerator features premium cooling technology and a stylish flat interface for bountiful living. With an array of cooling zones, maintaining the longevity of food and beverages in the singular space offers ultimate kitchen convenience. And, with mark-resistant stainless steel, a clean-appearing fridge is guaranteed no matter the number of hungry hands.

Key features:

• Three-star energy rating
• Three-year warranty
• Mark-resistant stainless steel
• My Fresh Choice Zone – convert temperatures from -18 degrees to 5 degrees, depending on your preference
• Triple zone cooling – fridge, freezer and My Choice Zone
• Inverter technology – modern inverter compressors measure conditions inside your fridge and adjust cooling accordingly
• Flexible storage – fully adjustable shelves suited to fit your food storage needs

Also available at:

• $1755 (usually $1899) from Appliances Online

Shop Now

Are French door refrigerators worth it?

With double the doors comes double the space – immediately making the French door fridge worth it. There are, however, more benefits to these fridges than the standard fridge counterpart. When it comes to staying organised, the open-access layout of the French door fridge makes food preparation and hosting duties all the more enjoyable. And, as possibly the most lucrative advantage, the French door fridge is energy efficient, meaning they use less energy to maintain temperature consistency throughout the unit.

The post 8 best French door refrigerators to maximise meal time appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Research shows that kitchens are the space Australians are most likely to upgrade. And every year, there’s a wave of affordable new trends to help you get inspired. 

This year, we’re looking at the sweet and simple trends that don’t require a full-scale renovation. From lighting upgrades to new hardware, these are the top kitchen trends and easy DIY projects we’re loving right now.

1. Statement kitchen handles

Say goodbye to plain knobs and pulls, and hello to statement cabinet hardware. Hammered, brushed and matte textured finishes add visual weight to kitchen panels and bring a splash of colour to white cabinetry.

Find handles to match your cabinets for a sleek, cohesive look. Kaboodle’s straight-edged, geometric Cali handle creates interest in the kitchen, and is available in both a dynamic matt black shade and contemporary brushed nickel. An easy DIY project, these affordable, quality handles can be bought straight off the shelf at Bunnings Warehouse.

2. Warm and rich textiles

This year, there is a clear shift toward kitchens that evoke a sense of comfort and warmth. One of the most powerful ways to achieve a cosy kitchen ambience is with textiles — from fabric upholstery to tablecloths and placemats (we love the limited edition collections of luxurious fabrics by Fred Home).

Now’s the time to indulge in beautiful, sustainably made pieces. Decorate cool kitchen tiles with a characterful, hand-woven runner rug. Swap ragged tea towels for textured, soft cotton towels. If you have floating shelves, style wooden ornaments amongst cookbooks and treasured ceramics.     

3. Ornate Lighting

Picture a trio of pendant lights swinging above a long kitchen island. Not only do they illuminate the benchtop — providing essential light by which you can prepare food, unwind with a magazine, or share a drink with friends — they also impact the overall style of your kitchen.

This year, we have our eyes on ornate lighting that brings personality to a space. Think woven and beaded lampshades, intricate patterns, and sculptural designs. Pendants are one of the easiest lighting upgrades you can make in your kitchen, so don’t be afraid to go bold and experiment with new styles. 

The post 3 inspiring kitchen trends we’re loving right now appeared first on Home Beautiful.

There are an array of different fridge brands out there for the Aussie consumer. Below, we’ve chosen the best fridge brands that are in the Australian market, right now.

The best fridge brands in Australia 2024

01

Westinghouse

Westinghouse has been making top-notch fridges and freezers for Aussies for more than 80 years. Westinghouse is part of the Electrolux family of brands and is known for making practical and durable kitchen appliances – including refrigerators. So, if you’re after a practical model that can house all your favourite ingredients while keeping your produce fresher for longer, a fridge/freezer from Westinghouse is a clever choice.

Shop Westinghouse fridges at:

• Appliances Online
• The Good Guys
• Betta Home Living
• Bing Lee

Shop Now AT APPLIANCES ONLINE

02

BOSCH

Well-known German kitchen appliance brand, BOSCH, has been around for generations – with humble beginnings starting in 1886 (yes, really). And throughout the years, BOSCH has offered top-of-the-line home appliances for Australians, from smart ovens and washing machines to fridges, of course. BOSCH offers fridges in all shapes and sizes – including capacious French door fridges, vertical fridges and easy-to-use bottom mount options. Finding one that fits your existing kitchen is simple.

Shop BOSCH fridges at:

• Appliances Online
• Bing Lee

Shop Now AT bing lee

03

Fisher & Paykel

With 80 years of innovation under its belt, Fisher & Paykel has been a household appliance name for decades. Founded across the ditch in New Zealand, Fisher & Paykel has been delivering world-leading innovations to improve everyday life. In 1995, the brand started creating plastic refrigerator liners and insulation made from polyurethane foam – the world’s first commercial version of the humble refrigerator.

