The Ultimate Guide On How To Plan The Right Kitchen For Your Dream Home

3. HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) & MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) When softwood or hardwood are broken down into smaller particles to be compressed into sheets using adhesives and resins, HDFs and MDFs are produced. They come in several different sizes. Their use is preferred in areas with low moisture exposure. Technicalities: HDF has the reputation of being the strongest of all engineered wood. MDF isn’t far behind, though it is less strong and water-resistant than the former and plywood. Pros: HDF & MDF work well for wardrobes Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble Low bending related problems Easy finishing and different shapes available Cons: Moisture contamination produces irreversible damage Termite sensitivity Takeaway: Consider opting for HDF & MDF for your wardrobes and keep them away from kitchens as the latter is a high moisture zone! 4. Particle Board (Chipboard) Unfortunately, the particle board is believed to be the lowest quality engineered wood meant to be used to create furniture that is far away from a water source. 10

Pros: Particleboards work well for wardrobes Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble Low bending related problems Easy finishing and different shapes available Cons: Moisture contamination produces irreversible damage Termite sensitivity Takeaway: Restrict the use of particle boards to your wardrobes and keep them away from kitchens, a high moisture zone! 5. PVC Board (Multiwood) Lastly, we have PVC Boards which are commonly seen as a core material in interior spaces. PVC Boards have proven to be effective in coastal areas with high moisture. Technicalities: This is a plastic composite material. While it isn’t environmentally friendly, they are extremely resistant to moisture. Pros: Good for high moisture zones Easy finishing and different shapes available Not as vulnerable as other options to termite infestations 11

Cons: Low strength to support screws Prone to bending Not an eco-friendly option Takeaway: While PVC Boards show obvious advantages over the other options regarding their termite sensitivity and moisture resistance, they are not the most eco-friendly option. Consider all other options before you narrow in on PVC Boards as your core material. It is very obvious that the most popular choice of material for kitchens, after weighing the pros and cons, is Plywood which is of the right grade with a good-quality finish. Be sure to make an informed decision to create an aesthetically-pleasing and durable kitchen to last a lifetime! 12

3 The Ultimate Guide On Modular Kitchens 13

The elements that make the heart of your home come alive! The kitchen is one of the most important spaces when it comes to home interior work and whether you intend on just remodeling it or creating it from scratch, there are a few elements that you must look into to ensure an organised and optimised kitchen layout and plan. Kitchen design isn’t rocket science, but it isn’t a piece of cake either (but you could very well bake a cake there)! Interior designers in Kochi have seen exponential growth in the popularity of modular kitchens in recent times. In Kerala, kitchen design has seen a seismic shift from traditional interiors in the kitchen to a more modern modular kitchen approach Let’s dive right in and get a more detailed understanding of the basics of the modular kitchen interiors- you’ll learn about what it includes and what each module consists of. A cohesive balance between all these elements helps create a kitchen that is aesthetic as well as functional. No matter the style, every module has the following: THE BASICS: 1. Countertop These large horizontal workspaces are mandatory in every kitchen space. They’re also one of the most functional areas 14

of a kitchen. It is crucial that you get your countertops fixed properly to prevent water seepage into the base cabinets. Reach out to an expert to avoid unfortunate circumstances in the future, which are preventable with good planning and work. Depending on your budget, you could opt for premium marble countertops or the more budget-friendly tile or laminate versions. Keep in mind that this is one of the first things that draws your eyes to the kitchen and do not hesitate to invest in the best. 2. Cabinets These expansive storage spaces make your kitchen space appear clutter-free and organised. Individual cabinets can be customised to a client’s individual preferences and needs. Cabinets may be of several typesBase cabinets flank the bottom half of the kitchen below the countertops, Wall cabinets supplement the storage opportunities that base cabinets offer with more accessible options, Tall cabinets can be used in larger spaces, and Corner units ensure minimal wastage of space and maximum storage solutions 3. Shutters The outer portion of the aforementioned cabinet is the shutter. They conceal the content of the cabinets with shutters of the clients’ preferred finish and colors. They play a major role in making a kitchen more visually appealing. Be sure to carefully consider the material, finish, and color of your shutters, keeping in mind your area’s weather conditions and your personal preferences. 4. Kitchen Accessories/ Hardware To make your kitchen space a more accessible and convenient one, your accessories or hardware are important. This encompasses what comes inside the cabinet and they may be either functional or storage based in nature. 15

