Kitchen Design…
Top tips and why you should seek expert design help and visit showrooms for inspiration.
About Us
Kitchen Design Centre was established 39 years ago and has 5 showrooms in the North West. Located on the Crescent at Housing Units in Manchester, it’s been the one-stop-shop for kitchens for many years.
Featuring over seven displays, the showroom showcases the very best of kitchen design and has 5 designers to help create your dream kitchen. Each of our in-house kitchen designers has a wealth of experience behind them in designing contemporary and traditional kitchens, making them an expert at creating the kitchen of your dreams.
Showroom Manager Paul Harrington has been designing kitchens for over 25 years. Here he discusses the main considerations when designing a kitchen:
Functionality
It’s only as an experienced designer that you can consider functionality and plan for it at the very start of the project. The kitchen isn’t just a place to cook; it’s also a space for socialising and gathering with family and friends. We try to accommodate the rule of three as much as possible which considers the space between the fridge, preparation area and oven/hob.
Casual and formal dining options are often required and many people want wine fridges or separate drinks areas for entertaining. Customers are often amazed with our designs because we consider functionality and design with this in mind. Easy movement between different areas is essential as is the overall flow of the room, especially if it is an open-plan area.
Materials
The Hacker range that we supply combines well-built quality cabinetry with storage options and an overall quality, design-led aesthetic. For worktops, we suggest opting for durable and visually appealing options. Solid worktops such as quartz are ideal but budget may mean a laminate is preferable.
Colour is key, especially when considering lighting. Certain colours will ‘bounce’ light around the kitchen. It’s essential to view all the options available in terms of colour and finish. Our showrooms have dedicated sample areas with extensive choice. Here you can look, feel and compare samples with others. We’re also lucky to have lots of room sets in our showrooms where you can see full size working kitchens in situ and see what works together.
Lighting
So often overlooked but lighting is vital to the atmosphere and functionality of a kitchen. We advise incorporating different layers of lighting to cater for various needs. Start with general ambient lighting that illuminates the entire space. Next look at task lighting for specific areas such as above countertops or hobs. Finally integrate accent lighting, like pendants or under-cabinet lighting, to add style and highlight features or decorative elements.
Trends
Our designers keep abreast of all the current trends to make sure we offer the latest, cutting- edge designs. These are showcased in our showroom displays and incorporated in to our designs. This year sees black remaining popular and bright, bolds colours making a comeback.
Wood kitchens and features are highly desirable and Minimal Luxe – where ‘luxe’ elements like handles take centre stage are also popular. But remember, creating your dream kitchen is a personal endeavour, make choices based on your taste and style and be guided by your designer.
Visit our Showroom
Kitchen Design Centre offers a complimentary design service and produces life-like 3D images, giving you peace of mind that the kitchen will work in your space. Work with an expert to avoid costly mistakes and create your dream space together.
Contact the Kitchen Design Centre to arrange a complimentary home visit on 0161 681 5061 or call in to our showroom at Housing Units, Wickentree Lane, Failsworth, Manchester M35 9BA.