Thoughts please! Could this look work with my final kitchen design?

5 years ago

Hi All! I keep coming back to this kitchen design I have seen and there is something about it that I really like! I never considered a dark kitchen and nor did I think I would have wood at all! However I really like this wood paneling against the dark background. Almost think a metallic finish, not sure. Just a couple of questions for those that could offer their expertise...would be greatly appreciated.

Firstly would this be difficult to create without it looking like a bodge job?? It’s so slick in the picture and that’s what I’d what. What would that wood panelling cost to create? (Roughly! I don’t have a clue at all) I have asked a few people for a quote but haven’t been able to get one!

My kitchen is south facing so should be lots of light coming through the bifolds/sliding doors along the back. Would these colours sit well in a south facing kitchen? I always considered a bright/white/neutral kitchen but they aren’t giving me the wow factor? My floor however would be light tiles.

Instead of the copper tiles I’m thinking a gold but depends what tiles I find.

Finally - I have attached a picture of the final kitchen design created by oneplan on Houzz. I’m thinking the layout would really work. Especially with this design in the picture. BUT what would I do with my island in terms of colour?? Not sure I’d want a big dark island in the middle of the kitchen.

Any thoughts and opinions would be greatly received. Thanks in advance!

Featured Answer

Jonathan

5 years ago

On my screen I can’t tell which bit you are referring to as none of it looks like wood.

Furthermore you have asked OnePlan to design a traditional looking kitchen but your inspiration picture is sleek and German or Italian looking which is a different aesthetic.

So I think you have a couple of options- you couple either keep traditional but choose a deeper colour scheme. I enclose an image of a panelled wall- I suspect this was made from cut mdf and then painted to match kitchen cabinets- this also illustrates that darks don’t have to be grey- I think this rich brown is lovely and to help lighten it you might well choose a different colour for the island- white is not the only neutral but also a pastel colour would sit very well with this brown.

The alternative is to replan the kitchen with a contemporary aesthetic- this likely means a similar layout but you would likely reconsider the fridge with french doors and the extractor. You might even swap the range for ovens that give you more choice of finishes. This replan could illustrate a flat door and include some of the features found in this type of kitchen - for instance German engineering produces some very realistic wood style finishes and would be a cost effective way of cladding a wall. The image you posted is lustrous I notice that Alno kitchens have their Alnoglint finish which is a polished metal looking finish. They also have metallic finishes too which look like textured ceramics and have a shimmer without being sparkly (which is a different look altogether). These Alno finishes are brand new and I notice there are very few online images- but a trip to an Alno retailer will allow you to see the finishes.

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Comments (46)

PRO
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
I think the kitchen you have pictured is amazing. It's slick and industrial. The 'wood panelling' must be kitchen doors that you push to open, otherwise there would be no storage, thus it's cupboards with a trompe l'oeil effect. You can see it's cupboards as there's an extractor hidden in one of them over the hob. You'd have to find out where the kitchen came from therefore, as trying to re-create it would be impossible.

I think you would be best to take elements and colour ideas from it, rather than try and re-create it exactly.

I love the idea of the dark Island and the copper, so start there. For example, if you like the wood combo, then doors like this with your grey island and American Fridge Freezer, in the design that Karen did would work well.

Copper Sheeting instead of tiles is more up market and seamless.

This is an example of a kitchen from Sola Kitchens in Hampstead showing their use of real wood in an unusual form

You just have to be prepared to do your homework and research kitchens until you find one that you like. Obviously going 'off grid' with the design and having bespoke, will be infinitely more expensive, but, it shows and I can see it being stunning.

The only thing i would say, is think about the practicality of cleaning the plank type doors and drawers, a kitchen is steamy and greasy and requires a lot of cleaning to keep it perfect, it will be hard work getting in to all of those grooves. Whilst it looks stylish it may be a nightmare to live with.
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Thank you all for views! We had considered various options such as those suggested but then would always come back to one of our boxes not being ticked so I do agree we may have created more walls than needed and maybe cramped the space? However I did still think the kitchen would be spacious enough? And the living room wall, when building we could see how we feel about this. I do think a dining table could also work in that corner and playroom instead of the dining room BUT then we are without the living room that we wanted. In terms of dining and kids eating, in our current house we have a breakfast bar with 4 stools and a high chair and his does work well. Also I would use the dining area/table as a family too but realistically probably not everyday. Maybe a small round table could be put into the kitchen also? I would just have to see what fits without it’s being cramped. Utility I thought it would make sense to have access from the kitchen? In terms of the formal lounge, I think that’s all it is...we want it as a formal lounge, also as someone mentioned it will stay tidy and away from the noise. Id say a large chunk of the house is dedicated to me and the children and I thought that area could be a kid free zone in a sense. I also have a lot of nephews/nieces that would visit often. It’s more about it being formal than it being dedicated to my husbands entertainment as unfortunately he doesn’t have much time for this due to long work hours.
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Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks for comments. MATH - I wasn’t sure if they were doors but yes extractor makes sense. Once I researched the kitchen I found opposite to where the picture has been taken was a full wall of units, sink etc. You are right I would need to be realistic - although I did think I have a lot of units of which I did say to Karen I may not have all but can decide that later. So the ones along the top and right (as picture) I could almost have as show and not real doors and create this. As tbh it’s not in my budget to have something so bespoke made. Love the pictures you’ve posted, I have already saved some of these, rather than copper I was thinking of going gold or even a mix. I did speak to one place that said it looks like timber? I sent her a couple of pics and she zoomed in, But I haven’t a clue.

