Kitchen Design Think Tank

The search is on for a contemporary kitchen that will evolve past the flat expanses of uniform glossy panels; and that is why kitchen designers at the leading edge of the industry are now exploring angular definitions.   Contemporary kitchen design is mutating and the process is beginning to deliver the next generation of kitchens. These new designs are loosely built upon the flat linear lines that made contemporary kitchen design such an unstoppable commercial freight train, but now designers are adding some subtle punctuation to their designs. The use of depth, height and colour variation allows the popular linear appearance to stay, but it is now re-energised to create a completely new look.   Higher cabinetry sections become functional pods whilst lower sections blend more easily into a living space.   Key functional elements can appear less obvious because the viewer is distracted by aesthetical variations within the design.   By becoming more intensely scrutinised, kitchen desi

At first glance it might seem that this is your average, run of the mill, been there, done that white monolithic kitchen, but upon closer inspection it seems that this design is attempting to raise the bar by creating division. The snow blinding whiteness helps to camouflage a deep functional gorge, an abyss that strikes though the heart of this kitchen like a hot knife through butter.   This worktop fracture acts as a docking station for contrasting walnut accessories which help stimulate the design and assist functionality.   It could be argued though that this unique feature could resist its intended functional programming, unwittingly attracting worktop elements in an invisible gravitational tractor beam and causing them to fall beyond the natural reach of the user.   The integrated induction technology, which is only defined by light worktop incisions, gives this design a futuristic and minimal edge while the perforated doors add subtle texturing to the design.  

The palate here is crisp and futuristic delivering an immediate visual experience.    There is presence to this design with sharp stainless steel edges contrasting strongly against the surroundings.   The cabinetry backdrop is absorbed by the architecture and the resulting solidarity of colour gives the monolithic functionality even greater authority. Duel islands are certainly trending at the moment and this is a fine example of what can be achieved!   The Mogul loves the spiral staircase!!

This concept combines the warmth of wood and the strength of steel by using artisan techniques to entomb brushed pine veneer in liquefied metal. The aesthetics are impressive with the shimmering finish exposing the beauty of nature, lusting after light with the onlooker being beckoned to experience a truly unique tactile sensation. Fantastic!    

The Mogul has long argued that the modern kitchen can now be defined by its island, with the taller more cumbersome elements being absorbed by the surrounding architecture or being cloaked behind transforming cabinetry.   The kitchen is in-fact an island with some modified architectural cabinetry in support. So it is interesting to see how this design and an increasing number of others are detaching the island from the floor, creating a floating centrepiece which is only tethered to the architecture by the services required for function. This design accepts that there must be unity between kitchen and architecture but it also expresses an understanding that there must be a connection with the other pieces of furniture sharing an open plan space.   The T-shaped island unit is like a functional docking station, able and willing to accept elements that can temporarily enhance the functional experience without permanently polluting the aesthetic influence of the kitchen.     We

The colours and natural textures of this monolithic island are simply sublime!   The smooth sandstone suggests some serious tactile temptation and the seamless definition amplifies the purity of the design.   It is also fitting that something so beautiful should be allowed to wallow in self adoration and this is probably why the backdrop of this kitchen has been given some seriously modest transforming elements. Check out that cool handle recess running along the front of the island.... makes you wonder if there is anyone inside peering out!   Trojan horse kitchen?!