Month: October 2019
Don’t Be Cheated- A Complete Hettich or Hafele Kitchen doesn’t Exist!
Remember not to get fooled by fancy terminology that some interior designers use.
It is not uncommon for modular kitchen interior designers or modular kitchen stores trying to push you to a Hettich or Hafele Kitchen. Most unwary customers get swayed by the fancy terminology and the brand names and may rush to take their decision. However, it is important to truly understand what is meant by a Hettich or Hafele kitchen. Being in the interior design field for so many years, Bespoke Decor is aware of the tactics that many vendors use on unwilling customers. We believe that our customers must be in a position to make an informed decision.
So, let’s see what is really meant by a Hettich or Hafele kitchen. First of all, let us look at what the contribution of each of them is in the major product categories of a modular kitchen.
This is the wooden part which is the most important aspect of a kitchen as this creates the shell and finish of the kitchen. This is a major cost contributor for a kitchen and the life of the kitchen is determined by the life of this product.
If you have a low-grade material for this, your modular kitchen will fail faster than you think.
2. Hardware and Accessories- 25%
This offers the functional requirement of the kitchen. Basically, this includes your drawers, corner units, lift-ups, pull-outs, hinges, channels, and so on. It is important to note that these materials are mainly provided by Hettich and Hafele in a modular kitchen. They don’t manufacture any of the other materials which eventually become part of your complete modular kitchen space. Hafele may also extend to including modular kitchen appliances but no wood components like main cabinetry or kitchen installations are a part of this.
3. Installation- 6%
The installation of a pre-drilled modular kitchen is done by a trained carpenter team on receiving the parts sent from the factory. These are all made-to-measure and fit your kitchen right to the millimeter.
4. Appliances- 9%
Many modular kitchen appliance brands are available on the market. Yes, Hafele is an option but other vendors like Sleek, Bosch, Siemens, Faber and Elica have been better appreciated by interior designers and clients alike!
So, next time your interior designer tells you that they are giving you a Hettich or Hafele kitchen, you should be aware of the fact that the materials from these two brands represent just 25% of the total modular kitchen. The rest of the materials that become a major part of your completed modular kitchen space are sourced either locally or replaced with non-branded products. Do you really think it deserves to be called a Hettich or Hafele kitchen then?
Only a select handful of reliable companies like Sleek and a few imported European brands give all the products manufactured or sourced by themselves, under their brand name. This ensures that you receive hassle-free end-to-end service right from design to installation and the time that follows.
For a sophisticated modular kitchen, contact Bespoke Decor, the exclusive Sleek modular kitchens dealer located in Kochi and Thrissur, at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23
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16 Shutter Finishes to Choose from to Create your Dream Kitchen
The different types of shutters available in the market today- from most to least premium!
With the trending modular kitchen designs, factory-crafted units are equipped with a multitude of amenities, and shutters being one of the most important crockery units. Captivating shutters can enhance the look of a kitchen and the appeal gets better by choosing the right style. To style your Modular Kitchen, the best interior designers in Kerala can help you choose from a range of cabinet shutters that will highlight your kitchen. Given below are a few of the popular cabinets at the moment from most premium to least.
1. Corian– Categorised as that type of shutter design that can give the stone a shining finish in your kitchen. Corian shutters are durable, tough, and free from hazardous chemicals. These premium shutters come in a variety of colors and textures, are non-porous, and can make your kitchen free from trivial day-to-day damages. LED lights can be incorporated with these shutters and make your kitchen stand out.
2. Victorian PU– For the appearance of a vintage English style kitchen and an overall royal look, opt for Victorian PU shutter finishes. This premium shutter finish with high gloss is the material of choice in luxury modular kitchens.
3. Ceramic/Claytex– Ceramic shutters bring out the vogue of your kitchen. With dust-proof features, these units can withstand high temperatures too.
4. 5-piece veneers– These shutters are best suited for wooden modular kitchen designs. With built-in textures, these veneer shutters are strong with a five-piece constructive framework.
5. Solid wood– If you’re looking for a sophisticated and classy style for your modular kitchen, solid wood shutters could be your best option. Teak and oak wood designs come under the solid wood category, with the ability to withstand climatic changes.
6. Veneer– With pre-staining and polishing features, veneer shutters not only cover the surfaces but the edges too. These units come in high quality and can turn your kitchen trendy.
7. Glorious glass– Made with toughened glass, these shutters offer a unique look to your kitchen. It is made available in a variety of colors.
