Category Archives: Kitchen
3 Proven Ways to Organise, Clean & Maintain your Modular Kitchen
Defining your kitchen into zones is a life-changing tip!
Your kitchen speaks for your entire home and also carries your individual personality. A kitchen with spic and span countertops, well-organized cabinets, and efficient use of space is what makes a good modular kitchen design even more attractive.
KonMari Method
Less is always more- this must be your mantra if you have finally decided that it is time to organise your kitchen space- think minimalism. The KonMari Method is one that has gained a lot of popularity since Marie Kondo (who developed the concept) appeared on a Netflix show teaching people to declutter. This method works especially well when you have to decide what to keep and what to get rid of.
Start by sorting your existing items. Line them up, pick up each one of them and divide them into three groups based on how they make you feel- Keep (if it sparks joy for you), Donate(if it fails to spark joy for you but it has the potential to make someone else happy) or Discard(if you don’t believe it can spark joy for anyone anymore).
After sorting through the items, you will find you have more space and less clutter. Another additional tip would be to not buy any unnecessary items, so as to keep the cost of your kitchen accessories and items low.
Cleaning Schedules for Long-term Maintenance
Set up a daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedule for yourself and your family. There are many areas of the kitchen that get overlooked if not incorporated into a schedule. There are many charts available online to make your cleaning plan easier. Don’t forget to give a thorough wipe down to those reflective surfaces that show off your kitchen design in all its splendour.
If you maintain a regular cleaning and deep-cleaning schedule, your modular kitchen is going to look as good as new for a longer period of time!
Divide your Kitchen into Zones
For smart optimisation of your kitchen space, split sections of your kitchen into 7 zones:
Zone 1: EVERYDAY
This is the zone that has the items that you access every day, so it should be easiest to reach and as close to your dishwasher as possible. Position all the cutlery, glassware, and every day serving ware in Zone 1.
Zone 2: COOKING
This is the zone that contains all the items and appliances required for cooking. It should be situated close to the cooktop surface, be it the stove or oven. This could include measuring equipment, pots, pans, spatulas, and cutting boards.
Zone 3: PANTRY
This zone stores all dry goods, spices and holds other large kitchen gadgets used infrequently. While most kitchens have a dedicated pantry zone, a few modular kitchens can modify a tall cabinet to function as a pantry.
Zone 4: ACCESSORIES & STORAGE ITEMS
All food storage is done here and this zone is preferably situated close to the fridge for easier access.
Zone 5: COFFEE & BAR ITEMS
Coffee jars, accessories, barware and beverage glasses can be kept in this area. A few people prefer to have a coffee and bar cart whereas others install a cabinet to house their espresso machines and wire racks tailored for wine bottle storage.
Zone 6: BELOW SINK
This is the perfect area to store washcloths, soaps, sponges and so on. If you are designing a modular kitchen, speak to your designer to create customized below-sink organizing racks or shelves made to the size of the specific items.
Zone 7: SPECIAL ITEMS
Fragile dinnerware or ornate pots meant for parties and special gatherings can be placed here. This zone is the least frequented one. A crockery unit falls under this category.
Happy Organising! For more assistance and guidance on modular kitchen organising, reach out to Bespoke Decor at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23
Why you should Insist on a Detailed Agreement before Finalising a Modular Kitchen Vendor!
Here’s what a good agreement must entail.
An agreement must always be two things- well-drafted and well-detailed. An agreement between a client and a modular kitchen vendor isn’t just a single page document.
Ideally, it is supposed to have multiple elements, all of which detail out the client’s requirements, measured drawings of the site, a detailed design plan, quotation, and a document listing out the complete scope of work.
The process must be centered around the client and their family to producing a modular kitchen of their price range, style, and requirements. The signing of the agreement is an important step that marks the next stage of your relationship with a modular kitchen vendor and securing your trust is something that every interior designer must strive for.
Let’s take a look at an outline of the detailed agreement style that Bespoke Decor, an exclusive Sleek modular kitchens dealer in Kerala, follows. It is recommended that your modular kitchen agreement should have the following parts too:
1. Your Requirements:
A kitchen is most often the central space of any home and is one where a handful of family members spend the majority of their time preparing meals for the family. At Bespoke Decor, we start off the process by urging our clients to fill out a questionnaire that we label the ‘Kitchen Need Gathering Form’. Listed below are some of the different aspects of the Need Gathering Form:
- As part of this easy-to-fill questionnaire, we start off by collecting information on their basic intentions of an overall kitchen remodel or renovation (a few people request additional storage, some want improved functionality, while others crave aesthetics). This gives us an idea of what to focus on when designing the space and gives us a starting point for the process. We also urge clients to list out what they want to keep from their current kitchen and what they would like to add.
