Month: November 2018
How Shutters Can Transform Your Modular Kitchen Design
Captivating shutters can enhance the look of a kitchen if you choose the right style. (show a few modular kitchens)
Here are a few of the popular cabinets that move with time.
- Corian– Durable, tough, and free from hazardous chemicals. They come in a variety of colors and textures and are non-porous. (show Corian shutters with a catchy color in a modular kitchen )
- Ceramic– With dust-proof features, these units can withstand high temperatures. (show ceramic shutter in the modular kitchen)
- 5-piece veneer– Best suited for wooden modular kitchen designs. They are strong with a five-piece constructive framework. (show a wooden modular kitchen with 5-Piece veneer shutter)
- Solid wood– Sophisticated and classy style shutters. These shutters can withstand climatic changes. (show a modular kitchen with solid wood shutters)
- Veneer– These high-quality shutters have pre-staining and polishing features. (show a polished shutter -veneer type in a modular kitchen)
- Glorious glass– Toughened glass is available in a variety of colors. (show a colored glorious glass shutter in a modular kitchen)
- PU Inclined– These shutters come with a 45-degree slope (show a P U inclined shutter)
- PU shutters– Glossy, scratch-resistant, and highly appealing shutters in an array of colors. (show a PU shutter within a modular kitchen)
- Matpro– Horizontal and vertical applications, with anti-fingerprint and thermal healing of superficial scratches (show a woman demonstrating anti-fingerprint feature on Matpro shutters in a modular kitchen)
- Glitz– These have a PU finish and a glossy surface, which can resist climatic wear and tear. (show a glossy shutter within a modular kitchen)
- Acrylic– They allow for a seamless kitchen design and can resist harsh weather conditions. (show a modular kitchen with a focus on acrylic shutters)
- Artize– Top-notch quality laminates crafted with artsy textures and colors (show an artistic shutter of Artzy within a modular kitchen)
- Inclined laminate– They come with a 45-degree slope on top giving it a handle-like feature (show the handle like the feature of the inclined laminate shutter )
- Laminate/Mica – Very common, moisture-proof, and chip-resistant (show a laminate shutter within an open kitchen
- Pristine PU– Glossy, scratch-resistant, and highly appealing in an array of colors. (show a glossy Pristine PU shutter in a modular kitchen)
The finish of shutters is in plenty and can have an impact on the aesthetics and cost of kitchen units. (show variety of modular kitchens highlighting shutters)
Design your modular kitchen with the best shutters available today! (show modular kitchen videos.)
What Not to Miss During a Modular Kitchen Renovation
Keep these kitchen renovation ideas and tips in mind!
You have seriously considered getting a renovation of your kitchen done and taken our advice on how to ensure a successful renovation. Let’s take your modular kitchen renovation knowledge one step further and discuss a few kitchen renovation ideas that you must not skip. Not paying attention to one of these factors may hamper the functionality, efficiency, storage capacity, or aesthetics of your final modular kitchen.
1. Cross-checking Plumbing
There’s a high likelihood of renovations in the kitchen involving some degree of demolition. This would require you to revisit an aspect you may not have considered before- the plumbing. Demolition and renovation may come with unexpected leaks, lower water pressure, or clogs, issues that you will have to address immediately.
However, with an expert like Bespoke Decor by your side, put your pipeline worries in the pipeline- they will prepare for and handle it all!
2. Gas Pipeline Rerouting
If adjustments or rerouting of your gas pipeline is recommended during a renovation, approach a professional to complete the task for you to ensure both efficiency and safety in the process.
3. Cross-checking Electrical Points & Lighting
Electrical renovation is a tricky subject in itself and only a trained electrician can look after a renovation involving changes in aspects of electrical points and lighting. This may involve wiring for your modular kitchen appliances, kitchen lighting switches and regulators, to name a few. Again, leave it to the experts to come up with solutions that work most efficiently for your space.
4. Kitchen Finish Planning
Improved aesthetics is almost always an expectation of a kitchen renovation project. Colours and textures of kitchen finishes go a long way in enhancing the appearance of a space. Choose options that are suited to your location as well as your family’s taste. See how your finish choices play into your complete kitchen outlook and plan the styling accordingly.
5. Painting or Wallpaper
Whether you like a bright and sunny pastel coloured kitchen or a dark avant-garde matte black instead, painting can make or break the complete appearance of your kitchen. Go for tones that settle in well with your overall theme and are in sync with the cabinets you intend to install. Add a pop of art with a wallpaper that ties in well with the overall appearance of your modular kitchen.
6. Flooring Changes (if any)
Changing your kitchen flooring is an ambitious task. It is recommended that flooring be done after painting the space and that it complements your kitchen colour. Kitchens are a zone with high degrees of contaminants so choose flooring that will be easy to clean and maintain. Also, consider the effort that goes into laying all-new flooring and estimate if you are ready to undertake such a mammoth task
Leave your renovation worries at Bespoke Decor’s doorstep! Contact us at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23 to get the process towards your dream kitchen started!