8. PU Inclined– These elegant shutters come with a 45-degree slope, making it look like a handle.
9. PU shutters– Embedded with European features, these glossy, scratch-resistant and highly appealing shutters are popular for their simple fitting, in any colour of your choice.
10. Matpro– This range of contemporary shutters is popular for its horizontal and vertical applications. Mataro shutters are anti-fingerprint and feature like thermal healing of superficial scratches, making them a fairly popular choice now.
11. Glitz– These shutters come with a PU finish and a glossy surface. Glitz can resist climatic wear and tear and ensures the best light reflection.
12. Acrylic– For seamless kitchen design, acrylic shutters can be used to highlight your cooking space. These shutters have solid, wooden, and metallic frameworks, which can also resist harsh weather conditions.
13. Pristine PU– Glossy, scratch-resistant, and highly appealing, these shutters are popular for their vibrant array of colors.
14. Inclined laminate– These shutters are available in high gloss and matte finishes. Inclined laminate shutters come with a 45-degree slope on top, which gives it a handle-like feature. These shutters give your kitchen a neat look.
15. Artize– With top-notch quality laminates, Artize shutters give a beautiful look to your kitchen shutters. Crafted with artsy textures and colors, these shutters can take over your modular kitchen design to the next level.
16. Laminate Shutters– They are otherwise known as four-side edge binding or Mica shutters. This is one of the most frequently proposed types of shutters, right from local carpenters to your average modular kitchen outlet. Moisture-proof and chip-resistant, the 4SEB shutters are made with CNC machines to ensure a perfect finish to these shutters.
The finish of shutters are in plenty, and based on the client’s selection, they can have a significant impact on aesthetics and cost of kitchen units too.
Your local carpenters and other showrooms may only orient you to a handpicked few. Only a specialist interior designer like Bespoke Decor has all these options for your perusal. For more information, contact us on : +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23
Which One of the 6 Kitchen Layouts will Work Best for You?
(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 triangle- all 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.
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.
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
4 Tips to Make the Most of your Modular Kitchen Wall Cabinets
From the kitchen interior designing experts at Bespoke Décor
When you walk into a kitchen, the first things you see at eye-level are wall cabinets, also referred to as upper cabinets or wall-mounted cabinets. Your intention with a kitchen interior remodel would be to improve storage solutions, functionality, and aesthetics and your wall cabinets hold a lot of potential for all of the above.
Wall cabinets
- Provide efficient storage solutions for your cooking essentials, utensils, and lighter kitchen appliances;
- Allow for ergonomic functionality when curated thoughtfully as one needn’t have to bend to access its contents as in the case of base cabinets;
- Can have their shutter designs easily modified to appear more aesthetic and to suit the tone of your kitchen interiors.
Given their incredible versatility, wall cabinets are, without a doubt, the key to unlocking a major transformation for the better version of your kitchen.
Let’s explore 4 top tips and hacks that our kitchen interior designing experts at Bespoke Décor suggest doing to make the most of your modular kitchen wall cabinets:
Tip #1
Consider installing a loft space above your wall cabinets
This applies especially to those modular kitchens with higher ceilings along with a considerable gap between the top of the wall cabinet and the kitchen ceiling
The empty space above your kitchen wall cabinets has the reputation of being a little awkward. It poses a design and maintenance dilemma- which can easily be resolved with the installation of loft space to stow away those items which you need not use on a daily basis. More storage space plus a design dilemma solved— win-win!
Tip #2
Made to measure
For any place meant for the storage of items, it is futile if it cannot accommodate what it is meant to house. Interior designers working with modular kitchens are keen to hear their client’s requirements before penning down ideas. For your wall cabinets, work backward. Start off the process by planning what you intend on storing in particular cabinets and make them fit those measurements perfectly. Be it a bottle or a vessel that you need to keep in a specific wall cabinet, your kitchen interior designer can plan the internal measurements and shelving of it to ensure maximum benefit.
Tip #3
A wall cabinet opening and closing mechanism that works for your kitchen style and your family
When it comes to the opening and closing mechanisms of wall cabinets, there is a dizzying array of options that may be confusing to a design novice. Keep in mind the tone of the overall kitchen while zeroing in on a particular mechanism. We have all seen the conventional single or double shutter style for wall cabinets, but the market today is flooded with several newer and more interesting ideas for opening and closing mechanisms.
For instance, the magnetic push-latch style is one that works with glass and suits a kitchen of a more sophisticated style. Many modular kitchens nowadays employ the awning style for wall cabinets as they prevent the hazard of hitting your head with the door of your cabinet while also being easier to use. Even sliding doors have the same benefits as the awning style in addition to being space-saving.
