Kitchen Archives - Top Dreamer https://topdreamer.com/category/home-decor/kitchen/ Keep Calm and Dream On Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:59:15 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.1 3 ways to add personality to your kitchen design https://topdreamer.com/3-ways-to-add-personality-to-your-kitchen-design/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:59:13 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=109294 Those all-white, barren kitchen setups have had their moment. Minimalist celebrity mega-mansions be damned, we want to see some color, texture, and a healthy dose of individuality in our 2023 interiors. Kitchens are the heart of the home — it’s where you prep food, dine, work, relax, and reflect with a friend over wine about […]

The post 3 ways to add personality to your kitchen design appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Those all-white, barren kitchen setups have had their moment. Minimalist celebrity mega-mansions be damned, we want to see some color, texture, and a healthy dose of individuality in our 2023 interiors.

Kitchens are the heart of the home — it’s where you prep food, dine, work, relax, and reflect with a friend over wine about life. You probably spend more time inside those four walls than anywhere else, so just like the rest of your home, the kitchen should communicate who you are from the moment you step through the door.

So, how can you add personality to your kitchen design? Without further ado, here are our top three recommendations.

1. Use every color of the rainbow

If you could bottle what makes you unique and paint it on the walls, it’d be all too easy to make your home your personal canvas. However, this invention doesn’t yet exist — so you’ll just have to consult a Pantone color chart instead. Incorporating bold color choices into your walls, cabinetry and furniture is a surefire way to add a little substance to your kitchens.

Forget trending styles and go bigger — whether it’s a daring color combo, unique print wallpaper, or a particularly loud backsplash. Even if it’s just you and a can of Sherwin-Williams against the world, try to color your kitchen how you like, not how Instagram tells you to.

However, if we could offer you one piece of advice, it’s to not skimp on the effort when it comes to coloring. Striking shades can quickly descend into uncoordinated chaos if your choices look unintentional. One common recommendation is to hand-paint rather than spray your kitchen surfaces. Kitchen experts from Harvey Jones advise that “spray paint often looks plasticky, chips easily and can’t be repaired as conveniently if damaged. In comparison, hand painting creates a completely seamless finish and can simply be touched up”, which is all-important if you want that ‘showroom-standard finish’ round the clock.

2. Switch up your lighting arrangements

As we’ve already discussed, the kitchen serves a wide variety of functions — especially now that working from home is the new normal. So if your kitchen is anything like ours, it’s packed from top to tail with every manner of appliance, cabinet, worktop and tool. Sure, it’s busy — but the beauty of this is it provides plenty of different surfaces and elevations for you to experiment with your lighting.

The kitchen is the one room where any lighting goes. Even in your standard home, you might find a spotlight, hanging lamp or under-cabinet strip. But why stop there when there’s so much unique lighting inspo to be found? Particularly if you’re working with an open-plan kitchen, lighting provides the opportunity to craft a unique identity for your space.

According to Pooky Lighting, one way to do this is to layer. The experts explain that “a beautiful (and ideally dimmable) pendant or cluster light will provide good overall ambient lighting in the living area for general day-to-day activities”. Elsewhere, you can distinguish an area for relaxation by introducing “a layer of softer, more diffused light in the form of some wall lights or sconces”. Basically, there are no dull options allowed when you’re curating a specific vibe for your space — so leave the cone lampshade at the store.

3. Upcycle your existing furniture

The word ‘upcycling’ strikes fear into the hearts of many. Rest assured, we’re not going to link you to a tutorial for turning a salvaged deck chair into a kitchen island, but if that’s your thing, then knock yourself out. Instead, there are lots of minor adjustments that you can make to your existing cabinetry, dining furniture and freestanding storage. The devil’s in the details, and you don’t have to be a trained carpenter to add the odd personal touch.

One simple idea is to switch to alternative materials for details like cabinetry handles. Something as simple as removing a wooden doorknob in exchange for a leather pull can refresh the look of your furniture in mere minutes, providing a tasteful and eye-catching contrast. You can buy unique pulls pre-made, or if you’re feeling creative, attempt to craft them yourself using this guide from Paper & Stitch.

In a similar vein, others choose to add rustic wooden elements alongside their cabinets, especially if their countertops have a gloss finish, to meld traditional and contemporary styles. In the kitchen, consider trimming wooden panels and joining them to the end of a cabinet, as seen here. Once attached, you can varnish your spruced-up end panels in a range of unique finishes, or paint the grain to make a feature that complements the kitchen’s other accent colors.

So, whether you’re working with an open-plan diner or a practical galley, there’s no end to the ways that you can personalize your kitchen. Channel the creative energies that you draw upon when whipping up dinner the day before grocery shopping and you’ll have a kitchen that screams ‘you’ in no time.