@Jonathan - I do have a range and big FF which I suppose would make it more traditional. How ever the doors and look I would be going for a handless sleek kitchen. Karen has used these doors and handles so I get an indication of how many units I have and it is clear. I was more concerned about space planning rather than having exact colour and style. You have mentioned Alno before and I did research retailers but it did seem very expensive, like a designer kitchen which again isn’t in my budget. I may go with an independent supplier to cater more specific needs but it won’t be bespoke to that level if that makes sense! The panels along the top and right are the wood that I am referring to.
PRO
User
5 years ago
I think it would cost quite a bit to re-create the effect. I suspect that the doors are made using plywood 'ends' and then attached to a back panel to make a door. They would be bespoke, and would take quite some time to make.

If you fancy an usual wood effect instead of some of your cabinets I did find this Company Vtec Group who create amazing textured wall panels.............so worth a thought.

There are many kitchen door suppliers that offer superb and unusual woodgrain doors nowadays, i'm sure Karen will be able to help with that.

Many of the off the shelf woodgrain doors will look amazing paired with a grey door for company. Glossy wood with Matt Grey looks really superb. So you may not have the exact door in the picture but I do think you could have something equally amazing

I think it's all about embracing the different natural textures. Here's one of my favourite kitchens!
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Yes I agree it would be costly. To be honest I never imagined having wood in my kitchen up until I saw this picture so If it’s not this i don’t know if I would bring it in. I love third picture with the gold splash back. That is very much my taste. Where is that splash back from and what material is that? I would love to bring gold into my kitchen but still keep it classy and sleek.
scalpman
5 years ago
If you do this design please be aware the American Fridge left door will hit the wall, can be annoying & you will not be able to get the internal salad draws etc to fully open as the left door will restrict their opening due to the fact it needs to rotate further than the wall will allow. Worse still cleaning said draws means pulling out the American and moving to allow the left door to open enough so make sure it’s on wheels ! Personally I’d plan American elsewhere where the doors will fully open, I work in kitchens and this is complaint that comes up over and over ! Or select American very carefully some manufacturers are now designing with this issue in mind and the draws can fully extend with the door only opened to 90 degrees.

Good luck.
PRO
User
5 years ago
The grey kitchen above is the Integra Meteor from Magnet, here's their brochure, It just says it's a hammered gold splashback, I don't know where they got it from. Magnet brochure

Sun Studio on Houzz do printed glass and have some gold you could check out.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
@scalpman - thanks for the advice. We did leave that gap to the left where the larder drawer is, but I’m assuming you think that isn’t enough. Karen did flag up the issue with mess but I still really wanted it. Unless I find a bigger one that isn’t American style.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
MATH thanks will look into that range.
PRO
User
5 years ago
I'd have a good think about what style you want, modern, industrial, or traditional. I have to confess, i'm with the others and think that the big American Fridge Freezers have had their day. I prefer integrated and sleek. I think they date a room, are oversized, have never fitted in and spoil clean lines.

Whatever style you go for I wouldn't have one of those. We have two fridge freezers as we like a lot of fridge space due to eating mostly fresh ingredients. We tend not to use the freezer space so much, neither of ours are full, we definitely use more fridge space than freezer.
PRO
OnePlan
5 years ago
It’s tricky to see from the image above - but with the scribe infill to wall, 300mm pantry and the air gap around the USA FF there is enough room for this particular freezer door to open.

We did start with an integrated FF and and built in appliances - it evolved and Sal decided to incorporate USA FF and Range.