- Following this, the client and designer sit one-on-one and have a discussion on the work triangle and individual zone-based requirements. Once all the zones are covered, the clients discuss their individual requirements outside of the zones that the designer can incorporate into the notes and include in the final site drawings.
The details of this form are discussed between the client and designer, after which both parties sign off on it.
2. Site Drawing with Detailed Measurements
An outline of the kitchen plan and its elevations, remodel or renovation designs, and additions to the site are detailed out with site drawings. Measurements must be well-denoted and right to the very millimeter. This is very critical because all modular kitchens are made to order and any variation can result in you getting a shoddy kitchen.
Keeping all of the client’s alterations in mind, ‘Discussion Notes’ are then prepared listing out details of what has been agreed upon. These notes also spell out what is included as part of the quote and what needs to be paid for separately, again necessitating the signatures of the client and the designer.
3. Kitchen Design along with 2D/3D Drawing
At this stage, with most of the modular kitchen ideas made, clients select the finish for their modular kitchen. This is the final stage of the planning process. An approval from the client on the detailed quotation is all that is needed to proceed.
4. Detailed Quotation
The detailed quotation explains what all is covered in the modular kitchen price and what is not along with the complete scope of work. On sign-off from the client and designer, what follows is the implementation of the design by getting the pre-drilled modular kitchen units made in the factory and installing it in the site, when ready. Your modular kitchen is almost a reality.
Other than these four aspects, a modular kitchen agreement may also include documents requesting to photograph the space on completion and other miscellaneous permissions.
Make sure that your modular kitchen vendor hands over a detailed agreement with all these aspects. Contact Bespoke Decor at : +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23for more information.
Detailed Customer Process for Kitchen Renovation at Bespoke Decor
Get a complete idea before you set up your first appointment with us to create your dream modular kitchen.
Bespoke Decor has, over the years, garnered a reputation of being one of Kerala’s top interior design firms- and renovating modular kitchens is our niche. Having successfully completed and transformed several homes, we await the opportunity to lend our magic touch to your space.
We believe in complete transparency when it comes to our entire relationship with a client and this blog is an extension of proving that to you. It is our intention to assure you of the level of detailing and customisation we offer, driven towards creating that perfect final output tailored to your specific needs, that you will love. The focus is on lifelong durability and a hassle-free maintenance process, coupled with superior aesthetics. We shall be going into the details of the complete kitchen renovation process that we follow right from the first meeting with the client.
Reaching Out to Bespoke Decor
The process begins with an interested customer approaching us. This could happen in one of two ways-
- A walk-in appointment at our store
On your first visit to the Bespoke Decor store with an intention of a kitchen renovation, our expert designers acquaint you with each and every aspect of modular kitchens. This meeting will assure you of the eventual functionality, aesthetics, and durability of the modular kitchen you invest in.
This is a good opportunity for potential clients to get a visual representation of what to expect and a chance to solve all your material-associated queries. We consider the walk-in to be a very critical step as it helps clients clarify any misconceptions and get more insights on gaps in understanding regarding their final modular kitchen. This results in a more confident choice.
- Online enquiry/call-in
Being one of the top Kerala-based interior design firms specialising in modular kitchens, we receive several enquiries online wherein customers send across a layout of their kitchen and request a quotation. For a modular kitchen, the same space can be made so much more functional and aesthetic with the use of a permutation and combination of different materials- and that is the versatility that only a modular kitchen offers. Our pricing blog will give you more insight regarding this. It is recommended to refrain from getting a quote for your layout online as it is important to know what exactly you’re paying for, and that’s why we encourage our potential clients to visit the store before making a decision.
Most of our competitor companies or designers offer a quote without a complete consideration of the complete requirement. They also do not get into explaining the features or benefits of their potential offerings. This leaves a customer partially informed, which may result in them picking the wrong design or products for their space.
At Bespoke Decor, our customers remain at the core of everything we do, and realizing your dream is our mission. At the end of the day, even if you choose to opt-out of getting your modular kitchen from us, we want you to be in a position to make an informed decision with all the facts before you.
1. Site Measurements
Congratulations, you’ve decided to get the process of building your dream modular kitchen with Bespoke Decor. Planning is the first step to unlocking perfection and every kitchen renovation project begins with the process of measurements to get a complete assessment of the site.
It is a known fact that no two homes are similar to one another. Therefore, every modular kitchen is technically a completely customised product made for the home it ends up in. For any interior project, especially a kitchen, site measurement is a crucial step. A seemingly tiny variation of even 2mm can contribute to misalignment, leading to a dismal end product and a disappointed client.
2. Understanding Client Requirements
Every individual is different when it comes to their taste or cooking style. In this appointment, the designers sit down with the client and understand their unique requirements. The focus in this stage would be on both functionality as well as aesthetics.
At the end of the day, with an efficient newly-renovated modular kitchen, cooking must become a more enjoyable experience.