Fisher & Paykel creates design-led fridges, with the CoolDrawer being one of the models that sets the brand apart from its competition. The CoolDrawer is an award-winning multi-temperature drawer-based refrigerator and features world-first ActiveSmart refrigeration technology.

Shop Fisher & Paykel fridges at:

• Appliances Online
• Bing Lee
• The Good Guys

Shop Now AT THE GOOD GUYS

04

Electrolux

Swedish home appliance brand Electrolux has been creating designer fridges and kitchen appliances since 1919 and has become an Aussie home staple. With its extensive suite of home appliance offerings ranging from refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines to cookers, vacuum cleaners, air conditioners and small domestic appliances, upgrading your home tech is simple with this brand. In Canstar’s rating Best Fridge Brands rating, Electrolux scored five stars across all judging categories, including performance, value for money, internal layout, design, features and functionality and overall customer satisfaction.

Electrolux offers its products through various brands, including Electrolux, AEG, Anova, Frigidaire, Westinghouse and Zanussi.

Shop Electrolux fridges at:

• Betta Home Living
• Appliances Online
• Bing Lee
• The Good Guys

Shop Now AT BETTA

05

Samsung

Korean technology giant Samsung is no stranger to the home appliance market. Samsung was founded in 1969 and is now a globally recognised technology brand. From leading floorcare technologies to cooling refrigeration options, Samsung has it all. And if you’re looking to buy a new fridge, it’s safe to say Samsung is a sound option. From its luxurious BESPOKE range that is made for those looking for a stylish integration of appliances within the home to the technology-first FamilyHub smart fridge range, Samsung has everything you’re looking for in a high-quality refrigerator – and more.

Shop Samsung fridges at:

• Samsung
• Appliances Online
• The Good Guys

Shop Now AT THE GOOD GUYS

06

Whirlpool

Looking for a reliable fridge brand? Then look no further than Whirlpool. Known to last the test of time, Whirlpool fridges is your no-frills option – perfect for busy households. Whirlpool offers French door fridges and bottom-mount fridges, to suit your preference.

Shop Whirlpool fridges at:

• Appliances Online
• MyDeal

Shop Now AT MYDEAL

The post Which fridge brand is the best to shop in Australia? appeared first on Home Beautiful.

There’s nothing ‘black and white’ about monochrome kitchens these days. The design world has moved on a little from the chessboard lewk, so think ‘marle’ (yes, like the sweaters), greige (grey meets beige), almost-black (such as Dulux Domino) and every shade in between. Mixing textures will add depth, such as natural stone, VJ panelling, stainless steel and sheer curtains.  

Check out these inspirational kitchens for tips on how to carry off the monochrome vibe with catwalk prowess.

A monochrome kitchen shines with a marble island bench

Luxe Carrara marble from Gladstones Granite evokes a stormy sky in this Melbourne kitchen, above, in a renovated home that was built in the Spanish Costa Del Sol style. The 2-pac cabinetry is in Dulux Natural White and the Grazia & Co ‘Dita’ stools add a black accent to this calm, monochrome kitchen.

Dark cabinets add texture to this monochrome kitchen

The fluted cabinets in this striking kitchen on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, above, work harmoniously with the island bench of Calacatta Statuario marble, which sits on a Scandinavian Profile base in Dulux Mt Aspiring.

A dark and moody home bar to die for

Technically, this is a home bar (above) and not a kitchen per se, but the edgy joinery in Dulux Monument paired with a dramatic Talostone bench in Super White meant it deserved a place in our list. The rest of the home adheres to this magic monochrome scheme, allowing artworks and soft furnishings to shine.

A Hamptons-inspired kitchen in Perth with depth and drama

‘Hamptons’ doesn’t always mean white, as seen in this striking Perth kitchen, above. The dark cabinets are finished with Polytec Thermolaminate in ‘Tempest’, while the Polytec ‘Venette’ cabinetry in Ultra White is sleek and pure matte. Kethy ‘Fornel’ gold handles give the kitchen a Midas touch, contrasting with a Franke sink in Onyx. Herringbone marble tiles pull it all together.

A practical black and white kitchen with a Tuckey table

A bespoke Mark Tuckey dining table is the hero of this monochrome kitchen (above): because it’s on castors it can be easily moved to the island bench, making the bench super-sized. Takahashi Asako ‘170’ dining chairs from Curious Grace complement the dark floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, from New Age Veneers in ‘Smoked Ash’.

A cosy kitchen is given a striking monochrome makeover

The challenge for interior designer Chelsea Hing was to incorporate a living zone, pantry and cooking space into a compact but chic kitchen (above). She succeeded, including a luxurious honed Carrara marble benchtop, Corporate Culture ‘Caravaggio P2’ pendant lights, stainless steel workspace, dark cabinetry and whitewashed timber floors.

