» That sinking feeling
When it comes to surfaces and basins, the simple, industrial look is the way to go
Worktops, sinks and taps are the hub of any kitchen. According to a survey for Living etc magazine (March 2006), 60 per cent of time spent in a kitchen is at the sink – and most of the other 40 per cent is spent at a work surface. Whether you’re updating an existing kitchen or starting afresh, these key pieces need to be fit for purpose. Want a kitchen sink you can be proud of? Read on…
Top worktops
Trends for 2007 and onwards are still for worktops with a solid, industrial feel. Natural stones such as granite or marble and manmade composites are top of the worktops.
Corian and Zodiaq are non-porous, stain resistant, and can be formed into any shape or thickness. Black and white remain top-sellers (especially with this year’s monochrome themes), but the colour choice for man-made stone is wide, so you can be playful with these solid, practical surfaces. Watch out for chocolate, red and yellow this autumn.
Cast concrete is a popular (and cheaper) alternative. Also versatile, it can be formed into different shapes and curves, and many different colours. The end result is pleasingly solid: This type of worktop looks stunning in black or industrial grey, teamed with a dark floor and pale-coloured or earthtoned units. Concrete, stone and composite worktops are perfect for creating curves in your kitchen (a key shape for 2007), and the smooth finish will give a sleek, modern look.
Wood is also back in style. The trend is for darker shades of oak, iroko and other hardwoods to contrast with lighter units. Wood worktops are more forgiving surfaces to work on than some glass or polished finishes.
Light is increasingly incorporated as a design feature of worktops and splash-backs. Glass – or laminate worktops with a toughened glass cover – look fabulous when illuminated from below. The sheen and reflection bring a deliciously silky feel to any kitchen counter, but beware of scratches and marks.
Sinks and taps
Where concrete, stone or composite worktops are used, the big trend is for integral, moulded sinks that don’t break up the line of the work surface. Make sure your sink is big enough for anything that won’t fit in a dishwasher. Adding an extra sink to utility space for washing or rinsing is an excellent idea. If you want something special, look out for entertainment sinks (narrow troughs that can be filled with ice to chill seafood or wine).
There is a bewildering range of high-tech taps on offer. If you do lots of washing up, opt for a professional hose spray tap that extends over the whole sink (make sure it’s a big one!). If you buy lots of bottled water, get a purification tap instead. Like tea or coffee? A boiling water tap might be just the thing… the list is endless. Whatever you choose, simple, almost industrial styles are central to this year’s look.
Harvey Jones Kitchens offer premium-quality handmade kitchens that can be painted in any colour you choose. Their designs offer unrivalled quality and exceptional value for money. Visit their showroom at 95 Western Road, Hove or call for your free brochure: 0800 032 6482
Poggenpohl worktops and sinks
£POA, www.poggenpohl.de
