Kitchen Design Think Tank

Architecture is the purest form of art allowing human beings to become inspired and emotionally connected to their surroundings.   In the 21 st century the kitchen has become as important as the architecture that surrounds it allowing the user to gain pleasure from its aesthetics but also fulfilling a functional role.   The modern kitchen user can demand different things from a design as many people cook in different ways; pre-packaged, slowly prepared, on the run and in a social setting are all possibilities today.   It is also true that the aesthetics of a kitchen can mirror our own self image and allow a certain freedom of expression with some individuals allowing the artist within them to be exposed while others take satisfaction at the social acceptance a fantastic kitchen can offer. A well designed kitchen has the ability to encourage tranquility within a home offering the user an environment that caters for their own needs and idiosyncrasies and giving satisfac...

This design uses asymmetric design, mirrored panels, stainless steel and matt lacquer finishes creating a cool sophisticated look.  The Mogul likes this one even though it may be perceived as cold.   This design could be easily warmed for a more homely contemporary experience by using colour changing ambient lighting.

This is a fantastic example of a how a kitchen can be installed as a functional art installation.  The design totally contradicts the architectural setting and allows for perfect synergy between the classical and contemporary styling.  There is also fantastic attention to detail in that the Marble grain has been matched to become a mirror image on the island.

Very tasteful design that has been approached from the left field by the Halstock Team.  A European style that has been softened by English charm.  Very Effective!

This is a fun design that doesn't stick to the rules...The Mogul would argue that this design, although tasteful, will prove to be more concept than commercial!

This modern Welsh dresser is currently on show on the Johnny Grey stand at Decorex.  Designed by Johnny Grey and Miles Hartwell this dresser attempts to straddle the divide between contemporary and traditional.  The Mogul is a fan of how light can increase the sensory pleasure of the viewer and how its use can have holistic advantages for the overall architectural space.  The use of coloured glasses and translucent tableware allows this piece of furniture to become personalised and also changes the look of the design making its use an interactive experience. The Mogul always considers that a kitchen is not always being used and using light in this way allows kitchen furniture to become a stunning backdrop to our home lives. This design has its styles polarised so much that it can be likened to a Centaur, a mythical creature that is half horse and half man!

Angular, Artistic and Authentic…..Enough Said!

This island presents itself as a cool, dark monolithic block with some hidden features.   The cooking area of the island slides back to create a cantilevered informal seating area, this function also allows the user to easily access the storage drawers beneath. The Mogul particularly likes the simple but incredibly effective wine storage area on the front of the island.   The use of lighting shelves in this area breaks up the rigidity of the island design and introduces an interactive feature that will change over time.   The introduction of new or differently coloured bottles will change the appearance of the island and the texture of the lighting.   This idea softens the design and allows for an expression of self.   The use of light in this way can have a calming effect on the viewer. The minimal, shape shifting bank of units behind the island is a fitting extension to this idea.  

This kitchen is a perfect example of how a designer can use self expression in every creation.   This avant-garde design originates from the pen of Belgian designer Joe Wynant and it shows that there is a growing trend towards an artistic expression within kitchen design. This design remembers that the world in which we inhabit allows us to see things in three different planes and therefore cabinet frontage does not need to sit at a ninety degree angle to the floor.    This concept speaks volumes for kitchen design as a fashion, as a style influencer and as a discipline that encourages artistic flair. The main sink area encourages the idea of strong European techno culture with its sharp angles and clean lines, the tall appliance housing is reminiscent of an Icelandic sauna, and the island encourages the cabinet maker’s skill.   Mixing these ideas together gives this design an edge and puts it outside the box of standard kitchen design. With every new idea there c...

Infinitely beautiful is how this design by Marco Gorini should be described.   There is a real attempt here to engage the senses of the viewer allowing them to immerse themselves in the artistic function of this kitchen.   The kitchen of tomorrow is independent of walls and could even be considered to be a pod.   This idea goes back to Johnny Grey’s principles of the un-fitted kitchen.   The Mogul absolutely loves this one.

This is an example how a good ideas can cross the divide between and contemporary and traditional.  At first glance this kitchen appears to be a timeless classic, a safe option that will offer the user a retreat from the stresses of the high speed world in which we live.  The only thing that appears different is the machined aluminum fascias on some of the units.  But look again; this kitchen is in fact a “shape shifter”!   Look how the panels in the centre of the design slide back to reveal modern kitchen appliances.   Sliding panels are nothing new but the Mogul believes that the context of this change makes the design stand out.

Kitchen design is now as important as architecture, it is as important as Art and it is slowly evolving into a discipline that can be appreciated by those who have an eye for style.  No longer should a client be faced with a choice of dull timber finishes for their kitchen, they should be allowed to explore their imagination to facilitate the fusion of   their personalities into a product that will share their home for a very long time.  The next time a client asks for something different why not suggest custom etched glass doors and Swarovski encrusted crystal handles.  Splendid!