How to Ensure a Successful Kitchen Renovation
It is imperative you choose a good interior design firm to take things forward!
A successful kitchen renovation is more than just demolishing and making something to replace it. It is a process of envisioning your dream kitchen and creating it. There are a few things you need to keep in mind before you visit your choice of an interior designer for that modular kitchen renovation idea that you have been eyeing. Read this before you consider a kitchen renovation. If you’re convinced that a renovation of your kitchen is definitely on the cards, we’ve got you covered- here’s what to expect from a good kitchen renovation.
1. Rope in the Professionals
In a place like Kerala, there are a lot of interior designers to reach out to- local carpenters, freelance designers and firms. A renovation of your kitchen space is a mammothian task when it comes to both planning and execution so it is advised to place your trust in only the best. Hire the team that has consistently proven to make the transformation happen.
We have already gone into the details of why modular kitchens are a wiser choice than carpenter kitchens. With freelance designers, it is important to pick someone who is experienced in handling kitchen renovations specifically.
The easier and wiser option would be to speak to modular kitchen experts like Bespoke Decor. From your first meeting, you can get an idea of the expertise of the team and the quality guaranteed from these professionals. After-sales service is just as important, and no one does it as well as Bespoke does.
Selecting the right professional team to take charge of the renovation of your old home and kitchen is half the battle won!
2. Quality comes First
The thing which sets modular kitchens apart from the traditional kitchen is its versatility. This is especially true in the instance of materials used for various aspects of design and renovation in your kitchen. Do not ever hesitate to spend money when it comes to selecting a material of higher quality, especially in a zone of high functionality- those few extra rupees may be the difference between a kitchen that lasts you a few years versus one that lasts you a lifetime. Noone starts off a renovation process planning for the next one- and good materials is how you guarantee the best. Be it cabinets, shutter finishes, countertops, or even the modular kitchen appliances, always prioritise quality.
In the previous step, we have already elaborated on why it is important to select the right provider to renovate. The right renovator will orient you to only the best of materials, so even novices in the field can blindly make their decision.
3. Needs versus Wants
Practicality must dictate your every move when it comes to renovation. Why invest in an expensive espresso machine that takes up counter space, if your family isn’t filled with coffee aficionados? Yes, it may seem tempting to see your favorite celebrity raving about their morning espresso, but is it something that you really “need” to have or just something you’re going to “want” for a short while? Ask yourself this question before you purchase anything new for your kitchen.
Make a list of your needs/wants while the kitchen renovation is underway and be as ruthless as possible when it comes to the elimination process. Make sure that you don’t skimp out on the basics, though.
- 4. Kitchen Layout Planning
Zeroing in on a functional and practical kitchen that looks great is the eventual goal of every renovation project. It is important to be mindful of the space being worked on and planning out a kitchen layout that works for the space undergoing the remodel. Keep the basic concepts of a work triangle in mind and choose a layout that ensures ample functionality and storage for you. If you’re confused on the different layouts you could choose from, read our handy guide to understanding kitchen layouts here. Picking the right layout can enhance your space, improve function, storage and aesthetics!
Do not forget to keep in mind a few crucial things during the renovation of a kitchen to prevent mishaps and disappointments. To get started on your kitchen renovation with a leading interior designer in Kerala, contact Bespoke Decor at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23
A Daily, Weekly, Monthly & Annual Modular Kitchen Cleaning Schedule
Regular cleaning prolongs your modular kitchen’s life.
So, you went ahead and made your move to invest in that beautiful modular kitchen of your dreams. Without a doubt, it is now that spot of your home constantly bustling with activity. Whether you are deep frying hot pazham-pozhis for your family or tossing around a salad with your favorite vinaigrette, there’s so much happening that cannot be seen at a macroscopic level. Oil splatters onto your kitchen appliances, dust accumulation within your kitchen cabinets, and countertops – all of this impact your kitchen’s life. You may have your doubts and concerns on how to maintain it to look like it is brand new, even several years down the line.
The answer is simple- kitchen cleaning. Kitchen cleaning has been often associated with dreary and physically intensive tasks. What is often overlooked are those little things that we can do on a daily basis, which barely take any time or effort, to prolong the vitality of your modular kitchen’s life.
Top Tip: You can even type and print out the list below, place it in a clear file folder to be propped atop your refrigerator and use a whiteboard marker to tick off the activities you have completed. This allows you to keep a tab on what’s completed and you can easily reuse it the next day or week after wiping it clean using a cloth or a whiteboard eraser.
The following easy to understand, easier to implement kitchen cleaning schedule and checklist is a favourite amongst all those who have given it a try in their modular kitchens. The schedule has been divided based on tasks to be done daily, weekly, monthly or annually.
Daily Cleaning Checklist
1. Cooktop
Use: A mix of baking soda and water
Frequency: Once, at the end of the day
Tips: To avoid scratching your hob, make sure that you do not scrub too hard, and use a soft sponge or cloth.