3. Preliminary 2D Sketch
Armed with knowledge and a complete understanding of your needs and taste, our designers create the first draft of your modular kitchen after renovation.
4. Customer Feedback on Design & Quote Estimate
This is the second round of discussion with the client wherein a basic sketch of the modular kitchen is shown to the client. They also lay down an estimate of the cost involved in the demolition and subsequent creation of your dream modular kitchen post-renovation.
At this stage, clients are encouraged to point out aspects that they believe need to be added in order for them to get the final product they want.
5. Detailed Presentation of Kitchen Renovation Plans
At this stage, if the client wants to browse a few more options, two different kitchen designs in terms of colours, finishes and internal hardware could be pitched by our team too.
On approval of the design from the client’s end, a detailed presentation will be shared listing out the complete kitchen renovation plan.
6. Design Finalisation
Once the client seems to be fully satisfied by the design, we take their experience a step further by showing you the final design in a manner that they can easily visualise it. This guarantees that clients are reassured of the final product they will get- transforming the modular kitchen renovation dream into a reality.
7. Quote Finalisation
Once a client is certain of the design, the final quote is presented to them. If at this stage, they believe that the quote is out of their budget, the experts at Bespoke Decor can easily suggest better alternatives to lighten the load on your wallet, without compromising on design and functionality of the space.
8. Token Advance Payment
After the design and quote have both been finalised from the client’s end, the order is then confirmed with the payment of a token advance.
9. Final Site Measurements
In order to doubly reassure the clients and the Bespoke team, site measurements are taken again. This ensures that there won’t be even a single “mm” of discrepancy in your final kitchen and the made-to-measure factory-manufactured modular kitchen.
10. Agreement
A detailed 8 to 12-page agreement listing out all the details of the modular kitchen renovation like 2D drawing, color, 3D rendering, and finalised quote.
11. Customer Approval
The customer leaves through the agreement and offers their final sign off on the project.
12. 70% Advance Payment
At this juncture, an advance payment of 70% is collected from the client. This goes towards getting each part of your unique modular kitchen made in the factory. The completed product cannot be fitted elsewhere.
13. Factory Process Begins
- Production Instructions Sent to Factory
As soon as the payment is processed from the client, our team gives the green light to the factory. The design is reconfirmed and then the world-class pneumatic machine is put to work to create every component of the modular kitchen. It is then pre-drilled there, ensuring that no drilling is done on-site. It cannot get more customised than this.
- Confirmation of Ready Date from Factory
Based on the finish the client picks and the work involved, a ready date confirmation is given from the factory.
14. Client Given Installation Timeline
Keeping in mind all of the above factors, the Bespoke team hands the clients a detailed installation report with a timeline.
15. Material Dispatch
Once alerted that the material is ready at the factory site in Pune, it is dispatched out to the site. Your newly-renovated modular kitchen dream is a lot closer than you think!
16. Preliminary Site Work
- Demolition Begins
The demolition of the existing site begins only once the material for the modular kitchen has been dispatched from the factory. This assures clients a minimal timeframe without a functioning kitchen, causing them minimal inconvenience.
- Site Demolition Completed
The next step is to complete the demolition of the site and prepare it for the arrival of the new modular kitchen!
- Final Site Check by Supervisor
Post demolition, the site condition is cross-checked by the supervisor to make sure that it is perfect for the new modular kitchen in transit.
- Material Delivery
The material from the factory arrives on-site and is checked thoroughly by the team.
17. Final Payment
The final payment for the modular kitchen is then collected from the client before installation.
18. Start of Modular Kitchen Installation
The installation of your modular kitchen using the factory-made customized pieces begins. The cabinets are installed first and everything else follows shortly after.
19. Handover for Granite Work
The site is then handed over for the completion of countertop work.
20. Final Corrections
The kitchen is handed over to the client only if everything is to their liking. If any parts are damaged in transit or in case of any unforeseen issues, the professional team at Bespoke Decor tackle it efficiently. At the end of the day, it is about creating a kitchen that our clients love. In the unfortunate instance of damage in transit requiring replacement, order for the same will be issued to the factory again. It is then installed at the site.
21. Official Handover
The official handover marks the end of a modular kitchen renovation and the beginning of a life-long relationship with Bespoke Decor.
22. Service Support
Our work doesn’t end with a successful handover, though. Our team regularly updates you on how best to maintain your newly-renovated modular kitchen. We also offer ongoing on-call or on-site service support. Our unparalleled after-sales service has been applauded by our clients and we assure you that we always do the best we can!
If you now feel confident about renovating your modular kitchen and starting your relationship with us, reach out to us at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23 to set up an appointment!
Hacks to Unlimited Kitchen Storage
Little spaces with lots of storage for your modular kitchen!