The post 7 great ideas for a monochrome kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Luckily, some kitchen design elements will never go out of fashion, but the most important consideration is to stay true to your own style to make it truly endure.

Here are eight examples of timeless kitchen design and clever future-proofing tips to get you started.

1. A white or neutral colour scheme

White and neutral tones are popular choices in the kitchen for one reason: they don’t date. Before you start to worry about it being boring, remember the more bold your design choices in the kitchen are, the bigger chance there is of you changing your mind down the track.

Classic is the goal here and, if you’re looking to make a statement with must-have trends, more personality can be brought in with accessories.

2. Shaker style cabinets

Once an essential ingredient for the farmhouse kitchen style, now the perfect choice for Hamptons-style kitchens, shaker-style cabinets are a popular choice because of their simplicity and ability to complement most styles.

Pick up details by using a darker paint colour on lower cabinetry or your kitchen island for added interest, or stick to all-white for a clean and classic look. 

3. Appliances that complement your lifestyle

Do you like to entertain? Or perhaps you want to enjoy a cafe-quality coffee in the morning as soon as you wake up? Whatever your wish, there is an appliance to meet all of your kitchen needs.

When it comes to choosing appliances like a coffee machine or double oven, and French door fridges, factoring them in at the design stage of your kitchen can help you make the right choice to suit your space and lifestyle.

4. Natural accents

The kitchen is the hub of any home and your choice of benchtop material matters. Choose materials that give off a natural vibe, and you can be confident that your kitchen will never go out of style.

For an ageless appeal, look to timber-look veneer in cabinetry and engineered stone benchtops, both of which are practical and low-maintenance choices.

5. Subway tiles

The popularity of subway tiles continues to feature in kitchens of all shapes, sizes and styles. Simple and sophisticated, their size makes them a versatile choice and that they come in different shades means they can be matched to any colour palette.

For the ultimate in timelessness, however, white would be an excellent choice, with options to add a textured finish or coloured grout.

6. Cabinet hardware

Probably the most underrated design element in any kitchen, handles (or the lack thereof) can have a massive impact on the overall look of your kitchen.

When choosing kitchen handles, consider the look and feel of your kitchen design as well as the size and material needed to open and close your cupboards and drawers with ease.

7. A kitchen island

An island bench is a beautiful addition to any kitchen for many reasons. It works for most layouts, is perfect for entertaining guests on those less formal occasions and for having a quick meal with family. Plus, the extra storage makes it do double duty in this busy zone.

8. A large sink

Particularly in an entertainer’s kitchen, when it comes to your sink, the bigger the better.

Whether a feature ceramic sink or an underbench stainless steel style, the benefits of a large sink go beyond the generous bowl size to include the ability to hide clutter and dirty dishes at peak times.

The post 8 essential ingredients for a stylish kitchen that won’t date appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It worked, but times have changed and we’ve realised not everyone wants the same thing from their kitchen space. Just as some people love to entertain guests and others happily spend hours baking up a solitary storm, so too will their dream kitchens have quite different needs.

Enter the ‘zone’ method, a more versatile approach that allows a kitchen to be customised to suit the specific needs of each home chef. If you’re planning a kitchen layout, zoning is a practical way to go. Here are five different zones to consider, plus the top appliances and tricks to tailor them to your exact needs.

The cooking zone

One of the fundamentals of every great kitchen, the cooking zone usually comprises an oven, cooktop and microwave. You might stack them vertically with the oven sitting under the cooktop, or you may prefer to separate them so the oven can be mounted at a custom height. Either way, allow plenty of bench space around these appliances and keep frequently used cooking utensils stored within easy reach.

When planning your cooking zone, be realistic about the type of food you cook and how you like to prepare it. For example, if you enjoy chatting to other members of your household while you cook, consider positioning your cooking zone appliances in a kitchen island, instead of around the perimeter. The Westinghouse WHI955BD 90cm Induction Cooktop is ideal for this, as it heats up quickly but the safer induction surface doesn’t feel hot to the touch. Home chefs also love the cooktop’s cutting-edge BoilProtect feature, which detects rising bubbles in boiling water and automatically reduces to a low simmer to prevent boiling over (BoilProtect applies to stainless steel and enamelled pots filled with water only).

Alternatively, a freestanding cooker offers extra versatility and generally boasts a large cooking capacity that’s brilliant for bigger households. The Westinghouse WFEP9757DD 90cm Freestanding Electric Cooker combines a safe and efficient 5-zone induction cooktop with a spacious 125-litre oven complete with 10 innovative functions to take your cooking zone to the next level. These include an AirFry function to cook crispy, crunchy foods with less oil, and Roast +Steam for the juiciest roast dinner you’ll ever cook.