Tip #4
Give your wall cabinet an upgrade with customised plate racks
For the sake of practicality, it doesn’t make sense for you to stock your regularly used plates away in a drawer or a shelf stacked one over the other. The plate rack is a theme often spotted in country-themed kitchen remodels which works extremely well in almost every kind of kitchen. They save space, avoid catching dust and lend an overall cleaner appearance to the kitchen.
There is a popular modification wherein the above-sink wall cabinet with a single shutter is installed with a utensil drying tray and custom plate rack with an open lower border. This prevents the mess that drying utensils create and is an amazingly functional and aesthetic solution, particularly helpful in small kitchens.
Wall cabinets can be tweaked to your individual requirements to meet your needs. Do not hesitate to contact our designers at +91 90 20 10 70 22 for more details on customising your wall cabinets and modular kitchen.
What Everybody Ought to Know About Base Cabinets
It’s all about the Base (Cabinet): Base cabinetry can make or break your kitchen remodel plans!
Base Cabinets
Kitchen base cabinets are the backbone of any kitchen, creating efficient storage solutions below your kitchen countertops. While kitchen cabinets are sometimes placed on the ground, experts suggest choosing a design for your modular kitchen cabinets wherein they have a significant amount of space between the floor and its base so that you can ensure thorough cleaning and maintenance of your kitchen.
The Cooking Triangle and its implication on Base Cabinet design
A kitchen needs to be both aesthetic and functional- that’s where the concept of the Cooking Triangle or the Kitchen Work Triangle comes in. When designing a kitchen from scratch, it is this triangle that orchestrates kitchen traffic flow that forms the foundation 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 efficient workflow. Keep in mind that your kitchen cabinets must be placed appropriately for the purposes they are intended for.
Different Base Cabinet Types
Base cabinets that can be found in basic kitchen designs for good storage, aesthetics, and functionality are listed below with their most common usages. We have also added a few personalisations we could lend to that specific cabinet based on client requirements or a few helpful tips to enhance the modular kitchen style. It is advisable to use a mix of these base cabinets and add a few bespoke cabinets in addition to this, to best suit your tailor-made requirements.
1. Hob Cabinet
Placed below your hob, this base cabinet is specially designed to suit the size of the hob and could measure anywhere between 600 to 900 mm. This cabinet’s design is so made that the cutting of the hob does not interfere with its internal structure. In the less likely event that you don’t have pipeline gas, you may need to consider setting aside a base cabinet adjacent to your modular kitchen’s gas stove wherein a cylinder sized provision can be made.
How can you personalise your hob cabinet with our help?
The interior of the hob cabinet can be transformed into a set of drawers or shelves based on your needs for additional storage. For a gas stove and cylinder setup, it would be wise to design it to be optimised for use- all clients would prefer rolling in the gas cylinder into position instead of having to lift and place it. Don’t break your back (and bank) with our help!
2. Under-Sink Cabinet
In most instances, the cabinets under the sink are underutilised for the potential they possess. Using your under-sink cabinet for either keeping your wastebasket or stocking your cleaning supplies will ensure good use of the space.
A helpful tip for under-sink cabinet
As a client, we take your needs into prime consideration before putting forth our plans. If you intend on keeping your garbage bins in the under-sink cabinet, we would recommend a pull-out set of trash cans. This is more functional, aesthetic, hygienic, and easy to maintain.
However, if you have a separate area of your kitchen dedicated to waste, you could use this cabinet to stock all of your cleaning supplies. Our tip would be to speak to your dedicated expert who can work out stunning inbuilt storage baskets or racks to best suit your needs.
3. Bottle Pull-out Cabinet
In the case of slim storage units to house bottles, brooms, or a step-up larder unit, this type of cabinet is used. Based on its contents, it may have either a single or bifurcated shutter.
4. Corner Base Cabinet Units
Wastage of space is something us interior experts never appreciate, so in L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens, a corner unit is a must-have. You could either opt for an L-shaped storage unit or a blind corner unit coupled with various storage accessories to fit your individual needs.
A few suggestions on how you could modify your corner cabinets
A swinging pullout lower cabinet unit is ideal for corners as they efficiently utilise the space and expand storage solutions for pots and pans. The pullout model will also allow you easier accessibility as compared to your other options. If you don’t want the storage to encroach onto your kitchen floor space, a Lazy Susan type of corner cabinet would suit you better.
5. Drawer System
This is one Pull-Out storage mechanism that even the most basic of kitchen plans incorporate into their designs. Based on the depth of drawers you’d like and depending on what you intend on storing there, you could opt for a 2 or 3-drawer setup.