The post 3 ways to add personality to your kitchen design appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
How to make your kitchen feel luxurious https://topdreamer.com/how-to-make-your-kitchen-feel-luxurious/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:04:54 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=108788 A well-organized kitchen creates a feeling of modern luxury.  1. Organization  There are many benefits to a well-organized kitchen. The more you organize your kitchen, the less time you’ll spend searching for utensils or clearing clutter. But what if that organization could come from design rather than constant cleaning? An organized kitchen involves more than […]

The post How to make your kitchen feel luxurious appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
A well-organized kitchen creates a feeling of modern luxury. 

1. Organization 

There are many benefits to a well-organized kitchen. The more you organize your kitchen, the less time you’ll spend searching for utensils or clearing clutter. But what if that organization could come from design rather than constant cleaning? An organized kitchen involves more than just putting things away nicely. Having drawers and cabinets that are designed so that everything in them can be easily accessed, that are built to increase storage space. This enables you to move around the area quickly and efficiently to improve the functionality of your kitchen. 

2. Quality Cabinet Door Finishes and Styles 

Having proper finishes and door styles completely changes the feel of your kitchen. Door Styles without handles make your kitchen instantly feel more luxurious. These are commonly designed with an integrated channel along the top of the cabinet or with a push to open mechanism. As for finishes, adding a wood veneer, matte, or high gloss finish are common in modern kitchen cabinets

3. Proper Lighting

Adding lighting inside or underneath the cabinets is often done in high end kitchens. Furthermore, using unique lighting fixtures will also add a bespoke touch to your space. 

4. Matching your countertop with your backsplash. 

By using the same stone or material for your countertop and backsplash you create an incredibly seamless and luxurious design. You will only see this in very high end kitchens, but it is absolutely stunning. 

5. Slim Drawer Boxes

Almost all luxury drawer systems include slim walls. They create much more space. Furthermore, these modern drawer systems include soft close mechanisms and dovetail joints. These create a luxurious feel when opening and closing your drawers. 

6. Pull out Drawers and Layered Shelving. 

A modern, luxurious design often involves installing layered shelving in your kitchen cabinets. This is an especially effective tool when you have tall cabinets because it makes good use of the vertical space. 

You can also install pullout drawers or pullout shelving. These options add a surprising amount of space and efficiency to your drawers and shelves and thus make it much easier to properly organize your kitchen area. This, as a result, makes your kitchen feel more luxurious. 

7. Install Doors That Open Upward (Use a lift mechanism for upper cabinets) 

Kitchen cabinets with doors that open upward rather than outward. Lift systems were created to make moving within a kitchen a more seamless experience. When cabinets lift upward instead of out they are not in your way and don’t have to worry about hitting your head on the cabinet doors. 

They provide much more functionality and they give your kitchen a contemporary style. You can reach items from your upper cabinets fast and with ease.  With a lift mechanism the cabinet doors move up and out of your way all while staying put where you leave them. 

The post How to make your kitchen feel luxurious appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Color Combination Ideas for a Small Kitchen https://topdreamer.com/color-combination-ideas-for-a-small-kitchen/ Tue, 01 Nov 2022 17:13:23 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=108534 When you want to decorate your small kitchen, you might think that your color options are limited. Most people are scared to go overboard and show off their personality when there is so little space to work with. They want to make sure that everything looks fine and that the color choices don’t shrink the […]

The post <strong>Color Combination Ideas for a Small Kitchen</strong> appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
When you want to decorate your small kitchen, you might think that your color options are limited. Most people are scared to go overboard and show off their personality when there is so little space to work with. They want to make sure that everything looks fine and that the color choices don’t shrink the space visually. 

Fortunately, there are many great color combinations that you can use in a small kitchen. Let’s dive into them right away!

  1. White, Yellow, and Robin’s Egg Blue

If you’re a fan of bright colors in general, you’ll fall in love with this combination. 

White, yellow, and Robin’s Egg Blue can be great together, especially if you assign one color to each item in the room. The walls, backsplash, cabinets, and ceiling can be white. Then, you can choose yellow dishware and blue displays and barstools. It all depends on what you want your kitchen to look like at the end of the day. This color combination will reflect light amazingly and will make the room seem larger.

“White walls, ceilings, and backsplashes reflect light and make the perimeter of a small kitchen recede, which causes the room to appear larger. Choose a crisp-white paint color for the walls and cabinets, then layer in color through blue powder-coated barstools and displays of cheery yellow dishware. Consider painting the pantry door or a single cabinet in one of the bright colors for a standout accent,” suggest Ann Wilson and Jessica Bennett on Better Homes & Gardens. 

  1. Green and Gold

Green is a relaxing color that can turn your kitchen into a natural-looking sanctuary. You can use it for different items, such as cabinets, walls, islands, etc. You can either go for the same green shade for each surface of the kitchen to remove distractions, or you can choose slightly different greens for the wall and kitchen cabinetry

“When you visually blend multiple surfaces with the same color, you remove any focal points, so your eye isn’t drawn to any specific area. This makes your walls seem taller and the overall look is cohesive rather than choppy,” says Erica Young from Family Handyman. 

Pair the green with gold light fixtures and taps, and your cooking space will certainly look magical.