The baking zone

The right oven is also a centrepiece of this zone but if you take baking seriously, you’ll want to kit out the area with some specific features. Be sure to install additional powerpoints and extra bench space in your baking zone so you can use a mixer or food processor. Store other tools – such as measuring cups, whisks, rolling pins and baking pans – nearby so you can seamlessly transfer your mixture from bowl to pan to oven.

Speaking of the oven, Westinghouse is always happy to help bakers achieve their very best results. The new Westinghouse WVEP6918DD 60cm Pyrolytic Oven boasts 19 different cooking programs including a Bake +Steam function that gives bread, cakes, pastries and scones a crispier crust, fluffier centre and the perfect rise. 

The consumables zone

Having a well-organised space to store food keeps every kitchen running efficiently. Ideally, your fridge/freezer and pantry should be grouped together so you can easily move between the two when preparing food. Adding bench space nearby makes the consumables zone even more practical when you’re unpacking groceries.

The drinks zone

Ready to get creative? A drinks zone can be adapted to suit your beverage of choice. Ice on tap? No problem. The Westinghouse 564L French door fridge in matte charcoal black (WQE5650BA) has an automatic icemaker. If you’re a coffee devotee, set aside space to create your own barista-style hub, complete with espresso machine, bean grinder and an airtight container to keep your beans fresh. Position your favourite mug nearby so everything is exactly where it should be to brew the perfect cup.

If cocktails are more your speed, set up a dedicated cart or cabinet to house your preferred spirits plus a set of bar tools such as a shaker, strainer and muddler. Give this zone extra flair by adding your favourite decorative cocktail glasses.  

The cleaning zone

Just as important as your cooking areas, a well-planned cleaning zone allows you to scrape and stack dirty dishes with ease. Ideally it will be ordered from left to right, moving from garbage and food waste bins to the sink and then on to the dishwasher. Fast wash cycles make for entertaining or high-rotation use dishes is made easy with the Westinghouse Freestanding Dishwasher in Dark Stainless (WSF6608KXA).

One appliance you don’t need to worry about scrubbing clean is your oven, thanks to the pyrolytic self-cleaning function in Westinghouse’s new Kitchen range of electric ovens. Simply tap the button and leave the oven to heat to an incredibly high temperature, turning grease and splashes into ash that is easily wiped away.

The post 5 zones to consider when planning your dream kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Are white kitchens still trending?

White kitchens are always a classic but to make them feel modern, look at easy kitchen updates such as new tapware and light fittings. The white-on-white palette was chosen to give the illusion of space, as were integrated appliances. The farmhouse sink and tapware from The English Tapware Company were decided on as the hero pieces of the new modern white kitchen, and the rest of the design was built around these pieces. “Given the very small space, we kept colours and material variation very simple to avoid visual clutter,” says Sarah. “The cabinets and walls are the same shade of white, but we added interest with the shaker-style profile on the cabinetry doors.” Finally, loose sheer Roman blinds were added to provide subtle pattern and colour.

The existing hardwood floors were sanded and re-polished in a clear matte seal, and the white kitchen cabinets were custom-designed for the space by Sarah, then constructed by Yarrow Build. The benchtops are Frosty Carrina from Caesarstone, paired with tapware and sink from The English Tapware Company. The lighting is by Light Co, blinds and curtains are from Northside Window Coverings and the handles are by Hepburn Hardware. 

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In the connecting laundry, the existing floor tiles were kept and Yarrow Build constructed the new custom cabinetry. Caesarstone benchtops were paired with tiles from Tile Bazaar, with tapware from Winning Appliances. The once-dated spaces have been transformed into a fresh white kitchen and adjoining white laundry.

Design tip

“The laundry is connected to the kitchen but my parents wanted it to be ‘invisible’. I added bi-fold doors that can be closed to neatly hide away everyday mess. We also wanted to keep the design consistent with the kitchen, so despite it being a utilitarian laundry, it still has the elevated, timeless look we strived for in the kitchen,” says Sarah.

“Don’t try to add too many ‘hero’ or feature pieces into the space otherwise you’ll lose the effect … we used the fireclay sink and tapware as our hero.”

Sarah Yarrow, interior designer

Source book

Interior design: Sarah Yarrow, Sarah Yarrow Interiors, (02) 8581 5286, sarahyarrowinteriors.com.au.
Builder: Tim Yarrow, Yarrow Build, (02) 8581 5286, yarrowbuild.com.au.

The post How to create a modern white kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Open plan, minimalist, u-shaped, sleek and simple or showstopping, take your pick from these brilliant modern kitchen design ideas.

1. Modern monochrome kitchen

A monochrome colour palette makes for stunning style in this contemporary kitchen design. Accents of black in feature downlights, bar stools, tapware and rangehood all come together in understated style. Classic marble informs the engineered stone benchtop, with elegant curves that extend up the back wall to form a statement splashback. Timber flooring warms up the space, while sheer curtains soften the light.