Nb. This was a D service project - where generic furniture style is used to show overall concept - rather than A service - which is more finely tuned to show specific door style and finishes including colours etc.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
MATH - I think you’re getting me thinking now and I’m thinking should I backtrack to what Karen suggested originally. I do want a modern, streamlined look. The only thing that put me off integrated was the lack of space for FF, however I’m thinking they come in smaller and larger sizes. My mums is a lot bigger than mine at the minute. And if I did do that I may get more work top space to the left also which I would be happy with. @oneplan Karen I may have to get in contact and make some adjustments! Need to rethink. Also a breakfast larder for toaster, pantry etc could be options if I could rid of the AFF?! What do you think MATH?
Jonathan
5 years ago
I vote for two side by side 70/30 integrated fridge freezers
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Johnathan it’s good to actually see that idea.

Also I read that the extractors that are covered with a unit aren’t as powerful, is this corrrect?
PRO
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
We've got a 70/30 and a 50/50, one inside and one in an outhouse . Works well for us, just have a think about what would work for you and buy accordingly. I bow to Karen's far greater knowledge with re-jigging, she's definitely the person for you, and sometimes it takes 3-4 goes to get it just right. Hang in there.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Yes I think long term I would need more than just one as that’s another reason for opting for AFF. Yes absolutely! I did do a lot of back and forth but yes to get it spot on sometimes time to reflect is good.
Jonathan
5 years ago
@Sal89. You asked about extractors and I am not sure what you are asking. I suspect you are talking compressors (the fridge motor) I think they are designed for building in and there is no reason to worry that the motor will be insufficient.
You can always look up the stats on retailers websites to compare their capacities, noise levels, energy rating etc
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Sorry I was asking about the extractor for above the hob, as in if I am going for integrated fridge etc for a more streamlined look then I’m thinking should I also cover the extractor. But I read they are smaller and not as powerful. Thanks anyway!
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Or should I refer to it as cooker hoods!
PRO
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
I see no reason why an integrated cooker hood be less powerful or less competent than a stand alone hood. I'd have a look at the draw / air flow rates on different models to compare. Ours was so powerful we had to have a new, bigger hose and outlet.

You may well be right though as it's not my area of expertise................I guess it all depends on what type of cooking you want to do. I honestly think that there is far too much choice around these days. Things are made more awkward because of it , and a lot of things around are completely unnecessary.

The question should be 'will this be sufficient for my purposes', not this one seems more powerful. The less powerful one could be just what you need!
Jonathan
5 years ago
Again you can look up the stats to assure yourself that their extraction rates and noise levels are as good when integrated.

To improve extraction rates further you can have an extractor with an external motor
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
With the type of food I generally cook I do need to get rid of the strong smells and grease so that’s what I need really. And yes I really do think there is too much choice which makes things confusing. But yes I have looked at stats so I may consider one that I can hide away again for that sleek look
PRO
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
This one is the most powerful i could find:- TLC Direct Luxair Cooker Hood followed by the De Dietrich Appliances Direct De Detrich integrated hood
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks a lot for that as I don’t have a clue! What does everyone think of this olive green??
PRO
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
I really like it, green's making more of an appearance again now.................at least we won't all die under a sea of grey anymore. I think the green will work well with some of those wooden doors posted before.

Copper and Green go very well together. I also love a traditional dark green and white, maybe with a hint of gold or copper?

Rather than make it harder I thought i'd find a picture of what not to do with a Green Kitchen...........I'm sure you wouldn't any way! Ugh!
Andrew
5 years ago
I don't know if this is the sort of thing that you are looking for but I saw this on the DIY Kitchens site just before coming across your thread. I was impressed by how expensive it looked. Standard units but fitted with copper handles. I don't think they have it on their houzz page yet but there are more pictures on their customers kitchens page. I don't think it is possible to link to an individual kitchen but search for ' Aga from Penarth '
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Absolutely agree about grey! Although I do think it looks stunning I just didn’t want to do another “50 shades of grey! That colour green is beautiful and I do think white and gold would look lovely with it. Either a dark charcoal colour with something or I might go for colour! and yes that lime is a disaster! Andrew love that, other than the random blue island I think it looks very effective. Il have a look thanks. Never considered DIY kitchens but I’ve heard it is cheaper than a lot of others.
Andrew
5 years ago
I agree about the blue although it does go quite will with the charcoal. We visited the DIY Kitchens showroom last summer and the units do look to be well built. I am now drawing up plans so expect a new thread here soon to garner some comments before we commit ourselves.
Jonathan
5 years ago
What is your budget? And where in the UK are you? Perhaps someone can recommend a showroom near you
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Budget..with us starting a double story extension and a big project we don’t have anything set in stone. I basically want to find a look/colour and then try and get the best price! I’m based in the midlands.
Daisy England
5 years ago
DIY kitchens buy from the same place as many others.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Do they, they closest show room is an hour and 15 mins away which may be worth then trip! Daisy I am planning on going to the kitchen unit this coming weekend as you recommended. I’ve also just come across these in ikea! Really like it but it’s this whole creating from scratch that puts me off Ikea and DIY kitchens. Well, from what I’ve heard.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
They have various different patterns in a variety of colours.
Daisy England
5 years ago
Be wary of Ikea kitchens. Not sure if it’s the same now but their cabinets were not standard sizes. They were slightly different which means if you want to swap doors only at a later date then they won’t fit. Annoyingly Magnet are thinking about doing the same.