In an age of smart TVs, smartphones, and smartwatches, it is only natural to want smart kitchen storage integrated within the very fiber of the existence of your kitchen interiors. In a space that is most likely to collect clutter like the kitchen, smart storage solutions are the only way to ensure maximum functional and ergonomic utilisation of your space. It is imperative that you do not allow any space to go to waste.
You may feel your senses tickled by Kim Karadashian’s kitchen interior tours boasting her expansive cabinetry plush with foodstuff and unaffordable kitchen equipment & accessories. You may be restricted by space, but fret not, you could get unlimited kitchen storage in your modular kitchen with just a little bit of effort and by following these 2 hacks!
Hack #1: Make the most of vertical storage by installing tall pantry cabinets
Make use of the kitchen’s higher ceilings by installing floor-to-ceiling length tall cabinets. In addition to giving you a lot of extra storage space, these tall pantry cabinets also lend a very classy look to your kitchen. Tall cabinets are a win-win in terms of both aesthetics and limitless storage!
Functionality: A tall cabinet in your kitchen will change the way you store your pantry items! Invest in good ergonomically-friendly hardware within these cabinets- pull-out drawers or wire shelves work really well. You could store perishable items closer to eye level, pantry staples on the lower shelves and long-lasting canned goods on the top-most shelves. In some cases, tall cabinets are even large enough to hold a few of your kitchen appliances that you’d like to keep out of sight. Discuss your individual preferences and needs with our experts to curate a tall cabinet that works best for your kitchen.
Aesthetics: Your interior designer would be able to use the tall façade of the tall cabinet to play with texture and colour, to transform your kitchen into a modern stylish space.
Hack #2: Don’t cut corners- good corner units are the way to go!
The so-called kitchen black hole, kitchen corners can be so much more! To get a lot more storage than you already have, invest in a good corner unit which can quadruple your kitchen storage.
Functionality: : No longer a kitchen black hole, a corner unit can be the perfect place to store your pots and pans. Based on your storage requirement, you could opt for either a carouselstyle unit, a pair of S-shaped shelves, V-shaped corner drawers or plain old L-shaped shelves. Out of the above, the carousel unit ensures best functionality and ergonomic storage potential. While these could work well for both upper and base cabinets, open Lshaped shelves on the upper corner units make your kitchen appear more spacious.
Aesthetics: There are so many ways you could design your corner units. Base corner cabinet units come in so many different styles, so find what suits your requirements best. For the upper corner units, shelving allows you to create a styling opportunity or additional storage for any items you may like to keep on display
Are you ready to unlock the unlimited storage potential of your kitchen? Give us a call at +91 90 20 10 70 22 to schedule an appointment!
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Material for your Kitchen Cabinets
Discussing material matters because materials matter!
Whether you’re at the brink of redecorating your current kitchen or building a new one from scratch, you must not overlook investing in materials used in your kitchen which would be durable, easy to maintain, and long-lasting, given India’s oscillating weather conditions.
Hence, the discussion around modular kitchens and material used in its construction and redecor is pivotal to the long term success of a happy kitchen space. It is important to choose a material that works for you, your house as well as the country you live in. At the end of the day, your modular kitchen’s price must be justified in terms of functionality, durability, and aesthetics. Achieving this balance is only possible when you reach out to an expert who can find the best fit for your personal needs with an understanding of different materials that would actually work for your kitchen. The base materials used are critical in determining the longevity of your kitchen.
You may rope in the best modular kitchen experts like us in the country, but it doesn’t hurt to know what materials can survive (and thrive) over the life of your modular kitchen. There’s an ongoing debate regarding the usage of MDF vs ply vs particle boards to replace the conventional wood used in the kitchen for your wardrobes and cupboards. Let’s examine the different core material options available and the factors which could lead you to make an informed decision.
Working Out Your Core (Material)
The following are the different core material options available and we have listed out the pros and cons of using them in a modular kitchen space.
1. Solid Wood
Natural higher-priced woods like Teak or Sheesham fall into the solid wood category. They lend an antique look to your kitchen and are more popular across South India.
Technicalities:
- Solid wood tends to have a higher coefficient of expansion. This simply means that it expands in colder seasons and contracts in summer- not exactly the most desirable feature for wood used in one’s kitchen .
Pros:
- Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble
- Lends a stunning and warm vintage ambiance to your kitchen
- No additional covering needed
Cons:
- Seasonal warping
- Termite sensitivity
- Heavy in weight
- Not cost-effective
- Maintaining its finish may possess challenges
Takeaway:
- If you have the budget and can adjust with seasonal warping, go for natural wood as it can lend your kitchen a spectacular royal appearance.
2. Plywood – Recommended
Simply put, plywood is layers of wooden sheets pressed together to create a sturdier material. They come in a range of sizes, finishes, and are of different grades, each of which boasts different properties. Plywood happens to be one of the materials of choice in kitchen settings.