2. Timber and marble kitchen finishes

The high ceilings of this contemporary kitchen make the space appear larger, despite its compact size. Everything is within reach in the preparation zone, with a birdseye view of the open plan living space. Arabescato marble is the hero here, with the custom made rangehood shroud encased in the same material as the benchtops to make a bold, enduring style statement. Timber cabinetry and plenty of indoor plants bring the outdoors in.

3. Natural timber kitchen cabinetry

Pale grey benchtops and an upper splashback in dark, moody Dekton Sirius take a back seat to the honey tones of natural messmate timber cabinetry in this modern kitchen renovation. Open shelving and integrated appliances keep the look contemporary and allow for maximum circulation around the generous kitchen island, while the oversized sliding glass doors carry the eye outdoors.

4. Modern kitchen in a heritage home

A modern kitchen design need not work against the architectural merit of a Victorian home when renovating. This 19th-Century home marries modern convenience with the timeless proportions of the original space. Rather than make a feature of exposed beams and rangehood cover overhead, both have been painted out to the ceiling colour and a light well installed to further amplify the effect of sash windows. Benchtops hug the length of one wall, while an oversized island in oak veneer matches the flooring and is part prep space, part dining table.

5. Modern coastal kitchen in monochrome

Modern kitchens and monochrome go hand in hand but it takes texture to effect a chic coastal aesthetic. In this contemporary coastal kitchen, high ceilings take advantage of natural light while bold black rattan pendant lighting hung on long cords create intimacy around the kitchen island. Woven bar stools ground the space for conversation and culinary creativity and selected cabinetry is highlighted in VJ panelling painted in Dulux Domino.

6. Modern resort-style kitchen

In designing open-plan spaces, remember that the flooring choice will be shared by the kitchen and living spaces so must be fit for both purposes. Concrete is a contemporary choice and will stand the test of time in style and wear and tear, but the key is to take style cues from the floor up for a cohesive look. In this resort-style home, the tiles in splashback and material choices for cabinetry beneath benchtops and the kitchen island have touches of grey that speak to the moody finish of the concrete flooring.

7. Coloured kitchen cabinetry

The dramatic benchtop in this charming renovated Queenslander features elegant veining in the marble, repeated in the splashback to give it added gravitas. The continuation of marble up the splashback ties in beautifully with the dark feature colour of the island placed directly in front of the bank of white cabinetry where contemporary bar stools stand sentinel. Equally striking are the smooth white pendant lights above – they provide another resting place for the eyes away from the marble and the darker tones to become part of the design, rather than an interruption.

The post 7 modern kitchen design ideas appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It’s possible to go head-to-toe IKEA in your kitchen, sourcing everything from sinks to cabinet handles to appliances and more. But you don’t have to. Many of the designers and renovators featured here cherry-picked their IKEA kitchen supplies, combining them with custom joinery or stone bench tops.

So here are 7 scroll-stopping, real-life IKEA-heavy kitchens that don’t scrimp on style.

1. It’s easy being green

This modern take on a country kitchen combines earthy-green IKEA joinery with timber TUBA handles and Caesarstone bench tops in ‘Clamshell’. For a similar kettle, go to Smeg Australia.

2. Small and mighty and midcentury

The owner of this Parisian apartment envisaged a kitchen in natural walnut that would open to her living room, transforming the 52-square-metre space into a cocoon for her family. The pedestals, drawers and hardware are from IKEA. Here, modern furniture’s been expertly mixed with antiques such as the Tulip table designed by Eero Saarinen for Knoll, which separates the kitchen and living room and is used as a second work surface every day.

3. All the alpine feels

This IKEA-strong kitchen features VOXTORP – a smooth, matte door with integrated finger-pull handles. The bench top is EKBACKEN Dark Oak⁣; the kitchen mixer is a TÄMNAREN Sensor Tap⁣; and the oven is an ANRÄTTA. ⁣Altogether it’s white and light and with that raked ceiling, reminiscent of a ski chalet.

4. Corner office

When you can’t decide between a dark, minimalist/white or boho timber kitchen, just do all of it, as per @my_hygge_my_home’s cosy kitchen. Pulling the look together is the cult rice-paper Formakami JH4 pendant light by &tradition.

5. Paint it black

The owner of this minimalist Scandi kitchen says they’ve renovated with IKEA’S KUNGSBACKA black-ish (‘anthracite’) cabinetry twice, and would do it again. Bonus: KUNGSBACKA kitchen fronts are made from recycled materials, so they’re good for the planet, as well.

6. Farmhouse charm

Different textures – such as the whitewashed bricks – give this monochrome Shaker-style kitchen depth and drama. The IKEA joinery complements the rustic character of this 100-year-old home beautifully.

7. Parisian perfection

IKEA provided the carcass for this kitchen joinery, while the tinted-oak facades were made to measure by another supplier. The owners of the heritage apartment in Paris wanted ‘holiday at home’ vibes – definitely embodied by the bird-like pendants flying above the island bench.