Regarding The Kitchen Unit I would drop them an email regarding visiting as it’s appointment only Saturdays and closed Sundays.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Oh really, that is annoying. I will pay magnet a visit. Brill, thanks for heads up.
Daisy England
5 years ago
No what I’m saying is avoid Magnet. They are in talks to bring in non standard sizes which means if you want to swap doors only in a few years time you can’t. They don’t offer made to order sizes either but offer fillers so you end up with a kitchen full of fillers. You need an independent local retailer to offer the best deal.
PRO
User
5 years ago
Ikea Kitchens are excellent, the attention to quality is superb. Lots of suppliers only offer doors in particular sizes, which is why when you go to an appointment at Wickes for example and you then take it to Howdens, they often have to swap the cabinets around as they don't all do all the sizes.

Factoring in that you may want to change the doors in a few years at this point is in my opinion daft.

You buy a kitchen and it should last 10-15 years. Magnet and Howdens offer great kitchens too. However, I have personal experience of fitting an Ikea Kitchen last year and was very impressed. I've used Howdens several times too.

There are many companies however, that offer custom sizes when ordering replacements such as Kitchen door workshop and Kitchen Door Outlet to name but two. Saying that you can't replace the doors, just simply isn't accurate.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Yes I definitely won’t be looking at changing the kitchen anytime soon, especially after such a big extension/renovation. More than likely il have this for the next 10 years at least. At the minute I am considering all but will just see who has what I want at the best price. MATH thanks that’s useful to know about Ikea kitchens as I did like a few of their designs yesterday online: I’m just reluctant to order each and everything individually myself but I’m hoping they can help! If it’s a good builder I’m sure fitting Shouldn’t be a problem.
Daisy England
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
Saying that you can’t replace the doors, just isn’t accurate?? It is if they don’t offer made to order sizes and you opt for a supplier that offers non standard sizes on the carcases in the first place. That’s what I was trying to explain.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Off topic - was going to start a new thread but what would you all say, brick or render for an extension to an existing rendered house? I did always picture render but my husband has put brick out there. I like this colour brick if anything but it will depend what the local council will say...and I have a feeling they will say it has to be red brick, which id rather have render.
PRO
User
5 years ago
Love the london brick! BTW...........Builders are great, but i'm not sure i'd have one fit a kitchen. Kitchen fitters are used to pretty much all the usual kitchens, and know what they're doing. I would pay individually for a kitchen fitter is what i'm getting at. Depending on where you get the kitchen, they may even have contacts that they would recommend for you. When going for independants, get references and ring the clients.............don't just go by the pics on their websites..................i'm not saying it happens, but the pics could have come from anywhere.
Jonathan
5 years ago
Agreed- get the right person to do the job. Someone was proudly showing off their kitchen on Houzz last week and it was like it was a first attempt. By my count there were 15 things that a professional kitchen designer and fitter would have done differently/better.
PRO
User
5 years ago
Missed that one Jonathan...............would have liked to have seen it.
PRO
User
5 years ago
I can talk about quality of different suppliers for very long time. I have worked for independent (British, German, Italian kitchens), I have worked for Wickes and I have fitted in my life brands not even recognised in UK. When it come to choosing main supplier for my business I have looked at few different brands , depend on end customer. The level of Magnet,Wickes, Howdens, Ikea, well, all of them have pro's and con's. I have chosen Crown Imperial and Crown Lifestyle. Better quality carcasses , higher quality doors, wide range of standard sizes and possibility to order custom sizes. And all of this manufactured by British company, here in UK. Ready for whatever Brexit will carry.
Sal89
Original Author
5 years ago
Yes I don’t doubt crowns quality but I think wickes, Ikea might be more affordable for some people though. I’ve noticed in your pictures you have projects with a few that have a gloss kitchens as well as polished floor tiles, which is the original look I wanted but was advised not to as too much light reflecting and bouncing all over the place will make it look confusing! But your projects look good!
Jonathan
3 years ago
This just came up on my feed.... perhaps someone liked a comment.
But it’s interesting that the initial poster was ahead of their time and the finish they were asking for being introduced next year by some manufacturers. This image is Leicht