  1. Neutral Colors

Small kitchens look amazing with neutral colors, and it’s all due to the fact that they can reflect light better. Neutral or muted shades will improve your lighting and make the space look larger. At the same time, they can make the eyes feel relaxed by making you focus on the aesthetic features of the space instead. 

  1. Warm Wood, Goldenrod Yellow, and Turquoise

A truly nice and traditional look can be achieved by combining yellow, turquoise, and wood textures. 

Wood is great for cabinets and flooring, but also chairs. Then, you can introduce banquette seating to the kitchen, as well as open shelves, and paint them in yellow and turquoise shades. 

“Choose a rich wood stain for lower cabinetry, then go for a modern two-tone look by painting the upper ones white,” say Jessicca Bennett and Ann Wilson from Better Homes & Gardens. “Use fun medleys of vivid ceramic tile to craft bold backsplashes. Take advantage of open shelving and banquette seating to introduce pops of turquoise and yellow to energize your small kitchen design.”

  1. Brown, Rich Ebony, and Dark Jewelled Hue

Just because a kitchen is small it doesn’t mean you cannot choose darker shades for it. You shouldn’t be afraid of the dark side, because it’s easy to obtain a warm and welcoming look with dark and brown colors. 

“If you have a small, dark room, why not embrace it, and play to its strengths,” says Helen Benjamin Moore director Helen Shaw. “Incorporating a rich, bold paint color is a fool-proof way to create instant character – taking a small space from drab to stylish. Dark colors cleverly absorb the light of a space, making the division between walls appear blurred – this adds depth and dimension to a room, so the space appears larger, rather than more cramped as some may fear.”

Final Thoughts

There are different color combinations that work for small kitchens and some of them might have surprised you. Check them in detail and choose the one that best suits your tastes and the room’s design. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even go on the bolder side.

The post <strong>Color Combination Ideas for a Small Kitchen</strong> appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
The ultimate guide to designing a bespoke kitchen https://topdreamer.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-designing-a-bespoke-kitchen/ Thu, 21 Jul 2022 09:58:46 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=107919 Remodelling any part of the house for the first time can be a daunting task. For every choice you make, you have to consider how a room will look, function, and affect your budget. These considerations are especially important for the kitchen — the average Brit will spend three years of their life cooking, so […]

The post The ultimate guide to designing a bespoke kitchen appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Remodelling any part of the house for the first time can be a daunting task. For every choice you make, you have to consider how a room will look, function, and affect your budget. These considerations are especially important for the kitchen — the average Brit will spend three years of their life cooking, so this is a room that needs to be customised for you and your lifestyle.

This is why so many see designing a made-to-measure bespoke kitchen as the way forward. In doing so, you can collaborate with expert designers to tailor every detail, from the layout to the work surface and appliances. If you are unsure where to begin, look no further: this is our ultimate guide to designing your dream bespoke kitchen.

  1. Get inspired

Before you approach a designer, it can be helpful to have a clear vision for the room that you want them to create for you, and research is the all-important early work to prevent any upsets further down the line. Firstly, you’ll want to find your aesthetic. There are a number of places to look for inspiration, such as designer brochures, social media, magazines and websites. On their site, kitchen fitters Harvey Jones list a number of classic styles that are popular in remodels — such as Shaker, Arbor and Linear — with each design providing the foundation for customisation.

Visit showrooms to look at these various styles in-person and determine which you like the most — do you prefer a sleek streamlined finished or more intricate detailing for example? Different cabinetry and work surface options will have varying finishes, so take this opportunity to feel for the texture and quality of any selections.

Once you have an idea of the style you’re after, platforms like Pinterest can help you to create a mood board for potential colours and materials.

  1. Think about your needs

Next, think practically: what are the essential ingredients for your perfect kitchen? No, not the kind you’ll find in the cupboards, but components like the appliances, seating, and storage space.

At this point, you might want to clear out any unused crockery and tools that have been filling your drawers, so that they have no unearned influence on your new design. Once you have a blank canvas, consider what you use your kitchen for and put together a wishlist. For example, if you have a large family, you’ll need plenty of seating, and maybe even an extra fridge — whereas if you’re into your cooking and food prep, you might consider space to fit pot filler taps or a chill blaster. A list of your essential ‘needs’ and more luxury ‘wants’ will help your designer understand exactly what to prioritise in your remodel.

  1. Select a layout

Similarly, your lifestyle will dictate the kind of layout that’s best for your kitchen. Take all the essential measurements to understand the square footage you have and how much of it you’d like to commit to cabinetry, worktops, and open space. There are some common layout themes that are worth considering, based on how you plan to use your kitchen:

  • Galley kitchens are long and narrow with a central aisle, ideal for those with limited space. 
  • U-shaped kitchens feature three walls lined with your cabinets and appliances, leaving a wide central area for worktop space. 
  • L-shaped kitchens are composed of two functional cabinet and appliance walls, leaving floor space available for seating. 

Of course, a handcrafted kitchen means that all your fittings will be made to measure for your space — so the layout can be as classic or unique as you like.