The post 7 stunning IKEA kitchen designs appeared first on Home Beautiful.

All of which is to say: a beautiful kitchen goes a long way to making a beautiful home. In order to get your dream kitchen, you don’t need to rip everything out and start fresh. Here we share some simple and savvy ideas to take your kitchen to the next level – without breaking the bank.

In The Series

Home Beautiful has teamed up with Bunnings to inspire your next renovation, including kitchen transformations. Discover more exciting tips and tricks in our DIY series:

• 5 beautiful backyard designs the whole family will love

• The secret to multi-purpose living spaces that work

• 5 front façades for an unforgettable first impression

• Laundry love: 8 homes where laundries steal the show

1. Upgrade your hardware

Replacing door knobs and drawer handles is a quick, cheap way of giving your kitchen a fresh new look. If your benchtop is looking dated and your cabinets are in need of a makeover, don’t get rid of them – upcycle them! Use tile paint to paint over old tiles, and laminate paint for cabinets (you could also paint the upper cabinets only, for a contrast look).

If you’re in a rental, you can even use adhesive decals to update your cabinet doors (temporary wallpaper works well for this). You can cover your old appliances with stainless steel contact paper, too – it takes about half an hour and costs around $10.

You can resurface an existing benchtop – there are DIY kits that come in plenty of stone lookalike tones. You can even spray paint your old taps – go for a brushed copper look.

2. Add an island

Free-standing kitchen islands can be expensive, but not if you think outside the box. Instead of a traditional island, why not use a trestle table or floating drawers? There’s an abundance of kitchen work islands that can easily be rolled around the kitchen as needed; opt for a stainless-steel option to make maintenance a breeze.

3. Transform your splashback

The kitchen splashback not only protects your wall from splatters and stains, but it also creates a striking visual statement. If your splashback is looking a little worse for wear, it’s never been easier to replace it.

In this charming country kitchen, a white mosaic tile background brings a calming look and feel to the space. To save time and improve precision, use mosaic sheets rather than individual tiles.

This DIY project was achieved by the team from Bunnings for the Make It Happen series, which gives DIY novices tips and tricks to transform their homes. To discover more great advice and makeover inspiration, watch the full series here.

here.

4. Invest in lighting

Deluxe, well-considered task kitchen lighting, such as pendant lights over the benchtop or island, can elevate any kitchen style. They’re also incredibly functional – more light is always a good idea to brighten preparation and cooking spaces.

If you can’t install new pendant lights, upgrade your existing lightbulbs to LED for a bright daylight look. Or add under-cabinet lighting – this DIY design hack adds a touch of glamour to your kitchen.

5. Freshen up the floor

Yes, you can paint your floor! Timber floors that have seen better days can be rejuvenated with a coat of paint. Choose a shade of soft white, pale blue or dove grey. Similarly, paint floor tiles with tile paint. And if you’ve got one or two cracked tiles, cover them with a rug instead of pulling up the whole floor.

6. Repaint your cabinetry

Just like your flooring, cabinetry can also be transformed with paint. If the bones of your cupboards are still in fantastic shape, a major style change can be achieved by simply replacing the doors rather than the entire cupboard. Dramatic black doors can evoke an industrial scheme or choose navy blue to nail the modern Hamptons look. Mix it up and incorporate open shelving in your upper cabinets – this creates a beautiful, spacious look.

7. MAKE USE OF SHELVING

When in doubt, why not add a sculptural vase or decorative object to your open shelving? Wall art and other decorative accents such as family photographs or cookbooks can also go a long way to inject personality and character, making the space your own. Vibrant plants and bunches of flowers or foliage are the quickest way to add texture and character to your kitchen.

Brought to you by Bunnings.

The post 7 smart and simple ideas to upgrade your kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Here are eight examples of timeless kitchen design and clever future-proofing tips to get you started.

1. A white kitchen

White is a popular choice in the kitchen for one reason: it doesn’t date. Before you start to worry about it being boring, remember the more bold your design choices in the kitchen are, the bigger chance there is of you changing your mind down the track. Classic is key here and, if you’re looking to make a statement with must-have trends, more personality can be brought in with accessories.

2. Shaker-style cabinets

Once an essential ingredient for the farmhouse kitchen style, now the perfect choice for Hamptons-style kitchens, shaker-style cabinets are a popular choice because of their simplicity and ability to complement most styles. Pick up details by using a darker paint colour on lower cabinetry or your kitchen island for added interest, or stick to all white for a clean and classic look.

3. Appliances that suit the way you live

Do you like to entertain? Or perhaps you want to enjoy a cafe-quality coffee in the morning as soon as you wake up? Whatever your wish, there is an appliance to meet all of your kitchen needs. When it comes to choosing appliances like a coffee machine or double oven, and French fridge doors, factoring them in at the design stage of your kitchen can help you make the right choice to suit your space and lifestyle.