Technicalities:
Available in a wide range of grades, the most suitable for household use is BWR (Boiling Water Resistance) Plywood which is treated with urea-formaldehyde as the adhesive. While a BWP (Boiling Water Proof) type would be stronger and can support fitting loads, its phenol formaldehyde-based adhesive is not eco-friendly and suitable for household use. Other than BWR and BWP plywood, MR PLY also exists which is not recommended for kitchen use as it possesses the lowest water resistance levels.
Pros:
- Different types suit different purposes- IS710 (BWP) works great for exteriors while IS303 (BWR) can be used for interiors
- Reasonable strength
- Does not warp with seasonal variations
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Challenges regarding picking the suitable grade for your purpose
- Bending may be seen in longer plywood sheets
Takeaway:
Make sure you get the right type of plywood for your needs. If this is assured, plywood is without a doubt a great pick for kitchen use.
3. HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) & MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
When softwood or hardwood are broken down into smaller particles to be compressed into sheets using adhesives and resins, HDFs and MDFs are produced. They come in several different sizes. Their use is preferred in areas with low moisture exposure.
Technicalities:
HDF has the reputation of being the strongest of all engineered wood. MDF isn’t far behind, though it is less strong and water-resistant than the former and plywood.
Pros:
- HDF & MDF work well for wardrobes
- Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble
- Low bending related problems
- Easy finishing and different shapes available
Cons:
- Moisture contamination produces irreversible damage
- Termite sensitivity
Takeaway:
- Consider opting for HDF & MDF for your wardrobes and keep them away from kitchens as the latter is a high moisture zone!
4. Particle Board (Chipboard)
Unfortunately, the particle board is believed to be the lowest quality engineered wood meant to be used to create furniture that is far away from a water source.
Pros:
- Particleboards work well for wardrobes
- Strong & durable- can hold together screws without trouble
- Low bending related problems
- Easy finishing and different shapes available
Cons:
- Moisture contamination produces irreversible damage
- Termite sensitivity
Takeaway:
- Restrict the use of particle boards to your wardrobes and keep them away from kitchens, a high moisture zone!
5. PVC Board (Multiwood)
Lastly, we have PVC Boards which are commonly seen as a core material in interior spaces. PVC Boards have proven to be effective in coastal areas with high moisture.
Technicalities:
This is a plastic composite material. While it isn’t environmentally friendly, they are extremely resistant to moisture.
Pros:
- Good for high moisture zones
- Easy finishing and different shapes available
- Not as vulnerable as other options to termite infestations
Cons:
- Low strength to support screws
- Prone to bending
- Not an eco-friendly option
Takeaway:
- While PVC Boards show obvious advantages over the other options regarding their termite sensitivity and moisture resistance, they are not the most eco-friendly option. Consider all other options before you narrow in on PVC Boards as your core material.
It is very obvious that the most popular choice of material for kitchens, after weighing the pros and cons, is Plywood which is of the right grade with a good-quality finish. Be sure to make an informed decision to create an aesthetically-pleasing and durable kitchen to last a lifetime!
The ultimate guide on Modular Kitchens
The elements that make the heart of your home come alive!
The kitchen is one of the most important spaces when it comes to home interior work and whether you intend on just remodeling it or creating it from scratch, there are a few elements that you must look into to ensure an organised and optimised kitchen layout and plan. Kitchen design isn’t rocket science, but it isn’t a piece of cake either (but you could very well bake a cake there)!
Interior designers in Kochi have seen exponential growth in the popularity of modular kitchens in recent times. In Kerala, kitchen design has seen a seismic shift from traditional interiors in the kitchen to a more modern modular kitchen approach
Let’s dive right in and get a more detailed understanding of the basics of the modular kitchen interiors- you’ll learn about what it includes and what each module consists of. A cohesive balance between all these elements helps create a kitchen that is aesthetic as well as functional. No matter the style, every module has the following:
THE BASICS:
1. Countertop
These large horizontal workspaces are mandatory in every kitchen space. They’re also one of the most functional areas of a kitchen. It is crucial that you get your countertops fixed properly to prevent water seepage into the base cabinets. Reach out to an expert to avoid unfortunate circumstances in the future, which are preventable with good planning and work.
Depending on your budget, you could opt for premium marble countertops or the more budget-friendly tile or laminate versions. Keep in mind that this is one of the first things that draws your eyes to the kitchen and do not hesitate to invest in the best.
2. Cabinets
These expansive storage spaces make your kitchen space appear clutter-free and organised. Individual cabinets can be customised to a client’s individual preferences and needs.
Cabinets may be of several types-
- Base cabinets flank the bottom half of the kitchen below the countertops,
- Wall cabinets supplement the storage opportunities that base cabinets offer with more accessible options,
- Tall cabinets can be used in larger spaces, and
- Corner units ensure minimal wastage of space and maximum storage solutions
3. Shutters
The outer portion of the aforementioned cabinet is the shutter. They conceal the content of the cabinets with shutters of the clients’ preferred finish and colors. They play a major role in making a kitchen more visually appealing. Be sure to carefully consider the material, finish, and color of your shutters, keeping in mind your area’s weather conditions and your personal preferences.