2. Sink
Use: Dish soap or dishwashing liquid for vessels, lemon & vinegar mixture with a scrubbing brush for the sink
Frequency: Dishes must be done after every meal whereas sink cleaning can be done once at the end of the day.
Tips: Dry all the vessels before you place them in the kitchen cabinets to prevent bacterial growth and odor.
3. Countertop
Use: Mild cleaning liquid diluted in water or lemon juice with a soft sponge
Frequency: Once at the end of the day.
4. Kitchen Floor
Use: Broom, Mop, Floor Cleaning Liquid
Frequency: Broom kitchen floor once at the end of the day. Mopping can be done every other day, in case of no spills or oil stains.
Weekly Cleaning Checklist
1. Kitchen Cabinet Surface
Use: Microfiber cloth to wipe down any stains or splatters on the cabinets.
Tips: Ensure that there is a good closure seal to prevent contamination of the cabinets’ contents from external factors.
2. Tiles
Use: Tile cleaner, toothbrush
Frequency: Clean the tiles using a tile cleaner and a cloth every week. The joints may be cleaned less frequently using a toothbrush (be careful to avoid scratching the tiles)
3. Kitchen Appliances
Use: Lukewarm water, lemon juice
Tips: Clean the inside of your refrigerator and microwave using a mix of lukewarm water and lemon juice to retain a pleasant odour.
Monthly Cleaning Checklist
1. Kitchen Cabinets and Drawers (Inside)
Use: Soft cloth or sponge
Tips: Empty the cabinets once every month, discard expired items, clean the shelves using a soft cloth or sponge, and reorganise the items.
2. Pipes and Faucets
Use: Diluted vinegar
Tips: Shining pipes and faucets can make your kitchen look brand new for years to come!
3. Ceiling Fans
Use: Ceiling fan broom or a dry cloth
Tips: Ensure that there are no edible items on the counters left open as you are cleaning your kitchen fan.
Annual Cleaning Checklist
1. Vents & Exhaust Fans
Use: Warm water and vinegar
Tips: Do not hesitate to reach out to a professional if you are unsure of how to clean your vents and exhaust fans.
2. Chimney
Use: Diluted vinegar water
Tips: Do not hesitate to reach out to a professional if you are unsure of how to clean your chimney.
With these small changes, you can keep your modular kitchen clean, making it look just like the day Bespoke Decor first installed it in your home! A clean kitchen is a happy kitchen!
4 Hacks to Increasing the Life of your Modular Kitchen
Extend your modular kitchen life with a few simple tricks!
When it comes to choosing a conventional carpenter kitchen or a modern modular kitchen, most people gravitate towards the latter for its obvious benefits. Even when it comes to maintaining the kitchen to look as good as new even years later, modular kitchens emerge victoriously.
Here are 4 simple hacks that you could easily incorporate into your routine and kitchen cleaning schedule to extend your modular kitchen life as a whole.
1. Create a kitchen cleaning schedule (and stick to it)
To keep any kitchen looking fresh as new for a longer span of time, it is important to set up a daily, weekly, monthly and annual cleaning schedule. Try to adhere to the schedule as strictly as possible- we all know how a disciplined life is always the better way forward! Right from the countertops to the cabinets and kitchen appliances, extend your kitchen life and keep a termite and leakage-free kitchen. It is important not to miss the nooks and crannies too.
For more tips and details on cleaning schedules, head on over to our kitchen cleaning blog.
2. Gentle (opening & closing) does it
It is a universal habit for people to shut their new modular kitchen cabinets and drawers gently over the course of the first year. However, once they get used to it, odds are that these drawers and cabinets become recipients of a little more force. The smooth closures on your cabinets or drawers may get affected with harsh openings and closures. You may also put pressure on the hinges, which then get worn out at an accelerated rate.
Advise your family members and consciously make an effort yourself to be as light as possible when closing cabinets and drawers, especially in the case of soft close cabinets and drawers.
3. Clutter-free kitchen cabinets are the way to go!
Over time, people have the tendency to clutter their kitchen cabinets since the kitchen is a hotspot for collecting clutter. Quit your hoarding tendencies immediately- it’s doing your kitchen cabinets more damage than you think. Based on the intended purpose, cabinets and drawers have a certain weight allowance, crossing which may cause it to sag and alter the alignment. It is also important to remember that cabinets should always be used for the purpose they were meant to serve only.
4. Repair and restore cracks immediately
Though modular kitchens are resilient to damage, in the unlikely event of a crack occurring, it is imperative that you get it addressed by a professional immediately. If not, you risk its propagation and lending your kitchen an unaesthetic vibe. This is quite easily a possibility with a company like Bespoke Decor and its brilliant after-sales service.
If you’re considering investing in a modular kitchen that will serve you well in the long-run, reach out to Bespoke Decor at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23 today!