4. The natural look

The kitchen is the hub of any home and your benchtop choice matters. Choose materials that give off a natural vibe, and you can be confident that your kitchen will never go out of style. For a ageless appeal, look to timber-look veneer in cabinetry and engineered stone benchtops, both of which are practical and low-maintenance choices.

5. Subway tiles

The popularity of subway tiles continues to feature in kitchens of all shapes, sizes and styles. Simple and sophisticated, their size makes them a versatile choice and that they come in different shades means they can be matched to any colour palette. For the ultimate in timelessness, however, white would be an excellent choice, with options to add a textured finish or coloured grout.

6. Handles

Probably the most underrated design element in any kitchen, handles (or the lack thereof) can have a massive impact on the overall look of your kitchen. When choosing handles, consider the look and feel of your kitchen design as well as the size and material needed to open and close your cupboards and drawers with ease.

7. A kitchen island

An island bench is a beautiful addition to any kitchen for many reasons. It works for most layouts, is perfect for entertaining guests on those less formal occasions and for having a quick meal with family. Plus, the extra storage makes it do double duty in this busy zone.

8. A large sink

Particularly in an entertainer’s kitchen, when it comes to your sink, the bigger the better. Whether a feature ceramic sink or an underbench stainless steel style, the benefits of a large sink go beyond the generous bowl size to include the ability to hide clutter and dirty dishes at peak times.

The post How to design a stylish kitchen that won’t date appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Davinia Sutton, of Christchurch’s Detail by Davinia Sutton Ltd, received the International Design of the Year Award at the 2019 Designer Kitchen & Bathroom Awards, held in the UK.

The kitchen, called Heaton Street, was created for a client who wanted an uncluttered, chic, smooth space created with edgy, urban materials. The streamlined, modern kitchen features a hidden sink and sleek benchtops.

Judges described the stand out feature of the kitchen as the Pure White Caesarstone bench that sits in the middle of the layered island.

The Heaton Street kitchen is effectively split into two sections by the island bench, providing a front area for food prep, cooking and interaction with guests, while the sink – and associated ‘messy’ items – is placed to the rear of the island, out of immediate focus.

A separate zone, behind a veneered wall, provides out-of-sight storage, pantry and small appliance housing. This clever floor plan allows the eating area to flow seamlessly into the main living space.

The kitchen’s beautiful palette of sleek finishes marries American White Oak veneer, finished with a warm matte stain, with textured black granite surfaces and matte black ply doors and drawers.

The post This kitchen has been awarded the ‘Best Kitchen in The World’ appeared first on Home Beautiful.

With the 1970s retro revival in interior decorating comes classic cookware to have on display and these little numbers (especially those decorated with rare patterns) are fast becoming collectable, with some netting as much as $10,000 at auction.

Glass expert, Dean Six, told New Idea Food that the familiar white casserole dish is making a comeback in a big way, but the more rare the pattern, the higher the price at auction.

Could this be the end of Corningware? 

The US-based parent company behind iconic kitchenware brands including Corningware, Pyrex, Instant Pot and Corelle has filed for bankruptcy. 

Instant Brands President and CEO Ben Gadbois says “After successfully navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the global supply chain crisis, we continue to face additional global macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges that have affected our business. In particular, tightening of credit terms and higher interest rates impacted our liquidity levels and made our capital structure unsustainable.”

Prices for second-hand Corningware items have been listed on eBay, Etsy and Facebook Marketplace for exorbitant prices. One set of four casserole dishes featuring the ‘Spice of Life’ pattern is currently available on Etsy for $30,000.

Common Corningware patterns

Perhaps the most recognisable CorningWare design is the pretty blue ‘Cornflower’ pattern. Because this pattern is so common, however, it remains more widely available and is less valuable to collectors.

These versatile dishes are still excellent to own and cook with, as the ceramic cookware can be used on the stove and in the oven. Corningware continues to manufacture the Cornflower design, which can be purchased from David Jones.

Valuable Corningware patterns

Spice of Life (1972-1987)

The ‘Spice of Life’ range is widely regarded as the second-most common CorningWare pattern after Cornflowers. But, certain models in this range can fetch thousands of dollars online when they are in good condition with the original lid.

Only the earliest dishes had the model name inscribed below the pattern. Rare model names include ‘L’echalote La Marjolaine’ and ‘Le Romarin’. According to rarest.org, the holy grail for collectors is the ‘Spice of Life 4-quart casserole dish’ which has sold online for upwards of $4000.

Floral Bouquet (1971-1975)

One of the most rare designs is the ‘Floral Bouquet’ pattern which was manufactured for a very short time period between 1971 and 1975.

The pattern features the outlines of flowers in orange, black and blue with pale green leaves.

A second, limited edition version the Floral Bouquet design was released in 1971 and features the same familiar flower design but on a yellow, rather than white, background.