Here’s how we could take your drawer system up a notch
Drawers may seem like something that everyone knows their way around but one of the design experts on our team could optimise these little spaces for maximum storage with some great organiser options.
6. Shelf Cabinets
Extremely common and very easy to adjust to your desired size and width, the shelf cabinet may have either single or double shutter cabinets and can be versatile in terms of size.
7. High-front Drawers
A high-front drawer is usually a good option to stow away large appliances or storage items (blender, mincer, or those enormous rice storage cans to name a few) which are larger than 400mm. These drawers, in addition to allowing housing these items, can come with an inner drawer for optimum use of the extra space.
8. Cantilever Cabinets
A cantilever cabinet by definition does not have any support on the floor or legs to keep them up but is attached to the wall with a cantilever mechanism. They appear to be floating about the surface with a defined space below the cabinet. This makes it easy to maintain kitchen hygiene and can lend an instant edge and give oomph to your kitchen immediately.
With an idea of these base cabinets in mind, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision regarding your kitchen remodel. Any aspect can be tailored to best suit your individual needs and the experts on our team with ample cabinetry knowledge can lead you onto the path of manifesting your dream kitchen.
Additional Modular Kitchen Costs that you must Consider
Some things add character and substance to your modular kitchen to make it as splendid as the rest of your living space. They may add to the final modular kitchen price but are worthy investments. Read on to discover what they are.
- 1. COUNTERTOPS
A variety of countertops with varied textures and price range, are available in the market today. They include (but are not restricted to):
- Granite countertops
These are the most popular ones and add an elegant sheen to the kitchen. These stay cool and dissipate heat from the hot cooking pots very rapidly. They may increase the cost of the kitchen, but are very durable.
- Laminate countertops
These come in a multitude of colour options and are very easy to install. They are essentially plastic bonded with fibre boards.
- Quartz, soapstone countertops
These stone-based countertops may not be as popular as the previous options but can be installed based on the client’s requirements.
2. DADO TILES
Dado Tiles contribute to the backsplash of the kitchen and come in different textures, colors, and customisations, a few of which have been listed below:
- Stone tiles
They can be used to match the kitchen countertops, to give a seamless appearance. Quartz and soapstone tiles give the kitchen a somber appearance.
- Ceramic tiles
These are a good option as they are easy to clean and maintain. They come in many colors and prints.
- Glass tiles
If modular kitchen cost is not a problem for you, then you should invest in these beautiful designer tiles that take your kitchen design to the next level. They come in a variety of colors and are easy to clean too.
4. SINKS
Kitchen sinks can again be of several types. Consider how many bowls you need in your kitchen sink, their position, and a design that suits your modular kitchen best. Basically, the most seamless and efficient ones will add to the cost of your kitchen– and its value too.
5. TAPS AND FAUCETS
According to the direction in which the faucets need to be extended to spray water, they can be characterised as the pull-out type and pull-down type. As the names suggest, they can be extended to spray water in the desired direction.Single and double handle tap are available in the market, though the latter is trending more in modern homes. For your hot and cold water needs, double handle taps are ideal. Motion detector taps and faucets are the most sophisticated types. They also save water but do add to the cost of the kitchen.
6. GAS PIPELINES
Steel pipes may be used for gas pipelining but they are not lightweight and give an untidy appearance because of their several joints.
Corrugated stainless steel pipes are popular for being lightweight without a lot of joints and can be bent around nooks and corners easily, so they can be integrated to the kitchen design.
PVC is also a flexible material and is found most commonly in Indian kitchens.
7. CHIMNEY DUCTING AND CORE CUTTING
Ducted chimneys are a better option than chimneys without ducts as they ventilate the kitchen better. Ductless chimneys with carbon filters are however most commonly found in Indian homes. They do add to the cost of your kitchen but they are a very good investment as far as the health of the family members is concerned. Core cutting is done to keep the chimney ducts outside the house.
8. WPC BOARDS/ PLYWOOD
These waterproof, termite-resistant boards can be placed under the countertops that are made of laminates, so when the latter chips off, Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) boards withstand the moisture and wear and tear. WPC comes in different colours and can add the desired effect to modular kitchen design.
9. INSTALLATION OF KITCHEN APPLIANCES
Installation of chimneys, hobs, cooktops, oven, dishwashers, refrigerators and other essential appliances definitely have to be considered while planning out a budget. These can be built-in or added later, as per requirement. Do crosscheck if your modular kitchen vendor includes the cost of installation as part of their quoted price.