  1. Choose a professional kitchen company

Now that you have a plan for your kitchen, you can shop around for the company to design and install it for you. When making the final choice, select a reputable business with a strong portfolio of previous work. Start by asking your friends and family for recommendations. This way, you can hear first-hand how the company works, and take a look in-person at their end result. Online, look to websites like TrustATrader and TrustMark for customer testimonials and photos to help inform your decision.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s a good idea to visit the workshop for a no-strings consultation, to learn about their design process, from planning to execution. Each will work to a different timescale and with varying levels of collaborative input, so compare the initial meetings and go with the best fit for you.

  1. Crunch the numbers

At this point, there’s likely to be one factor on your mind: cost. Unfortunately, premium comes at a price, and builds can vary wildly from £10k to £60k for larger kitchens. This is because the expenses of tailor-made cabinets, worktops and fitted appliances add up (not to mention those incurred from a surplus of tea and biscuits for your builders!).

However, it’s not all doom and gloom. A high-spec kitchen will add value to your home, giving a substantial return on investment if you can stomach the upfront cost. The Property Centre advises that you budget up to 8% of your house value when remodelling the kitchen, for up to 10% of value increase when it’s complete.

Whatever the budget, it’s vital that both you and your design company are working from the same number, so that they can allocate your money appropriately. Before building begins, you should receive a quote for the full process, with a detailed breakdown of where each cost is coming from. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a hitch-free bespoke build that fits your needs.

The post The ultimate guide to designing a bespoke kitchen appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Pick And Choose: The Best Types of Kitchen Cabinets For Your Home https://topdreamer.com/pick-and-choose-the-best-types-of-kitchen-cabinets-for-your-home/ Thu, 16 Jun 2022 08:20:51 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=107780 Kitchen cabinets are one of the most important pieces of furniture in any home. They’re the perfect spot to store all of your dishes and food, and they can also double as a place to store your pots and pans. There are a lot of different types of kitchen cabinets out there, and it can […]

The post Pick And Choose: The Best Types of Kitchen Cabinets For Your Home appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Kitchen cabinets are one of the most important pieces of furniture in any home. They’re the perfect spot to store all of your dishes and food, and they can also double as a place to store your pots and pans. There are a lot of different types of kitchen cabinets out there, and it can be hard to decide which one is the best for you. Here are three different types of kitchen cabinets to choose from and their respective benefits.

Built-In Kitchen Cabinets

Built-in cabinets are the most common type of kitchen cabinet, and they’re probably the ones you’re most familiar with. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be mounted on the wall or freestanding. They’re a great option if you want a cabinet that’s easy to access, but they may not be ideal if you have limited space.

Closet Storage Kitchen Cabinets

Closet storage kitchen cabinets are similar to built-in cabinets in terms of their features and benefits, but they usually have a smaller footprint. This means that they can be placed anywhere in your home, and they can also double as extra storage for your clothes. They may not be as versatile as built-in cabinets, but they’re perfect for small kitchens or apartments.

Custom Kitchen Cabinets

If you want something completely unique, custom kitchen cabinets are the way to go. These cabinets are made by a cabinet maker who will design them specifically for your home and needs. They can be expensive, but they’re definitely worth it if you want something that looks amazing and fits seamlessly into your décor.

When it comes to custom cabinets, Amish cabinet makers in your city may be something to consider. High-quality and cost-efficiency are key factors that should play into your choice of custom cabinetry.

Shaker Cabinets

If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, shaker kitchen cabinets may be the perfect option for you. These cabinets are inspired by early American furniture, and they have a rustic and vintage feel. They’re not as popular as they used to be, but they can still be found in some upscale homes.

Louvered Cabinets

If you’re in the market for something a little more contemporary, louvered kitchen cabinets may be the perfect option for you. These cabinets have a sleek and modern look, and they can be used in any kitchen style. They’re available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can find one that matches your décor perfectly.

Flat-Panel And Slab Cabinets

These cabinets are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find one that matches your décor perfectly. They’re also affordable, so they’re a good option if you want something that looks great but doesn’t cost too much money.

Inset Cabinets

One option you may want to consider is inset cabinets. Inset cabinets are typically smaller than standard cabinets, and they’re often designed to fit inside other cabinet doors or walls. This can give you more space in your kitchen, and it can also make it easier to organize and use your kitchen appliances.

Distressed Cabinets

In recent years, a trend of using distressed cabinets has taken over the kitchen. Distressed cabinets are often used in a modern or eclectic setting and can add an extra layer of character to any kitchen. They are also popular for use in kitchens that are used for hosting events or as part of a showpiece.

There are many different ways to distress cabinets, and each one has its own unique look. You can use rust, dents, scratches, and stains to create an appearance that is both vintage and unique. Many people also choose distressed cabinets for their functionality as well. They often provide more storage space than traditional cabinets and can be easier to clean.