5. Appliances What is a kitchen without appliances? Just another room! Appliances, in addition to completing a kitchen, offer a sleek appearance to the kitchen. Whether you intend on keeping freestanding appliances or are looking to install in-built appliances, do discuss your kitchen interior design idea with experts like us for a bespoke space! There are also heating area appliances in every kitchen space. THE FINAL TOUCHES 6. Handles Once all other aspects of your module has been decided on and your dream kitchen is inching its way closer to reality, stunning handles lend the air of magic along with their obvious functional benefits. They could be the conventional projected handle type or you could even opt for a more sleek inbuilt profile handle instead. 7. Lighting A well-lit kitchen appears more welcoming and airy than a dark dingy one. When it comes to lighting, it is important to remember the three aspects of kitchen lighting- ambient lighting which acts as space’s main light source, task-based lighting illuminating specific work surfaces or insides of cabinets, and finally, accent lighting to make your favorite kitchen elements come to life! 8. Backsplash And finally, the infamous kitchen backsplash. Considering the high intensity, water-extensive, work-ridden zone that a kitchen is, it would be unwise to not invest in a backsplash against your countertop to protect those surfaces. These could offer that splash of color that your kitchen needs to tie all its elements together! 16

4 Which One Of The 6 Kitchen Layouts Will Work Best For 17

(We love layout #6!) Finalising the pattern that your countertops, workspaces, and cabinets follow i.e. your kitchen layout, forms the basis of a good kitchen interior redesign. There’s kitchen ergonomics and the concept of the work triangleall of this eventually boils down to selecting the correct kitchen layout for your modular kitchen space. Keep in mind the amount of space you have and how busy an area your kitchen is going to be once the remodel is complete! There must be equal importance is given to functionality and aesthetics and a good understanding of the space before finalising a kitchen layout. Here are six kitchen layouts to choose from: 1. Straight Line Kitchen Layout The workspace in a one wall kitchen layout is spread out along a segment of the wall which is greater than 10 feet long. This houses the cooking, preparation and cleaning surfaces. The wall and base cabinets are all laid out against a single wall. Usually, the sink is placed at one corner while the stove or cooktop is placed on the other end of the open-wall kitchen layout. The fridge, which is the third component of the work triangle (stretched out into a line in this case), is usually placed on one of the ends. 18

This is the layout of choice for narrow and space-restricted kitchens or in cases where clients do have a large space but want an open kitchen. 2. L-Shaped Kitchen Layout In an L-shaped layout, two walls perpendicular to one another are used to fit cabinets and workspaces. There should be a well thought out corner unit too to ensure the best use of the space. There must be a counter space to work on between the three elements of the kitchen triangle (cooktop, fridge and sink). This versatile layout is a very popular choice in modern modular kitchens as it allows for easy accessibility and can make your kitchen appear spacious. The L-shaped layout maximises space and therefore, allows for a seating area to be fitted into your kitchen interior design too. 3. Galley Kitchen Layout In a galley kitchen layout, two walls opposite and parallel to one another are used to house the cabinets and workspaces. A galley is frequently seen in professional chefs kitchens but may not be practical if both ends of the corridor are open in a home setup. It sets the stage for a really efficient kitchen work triangle with ample counter and cabinet storage space. In a galley layout, it is advisable to keep the cooktop and cleaning area on the same side to reduce accidental injuries while transporting between the two sides. 4. U-Shaped Kitchen Layout Three walls are allotted to hold the cabinets and counters in a U-shaped kitchen layout. This works out to function as the perfect layout for a kitchen as you can place each aspect of the kitchen triangle against one of the walls. You get more work space as well as storage space in a U-shaped layout. The only drawback is that it may make a kitchen appear more cramped and full. 19

5. G-Shaped Kitchen Layout The configuration of a G-shaped kitchen is similar to a U-shaped one with a peninsular area which can be used as a preparation zone. In most remodels involving a U-shaped layout, if the client has a request for more counter space and storage, the G-shaped layout is pitched. In this layout, the person working in the kitchen can literally surround themselves with all they need, thereby ensuring greater cooking efficiency. 6. L-Shaped with Island Layout Saving the best for last is a modification of the L-shaped kitchen. Islands are pretty popular in the West, but slowly have been rising in popularity in India too. The island functions as a buffet area, an additional preparation zone as well as an eating area- extremely versatile! It’s a good idea to place your sink on the island to complete the work triangle. However some people prefer having cooktops on the island or leaving it bare as a preparation cum entertaining zone. To elevate the look of your island, invest in bar seating and ambient hanging light fixtures. For assistance on finding out which kitchen layout would suit your space and needs best, contact 91 90 20 10 70 22 23 20