Be prepared for elevations in your modular kitchen price- consider it an investment towards building a happy kitchen that will last for a long time to come. Be sure to reach out to a trustworthy modular kitchen expert like Bespoke Decor to ensure transparency in the entire process.
A Thorough Guide to Selecting In-Built Kitchen Appliances
Believe it or not, all your smart kitchen appliances can be made to fit!
Planning on refurbishing your kitchen but can’t decide what to buy? You don’t have to spend too much time online browsing and visit the many kitchen appliance stores around your city, wondering what to get. We have the perfect guide for you.
Built-in kitchen appliances are the ones that are a part of your modular kitchen design and are integrated into your kitchen forever. Imagine a modular kitchen replete with seamless wooden built-in smart kitchen appliances, like a refrigerator built-in to a wooden cabinet and a similar concealed oven area.
A modular kitchen design with made-to-fit kitchen appliances has many advantages:
- It saves space
- It ensures seamless and perfectionist-approved design
- It is easy to maintain as the smart kitchen appliances are placed inside their respective cabinets
So, investing in the right built-in kitchen appliances will prove to be a long-standing and permanent asset to your kitchen. Therefore, choosing the right ones is vital. Before buying any kitchen appliance, you need to estimate the kitchen space available and place the appliances in a way that complements the kitchen design.
Let’s look at each appliance in detail:
REFRIGERATORS
Refrigerators in modular kitchens are of the following types:
1. Integrated refrigerators:
These types of refrigerators fit perfectly inside the allotted cabinet and camouflage into the modular kitchen design. They are seamless and blend in with your other cabinets. A fridge and freezer combination where the freezer can be on the top or on the bottom of the fridge is ideal for any kitchen. A minibar or wine storage area can also be placed in a similar fashion.
2. Panel ready/ overlay refrigerators:
These are placed inside a panel designed for the refrigerator area and are not that seamless with a modular kitchen design. They sit in a measured space and are quite conspicuous.
MICROWAVES
Microwaves are used to reheat foods and are a common addition to Indian households. They can vary largely in size and functionality. A basic model may only be used to reheat foods while advanced models available in the market today can function as ovens as well. It is important to ascertain your needs and the space you have before getting a separate microwave or a 2-in-1 option with baking capabilities.
OVENS
Ovens can be the traditional ones or microwave ovens. For an avid baker, a traditional oven with convection is more suitable. Oven-toaster-grills or OTGs are also a good option for kitchens with space limitations.
HOBS
A modern hob has proven to be superior to the traditional gas stove seen in most Indian homes as they conserve space, are safer, and boast sleek designs. Consider the top brands like Faber, Bosch, Elica, Kaff, Glen, and Siemens which offer high-quality hobs. However, if you’d like to go the traditional route and have a cooktop with an oven in-built, think of getting a cooking range instead. This may occupy more space and not look as sophisticated, though.
CHIMNEYS
Chimneys are placed above the hob and can be of many different types with various types of filters. They are an integral part of Indian homes as most of our cooking renders smoke and scents. The best brands for kitchen chimneys in India are Faber, Bosch, Elica, Sleek, Glen, Kaff, and Siemens.
DISHWASHERS
A dishwasher is one of the best kitchen appliances, which is still only starting to make an appearance in the Indian market. An in-built dishwasher saves time and effort. Dishwashers come in three types depending on their size-
- Full-sized dishwashers are designed for large kitchens and it saves energy as well as helps in conserving water. It can be freestanding or integrated. The in-built one is the integrated type.
- Compact dishwashers are smaller and are used only for very small kitchens which cater to one or two people. It is no bigger than a microwave, so it is a real space saver.
- Slimline dishwashers are designed for small kitchens. They can wash a few items at a time without taking up much space and do not help in conserving water.
Invest wisely in smart kitchen appliances that improve functionality, look aesthetic and save space while adapting to your modular kitchen design. Contact Bespoke Decor for more information.
Understanding & Comparing Modular Kitchen Quotes
A proper understanding of the complete modular kitchen quoted price allows you to make an informed decision.
There are several different aspects to a modern modular kitchen and each one of these lend their influence on the overall modular kitchen cost. You may be wondering why one company’s quote seems to be so much higher than the other. The answer is simple- just take a look at the modular kitchen material price. Cheaper and inefficient modular kitchen materials translate to indurable modular kitchens.
Let’s examine the various parts and get in-depth knowledge of the different aspects that go into modular kitchen quotes.