4. Kitchen Accessories/ Hardware
To make your kitchen space a more accessible and convenient one, your accessories or hardware are important. This encompasses what comes inside the cabinet and they may be either functional or storage based in nature.
5. Appliances
What is a kitchen without appliances? Just another room! Appliances, in addition to completing a kitchen, offer a sleek appearance to the kitchen. Whether you intend on keeping freestanding appliances or are looking to install in-built appliances, do discuss your kitchen interior design idea with experts like us for a bespoke space! There are also heating area appliances in every kitchen space.
THE FINAL TOUCHES
6. Handles
Once all other aspects of your module has been decided on and your dream kitchen is inching its way closer to reality, stunning handles lend the air of magic along with their obvious functional benefits. They could be the conventional projected handle type or you could even opt for a more sleek inbuilt profile handle instead.
7. Lighting
A well-lit kitchen appears more welcoming and airy than a dark dingy one. When it comes to lighting, it is important to remember the three aspects of kitchen lighting- ambient lighting which acts as space’s main light source, task-based lighting illuminating specific work surfaces or insides of cabinets, and finally, accent lighting to make your favorite kitchen elements come to life!
8. Backsplash
And finally, the infamous kitchen backsplash. Considering the high intensity, water-extensive, work-ridden zone that a kitchen is, it would be unwise to not invest in a backsplash against your countertop to protect those surfaces. These could offer that splash of color that your kitchen needs to tie all its elements together!
Modular Kitchens vs Carpenter Kitchens: Which One Wins?
The ultimate battle of modular kitchens and carpenter kitchens!
Until a few years ago, if you had to get your kitchen designed or remodeled, you would approach a carpenter who specialises in kitchen interiors. We’ve come a long way from that—now, just step into the office of the best interior designers in Kerala and you have a multitude of modular kitchen designs at your fingertips.
A question begs to be asked at this juncture- which one is better? Who wins in the ultimate battle of carpenter kitchens vs modular kitchens? Let’s look at a few aspects and compare how carpenter kitchens fare against modular kitchens and understand why modular kitchen designs are now the new norm!
Ease of Finding an Expert
Let’s start at the very beginning. Usually, recommendations for carpenters travel via word-of-mouth whereas for modular kitchens, it is a combination of word-of-mouth and an online presence, already making it a lot easier to gain trust. Finding a good carpenter may potentially be a lot more challenging and the experience would often be extremely subjective.
🏆: Modular Kitchens
Professionalism
One look at the online reviews and the varied catalogue of a modular kitchen specialist like Bespoke Decor, and you can be assured of top-notch quality. The experience of working with multiple homes of varied styles requiring personalised elements is one that interior designers working on modular kitchens designs are well-versed with. They may even offer a 3D rendering of your final space allowing for better visualisation of the completed product. A carpenter may have worked on a limited number and style of kitchens in comparison and quality assurance is not a given. It is apparent that there is a better flow of events and more professionalism right from the first consultation with a modular kitchen expert than with a carpenter.
🏆: Modular Kitchens
Price
Modular kitchens prices on the catalog may be marginally higher as compared to the traditional carpenter’s initial quotes for kitchen designs. Owing to hidden costs and subsequent fluctuations, the final value of a carpenter kitchen may, in fact, surpass a modular one. Therefore, believe that a modular kitchen wins this one! The difference, if any at all, is justified due to the attention to detail in the process of creation, dealing with more professional staff, superior functionality, customisation, and aesthetics.
🏆: Modular Kitchens
Installation
Quicker and easier installation process is granted with modular kitchen designs, especially in comparison to carpenter kitchens. The high-quality factory-made modules can be easily taken apart and reassembled at the site. You won’t have to keep worrying about having workers milling in and out of your house for a prolonged period of time as would be the case for a carpenter kitchen. No mess, no stress!
🏆: Modular Kitchens
Quality & Durability
Good modular kitchen companies usually use plywood proven to last over the long run owing to its superb durability. The quality of modular kitchen products is known to adhere to a high standard as they are manufactured in a factory. On the other hand, carpenters prefer to use solid wood, local plywood or MDF which is not as durable and the final product may be of a lower quality because everything is prepared by hand.
🏆: Modular Kitchens
Customisations
When it comes to storage-related customisations, modular kitchens always win. From the first consultation, all the client’s recommendations are taken into consideration and fine-tuned to ensure maximum functionality and aesthetics. However, some people may argue that in a carpenter kitchen, it is easier to overlook and suggest alterations once the process is ongoing, allowing for a certain degree of customisation there too.