Beadboard Cabinets

Beadboard cabinets are becoming more popular as a kitchen option. They offer a rustic, cottage-style look that can be customized to fit your needs. There are many different types of beadboard cabinets available, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Some of the benefits of beadboard cabinets include their low cost, ability to be personalized, and the ability to create a unique look for your kitchen. They can also be used in any room in your home, including the basement or garage.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to update your kitchen without spending a lot of money, beadboard cabinets may be a good option for you. Customization is also possible, so you can create the exact look you want.

There are many different types of kitchen cabinets available on the market today. It’s important to choose the right one for your needs and budget.

The post Pick And Choose: The Best Types of Kitchen Cabinets For Your Home appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
9 Space Saving Small Townhouse Kitchen Design Ideas https://topdreamer.com/9-space-saving-small-townhouse-kitchen-design-ideas/ Wed, 17 Nov 2021 18:01:18 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=106224 Have you recently renovated your house but have a small kitchen? You do not need to be concerned because there are countless ideas that you can use to utilize your small kitchen without making things a mess. The designs and ideas will maximize the storage and allow you to use your kitchen effectively. Using these […]

The post 9 Space Saving Small Townhouse Kitchen Design Ideas appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Have you recently renovated your house but have a small kitchen? You do not need to be concerned because there are countless ideas that you can use to utilize your small kitchen without making things a mess. The designs and ideas will maximize the storage and allow you to use your kitchen effectively.

Using these ideas, you can enjoy cooking, hanging out, and even making space for extras in your small kitchen. First, read on to find small townhouse kitchen ideas comfortable in a single wall open kitchen or little galley kitchen. Then, utilize them to make the most of your small kitchen while still making it look cleaner, organized, and sophisticated.

Best Small Townhouse Kitchen Design Ideas

Below are the small townhouse kitchen design ideas that can help you save space:

1. Add a Prep Area

Big kitchens have Caesarstone and soapstone islanders placed in the middle to use that space for cutting, dining, and other kitchen activities. However, a small kitchen might lack the space to install an islander, whether quartz or Caesarstone, or any other material. 

But you have the option to bring in a rolling kitchen cart. The small bar or cart can work as a space to hold your tools and ingredients while you cook. You can also use this counter to chop vegetables, set up cutlery, etc.

2. Improvisation with Custom Hardware

Use custom hardware to add extra storage space in your kitchen. For example, you can use a tinted mirror and contrasting paint to fabricate different designs, such as an eye on the door that looks winking when you open it—using hardware statement pieces like jewellery, broken tile pieces, etc. 

3. Staying Organized is Essential

It is essential to stay organised, even if your kitchen or bedroom is too small. Keeping things organized in your kitchen might seem like a huge task, but you can start from scratch by arranging the lids of all your plant pots in symmetry. Use a big container to store all your spices so that they stay sorted. 

Additionally, use a rack to store your pans if there are no cabinets. You can’t afford to waste any space in big kitchens. However, in smaller spaces, you have to use it in a way that you can easily grab all your stuff. Organizing a kitchen well also makes it look a lot cleaner and accessible. 

4. Streamline Your Dish Duties

Set up a dishwasher room in a smaller kitchen. You must ensure that your kitchen sink is tidy and efficient. Add a dish rack to keep the washed utensils after you wash them so they can dry and not create a mess. 

Ensure that you install a stainless-steel dish rack that will directly drain the water into the sink and not rust with time. In addition to this, it is easier to store utensils using a dish rack as it does not take up a lot of room and saves the energy bill. 

5. Add Some Fun Glassware

Since you have a small kitchen, you do not have much space to play with decor. Hence, you can add some glassware to your kitchen to make it look classy and elegant. 

Fun glassware such as colourful drinking glasses does the talking for you. In addition to that, you can display stemware or an arty pitcher on your kitchen shelf and even use a countertop vase for this purpose. 

4. A Portable Kitchen Islander

A tightly-packed kitchen does not mean you cannot have an island. Instead, it gives you more space to experiment and use unique things. One of the unique things is to get a customised islander with wheels on it. You can use a soapstone islander as it is less heavy than Caesarstone. 

You can use the islander when you are cooking the dinner to prepare the things. Then, when the dinner is ready, you can push it to the side or place it near the living area as a breakfast table. 

Interestingly, it can also be reused as a minibar. However, you should prefer making slimmer legs for your table with rolling wheels so you can put up a few trays in it to make it multi-purpose. 

5. Use Light Colors in Your Kitchen 

The lighter the kitchen, the bigger it will look. Using nature as a part of your kitchen decor is one of the best ways to make your townhouse kitchen visually expanded. Keep a light-coloured countertop, cutlery, walls, backsplashes, and millworks. It will help your small kitchen look bigger and brighter. 

6. Maximize the Floor Space

The shape of your room and the size of your furniture impacts the square footage of your kitchen. Therefore, you should pay attention to the structure of your furniture. 

Choose a dining table with a circular shape. It will maximize the floor space and make your kitchen look rather bigger. Additionally, the use of unique shapes also adds up sophistication and elegance to your kitchen. 

