When undertaking a major renovation or building a new abode, a luxury kitchen tops most homeowners’ lists. But how do we define “luxury” today? While the ideal can take many forms, the most successful spaces share certain hallmarks. Consider these five design strategies to establish a luxury kitchen.
Get the Function Right First
Luxury kitchens don’t just look pretty; they live well too. The kitchen plan caters to the homeowners’ lifestyle and specific needs. Establishing multiple zones can bring functional ease to a grand-scale space. Depending on the clients’ habits, there may be a cook’s station, a baking zone, and/or a coffee bar. Double islands accommodate multiple chefs and can serve as buffet stations during large-scale parties.
When feasible, forge an auxiliary space off the main kitchen. Besides providing overflow storage space, a secondary kitchen provides a discrete staging area for caterers and hides unsightly messes during elegant affairs. It may house a second sink and dishwasher, allowing for clean-up to be tackled away from the entertaining area.
Organize, Organize, Organize
Luxury kitchens follow the a-place-for-everything-and-everything-in-its-place approach. They are meticulously planned, down to where the last utensil will rest. The ease of drawers often wins out over base cabinets for storing items. Organizational inserts and pullout shelves enhance convenience and access. Small appliances are tucked away out of sight rather than cluttering up the countertop. A docking drawer keeps cords and devices off the counter, too.
Curate a Mix of Materials and Finishes
Luxury kitchens achieve designer panache through their artful composition of materials and finishes. They tend to embrace the beauty of natural materials. Marble and quartzite are the preferred choices for countertops; a smaller stretch of wood countertop sometimes provides a charming and functional counterpoint to the stone. Painted or lacquered cabinets often combine with other stained-wood elements – such as an island base (or two), floors, and ceilings/beams. Fixtures, hardware, and lighting marry two or more metal finishes.
Celebrate Craftsmanship and Details
Luxury kitchens showcase exquisite craftsmanship. In most, bench-made cabinets, with flush-inset construction, provide an exacting level of customization and quality. Glass-front cabinets sometimes break up the sea of solid doors. Other bespoke millwork and details support the desired aesthetic. The island might look more like a fine piece of furniture than a conventional workstation; hand-crafted backsplash tiles can lend authenticity and artisanal interest.
Invest in Problem-Solving Appliances
Luxury kitchens tend to be epicurean dreams, thanks to high-end, smart appliances. A professional-style range, double-wall ovens (perhaps with French-style doors on the upper), column refrigeration, and ultra-quiet dishwasher(s) are practically givens. Additional appliances target specific needs and preferences. A refrigerator drawer in the coffee station keeps cream handy. A dual-zone wine cooler indulges the oenophile; a pizza oven delights the family with kids.
Homeowners want a multi-tasking, luxury kitchen that elevates everyday tasks, while graciously welcoming family and friends. Keep these design principles in mind as you bring their visions to life. When it comes time to select the appliances, stop by Friedman’s, where our knowledgeable team is ready to help.