Wildflower (1977-1984)

The “Wildflower” pattern, which is was made between 1977 and 1984 and is harder to find now. The design features bright red poppies surrounded by yellow daisies and small blue flowers.

Country Festival (1975-1976)

The ‘Country Festival’ design is also referred to as the ‘Friendship’ pattern.

The symmetrical design is reminiscent of cross-stitching and features two blue birds facing each other surrounded by orange flowers.

“Collecting is often what you remember, which is why this is big now because baby boomers are buying back what they grew up with” says expert Dean Six. “Boomers are decorating with these pieces in their homes.”

Take another look at that teapot above your fridge your Mum gave you when you first moved house – if it’s in good condition with no cracks or discolouration it may be worth thousands of dollars!

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She decided to start with a clean slate, selling everything she no longer wanted and replacing it with Shaker-style cabinetry and an easy Hamptons vibe. 

No stranger to the difficulties of working with smaller kitchens, Dominique, who owns Provincial Kitchens in Sydney, found smart solutions to maximise space. “Working with a small, U-shaped kitchen is a challenge, so I started with the two corners by the sink and worked my way out,” she explains. “My magic corner units are lifesavers – the shelves pull all the way out so there’s no rummaging in the back of cupboards!”

The walls were painted in Dulux Sandy Day, a warming hue that picks up the soft, coffee-coloured veining of the Kynos marble benchtop, available from Provincial Kitchens. Whisper White paint by Dulux brightens the previously brown cabinetry and floorboards. A few vintage pieces were retained from the old kitchen, such as the stool, rustic chairs and antique railway light fitting, which add touches of colour and character.

Lashings of white paint and rustic furniture have given the petite kitchen a light, fresh and airy feel, which sets off perfectly Dominique’s collection of vintage crockery and kitchenalia. “I just love the simplicity of this room now,” she says.

A traditional Perrin & Rowe pewter tap with porcelain levers – available from The English Tapware Company – blends beautifully with the splashback in handmade Italian subway tiles from Art of Tiles.

When designing a kitchen, Dominique always starts with the wishlist of appliances, and she followed the same process in her own room with cleverly customised joinery, built by Provincial Kitchens. “The oil and spice drawer is positioned conveniently next to the oven and kick cupboards hidden under the sink are great for extra storage,” she explains.

“I buy things I love and I like to have them out where I can see them”

Dominique

If you’re looking to recreate this Hamptons-inspired kitchen, below are our favourite buys that will help transform your kitchen into a seaside oasis. 

Shop the look: Hamptons-style kitchen

Sand Stone Sea 65cm Bella cross back bar stool, $199 (usually $249), Temple & Webster

If you can decorate your kitchen bench or island with bar stools, we recommend doing so. It adds extra seating options (perfect for breakfast or a quick afternoon snack) within your dining and kitchen area. This Hamptons-style bar stool from Temple & Webster features a classic cross-back design for support and a rattan seat for a natural touch.

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Otti Australia Hampshire ceramic butler sink, $449, Temple & Webster

Add a rustic touch to your Hamptons-style kitchen with this farmhouse sink from Otti Australia. With a gorgeous ribbed front that will look stunning when exposed during installation – if you have the capacity to swap out your old sink basin, this one is our pick.

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Phoenix Nostalgia twin handle sink mixer in chrome/white, $779 (usually $975), The Blue Space

This sink mixer features gorgeous white levers paired with a classic chrome body; it’s the perfect addition to any Hamptons-style kitchen. Designed in Australia by the award-winning Phoenix design team, it brings old-world charm to the kitchen and is made to last.

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Zanda Mayfair chrome plate cabinet handle, $25, The Blue Space

An easy way to freshen up your kitchen without doing a complete reno is by swapping out your old cabinet handles. This chrome cabinet handle from The Blue Space features a classic design and is available in three lengths to suit your existing cabinetry.

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Ubud dark natural belly scallop basket, $199.99, Adairs

Use as an indoor plant holder or above the kitchen cabinets as extra storage. Adding natural woven elements to the kitchen will add to the relaxing atmosphere that the Hamptons-design style exudes. Choose a few woven baskets in varying sizes for visual interest.

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Sheridan Mercourt tea towel set, $49.99, Sheridan Outlet

Another easy way to add Hamptons-style to your kitchen aesthetic is by swapping your old tea towels for something new. This set features four tea towels in a blue hue, from checkerboard patterned to classic stripes, that effortlessly adds a touch of farmhouse and a hint of nautical to your Hamptons-style kitchen.

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Astor six light round pendant in nickel, $649, One World

If you have a kitchen island, adding a series of hanging lights above not only brings in an alternative option for mood lighting but also draws the eyes upwards – making your kitchen look bigger. This hanging pendant features six candle-shaped light bulbs encased in a glass and chrome casing.

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