🏆: It’s a tie between Modular and Carpenter Kitchens!
Aesthetics
When it comes to following a modern style, there are no questions asked on the dominance of modular kitchens over carpenter kitchens. While carpenter kitchens are very restricted when it comes to experimenting with style, modular kitchens tend to get it right. Many of the modular kitchen designs can be tailored into a traditional look too if that’s what a client requests. The sleek construction of modular kitchen elements trumps carpenter kitchens any day!
🏆: Modular Kitchens
So, it is clear that modular kitchens finally win. For the modular kitchen of your dreams, contact us on +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23
No, the Price of your Modular Kitchen does not only Depend on its Area!
Looks can be deceiving, even when it comes to your modular kitchen price.
Every home cook for whom their kitchen is a paradise wants an affordable one too. There is a huge misconception that the cost of a modular kitchen is ONLY dependent on the square footage of your kitchen. The reality is actually far from this. Yes, the kitchen’s area is a factor but there are many other factors influencing modular kitchen prices. A kitchen may look similar to another one from the outside, but may in fact cost exorbitantly higher owing to the other factors that have contributed to the spend.
In this article, we guide you through the different factors influencing modular kitchen prices and offer our input on where you can cut costs and where you must refuse to compromise.
Some factors that determine the cost of your kitchen are:
Size of your kitchen
The size layout of your modular kitchen does matter. A larger square-footage gives you the gift of space, where you can add more kitchen modules and have a layout of your choice. The addition of modules depends on your needs, which means, if you want to try out all the recipes in the magazine and spend hours together in the kitchen, you need a more advanced module. For someone who doesn’t believe in spending too much time in their kitchen, the bare minimum Straight-Line Layout would work for them. More modules will, quite naturally, translate to a higher price.
Material Used
The cabinet materials you will find in the market range from those that can burn a hole in your pocket to the pocket-friendly ones. Plywood is the material of choice for those looking for practicality and remaining on a budget. Some of the materials available and used for cabinets in the market are MDF, HDF, solid wood, and ply.
Shutter Finish Used
With regards to shutter finishes, most carpenters give quotes based on laminates (mica) only but there are several options when it comes to finishes. While the use of other finishes may increase the cost, if you want to preserve superior aesthetics, it is a great choice to make.
Cabinet Modules
Pick the right type of cabinets, tailored to your space and needs and ones that you will use frequently, to get a budget-effective kitchen.
Drawer systems, tall units, pull-outs, cutlery trays, and space-saving corner and loft units are a few of the options. While the installation of these may cost you a little more, it will increase the utility and functionality of your space and is an investment you must consider.
Countertop & Backsplash
Some of the materials commonly used for countertops are quartz, Corian, natural wood, or polished granite. Depending on your aesthetic requirements, your countertop budget may change.
When it comes to the backsplash, a few people prefer metals as they offer an industrial look and are easier to clean whereas others play it safe with stone or glass. Refrain from using stone with a lot of texture as it may make it challenging to clean and maintain. The cost varies highly depending on the size and material used.
Appliances
Your modular kitchen could include built-in appliances like hobs, chimneys, and so on. Choose the most essential ones and enjoy your affordable and colorful little heaven or splurge on creating the kitchen out of your dreams.
Now you can easily understand how a kitchen that may look just like another can vary in price from one another. It is important to not just judge a kitchen and estimate its budget on its size and first appearance as there are many factors that influence the final cost of your kitchen.
Kitchen Ergonomics 101: A Science & Art
For your comfort and safety
Starting your kitchen interiors plan keeping in mind ergonomics and functionality is a good idea.
Here’s why kitchen ergonomics are important for your kitchen interior design:
- To create a practical kitchen layout
- To ensure safety
- To ensure comfort and avoid long-term issues
- Easier completion of all kitchen related tasks
- Efficient organisation of the workspaces in the kitchen
Let’s explore a few simplified guidelines regarding kitchen planning to ensure a smooth ergonomic flow, as suggested by the interior design experts at Bespoke Décor:
Kitchen Entry
The door should have a clear path of opening and closing and floor space without interfering with the safe operation of any appliances or another door. It is recommended to leave a clear path of opening at least 32” wide for a 3” door.
Work Triangle
Make sure there is an uninterrupted path of traffic between the three main work zones in your kitchen- the cooktop, sink, and refrigerator. For more details on the work triangle, check out our article here.
Kitchen Sink
After finalising the position of the kitchen sink based on the work triangle, let’s examine a few technical aspects of the sink. It must be lesser than 34” and not deeper than 6.5”. The lower portion of the sink must be free of abrasive or sharp projections which may potentially injure the user. The sink should have a landing area between 18-24” long.
Refrigerator
It is recommended to leave a clearance of at least 15” between the landing area of your fridge and any other surface. There must be sufficient floor space in front of the fridge to facilitate opening.