1. Cabinets / Carcass
Cabinets are a very important aspect of any modular kitchen. The cost of a modular kitchen’s cabinets is highly dependent on their size, layout, and extent. A single vertical module costs less than a dual vertical module would. Many local carpenters or dealers may use cabinet materials that do not have the capacity to support the heavy countertops, leading to bends. However, the Sleek modular kitchen cabinets that Bespoke Decor sells may be priced slightly higher but come with higher weight-holding capacities and refrain from bending, producing a better result and better durability in the long run. There are also cost implications of those cabinets that are pre-drilled in comparison to the ones drilled on site.
2. Core Material Used
A modular kitchen’s functionality and durability are highly dependent on the core material used. The most popular core material options include Plywood, MDF, and particle boards, and your final modular kitchen cost is highly dependent on which one you choose.
3. Shutter Finish Used
For a laminate shutter finish, the modular kitchen price will vary depending upon the brand used. In the instance of PU shutter finishes, it is highly reliant on the process of application. They could either be factory or manually painted which influences its final cost.
4. Edge Banding
To ensure a beautiful finish and trim off all the modular kitchen cabinetry, edge banding plays a very important role. This narrow metal strip also plays its part in improving the durability. For the best possible aesthetic result, it is important that the edge banding matches the finish. Cost of premium and leading-edge banding makes like Rehau & E3 may ramp up your modular kitchen material price but in return, they assure 99% matching to the shade of the shutter.
5. Accessories
The individual prices of modular kitchen accessories may also show a significant impact on the cost.
Let’s take the instance of baskets: 304 stainless steel baskets and 201 stainless steel baskets- which one to choose? 201 stainless steel baskets are the cheaper option but only an expert would be able to tell you that a 304 stainless steel basket is better suited to use in Kerala. Its higher price ensures that it remains rust-free and survives the high humidity and moisture of a location like Kerala.
6. Drawer Systems
When it comes to using and long-term efficiency, it is always a better option to invest in a soft-closing drawer system. Rendering this mechanism may inch your modular kitchen price up a little higher but it is worth its weight in gold when it comes to aesthetics, functionality, and keeping the drawer in mint condition over the long run.
7. Drawers & Accessories instead of Conventional Shelves
You may be under the false impression that adding more shelves will increase your storage options and functionality. However, this is most definitely not the case. Your modular kitchen cost may go up when you invest in drawers, accessories, and custom-made hardware- but they are more functional and utility-based as compared to traditional shelving. While both may offer a similar appearance to the kitchen at first glance, the functionality on the interiors will increase considerably with drawers and accessories.
8. Hardware Used
Getting soft close hinges and channels may in fact be five times the cost of normal hinges and channels, but spending on the smooth closing operation is worth it. Be careful about where you splurge and where you decide to hold back on your budget.
9. Installation
One thing that modular kitchen customers often overlook is to check if their complete modular kitchen price covers the cost of labor and installation charges. A few companies may also charge you a separate modular kitchen appliance fitting cost. Your final quote from Bespoke Decor is all-inclusive of these charges- no hidden costs involved.
10. Design Charges
In continuation with the previous point, a lot of modular kitchen vendors hold back from quoting hidden charges which may become part of the price of the modular kitchen. This includes charges for designing a modular kitchen.
11. Legs
When planning for a modular kitchen, do not forget to check if the legs are provided. Adding legs lifts the kitchen up limiting damage to base cabinets and allows for easier cleaning and maintenance. The addition of legs may again impact your modular kitchen cost and depends upon the brand but you must ascertain how necessary it is for your space.
12. Skirting
In case you add legs, skirting is another addition you could make at an additional cost. It covers the leg portion, all-in-all lending a classy look to the modular kitchen. The cost of skirting depends upon the brand too.
13. Kitchen Sink & Faucet
Depending on your personal preferences and your kitchen space, there is a multitude of designs and brands of varying budgets to choose from, when it comes to kitchen sinks and faucets.
14. Countertop
Based on where you live and the weather conditions, choose a countertop wisely. You have several economical as well as some exclusive premium countertop options to choose from.
15. Dado Tiles
A more premium backsplash of dado tiles may prove to be slightly more expensive but it instantly beautifies your kitchen, in addition to protecting your walls, improving maintenance and long-term durability of your modular kitchen. Do not hesitate to go the extra mile and invest in Dado tiles.
We anticipate that this article will eventually help you make an informed choice regarding the kitchen quote and it guides you in picking an interior designer to fit your style and requirement without compromising on the durability of a high-work zone like a kitchen. Reach out to Bespoke Decor at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23for more queries.