5 No, The Price Of Your Modular Kitchen Does Not Only Depend On Its Area! 21

Looks can be deceiving, even when it comes to your modular kitchen price. Every home cook for whom their kitchen is a paradise wants an affordable one too. There is a huge misconception that the cost of a modular kitchen is ONLY dependent on the square footage of your kitchen. The reality is actually far from this. Yes, the kitchen’s area is a factor but there are many other factors influencing modular kitchen prices. A kitchen may look similar to another one from the outside, but may in fact cost exorbitantly higher owing to the other factors that have contributed to the spend. In this article, we guide you through the different factors influencing modular kitchen prices and offer our input on where you can cut costs and where you must refuse to compromise. Some factors that determine the cost of your kitchen are: Size of your kitchen The size layout of your modular kitchen does matter. A larger square-footage gives you the gift of space, where you can add more kitchen modules and have a layout of your choice. The addition of modules depends on your needs, which means, if you want to try out all the recipes in the magazine and spend hours together in the kitchen, you need a more advanced module. For someone who doesn’t believe in 22

spending too much time in their kitchen, the bare minimum Straight-Line Layout would work for them. More modules will, quite naturally, translate to a higher price. Material Used The cabinet materials you will find in the market range from those that can burn a hole in your pocket to the pocket-friendly ones. Plywood is the material of choice for those looking for practicality and remaining on a budget. Some of the materials available and used for cabinets in the market are MDF, HDF, solid wood, and ply. Shutter Finish Used With regards to shutter finishes, most carpenters give quotes based on laminates (mica) only but there are several options when it comes to finishes. While the use of other finishes may increase the cost, if you want to preserve superior aesthetics, it is a great choice to make. Cabinet Modules Pick the right type of cabinets, tailored to your space and needs and ones that you will use frequently, to get a budget-effective kitchen. Drawer systems, tall units, pull-outs, cutlery trays, and space-saving corner and loft units are a few of the options. While the installation of these may cost you a little more, it will increase the utility and functionality of your space and is an investment you must consider. Countertop & Backsplash Some of the materials commonly used for countertops are quartz, Corian, natural wood, or polished granite. Depending on your aesthetic requirements, your countertop budget may change. When it comes to the backsplash, a few people prefer metals as they offer an industrial look and are easier to clean 23

whereas others play it safe with stone or glass. Refrain from using stone with a lot of texture as it may make it challenging to clean and maintain. The cost varies highly depending on the size and material used. Appliances Your modular kitchen could include built-in appliances like hobs, chimneys, and so on. Choose the most essential ones and enjoy your affordable and colorful little heaven or splurge on creating the kitchen out of your dreams. Now you can easily understand how a kitchen that may look just like another can vary in price from one another. It is important to not just judge a kitchen and estimate its budget on its size and first appearance as there are many factors that influence the final cost of your kitchen. 24

6 Modular Kitchens Vs Carpenter Kitchens: Which One Wins? 25

The ultimate battle of modular kitchens and carpenter kitchens! Until a few years ago, if you had to get your kitchen designed or remodeled, you would approach a carpenter who specialises in kitchen interiors. We’ve come a long way from that—now, just step into the office of the best interior designers in Kerala and you have a multitude of modular kitchen designs at your fingertips. A question begs to be asked at this juncture- which one is better? Who wins in the ultimate battle of carpenter kitchens vs modular kitchens? Let’s look at a few aspects and compare how carpenter kitchens fare against modular kitchens and understand why modular kitchen designs are now the new norm! Ease of Finding an Expert Let’s start at the very beginning. Usually, recommendations for carpenters travel via word-of-mouth whereas for modular kitchens, it is a combination of word-of-mouth and an online presence, already making it a lot easier to gain trust. Finding a good carpenter may potentially be a lot more challenging and the experience would often be extremely subjective. 26

Professionalism One look at the online reviews and the varied catalogue of a modular kitchen specialist like Bespoke Decor, and you can be assured of top-notch quality. The experience of working with multiple homes of varied styles requiring personalised elements is one that interior designers working on modular kitchens designs are well-versed with. They may even offer a 3D rendering of your final space allowing for better visualisation of the completed product. A carpenter may have worked on a limited number and style of kitchens in comparison and quality assurance is not a given. It is apparent that there is a better flow of events and more professionalism right from the first consultation with a modular kitchen expert than with a carpenter. Price Modular kitchens prices on the catalog may be marginally higher as compared to the traditional carpenter’s initial quotes for kitchen designs. Owing to hidden costs and subsequent fluctuations, the final value of a carpenter kitchen may, in fact, surpass a modular one. Therefore, believe that a modular kitchen wins this one! The difference, if any at all, is justified due to the attention to detail in the process of creation, dealing with more professional staff, superior functionality, customisation, and aesthetics. Installation Quicker and easier installation process is granted with modular kitchen designs, especially in comparison to carpenter kitchens. The high-quality factory-made modules can be easily taken apart and reassembled at the site. You won’t have to keep worrying about having workers milling in and out of your house

When designing a kitchen from scratch, it is this trian-gle that orchestrates kitchen tra c ow that forms the founda-tion for your modular kitchen style. It is a good idea to plan out your base cabinet modules around this to make sure that your kitchen has an e cient work ow. Keep in mind that your kitchen cabinets must be placed appropri-