America is a world super power; it is at the forefront of technological advancement and is perceived to be a forward thinker when it comes to industry and social structure.   Why then do the citizens who make America a great nation settle for a standard of kitchen design that is perceived to be 10 to 15 years behind the rest of the World? American kitchen design can be perceived as dated, tired and stagnant with lower and middle class families choosing a “Safe” kitchen design that will ensure that their home will appeal to the widest spectrum of possible buyers, should they decide to sell.   Many kitchens in America have an old homely feel with designers specifying solid timber doors with raised centre panels and ornate trimmings and fittings to match.   This is a throw back to the late 70’s and early Eighties when Mark Wilkinson was still finding his feet as a designer and launching kitchen lines that were decorative and fussy.   These early Mark Wilkinson ranges w...

Some kitchens can be hidden, designed to appear when necessary and disappear when no longer needed.   The unseen kitchen is a "Shape Shifter" that allows the user to dictate its presence within the surrounding architecture.   It can be argued that the development of the hidden kitchen is facilitating the removal of many of the key sociological elements required to make our world work.     The kitchen is not just a place where food is prepared; the kitchen creates a sense of place, a sense of home and encourages social interaction between family and friends.   It could also be argued that if the kitchen is only occasionally present we will require our meals  to appear more instantly.  The basic function of food preparation will no longer be welcome within this alien, open planned space which no longer features a visible kitchen. The Mogul believes that clients will always want to see what they have purchased and appreciate the choices they hav...

This idea explores the possibility that a "Shape Shifting" kitchen can be modular with movement restricted on a vertical plane.  In certain positions it looks like a filing cabinet but this design can cleverly morph into a functional kitchen.  This could be good when space is restricted but The Mogul feels that the finishes used could be softer in order to make the design less obtrusive when placed in the "Standby" position.  Questions may also be asked about the practicality of this concept! <!--8d297e59aa764bb68a64663a7220aa53-->

Designing an island kitchen is an enjoyable experience for most kitchen architects.   An island can present the opportunity to break away from the constraints of the surrounding architecture.    This can allow the introduction of custom shapes and materials allowing the design to become more intricate and layered.   This design from Tokyo Kitchen has a futuristic appearance that embraces the “Shape Shifting” ethos.   This compact and practical design is prefect for a confined living space and allows the user to physically interact with the design.     The corrugated drawer bottoms are both artistic and practical allowing an un-orthodox option for storing consumable and non-consumable items. This is not what the masses expect from a kitchen; this is something that pushes our expectations of what the kitchen may become.   The kitchen of tomorrow will be visible when we want it to be but un-obtrusive when necessary.   Not everyone will have th...

This design evokes notions of airships, men in leather flying helmets and the Charleston.  This art deco style is perfectly made and appeals to a niche client who really wants something bespoke.  The mixture of wood, stone and machined aluminum allows the viewer to appreciate that this kitchen is naturally industrial.  There is great craftsmanship in this design and it is a true attempt to mix the old and the new.  Using ornate wood carvings and free-hanging the appliance housing gives this design an edge.

Mr Rashid had a part to play here.

This island is great, although The Mogul believes that the architecture is disappointing, restricting the backdrop to this stunning island design.  So much more could have been achieved here!  A project will always work best when the architect and kitchen designer collaborate.  Fantastic Stools!

This island is designed to define the room. It presents itself as an artistic sculpture with its functional capabilities disguised.  Choices of materials and mosaic patterns can allow for an expression of self.  The cantillever is stunning, inviting the viewer to interact with the design and diluting the natural boundary that an island can create.   The asymmetric nature of this design works fantastically well! The Mogul loves this one!

Artistic kitchen design...the effect is amplified by the architecture.  The Mogul likes this idea but would question the funtionality!

Claudio Silvestrin uses monolithic structures and open spaces to turn this kitchen into art.

This concept encapsulates the essence of modern kitchen design; it is functional, efficient, and has a technological edge that allows the viewer to reconsider their expectations of what a kitchen should be. This design also considers that there can be a functional and social element to an island kitchen. This self contained island kitchen allows mechanics to breathe life into it. The elevated centre area can contain different storage zones giving the client the flexibility to personalize the using experience. This design also looks past the primary function of the kitchen and introduces entertainment and artistic elements. When not being used this shape shifting design can become an unobtrusive piece of minimal furniture. The Mogul approves!

Poggenpohl and Hadi Teherani said; “In much the same way as a house opens and closes to the outside world, so too the kitchen communicates with its environment, bringing the room to life.” They must have been reading The Mogul

Many shape shifting designs are a far fetch from what you will find on your local high street but it is fascinating to see how the human imagination can create an evolutionary design path and how cutting edge design can be embraced by the masses. Downdraft extraction is now common place but not too long ago this automated extractor rising from the worktop would have been seen as a fitting accessory in any James Bond movie. There may always be a market for solid oak raised panel kitchens but they will be sprinkled with a diluted version of the future. Internal pull outs and multi-purpose accessories are already here as well informed clients now expect ergonomic efficiency and a well thought out design. The internet is fuelling our knowledge and acceptance of change. Kitchen design is becoming as important as architecture and good designers need to consider more than the kitchens primary function.