Must-have Modular Kitchen Accessories
You cannot do without these kitchen accessories making your modular kitchen more functional.
A well-organised kitchen is every home cook’s dream. A messy or disorderly kitchen says a lot about a person’s personality. A well-organised kitchen speaks volumes about the owner being meticulous with their tasks and their life in general. Not to mention, any orderly space is a pleasing sight to the eyes. A lot of kitchen accessories in the market help you achieve high standards within your kitchen space.
Here are some of the must-have kitchen accessories categorised based on its area of usage:
1. Cooking Area
- Cutlery Trays
To organise your cutlery like spoons, forks, and knives, there are no better accessories than a tray that has panels where your cutlery fits in perfectly into your drawer or cabinet.
Another option is the hanging style of organisers which have different areas to hang different types of cutlery. These organisers can be rotated to retrieve the desired cutlery. This type of organiser works better when placed on the countertop or in a crockery unit.
- Below-hob Drawers
One of the two drawers must be of a smaller height to store pans, skillets, and the like while a bigger one should be installed to store the frequently used grains, rice powder, flours, and so on.
Such an arrangement saves energy that would otherwise be spent in getting the concerned items from different areas of the kitchen by running around the entire space. Instead, all items that will be required one after the other are placed nearby.
- A Bottle/Spices Pull-Out Unit
This is typically placed to the right or left-hand side of the hob cabinet, depending upon the user. This is used to keep oils, spices, and condiments which are required very frequently while cooking and they can also be arranged in an aesthetic manner.
- Wicker Basket or Alum Basket for Vegetables-
These are also part of the cooking zone and keep the vegetables safe from contamination while also being concealed from an outsider’s eye. They prove to be extremely durable, easy to use, and are easy to clean. In other areas, these baskets could serve different purposes too.
2. Washing Area
- GTPT
Generally referred to as a glass tray and a plate tray, it is kept just above the sink inside the wall cabinet. The use of the accessory is to keep the utensils like plates & glasses right after washing them and the water will be collected on the drain tray underneath. This helps to keep the rest of the areas dry. They are sold in different sizes and are varied in terms of functionality. GTPTs are also available in different brands.
- Plain Basket / Cup and Saucer or Plate Basket
Once the utensils are dried in the GTPT, they will be placed inside the cabinet. Plain baskets can be used to place general sized utensils. Cup & saucer and plate baskets, as their names suggest, can be used for cup & saucer and plates respectively. These baskets come in a variety of colours and designs and should be chosen in accordance with the colour scheme of the kitchen.
- Bin Holder & Detergent Pull-Out
These are generally placed under the sink. Detergents and dishwashing soaps are stored here and this area is also used to place wastebaskets. There are fixed types and pull-outs available, depending on the usage and brand.
3. Storage Area
This is the place where weekly stock and the dry items are kept in storage.
Half-tall and full-tall units are available and can be selected depending upon your usage. They are mainly used to keep dry items like biscuits, noodles, sauces and so on.
- Tambour Units
These accessories are used to keep the frequently used small appliances like juicer, coffee-maker, airfryer, toaster and mixer. This prevents less cluttering since they are often concealed and also prevents the misplacement of these appliances.
These can be used to store items that don’t get used very frequently in the kitchen. Examples of what could be stored here are large pots and pans, infrequently used cutlery and appliances too. These units help to utilise space more efficiently by using the otherwise untapped potential of corners. Install a carousel in your corner unit to allow ease of access. Depending upon the budget and usage, different types of corner units are available.
4. Midway Accessories
These are small and effective accessories placed on the kitchen’s Dado space. This leaves you with more countertop space to work on while storing frequently used items like teacups, salt, sugar, spices, washcloths and some basic cutlery on a rack fitted onto the wall. With easy access and more countertop space, there’s no reason to dislike midway accessories!
Bonus:
Feel-good and Creative Accessories
These tiny additions to your kitchen space, while not absolutely essential, are recommended as they make it a happier place to be in. Wooden shelves can be used to display your ornate and expensive cutlery while the rest are hidden away in cabinets. Drawers can be labelled and tasteful stickers can be put to know where the various items are. You could even make some space for a herb garden and have some potted plants on a stand, near the window.
There is no limit to accessorize any given space. Make your kitchen into a dynamic space for a happy and convenient cooking experience with the use of some nifty kitchen accessories.
How Early should you Start Thinking about the Kitchen for your Home?
Here’s a modular kitchen timeline that Bespoke Decor follows!
There’s usually a lot of confusion amongst our clients on exactly how long a complete remodel or renovation of a modular kitchen takes. They ask, “How long will it take to complete my modular kitchen work?”