Cooking Surface
There must be a minimum 12” of landing area on one side of the cooktop and 15” on the other. For safety reasons, a clearance of minimum 9” is recommended behind the cooking surface if placed on the countertop. Another safety implication is to avoid curtains if your cooktop is against your window. Also, make sure that there is adequate ventilation- properly sized ducted ventilation should do the trick in modern kitchens.
Countertop
Your kitchen should have a minimum of 158” of countertop space placed at a depth of 24” at least with a 15” clearance above it. It is also recommended to ensure that your countertop edges are smooth and rounded to avoid accidental injury.
Storage Cabinets
For more details on storage cabinets, check out our base and wall cabinet articles.
These recommendations are akin to just a drop of water in the ocean. To get a detailed understanding, contact our designers at +91 90 20 10 70 23 or contact@bespokedecor.in
Top 5 Kitchen Styles for your Home in Kerala
Choose your aesthetic from the most-loved kitchen styles!
Aesthetics and functionality are the priorities of any space where kitchen interiors are completed. When you invest in curating a bespoke kitchen from scratch, keep in mind your family’s requirements, and tailor-make a kitchen that will work for you.
In this blogpost, we shall be discussing the nuances involved in creating a kitchen style based on the aesthetic that appeals to you best. We have listed out the top 5 that appeal to the Kerala-based market and everything you need to know to create your dream kitchen with us at Bespoke Décor.
1. Traditional Kerala Style
Feel the twinge of nostalgia every time you walk into your kitchen with the elegant and functional Kerala vintage style kitchen aesthetic. This one feels most like home with all the elements of the kitchen tying together in the Kerala home setting.
Opt for countertops with an iron copper appearance, contemporary backsplash options to plain tiles of a colour palette that suits traditional kitchens. To give your kitchen the traditional Kerala kitchen design, it would be a good option to choose wall and base cabinets with shutters made of natural wood. However, if you are concerned about the seasonal challenges that natural wood presents, why not opt for a material of your choice treated or stained to offer a similar appearance.
Our signature collection has just the thing for you- ‘The Epicurean’ would suit a traditional Kerala kitchen really well with its dark wood island counter and artistic elements. Choose a Kerala style mural painting to complete the look and don’t forget to customise the cabinet pulls in wooden finishes instead.
Extra points for styling your countertop and glass-concealed shelving with traditional Kerala-style bronze and copper utensils.
2.Minimalist
If you are someone who is drawn to a minimalist style and way of living, opt for cool tones like white with a hint of pastel shades for your overall kitchen. Maintain clean lines with an all-white kitchen with ivory countertops, backsplash, cabinetry, and appliances. For a pop of color, get the wall and base cabinets in pastel shades.
For an all-white look, opt for the country-style Suave 5-piece Veneer Kitchen. If you’re more inclined towards pastel shades, our signature ‘The Nature Lover’ Sleek modular kitchen is sure to get your attention!
3.Opulent & Luxurious
For a kitchen remodel, it is not uncommon for clients to want a design as opulent as the rest of their home interiors. Think high ceilings with ornate chandeliers, marble countertops and French-style cabinets. Modify your wall cabinets to darker wood stains to offset the marble countertops. You could also opt for a few glass concealed cabinets holding crystal and chinaware to lend an air of richness to your kitchen. Style with marsala elements and don’t shy away from getting a curtain swag from a local upholsterer. Curtains are not a good option in kitchens but offset your blinds with a curtain swag up top to complete the luxe look!
Our ‘Striking Veneer Combined With Matte Finish Handles Kitchen’ with its magnificent wood finishes can be the foundation onto which you build up the opulence of your dream kitchen.
4.Futuristic
The futuristic style of the kitchen is a popular option these days. Speak to an expert interior designer to install ceramic or grey colored cabinets with bespoke lighting and interesting shapes for a kitchen that looks straight out of the future!
Do not be afraid to experiment with different shapes for your kitchen cabinetry. Invest in good lighting to complete your futuristic kitchen look. Say no to all wood elements!
You may love our ‘Minimal Grey Combined With Dark Ceramic Island Finish’ modular kitchen if you prefer the futuristic style.
5.Organic
For a simpler kitchen interior design, the organic look is a client favorite. White walls with a light-colored backsplash and light-brown stained wood wall cabinets with a herb garden can breathe that air of life needed in a kitchen. This look is easy on the eyes as well as on the budget!
We have many modular kitchen designs to suit the organic kitchen look- our favorites are the ‘Enchanting Veneer Blended With Smart Corian Finish’, ‘Laminate PU Combination’, ‘Vintage Wooden Style Kitchen’ and ‘Superb Handless PU Veneer Combination’ modular kitchens.
Which style is your favourite? Reach out to us at +91 90 20 10 70 22 | 23 to discuss your kitchen remodel!