7. Use Smaller Appliances

Fortunately, small appliances are now available in higher quality. If you have small appliances, they will take up less space and create more space for you to experiment. One of the most famous townhouse kitchen ideas is to use a combination of appliances. 

Meaning, you can choose an appliance that serves the purpose of microwave and convection together. This way, you can save space for two appliances and use the remaining space for organizing the other available stuff in your small kitchen. 

8. Use the Wall-Space

The empty wall space is such a great way to ensure that your kitchen looks expanded. Using your wall, you can build an excellent and effective storage system. For example, you can use walls as pegs for frying pans, hook up mugs, or place up a rod for most commonly used utensils. In addition, you can use the space on countertops to place greenery pots. 

9. Consider a Mirrored Backsplash 

Mirrors are handy when you have menial light in your kitchen. They can help to open the space up to bounce back the light. Moreover, using a mirrored backsplash makes your kitchen look bigger and expanded. 

Conclusion:

Having a small townhouse kitchen makes you play around with your unique ideas. You can utilize the time on the walls, change the furniture design, and even set a colour scheme with appliances to make it visually expanded. Use our small townhouse kitchen design ideas mentioned above to set your kitchen apart from others. 

The post 9 Space Saving Small Townhouse Kitchen Design Ideas appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Nate Mell’s Ultimate Guide to Selecting Your Dinnerware https://topdreamer.com/nate-mells-ultimate-guide-to-selecting-your-dinnerware/ Tue, 12 Oct 2021 18:29:50 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=105899 There’s an old saying in culinary circles that “presentation is half the flavor.” However, when looking at how a meal presents, it’s not just the food that matters — it’s also the plate or bowl itself. Dishes come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, and once you start looking at your options closely, it can […]

The post Nate Mell’s Ultimate Guide to Selecting Your Dinnerware appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
There’s an old saying in culinary circles that “presentation is half the flavor.” However, when looking at how a meal presents, it’s not just the food that matters — it’s also the plate or bowl itself.

Dishes come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, and once you start looking at your options closely, it can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, Nate Mell of Felt+Fat, a small Philadelphia-based studio focused on creating custom tableware, is here to guide you in your quest to find the perfect set of dishes.

Over the last several years, Mell and his creative team have made quite the name for themselves, captivating the culinary industry with their handmade to order ware. The porcelain clay pieces evoke a simple yet elegant design, flourishing with pastel colors varied for all seasons, enchanting professional and home chefs alike.

“Whether you’re a restaurateur utilizing tableware to infuse a particular type of atmosphere for food service, or searching for a set of dinnerware to use on a daily basis and for special occasions, it’s helpful to understand the most prevalent options available, from materials, to design and durability,” Mell said.

Materials

Dinnerware comes in many different materials, so let’s look at the top five:

Porcelain

As a non-porous and durable material, porcelain is generally safe in dishwashers, microwaves, and ovens, making it versatile and reliable.

Earthenware

As one of the most ancient materials used for dishes, earthenware gives off a casual vibe while providing meals with a hearty, homey feel.

Stoneware

Stoneware, another durable option, usually has a shiny glaze finish that makes it dependable for everyday use.

Bone China

Considered fine and delicate, most people reserve bone china for special occasions. However, it is chip-resistant and dishwasher/microwave-safe, making it okay for daily use.

Melamine

Ideal for outdoor settings, melamine is shatterproof and can withstand the dishwasher’s heat but is unreliable for oven or microwave use.

Styles

Whether you choose something more formal or casual, it’s important to integrate your style into your dinnerware.

“For tableware design, the biggest questions usually revolve around what type of dining it is… and what is the overall aesthetic,” explained Mell.

Aside from considering colors, you’ll want to decide whether you want something solid, patterned, banded, or hand-painted.

For some people, the best option is to choose a simple, solid color, or even white, and then add in their personalities with accessories like linens, placemats, and chargers.

Practicality and Care

As both an artist and a businessman, Mell emphasized that “all chefs have that ultimate balance of beauty and practicality in mind. They want something unique and beautiful, but they also need to account for the fact that each dish will be handled by potentially dozens of different hands each night.”

In a home setting, practicality means considering how much space you have at the dining table and in your kitchen cupboards.

It’s also important to keep in mind how you want to care for your dishware. If you’re a busy family that relies heavily on the dishwasher, you won’t like something hand-painted that must be washed by hand.

Also, if your dishes are likely to see heavy use, they need durability along with their beauty. “We really rely on restaurants to be a testing ground for our work,” said Mell. “If the wares can’t hold up in a commercial dishwasher and stand the abuse of a busy restaurant, we don’t want to sell it to someone for their home use.”

About Nate Mell

Nate Mell is the founder and CEO of Felt+Fat, a ceramic design studio based in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood. Mell started the Philadelphia-based company in 2014 after graduating from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University and working at the world-renowned Philadelphia Clay Studio.