This is an extremely valid doubt given the various service providers and interior designers offering modular kitchens. Here at Bespoke, we have a specific timeline that we always follow in order to prepare the client as well as our team. Keep in mind that the following timeline is based on the best case scenario wherein all the steps mentioned happen as per the ideal time. This schedule is mostly common for any renowned modular kitchen vendor you select. Please check with your designer to reassess the timeline before you place your order.
1. Walk In (Day 1)
The process begins with your first appointment with the experts at Bespoke Decor. You can walk into our Kochi or Thrissur store and get an idea of what your modular kitchen options are in terms of design, budget, and materials.
2. Site Measurement (Day 3)
Within the next two working days, once you gain a sense of confidence in our expertise, we arrive at your site to take initial measurements. This gives the team an idea of any limitations of the site or any potential hurdles to the design you like.
3. First 2D design & Quote (Day 6)
By day 6, you receive the first 2D rendering of your site with measurements and modular kitchen ideas. Along with this, you will also get an idea of the initial budget for the kitchen option pitched.
4. If OK, Detailed Project Presentation with 3D (Day 8)
Chances are you’ll be impressed by the 2D design and the modular kitchen idea. If you have any qualms, feel free to discuss it with the team and they will be able to give you alternatives you are sure to love. You receive a final presentation at the end of this detailing out the plan with a 3D rendering. This breathes a little more life into your modular kitchen plans and gets you a step closer to making it a reality.
5. Design Confirmation (Day 10)
Clients can take a decision and within the next two days, once the design is confirmed, the next step of your relationship with Bespoke begins.
6. Quote Finalisation (Day 12)
With a final design in hand and an idea of the materials used in the modular kitchen, an outline of the final quote of the modular kitchen remodel or renovation is handed over for final client approval.
7. Order Booking with Token Advance Payment (Day 13)
Your modular kitchen order is considered booked with Bespoke Decor once you complete the payment of a token advance. In the two week period so far, we allow clients to get an idea of the entire process and assure them of our quality until they are confident enough to get their new modular kitchen made from us.
8. Final Site Measurement & Site Check (Day 15)
A fortnight from the starting date, our team revisits the sites for a final round of measurements and checking. This is crucial to ensure that there isn’t even a difference of a millimeter which could result in misalignment.
9. Agreement Sign-Off (Day 16)
Our team will send you a final agreement, details of which you can see on this blog here.
10. 70% Advance Payment (Day 17)
At this stage, 70% of the total price of the modular kitchen is collected as an advance payment. This goes towards getting the custom factory-built modular kitchen units.
11. Production Instruction to Factory (Day 19)
The measurements and the plan is then forwarded to the factory in Pune to begin production.
12. Expected Material Ready at Pune Factory (Day 37)
Over the next 18 days, the production of your modular kitchen will happen at full swing in the factory. This is the average timeframe for a laminate kitchen. This period may get extended to a month or two for other premium finishes.
13. Material Arrival at Kochi Hub (Day 44)
After dispatch from the factory in Pune on Day 37, the material finally arrives at our Kochi Hub. Only when the site arrives in Kochi do we begin the demolition process. This is to ensure that our clients are inconvenienced without a kitchen only for a short period of time. In just a short time, you will be stepping into your dream modular kitchen!
14. Demolition and Site Correction (Day 48)
The demolition process begins. At this stage, any site corrections to be done are also undertaken.
15. Supervisor Inspection for Site Readiness (Day 49)
On completion of demolition, the site then undergoes a final check from the supervisor.
16. Site correction, if any (Day 50)
Final corrections to be done post supervisor check and approval.
17. Material Delivery (Day 51)
50 days after the start of the process, the material arrives at your site and your custom modular kitchen is ready for installation.
18. Balance Payment (Day 51)
On the same day, the balance payment is collected.
19. Kitchen Installation Start Date (Day 52)
The following day, the modular kitchen is installed and over the next 10 days the space is fine-tuned to perfection by our team.
20. Functional Kitchen handover (Day 62)
Finally, approximately 2 months since the ideation of a modular kitchen remodel or renovation, your dream kitchen with Bespoke Decor becomes a reality.
Disclaimer:
Step 1 to 11 is common irrespective of the finish you select. Also, it depends on the customer’s urgency and design lead time.
Step 12 onwards depends specifically upon the finish you choose for your modular kitchen. The above timeline is for the laminate finish (18 days). For premium finishes like Ceramic or 5-piece veneer, this time period can be extended up to 45-60 days.