The post Nate Mell’s Ultimate Guide to Selecting Your Dinnerware appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Top Tips To Improve Your Kitchen https://topdreamer.com/top-tips-to-improve-your-kitchen/ Tue, 21 Sep 2021 09:44:19 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=105686 The kitchen is the heart of the home. It is the place where you cook dinner for your family, where you spend time and socialize with friends, and where you spend a lot of your day. If you are looking to improve your home, your kitchen can be one of the best places to start […]

The post Top Tips To Improve Your Kitchen appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It is the place where you cook dinner for your family, where you spend time and socialize with friends, and where you spend a lot of your day. If you are looking to improve your home, your kitchen can be one of the best places to start – and it doesn’t require anything too complex either. If you have had your kitchen for a long time, or if you have moved quite recently and it doesn’t match up to your expectations, then it is time to give it a spruce up. Here are some top tips for improving your kitchen that should have it exceeding your expectations in no time at all.

Change your kitchen cupboards (colors, handles, doors, etc.) 

When it comes to switching up your kitchen, your cupboards are a simple yet drastic change that can completely change the look. There are many different things you can do to your cupboards, from completely replacing the current doors to painting the ones you have or adding in new handles. 

Choose some new lights

Lighting is a big part of your kitchen so why not think about upgrading it? You could add under-counter lighting, change your ceiling lights to spotlights or find a feature light fixture that can take pride of place in the middle of the ceiling. Do some research and find the light you think will be best for your taste.

Invest in new furniture

When it comes to kitchen furniture, one of the most important things is kitchen tables. There are so many types and styles out there and just by switching this up, you will notice an instant improvement to your room. As well as a new dining table, be sure to invest in comfortable dining chairs that also look good. After all, what is the use of some beautiful dining chairs if they hurt your back when you sit on them?

Think about upgrading your floor

Whether you want tiles, laminate, or real wood floor, there are many options when it comes to your kitchen. Think about the materials that you have used in other areas such as for your worktops and your cupboards. You don’t want too much of one type of material, instead, you want things that will complement each other and work together. Consider your color scheme and the look that you are after. 

Add in some cool new features

Wanting to upgrade your kitchen? There are many cool new features you can add. This could include an instant hot or cold tap, a wine fridge, or innovative storage solutions. Speak to a local kitchen supplier or check out some interior blogs if you want some ideas for fresh new kitchen features that will instantly elevate your space.

These are just a few simple ideas that can help to improve your kitchen in no time at all. No matter your taste, they will help you to make your kitchen the space that you have always dreamt of.

The post Top Tips To Improve Your Kitchen appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Getting a Modern Kitchen Design in 2021-2022 https://topdreamer.com/getting-a-modern-kitchen-design-in-2021-2022/ Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:56:50 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=105650 Kitchens are typically one of the most important rooms in the home. When considering investing in a new kitchen it is important to find out exactly what is on offer. As kitchen trends develop there are many styles to choose from. There is also a multitude of appliance options that can do just about anything […]

The post Getting a Modern Kitchen Design in 2021-2022 appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Kitchens are typically one of the most important rooms in the home. When considering investing in a new kitchen it is important to find out exactly what is on offer. As kitchen trends develop there are many styles to choose from. There is also a multitude of appliance options that can do just about anything imaginable. Whether you are a veritable Heston Blumenthal or a microwave meal connoisseur, there are some things to consider when designing a new kitchen.

Always think about what you intend to do with the property. If you plan to stay there forever then you can include idiosyncratic devices that you will really enjoy. However, an integrated teriyaki grill may not be a great selling feature in a family home. The point here is that looking at the longer-term may guide some of the decision-making. 

Kitchen Trends in 2021

This year, as part of an overall trend towards a more minimalistic style, there has been a move away from the over-the-top kitchen design that is heavy on storage space and decoration. Kitchens have moved closer to being multi-functional spaces, with areas for cooking and entertaining being merged into a great social space for family and friends.

Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are the heart of modern kitchen design, with many leading designers moving toward open-plan spaces that have an island in the center acting as the hub of the space. Kitchens need to be multi-functional spaces where you can prepare food, wash up and entertain guests at the same time. Islands are a great way to use space without packing everything around the perimeter of the room.

Surfaces

Kitchen surfaces are now being used as a display space – taking inspiration from the high-end kitchen showrooms, glossy lifestyle magazines, and, of course, Instagram. Benches, tables and worktops are now being finished with decorative materials that lend themselves to being an integral part of the look of the kitchen rather than just a place where food is prepared. Think

Fixtures & Fittings

Hardware is being used in exciting ways to create a statement. We are seeing more unusual pulls on cabinets and kitchen storage objects. Out with the boring bronze taps of old and in with bold black faucets and mixers. The reemergence of handles on cabinets is also giving rise to statement features in otherwise minimalistic designs.

Kitchen Storage

Rather than the inclusion of large pieces of bulky furniture, storage is being brought up to date with more invisible solutions for kitchen storage. The use of wall-mounted shelves on tracks has been on the money for a long time. Utilizing cup hooks, magnetic strips and under-worktop cabinets allows people to display their kitchen gadgets, which are often sleek in design and handy not to have crammed into the utensil drawer.

Getting a Professional Design

A professional kitchen designer can help you achieve an on-trend kitchen. They can also give you advice and guidance on all aspects of the process, which means listening to what you want from the space, as well as helping to choose the most suitable options for the property. Matter designs founder John Young points out that, whilst it can be a great idea to install the large six-point induction hob, it may require you to upgrade the electrics in older properties kitchen. There are all sorts of practical considerations that need to be included early on in the design process to save headaches later on.

Ultimately everyone wants the kitchen of their dreams. What this means is different for everyone, but the kitchen trends of the future may need more than just a kitchen redesign. There are some things that you can tackle as part of a weekend DIY project, like installing a shelf for your favourite items. But if you want to go for a modern kitchen design, speak to a professional designer.

The post Getting a Modern Kitchen Design in 2021-2022 appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
7 Must-Haves to Make a Modern Kitchen https://topdreamer.com/7-must-haves-to-make-a-modern-kitchen/ Thu, 26 Aug 2021 08:00:03 +0000 https://topdreamer.com/?p=105456 Our kitchens are the heart of our homes. We can spend hours in that one room, and it is often one of the busiest rooms in the house. With family members running through, children pestering for snacks and sweets, and pets searching for scraps, it can be a bit of a nightmare to get cooking. […]

The post 7 Must-Haves to Make a Modern Kitchen appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>
Our kitchens are the heart of our homes. We can spend hours in that one room, and it is often one of the busiest rooms in the house. With family members running through, children pestering for snacks and sweets, and pets searching for scraps, it can be a bit of a nightmare to get cooking.

But even if you can’t get any peace in the kitchen, it should still be a room you enjoy being in. It should be a room that you have personalized and made yours, even if you avoid cooking by eating out most nights. Maybe this means getting a style of kitchen that is just you; a smart and sleek design for the business types, white cabinets, and units for the more house-proud, and so on.

No matter if you have just updated your kitchen or you just want to add something new, the below items will give your kitchen an extra modern touch.

1. LED Strip Lights

LED Strip Lights are a fantastic way to add a bit of extra light to your kitchen. They are brighter than standard bulbs, provide a more even spread of light, and can be controlled with a simple switch or remote. They are also much more energy-efficient, so you’ll save money on your bills, too.

You can also add LED under cabinet lighting or light fixtures to your kitchen. Particularly if you don’t have a lot of natural light, LED lights can make the room brighter. They will help highlight your dishes, glasses, and other kitchen equipment that you’re proud of, like a functional sharpening stone.

2. Black and White

If you’re looking to make a statement in your kitchen, why not go with a black and white theme? This is a great idea if your kitchen is not especially large, as it will make the most of the space it does have.

Black and white is a classic combination, and it’s one that has stood the test of time. It’s a timeless look, and it can still look modern and fresh, too.

If you’re going with a black and white theme, make sure you’re not just sticking to black and white. You don’t want your kitchen to look bland and boring, so add a little bit of warmth with wooden floors, wooden cabinets, or a light-colored floor.

3. Open Shelving

Tall, open shelves are a fantastic way to add some extra storage space to your kitchen. They are a great way to organize your pots and pans and to make the most of your cupboard space. They can also be a great place to store your tea towels and oven gloves, as they will stay dry and out of the way in an open shelving system.

If you’re looking to buy some open shelving, look for a system that’s lightweight and easy to install. There are a lot of these systems, and they are ideal for people who are looking to save space and money.

4. A Range Hood

A range hood is a fantastic addition to the kitchen, whether you have an open shelving system or you just have a few cabinets. What they do is remove the smoke and steam from cooking, leaving you with a nice, clean space to work in.

5. An Oven Topping

If you’re looking to make your oven look a bit smarter, you can lay a sheet of granite on top of it. This will provide a great, easy-to-clean surface for you to cook on, and it can look great with other black and white kitchen elements.

Granite is a natural material, which is great for the environment, and it’s also easy to install and maintain.

6. A Wine Rack

If you enjoy a glass or two of wine with dinner, you’ll know that it’s easy to get through a lot of bottles over the course of the year. You can keep them in the fridge, but that means you can’t see them, and they can go to waste. You can also keep them in your cupboards, but they can get knocked around, or you might forget they’re there.

A wine rack is a perfect way to display your collection and prevent a lot of waste. There are lots of different wine racks available on the market, so you’ll be able to find one that fits your kitchen style.

7. A Decorative Mirror

If you’re looking to add some extra light to your kitchen, a decorative mirror is a great way to do it. You can hang it over your sink or over the top of your open shelving system. It will reflect the light, and it will also add a bit of style to the room.

Final Words

These are just a few ideas for ways to make your kitchen more modern. But, no matter what you decide to buy, make sure that the products you get are of high quality. You don’t want to buy cheap, tacky accessories that will be out of date in a few years.

You’ll want to buy products that will last, and that will make your kitchen look more modern and sleeker for years to come.

The post 7 Must-Haves to Make a Modern Kitchen appeared first on Top Dreamer.

]]>